Ask a PetDoc: Male cat spraying all over house after new cat introduced

Written by Jonathan Baker

Question: Male cat spraying all over house after new cat introduced

Dear Dr. Jim,

I have three cats – two females and one male, all are neutered. I have recently rescued an eight-year-old male. I have him secluded in one room so that he can get familiar with his new home. In the evening when I get home from work I open the door so that my other cats can meet him. This morning my male cat who is also eight years old, started spraying all over my house and is now hiding. He won’t even let me brush him or pet him. When I go near him he runs away from me. How can I make my male stop spraying and let him know he is still king?

Thank you,
Rosalee

Dr. Jim says:

Rosalee,

It is obvious that your male is upset by the addition of the new male to the household. First, take things slowly so you don’t further alienate the male. Speak to him in soft tones. Go slow. Try to divert his attention with a favorite toy or by tying a feather on a string and then to your ankle so the feather moves when you do. It may be that the new addition is just too much for the first male and may not fit into the family.

I would suggest you neutralize the urine stained areas using an enzymatic cleaner or by spraying a solution of baking soda on the areas then letting it dry and then wipe off with a damp cloth or paper towel.

This type of behavior is generally associated with an intact male who is simply marking his territory OR is communication with intact females that are coming into heat. You indicated that your pets have been neutered so this doesn’t apply.

Dr. James Sokolowski, DVM, PhD is a veterinarian with 40 years in the pet industry. He has appeared extensively on radio and TV including CNN, Fox, ABC and other national and local radio and TV programs. Dr. Sokolowski is a recipent of veterinary professional awards for his contributions to the veterinary profession. Read his full bio here.

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