Well...yes it the male cats spray as if to say ' this is my territory'..just like lions do...in a little kitty style. Maybe they have experienced the aggressive ones that spray, bite and leave scratches on the furniture. I guess females are more gentle..but that again depends. I had a very aggressive female before.
All in all cats make good pets, their purring make your mood uplifted..which is scientifically proven. They are good for your health. I hope get one...actually I'm also in a situation where I want a kitty so badly and I can't get one because the rest of the family doesn't like. Guess the only solution is to move out