[Chronic]

Not sure if this appropriate to post here, but I'm at a loss with cat right now.

She is 12 years, healthy, young-spirited (no-one beleive me when I tell them how old she is- including the vet!). She has a litter tray which is cleaned every day and she has always used this. She also goes outside to go to the toilet. However, over the last few weeks she has taken to using the rug in my living room, and I can't work out why. I haven't moved anything or changed the furniture. Her litter tray is in the same place it has always been. I can't think of anything that has changed to make her unsure or upset. She is her "normal self"- she does not appear to be ill or quiet. She is eating the same as always. I have told her off for doing this, but I don't know why this would suddenly be happening... Any ideas?

[Fresia]

Has she been to the vet recently since it started? It could be an indication she might have an infection or illness of some sort. This is my first concern, I would take her in.

If ok from the vet, if there has been a change in her food, introduction of new treats or toys, got into something shouldn't have, or new people to her life or stresses, could cause an upset to her system.

Hoping for the best in the meantime.

[Yoda]

I agree with Fresia. A urinary tract infection could be the cause.

[Travelinglady]

Our cat, Mimi, was peeing all over the place--and yes, she was diagnosed with a UTI. However, sometimes I think they just get lazy and use whatever is around. Rugs have been popular in our house, too. They can sort of scrunch them up, I guess, or maybe they are sort of like grass.

[Chronic]

Thanks everyone. I didn't think of UTI. Will keep any eye on her and if this continues I will take her to the vet

[Skully]

Yep, sounds like it could be a urinary tract infection. Or, have there been any new additions to the family? change in routines or anything?

[Crisp-Bee Queen]

It does sound like an UTI. But be careful, now that the cat has urinated on the carpet, the cat may continue to do so, since the carpet now has the urine scent. I had that happen with my cat. I would get the cat to the vet a.s.a.p. though.

[SunnyD]

I agree with everyone but maybe you could put the littler box down where the rug is or even on it. It may well be a uniary infection but some times with age they just need depends...

[Chronic]

Thanks everyone. I took her to the vet tonight and there doesn't seem to be anything wrong! I have got get a urine sample (should be fun) to check for cystitis, but otherwise the vet says it's behavioural.

Now you say it, I have tried to wash the rug, but maybe she can still smell her scent so I might have to get rid it

[Fresia]

I am so glad to hear there is no illness but could be cystitis. I know how hard it can be to get a urine sample though. I have used a soup ladle to help with this, less obtrusive and easier to get under there; they don't seem to mind as much. Perhaps this will help and once cleaned, keep in a bag, it is the permanent urine collector for all the animals, so much easier.

There's a product by Mister Max, called Anti-Icky Poo. It is a natural enzyme that biodegrades urine and organisms, will help mask the smell in the interim while it works. Check the website for dealers near you. Works really well for urine, even when our animals were skunked then came running in and rolled on the sofa and carpets (OY!) but saved them: http://www.mistermax.com/

Behavioral-wise, I have moved the literbox making it more accessible and rewarding when them when they go in it. Also putting down a 'scat-mat', foil or something undesirable over the rug so it becomes less interesting to even walk on it. A squirt bottle or squirt gun to spray them if you catch them in the act and keeping them confined when I am not home to a place where the literbox is. Being behavioral, they've lost her privileges for free reign. I wish I could remember the other recommendations the vet had at the time; if I do I'll post.

Good luck, wising you all the best!

[Chronic]

Thanks Fresia- you have given me some great suggestions which I hope will work. I suppose if it's behavioural it a case of trial and error, and hoping that something works. Will definitely try Mister Max- I am bored of scrubbing! Have been using baking soda and vingear but doesnt seem to be doing the job.