[drjean]

Get him neutered! That's why he's spraying. In the vast majority of cats, the spraying will stop after neutering. While he's at the vet, have them check his urine and make sure there is not a complicating infection. But at this age, hormones are the most likely culprit for the urge to spray.

Cheers,
Dr. Jean

 

[drjean]

Yes, you'll still have to clean up the spots with an enzyme cleaner. Might as well do that while he's away for the day! We just don't want anything there to "remind" him about marking once he returns, or to inspire your other cat to start! :wink:

BTW, even if the two cats are getting along right now, your other cat may hiss at him when he comes back from being neutered--it's because he'll smell different from the anesthesia and surgery. Cats are very visual but they also have a keen sense of smell, and the conflict between "it *looks* like him" and "but it doesn't *smell* like him" can cause a little friction for a couple of days. Give it time, they'll work it out!

Cheers,
Dr. Jean

 

[drjean]

Yes, definitely a myth--the statistics say quite the opposite. 90% of cats will stop spraying once neutered, males respond a little better than females.

Your little guy is young and just started spraying, so I would be very confident that neutering will solve the problem completely. The ones that don't stop are those who have been spraying for months (or years!) and it has become a habit. He should get over this quickly!

Cheers,
Dr. Jean

 

[drjean]

The hormones are gone in about 24 hours, so maybe 2-3 days more of confinement is appropriate. But it doesn't take long.

Cheers,
Dr. Jean