If your cat is peeing on your dog’s bed, it can be a frustrating and sometimes smelly problem. However, it’s important to remember that this behavior is a sign of stress in cats and must be addressed immediately. Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to help put an end to this unpleasant habit.
We have given this problem some serious consideration and having got the team together, we have devised our tried and tested methods to cure this problem.
1. Understand why your cat is peeing on the dog bed. There could be several reasons why your cat is urinating on the dog bed, including:
-Your cat feels threatened by the dog and is marking its territory.
If your cat is peeing on the dog bed, it is likely that your cat feels threatened by the presence of the dog and is attempting to mark its territory.
The first step in curbing this behavior is to ensure that you provide plenty of attention and stimulation to your cat, both when the dog is present and when they are apart.
Spend time engaging with your cat separately from the dog, such as playing with toys or offering treats to express that it still has a special place in your home.
Providing scratching posts can help, too, as cats like to scent mark their territory with odors secreted from small glands near their feet.
Installing high perches for them to watch over their domain may also help them feel more secure – cats tend to feel safer up above.
-Your cat is unhappy with the litter box situation and is looking for a new place to pee.
It can be challenging to find out why your cat is urinating in a place that it shouldn’t, but it’s essential to understand why it’s happening before trying to fix the issue.
If your cat pees on the dog bed, it may be unhappy with the litter box situation.
Clear visual clues that your cat is not satisfied with their restroom area include scratching around or outside the box and avoiding it altogether.
To address this issue, try providing multiple boxes around your house that have enough space for them to use comfortably.
Make sure they’re in quiet locations and regularly clean them out. Additionally, try purchasing a high-quality litter and put some attractive accessories like catnip toys near the boxes to give them an added incentive to use them instead of in other places.
-Your cat has a medical condition that is causing it to urinate outside of the litter box.
Finding a solution can be very frustrating and challenging if you have a cat urinating on your dog’s bed.
Another step in addressing this issue is to ensure that a veterinarian has examined your cat to rule out any underlying medical problems.
Once you are sure your pet is healthy and there are no physical abnormalities, it’s essential to take measures to protect the area where urination occurs.
Utilize boundaries, such as a baby gate, to keep the cats away from each other’s beds or designate specific spots for each pet.
Investing in odor control products, like enzyme-based cleaners and air purifiers, may also be beneficial, as this will help prevent repeated accidents.
With some patience and focus on quick clean-up of messes, you and your furry pals can share a comfortable home again.
2. Talk to your veterinarian.
If you suspect that your cat has a medical condition causing it to urinate outside the litter box, the first step is to talk to your veterinarian. They can run tests and determine if a medical issue needs to be addressed.
3. Make sure the litter box is clean.
Keeping your cat’s litter box clean is critical in preventing them from using the dog bed as their toilet.
Scoop out the box at least once daily, and completely change the litter every week to ensure it’s nice and fresh.
Your cat may also prefer certain types of litter, so experiment with different styles and textures until you find one that works well daily, encouraging your cat to use its box instead of other places around the home.
Additionally, consider placing an additional small litter box on each floor of your home if possible, as cats are more likely to use their box if it’s nearby.
4. Provide multiple litter boxes.
Cats like to have options regarding their removal area, and ensuring they have plenty of choices is essential.
If you have more than one cat, providing at least two boxes is necessary.
Also, you’ll want each box to be in different parts of the house so that all cats have access.
Ensure that both have easy-to-clean liners to keep them clean, as cats are picky about this.
If any one of these fails, it could result in them choosing an individual spot instead, such as the dog bed.
5. Try a different type of litter.
If your cat is peeing on the dog bed, it may be trying to communicate something to you.
One of the best ways to combat this behavior is to try switching up the type of litter they use. The most important factor when selecting a new litter is comfort.
Kittens and older cats alike should feel at ease when performing their bathroom functions, so look for anything made of softer materials or has a more inviting texture.
Many felines also prefer scented litters – pick one your pet will enjoy stepping into.
Thinking about what kind of litter you serve can help your furry friend kick their bad habit for good.
6. Reward good behavior.
Cats are typically territorial creatures and have a habit of leaving behind scent marks everywhere.
When this behavior starts to direct itself toward your dog’s bed, it is best to take immediate action.
To stop your cat from peeing on the dog bed, start by rewarding good behavior – every time your cat avoids the area around the dog bed, reward them, such as verbal praise or a snack.
Doing this often should remind them that another spot is preferred over the dog bed; creating an alternate location with toys or scratching poles can further condition them away from the dog bed.
Additionally, adding something that smells like you or the dog (like blankets) may deter them since cats prefer not to share their areas with others.
Following these steps should help protect your canine’s sleeping space.
7. Jealousy
It’s not unusual for cats to express rivalry over toys, treats, and other prized possessions.
If your cat is peeing on the dog bed, it could be a sign that they are jealous of the attention given to your pup.
To end this problem, start by ensuring both pets have their own space and individual comforts.
Create an area for each animal to relax without fear of being pestered by the other. Instead, give them both equal attention and show them extra love to go around.
Consider getting interactive toys that require both animals to use them together to get a treat or reward. This will help them bond and create beautiful memories as a pet family.
8. To Sum Up
If your cat has a habit of peeing on the dog bed, there are steps you can take to break this irritating cycle. Start by identifying any underlying medical conditions that could be causing the problem.
Consult your veterinarian if your cat displays other behaviors or physical symptoms that suggest a health concern.
If your cat is otherwise healthy, you can focus on behavior modification.
Clean the soiled area with an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate the scent, and then try placing treated paper around the room or adding a litter box next to the dog bed–your cat will use whatever it perceives to be the “right” spot.
Finally, reset boundaries using positive reinforcement techniques to encourage appropriate behavior and reward good choices with treats and praise.
If these steps don’t improve, it may be time to seek professional help from an animal behaviorist or trainer to determine why your cat insists on going to the same place when it needs to go number two.
Conclusion
Following the above steps, you should be able to stop your cat from peeing on the dog bed quickly and effectively. However, remember that if your cat continues to display signs of stress after taking these measures, it may be time to seek advice from a professional veterinarian who can help determine any underlying health issues contributing to the problem.
With patience and consistency, you should be able to resolve this issue before it becomes more serious.
— Update: 11-04-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article How to Stop a Cat from Peeing in the Dog Bed in 5 Steps from the website doggysaurus.com for the keyword cat keeps peeing on dog bed.
We used to have a bit of an issue with our older cat. Whilst she would happily sleep with our dog and they got along great, she started peeing in his bed. It’s became such an issue that we weren’t able to leave our dog’s bed on the floor in case the cat peed on it.
When a cat pees on your dog’s bed, it’s easy to assume that it’s about marking their territory or some kind of rivalry between pets. There’s an old adage of cats and dogs not getting along after all.
The truth is, cats are very specific about their hygiene. So, if your cat is peeing outside their litter box and instead on your dog’s bed, there’s a good reason for it.
But how do you stop your cat from urinating on your dog’s bed? Well, I am happy to say that I managed to come up with a solution which I will share with you today.
How to stop a cat peeing in the dog’s bed
Before you can decide on the right way to go about stopping your cat urinating on the dog’s bedding, you need to know why he’s doing it in the first place. If you scroll a little lower down the page, I address the reasons for urinating.
Once you’ve identified the reason why your cat is peeing on your dog’s bed, there are several ways to stop this behavior – let’s get straight into them.
1. Thoroughly clean pee from the bed
A cat will always return to a place she has already peed on. Their marking instinct is very strong, and they will refresh that mark with urine as often as possible.
It is crucial to act quickly. The smell of cat pee only gets worse as time goes on, and unfortunately, a simple wash with soap and water won’t be enough to do the job.
Mix 1 cup of warm water with 1 cup of vinegar and pour it on the pee stain on the dog bed. Wait for the mixture to dry and then sprinkle the surface with a thick layer of baking soda. Clean the powder off via vacuum cleaner. Repeat once or twice if the stain persists.
You can also use enzyme-based cleaners for a more thorough job. Enzymes break down the acid in the urine and effectively get rid of the stain and the smell.
We used this spray cleaner from Amazon. It works well and doesn’t break the bank.
2. Use an odor neutralizer
Cats are repeat offenders when it comes to urine, so removing their scent from the dog bed will make it a neutral or even undesirable location. It’s also beneficial for your dog – he’ll be able to sleep peacefully on a nice smelling bed.
Odor eliminators can be used on most surfaces in your home and are safe to use around children and pets. This is a great choice on Amazon.
Make sure to check the ingredients in your chosen neutralizer. Ammonia-based products will actually attract your cats, so those should be avoided.
3. Spray cat pheromones
Animals release pheromones into the environment to communicate with each other. This is the basis of a cat’s marking instinct, and you can use this to your advantage.
You can keep your cat away from inappropriate pee surfaces by spraying pheromones into the room. It said to calm your cat down and reduce anxiety which could be leading to them peeing on the dog’ bed.
We used something called a Feliway device to do this which you can buy on Amazon.
Pheromones are most effective when used in tandem with cleaners and odor neutralizers. Your dog’s bed will be completely undesirable once you’ve gotten rid of your cat’s smell and sprayed cat pheromone on it.
If your cat is exhibiting behavior changes due to stress, you may opt for calming sprays too (also on Amazon). It’s an easy, non-intrusive way to keep your cat calm and help reduce his anxiety.
4. Block physical access
Physical separation is one of the easiest solutions to keeping your cat from peeing on your dog’s bed.
While /baby gates likely won’t be effective to block a cat, you can put the litter box and dog bed at opposite ends of your home. If the dog bed looks similar to the litter box in any way (rectangular and gray), it might be best to replace it.
You can also opt to add another litter box – the optimal count is one more than the number of cats you have. Place litter boxes near where your cats hang out most often to encourage use.
5. Training and correcting the behavior
It’s understandable if your cat’s peeing habits are causing you stress, but it’s important to keep from punishing your cat in any way. This will just lead to more anxiety. You don’t want your cat to be afraid of you.
If your cat is just peeing all over your house and the dog bed happens to be one of many locations, then you may have to retrain your cat to use the litter box.
If you think your cat’s disruptive behavior is due to stress, a cat tree or cat condo like this one on Amazoncould be a good investment. This will give him a secure place where he can escape the household goings-on and just keep watch from a safe perch.
Read more Why Is My Cat Coughing And How Can I Help Them?
Why do cats pee in the dog bed?
And now onto the reasons why cats like to pee and urinate in dog beds. Please read this section as it can help you decide which prevention strategy from above to take – combine them all though to be honest!
Health problems
If you’re wondering why your cat is peeing out of the litter box: it might be because of a medical condition. Urinary tract infection, kidney stones, diabetes, and bladder inflammation are common reasons why your cat suddenly can’t or won’t use his litter box.
There may be a dietary imbalance and you may need to alter your cat’s diet. A trip to the vet will enlighten you.
You don’t need to be too worried – these conditions are easily treatable, and this major change in behavior will lead to early detection of a potential illness, as well as a quick recovery.
Stress and / or anxiety
If your dog is a recent addition to your household, your cat likely sees that as a major upheaval in all of your day-to-day activities. He will mark his territory when he thinks there’s an interloper.
Cats love their routines. Any behavioral aberrations could be linked to significant changes in your household even if those changes seem insignificant to you. If you’ve started working more and you suddenly don’t have much time to interact with your cat, he may act out by peeing somewhere he shouldn’t.
Stress in cats can also lead to bladder inflammation, so he may not be able to control his reaction.
Litter box logistics
You may need to reevaluate the litter box situation. Cats prefer to have the utmost privacy as well as maximum convenience when doing their business. Make sure you haven’t fallen down on cleaning out his litter box regularly – cats are fastidious little creatures.
Location is crucial, too. Maybe the litter box used to be in a very convenient spot, but your house layout or your cat’s habits have changed and it’s not as easily accessible. Maybe your cat passes by the dog’s bed on the way to the litter box and finds it easier to just take a detour.
If you have an older cat, he may not be able to jump across the high sides of his litter box anymore. A newly declawed cat may find rougher brands of litter uncomfortable. It’s best to have one litter box for every level of your home so your cat won’t have to walk very far for access.
Conclusion
How do I stop my cat from peeing in my dog’s bed? If your cat doesn’t have a medical problem such as UTIs or arthritis, make sure he’s comfortable with his litter box. You can also use an odor neutralizer or cat pheromone spray to keep him away from surfaces he shouldn’t be peeing on.
I used those tips and all the ones above, and now our cat and dog sleep together without the nasty stink of cat urine.
You might also like…
- What happens if a dog eats cat food?
- How to stop the dog eating from the cat’s bowl
- Do dogs get ear mites from cats
— Update: 18-04-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article Cat Peeing on Dog Bed: 5 Potential Reasons (and Solutions) from the website www.hepper.com for the keyword cat keeps peeing on dog bed.
Raising a cat and a dog together is both fun and challenging. If you own both a cat and a dog and suddenly discover that your cat is peeing on your dog’s bed, you may be very surprised. Cat urine isn’t pleasant to smell, and no dog wants to sleep in a bed that’s been saturated with cat pee.
Before you can solve the problem of a cat peeing on your dog’s bed, you need to get to the reason why he’s doing that. There are a few potential reasons for this behavior, which we’ll cover below, along with the appropriate solution for each. Sit back, relax, and continue reading so you can solve the problem once and for all!
The 5 Reasons Cats Pee on Dog Beds:
1. Your Cat Doesn’t Like Their Litter Box or Where It’s Located
Your cat may be peeing on the dog bed because they don’t like their litter box. Maybe the litter box has a cover that traps odors or restricts their movement so they can’t get in a comfortable position to do their business.
Take a good look at the litter box to see if something looks “off”. Maybe you’ll discover that you need a bigger litter box that gives your cat more room to pee and poop.
While you’re assessing your cat’s litter box, consider where it’s located. Cats like to pee and poop in solitude so it’s always best to place the litter box away from high traffic areas. Maybe your dog’s bed is in a nice, secluded location your cat prefers over where their litter box is placed.
How to Remedy the Problem
If you suspect that your cat doesn’t like their litter box, the obvious solution is to buy a new one. Litter boxes come in a wide variety of styles and sizes so pick one that best meets your cat’s needs. For instance, if your cat is on the big side, get a large litter box that will accommodate their hefty size.
If the litter box is placed in a high traffic area, move it to another location. Pick a spot in your home that is quiet and away from the hustle and bustle of your household. Pay attention to your cat to see if they start heading toward their newly-located litter box more often than they are going for your dog’s bed. If so, great! The problem of your cat peeing on the dog bed is solved!
2. Your Cat Doesn’t Like the Litter
As a consumer who buys pet supplies, you probably have your preferences when it comes to cat litter. Well, guess what! Your cat may be the same way! Many cats are very picky about the litter in their litter boxes.
It’s common for cats not to like hard cat litter because it can be painful to step into hard litter. This is especially true with declawed cats. Some cats don’t like coarse litter stuck between their toes. Some cats might not like heavily-scented litters, either.
How to Remedy the Behavior
It can be tricky to know if your cat is objecting to a particular type of litter. A good way to figure it out is by conducting a little experiment. Put out an additional litter box with a different type of litter. For example, if you’re using traditional clay litter, then put out a box filled with soft, scoopable litter. Or, if you’ve been using a scented litter, put out a box filled with unscented litter. Then watch your cat to see what box he heads for when it’s time to pee or poop!
3. Your Cat Feels Anxious or Stressed
Stress and anxiety can cause litter box problems. Your cat may become anxious or stressed by events you may not view as traumatic. A sudden change may be all it takes to upset your cat, like moving, adding new animals to the family, or bringing home a new baby.
Think about your home life for a few minutes. Has something changed that may be upsetting your cat? Maybe you recently welcomed a new baby or got another pet that’s getting lots of love and attention.
How to Remedy the Behavior
If something has changed in your life, like adding a new pet or family member, give your cat time to settle down and accept the change. It’s a good idea to give your cat some extra attention and love for a few days. As you shower your cat with attention, watch where they go to relieve themself. Hopefully, they’ll head for their litter box instead of your dog’s bed to pee and poop!
4. Your Cat Wants Two Litter Boxes
Many cats prefer having one litter box to poop in and another to use for urination. If your cat is just peeing on the dog bed and not pooping on it, this could be the reason. Remember that cats like to use clean litter boxes. If you’re not especially quick at scoping out clumps of poop and pee, your cat may protest by finding another place to do their business.
How to Remedy the Behavior
The obvious solution to a lack of litter boxes is to add one into the mix. But don’t place the new box close to the existing box. If possible, place the new box on another floor in your house, like upstairs or the basement. This way, your cat is more likely to use one box for pooping and the other fur peeing.
While the idea of having two litter boxes may make you groan because you’ll have more scooping to do, it may be worth it to get a second box. Think of your poor pooch who is finding cat pee on their dog bed! If things work out as planned, both your cat and dog will appreciate the new arrangement, even though you’ll have more scooping to do!
5. Your Cat Has a Health Problem
Whenever a cat displays unusual behavior, there could be a health-related reason behind it. Peeing on a dog bed is no exception. Cats with health problems often avoid using their litter boxes because they don’t feel good. According to the American Animal Hospital Association or AAHA, some health issues that can cause a cat to pee on a dog bed may include:
How to Remedy the Behavior
It’s always wise to contact your vet if your cat seems sick or exhibits unusual behavior. If it’s been a while since your cat has seen your veterinarian, maybe it’s time for a health check! When you contact your vet’s office, tell them that your cat isn’t using their litter box as usual. Mention other changes you’ve noticed in your pet, as anything unusual may give your vet a clue regarding your pet’s health.
Your vet will probably tell you to bring your cat in for a few tests. If you have pet insurance, be sure to check with the company you use to see if testing is covered. If your vet discovers a health issue, a treatment plan will be developed to remedy the problem so your cat can resume using their litter box and not your dog’s bed.
Conclusion
It’s easy to train a cat to use a litter box, which is one reason why cats make great pets. If your cat is suddenly peeing on your dog’s bed, there’s a reason for this odd and kind of repulsive behavior. Once you get to the bottom of why they are avoiding their litter box, you can find a good solution that works!
Don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian if you suspect a health problem is behind your cat’s behavior, as it’s always best to be safe rather than sorry! Remember that your cat depends on you to keep them safe, happy, and healthy.
Featured Image Credit: Iva Vagnerova, Shutterstock
— Update: 19-04-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article Why Does My Cat Pee On The Dog Bed? from the website betterwithcats.net for the keyword cat keeps peeing on dog bed.
BetterWithCats.net may earn a small commission when you use one of the links on this page to purchase.
Some people prefer dogs, others have a soft spot for cats and then there are those who love both animals equally.
If you share your home with both cats and dogs, then you know that this “unlikely” friendship is more than possible, but it can come with its own set of struggles.
Usually, dogs need more attention when it comes to toilet training, so it can be quite surprising and frustrating to find out that your feline companion has peed outside of the litter box especially if it happened to be your dog’s bed.
So, why does my cat pee on the dog bed?
Your cat might be urinating on the dog bed because of an underlying medical issue like a urinary tract infection. They could also be marking their territory because they’re in heat or because of stress caused by a sudden change in their environment.
Let’s take a closer look at the reasons below and figure out the various ways you can stop this behavior!
Why Does My Cat Pee On The Dog Bed?
Hygiene is really important to most cats, so your feline companion should have a good reason why they are using your dog’s bed as a litter box, so let’s explore each one separately.
Reason 1: Health Problems
When our cat’s behavior suddenly changes, especially when it’s litter box-related, the first thing you need to rule out is any medical issues.
There are several conditions that can cause inappropriate elimination and urinary tract infections (UTIs) are usually the most common.
According to Malcolm Weir, DVM, “a UTI occurs when bacteria travel up the urethra and into the bladder. Urine in the bladder is supposed to be sterile, but once bacteria find their way to the bladder, the bacteria can grow and reproduce, causing the UTI.”
The reason why your cat chose to pee on your dog’s bed could have been accidental or not as intentional as you may imagine. Under different circumstances, they could’ve chosen to pee on your bed, or on the bathroom rug, among other places.
Aside from UTIs, kidney stones, diabetes and bladder inflammation can cause frequent painful urination and litter box avoidance.
If your cat is experiencing pain during urination, then they might choose to pee on your dog’s bed to get your attention. That’s why finding your feline companion suddenly or consistently urinating on the dog bed should be enough to take your kitty for a vet check-up.
If you’ve already taken your kitty to the vet and they’ve been treated for a UTI or other litter box-related condition, but this behavior persists then it’s possible that your cat has developed a negative association with their litter box.
In this case, you’ll need to change their perception and create a positive or at least a neutral association by re-training them.
Reason 2: Stress and Anxiety
Once you’ve ruled out any medical issues then it’s time to look at your cat’s emotional wellbeing, since inappropriate elimination can also be linked to stress and anxiety.
It’s really important to understand what is causing this stress, and according to PDSA it can “affect your cat’s quality of life and even cause medical problems, like stress cystitis painful and potentially dangerous problem for cats.”
Each cat can experience stress for different reasons, but more often than not, it’s caused by changes in their environment.
If you’ve recently adopted your dog, then this is definitely a major change that can make your cat misbehave, and peeing on your dog’s bed can be one of the signs that they’re not dealing with this change all too well.
Perhaps your cat and dog have been living in peaceful harmony from day one, and this behavior just doesn’t seem to make sense. In this case, your cat might have an issue with you more than with their fellow dog companion.
In this case, it could be a sign of separation anxiety. I know this condition has been mostly associated with dogs, but recent research has shown that cats have attachment styles seen in human infants and other animals like dogs.
Possible signs that can point at separation anxiety in your cat are:
- Urinating or defecating outside of the litter box
- Excessive vocalization
- Destructive behavior
- Excessive grooming
- Seeking constant attention from their owner
Since cats are much more independent in their day-to-day life, it’s easy to limit the time you spend with them when you have a dog around that usually craves human attention, especially if it’s a puppy that requires lots of training.
It’s also possible that you and your dog aren’t responsible for your cat’s stress, maybe it’s a completely different event that’s causing them to pee on the dog bed.
Moving houses can be just as stressful, as well as a change in their diet, or perhaps you’ve adopted another cat or a member of your family has moved out or passed away.
If you’ve been working overtime and you only have time to take your pooch out for a walk then your cat might be feeling neglected.
“An anxious cat might pee elsewhere as a way to relieve their anxiety because the smell of their own urine makes them feel safer,” Dr. Cathy Lund explains.
Read more Do Animals Go to Heaven? These Bible Verses Suggest So
But even as you begin to work on eliminating the stressors that may be causing this behavior you should first take your kitty to the vet.
Cats that experience stress can get sick. So, your cat might have been feeling unwell for a while now, and peeing on the dog bed is the result of bladder inflammation or another medical issue..
Reason 3: Jealousy
Urinating on the dog bed could be a sign of jealousy in cats.
While this might be more of human emotion, this doesn’t mean our feline companions don’t feel threatened by other people and animals, especially if they think that they are the reason you’ve been spending less time with them.
If you’ve recently adopted your dog, then it’s only natural that you’ll devote a large chunk of your time taking them out on walks, training them, and playing with them. But before that, your cat most likely enjoyed the perks of having all of your attention directed at them.
You were not going out for hour-long walks and instead, your cat had your lap at their disposal at all times and they could easily get you to play with them.
If all those little day-to-day activities have changed then it’s easy for your kitty to blame the dog with whom they have to share their home and their owner. I’m sure plenty of new parents has dealt with cat jealousy towards the newborn baby.
You might also notice aggressive behaviors like hissing, scratching, and biting, and your cat might even come between you and the dog.
This sudden change could also happen even after your cat and dog have been companions for years. Perhaps your kitty has been noticing that they don’t get as much love and affection from you lately and the only way they can get your attention is by peeing on the dog bed.
Let’s not forget that you could be reinforcing this behavior if every time your cat urinates on the dog bed, they get more attention even if it’s negative.
Reason 4: They’re In Heat
We’ve mostly discussed why a cat would pee on the dog bed if you’ve recently adopted your doggy, but what if it’s the other way around and your newly adopted cat has been using the dog bed as a litter box.
Well, your kitty could be marking the dog bed because they haven’t been spayed or neutered. Debra Horwitz, DVM, explains that “spraying is the deposition of small amounts of urine on vertical surfaces.”
As your cat is maturing their urge to spray will only grow and you may notice them doing it on other objects around the house, like the sink or next to windows.
Horwitz also adds that “although much less common, some cats will also mark their territory by leaving small amounts of urine, or occasionally stool, on horizontal surfaces.”
If this is the case then your kitty is ready to be spayed or neutered which not only will benefit your home, but also their mental and physical wellbeing. By postponing the procedure, your cat might end up marking the same areas even after being spayed/neutered and it can form into a habit that will be difficult to stop.
If your cat isn’t already spayed or neutered, then perhaps it’s time to get it done. PetSmart Charities has a directory with thousands of spay and neuter clinics across the globe. These clinics are either completely free or low cost so there’s really no reason not to get your kitty spayed or neutered.
Reason 5: Territorial Behavior
Just like dogs, cats also mark their territories with urine, and if the dog bed is positioned in a room or a corner that your cat considered to be their own then you might find it covered in pee.
ASPCA points out that “they might do it to preempt a problem by leaving a message that this place is theirs, or they might do it to comfort themselves with their own familiar scent.”
So, in order to reestablish their scent and feel more secure in their own home, they might resolve to urine marking.
If you have more than one cat then this behavior might have more to do with the other cat than the dog. Perhaps the arrival of a new dog has changed the dynamic between the two cats and they’re both peeing on the dog bed to establish their own scent on this new object.
Research has also shown that “male cats and cats from multi-cat households are more likely to exhibit urine marking behavior than females and cats from single-cat households.”
The scent of neighborhood cats that tend to spray or simply walk by your house can also trigger your cat to spray near your doors and windows and if your dog’s bed is in their way then they might end up peeing on top of it instead.
Removing the possible stressors, working on reintroducing your cats or your cat to your dog can help relieve their stress and curb their marking behavior.
Adding more cat trees, hiding spots, and shelves around the house can also help expand your cat’s territory.
If your dog is constantly annoying your cat or taking up too much space like this cute Frenchy,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5juUNk5CWk
then having elevated areas where your dog can’t reach means that your kitty can escape them and even avoid stepping a paw on the floor when they don’t want to be bothered.
This can greatly improve their cat and dog relationship, and maybe one day you’ll find your kitty kneading your little pooch on the same dog bed they used to pee on.
Reason 6: Litter Box Issues
Finally, the source of your cat’s inappropriate elimination might have to do with their litter box.
Most cats are clean animals, and they don’t even need to be litter box trained, but if your kitty suddenly prefers the dog bed then you might need to investigate their toilet conditions.
Studies have shown that a good and positive litter box environment improves the well-being of a cat.
There are a few ways to prevent litter box problems like:
- Having the right number of boxes per cat. The RSPCA recommends that there should be one litter box per cat, plus one more.
- You also need to make sure that you clean the litter box regularly. Since I have two cats, I try to scoop the litter in the morning and before I go to bed.
- Since cats come in different shapes and sizes you need to find the right litter box size for your own kitty.
- It’s also possible that the type of litter you’ve been using is too harsh on their paws or smells funny.
- Privacy is also very important. The litter box needs to be placed in a quiet room or area, where your dog can’t follow them.
If the dog bed is on their way to the litter box and they realize that the box is never as clean as they want it to be then they’ll start using the dog bed instead.
Regular cleaning is a useful habit to have because you can detect any sudden changes like soft stools, intense and unusual smells if they pee too little or too much.
Basically, a cat needs more than one litter box, with clean preferably unscented litter in an area where they can have some privacy, otherwise, they might start looking for other places to do it!
How To Stop My Cat Fron Peeing In The Dog Bed?
Recognizing the reason why your cat is peeing on the dog bed is the first thing you need to do, so you can take the necessary steps to stop this behavior.
Let’s take a look at your options one by one.
Step 1: Take Your Cat To The Vet
Any sudden changes in your cat’s behavior can be alarming, especially when these changes are litter box related.
Peeing outside of the litter box goes against the feline instinct of burying their eliminations, that’s why you need to take your kitty for a veterinary checkup.
Your cat could be suffering from a UTI or something more serious. According to Ilana Reisner, DVM a study of urine marking cats showed that “38% were found to have a urogenital medical condition and/or crystalluria.”
Even if your cat is peeing on the dog bed because they’re stressed out, your vet will run tests to see if there’s also a possible health issue that’s causing their litter box aversion.
They can also give you advice on how to solve this issue even if it’s behavioral, or they can redirect you to a professional cat behaviorist.
Step 2: Use Positive Reinforcement
Your cat might stop peeing on the dog bed, once they start receiving their medication, but if this is a behavioral issue, or your cat is peeing on the dog bed even after being treated then you’ll need to find a different approach.
I do want to make it clear that you shouldn’t punish, or shout at your kitty, for peeing outside of their litter box. Spraying them with water is also a bad idea, not only will you not get them to stop, but you will most likely aggravate the situation.
Every cat needs their own approach to training, but it should always be based on positive reinforcement training.
As stated by the Journal of Veterinary Behavior, “positive reinforcement training with cats is a useful tool for improving the human-animal bond, treating behavior problems, and teaching novel tasks.”
You can start by changing their association to the dog bed, by using treats, playing with them, and petting them right next to the dog bed. You can also place the litter box where you keep the dog bed until your kitty starts using the litter box.
Finally, you could consider talking to a behaviorist and even taking a professional class to help you retrain your kitty to use the litter box.
Step 3: Improve Their Environment
If your kitty is peeing on the dog bed because they want you to notice them, or because they’re not happy with their day-to-day life then a good place to start is to look at your cat’s environment and check if your home is actually cat friendly.
The experts suggest that “simple enhancements to improve the quality of cat’s living quarters via enrichment such as hiding areas may yield many beneficial effects.”
Cats love elevated places and hiding spots where they know that no one can get to them or find them. This can be especially helpful when they share their territory with a large family, other cats, and a dog that can sniff them out.
You can start by getting a cat tree with various levels or adding a few shelves on the wall that go all the way up to the ceiling where your cat can watch over their territory without being bothered.
Since I have two cats I tend to leave one of my closets open so one of them can curl up under my clothes. I’ve also cleared up a shelf in my bookcase and added a basket with a cozy blanket where my other cat can hide.
Make sure your cat also enjoys their food, that they have plenty of fresh water and that your dog isn’t actually stealing it.
Even if you turn your house into the perfect cat heaven, your cat might still pee on the dog bed, if they feel neglected by you. So, remember to spend some alone time with them by leaving your dog outside of the room, pet and talk to them throughout the day, and don’t forget to include lots of cuddles!
Step 4: Add More Litter Boxes
Sometimes the litter box itself can be the source of the problem.
As I’ve already mentioned, you have to have the right number of boxes, (one litter box per cat, plus one more). And if you have more than one cat then you’ll need three litter boxes, preferably spread throughout the house.
Don’t forget that you need to clean your cat’s litter regularly. The scientific journal recommends that the litter should be scooped once a day.
If your dog tends to follow your cat around, or they have access to their litter box then I’d suggest you place the litter box in an area where the dog can’t get to it, perhaps an elevated location that your cat has easy access to.
Cats need to feel safe when they’re going to the toilet, and if your dog is making them feel unsafe then they’ll choose to eliminate elsewhere which in your case just happens to be the dog’s bed.
If your cat is associating the litter box with something negative then you should replace it with a different one, and you could go for an automatic litter box that can also block your dog from accessing it.
Changing the litter brand completely could also help change your cat’s mind about their litter box. According to Cornell Feline Health Center, “most cats prefer unscented, finer-textured litter about one to two inches deep.”
I’d actually suggest getting a litter that changes color when it detects abnormalities in your cat’s urine. This way you can prevent any medical complications and treat your kitty before they can start eliminating elsewhere.
Step 5: Clean The Dog Bed Thoroughly
Even if your kitty is healthy they might still use the dog bed as a litter box. Cats tend to return to the place they’ve already peed on, especially if they can still smell the urine scent on that object.
To stop your cat from marking the dog bed all over again it’s important to act fast and clean the dog bed thoroughly.
You can wash the dog bed in the washing machine, but because there’s still a possibility that the smell of urine will remain, I’d suggest using specialized odor eliminators, like enzyme-based cleaning products that are safe for pets and humans alike.
You can either buy them online or make your own with vinegar but avoid ammonia-based products that can attract your kitty instead.
Step 6: Replace The Dog Bed Completely
If your cat continues to use the dog bed as a litter box even after it’s been properly washed, then replace the dog bed with a new one and place it in a different spot.
Look for a dog bed made of a different material because the smell and texture of certain products like plastic bags for example can actually attract cats.
It’s also possible that your kitty is confusing their litter box with the dog bed because they have the shape, size, or color, so, try to go for something completely different.
Step 7: Block Their Access To The Dog Bed
I know this won’t be an option for all dog and cat owners, but you could try to create a physical separation between your kitty and the dog bed.
You can also place the litter box where the dog bed used to be, or put the dog bed and the litter box at opposite ends of your home.
Step 8: Consider Using Cat Pheromones
Cats use scent to communicate with the world around them. They do it through the release of pheromones from the scent glands that are located in their cheeks, paw pads, forehead, and rectum.
That’s why artificial pheromones can have a calming effect on your stressed kitty if they don’t feel safe around the dog.
Cat pheromones can achieve this incredible result because they contain a synthetic copy of one of the feline facial pheromones that cats use to communicate happiness, comfort, and safety.
According to Dr. Tynes, DVM, “each type of pheromone sends a specific comforting message to the pet, such as ‘you are safe here’ or ‘you belong here.”
So, if you think that your cat is peeing on the dog bed because they’re stressed and you’ve tried everything you could to help them then you could also try No products found.
How To Get Cat Pee Out Of The Dog Bed?
If you don’t want to get rid of the dog bed altogether, then you’ll need to make sure that the cat urine smell is completely removed, otherwise, your furry friend will return to the scene of the crime.
You can use an enzymatic cleaner that can break up a urine stain through a chemical reaction, and most importantly they can break down the acid in your cat’s urine and neutralize the bacteria.
Read more Cat Peeing on Dog Bed — 4 Possible Causes (and Solutions)
A really great option is the Rocco & Roxie enzymatic cleaner that you can find on Amazon by No products found.
It can be used on every surface, including clothing and my favorite part is that you can spray it on the dog bed, leave it for 10 minutes, and then put it in the washer, or you can use 1-2 cups in a pre-soak cycle!
If you don’t have an enzymatic cleaner at hand then you can soak the dog bed in vinegar instead. the folks at PetMD state that vinegar is “an acid that neutralizes the alkaline salts that form in dried urine stains.”
Remember to dilute the vinegar with 50% water before applying it to the dog bed!
Closing Thoughts
Cats are often described as chaotic and unpredictable, but if you look closer you can always find a reason that explains even the strangest behavior.
If you found your kitty peeing on the dog bed then they could be jealous of the dog, they might be simply marking their territory or they’re seeking your attention because something is wrong.
Either way litter box issues should never go unnoticed or untreated, especially if you want to have a happy kitty and a happy dog that doesn’t end up sleeping on cat urine.
Let us know how you stopped your kitty from peeing on the dog bed and if your furry companions are enjoying a peaceful truce at last!
— Update: 24-04-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article Cat Peeing on Dog Bed? 4 Reasons Why and How to Stop It! from the website excitedcats.com for the keyword cat keeps peeing on dog bed.
When you first realize that your cat has peed on your dog’s bed, your first thought may be anger, followed by confusion. Do they not like the dog?
To make matters worse, cat urine is tough to remove. It will take many washes to eradicate the smelly cat urine. You may not even be able to get it all out.
You may be considering punishing your cat or somehow training them not to pee on your dog’s bed. However, this is often not necessary. As we’ll discuss, inappropriate peeing is often a sign of an underlying health condition, which will likely need to be treated by your vet.
The 4 Reasons Why Your Cat May Pee on a Dog Bed
There are several reasons why your cat may pee on your dog’s bed. Some of these are much more common than others. Many are very easy to correct with a trip to your vet or some basic training. Others can indicate an underlying condition.
Either way, figuring out the why will often involve a lot of trial and error. If you take your cat to the vet, they may end up with a clean bill of health, for instance, which would rule out the chance of an underlying health condition causing the issue. It can be tough to determine the cause without using this method of elimination.
1. Medical Reasons
Several medical conditions can cause inappropriate marking from a cat. UTIs are the most common reason for cats to start peeing on things suddenly. It isn’t that they care so much about it being the dog’s bed. They can’t help it. The only way to treat this is to visit your vet.
It is essential to seek medical care in this case, as even some as basic as a UTI can get pretty serious. It can turn into a bladder or kidney infection, which can be deadly if it gets severe enough.
If your cat usually doesn’t exhibit this type of behavior, it is likely a medical condition. You will need to take them to the vet for a complete exam, and they will likely need medication.
2. Territory Marking
Peeing in inappropriate places can also be a behavioral issue. This behavior is more commonly seen in unneutered males, and in this context, it is a way of claiming a territory or object as their own.
If your dog is new (or your cat), then this may very well be the problem. Luckily, there are several methods to decrease and manage this behavior.
3. Heat Marking
Heat marking is different from average cat marking. This only occurs when an intact female comes into heat. To attract a mate, they may begin peeing on things. They’re spreading their scent around to increase the odds of a male smelling it.
If your cat is female and has not been spayed yet, this is probably what is going on. The only way to fix this is to spay your cat or wait them out. The behavior will typically stop when they get out of heat. However, some females do it even when they are no longer in heat, and in this case, it could be territorial marking.These females need to be spayed to prevent this problem.
4. Cat Stress
Stress and anxiety can cause your cat to behave poorly, including peeing on your dog’s bed. Just like people tend to make bad decisions when stressed, your cat can make bad decisions as well. In these situations, the best way to stop the issue is to reduce the amount of stress your cat is experiencing.
How to Stop Cat From Peeing on Dog Bed
The way you make your pet stop peeing on the dog bed depends on why they are doing it to begin with. If a cat is sick, the only way to prevent them from peeing on the dog bed is to treat them. If the cat is doing it for behavioral reasons, then training might be in order.
Training
In some cases, you may need to retrain your cat to use a litter box. This only works for cats that are peeing for behavioral reasons. Usually, this involves restricting the amount of space your cat has access to. You’ll need to enclose them in the area containing the litterbox to let them get more exposure to the box.
Typically, cats don’t need to be trained as a dog does. Instead, they need exposure to the box.
Add More Boxes
If you have multiple cats or large home, you may need to use more than one box. If the box is on one side of the house and your cat happens to be on the other, they decide that walking to the litter box isn’t worth it.
Furthermore, some cats are sensitive when it comes to using the litter box after other cats. For this reason, if you have multiple cats, you likely will need multiple litterboxes.
Even if this doesn’t necessarily fix the underlying problem, it can be helpful in any case. It also prevents you from changing the litter in the boxes as often since there is double available for your cat to use.
Even with a clean and tidy litter box, you may still find yourself with kitty smells and stains around the house – but with the Hepper Advanced Bio-Enzyme Pet Stain & Odor Eliminator Spray, you can take care of it all. It permanently removes even the very worst stains and smells! Click here to learn more and get yourself a bottle.
At Excited Cats, we’ve admired Hepper for many years, and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding products of this cool cat company!
Prevention is the Best Medicine
Typically, in this situation, prevention is the best medicine. Your cat’s health and the set up of your home will largely determine if your cat pees on the dog bed or not. Therefore, your best bet is to ensure that you have plenty of litterboxes spread throughout the house. Also, consider washing your dog’s bed often – even using a harsh smell-fighting liquid like vinegar.
If your cat shows signs of being sick, take them to the vet as soon as possible. The last thing you want is for a cat suffering from UTI to get worse, which can cause a whole host of issues on top of causing them to pee places they shouldn’t.
In the end, if you focus on providing the right environment for your cat and keep them healthy, the odds of them peeing on something are low.
Featured Image: Amazon
— Update: 30-04-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article Cat Peeing on Dog Bed — 4 Possible Causes (and Solutions) from the website petkeen.com for the keyword cat keeps peeing on dog bed.
When cats pee anywhere except their litter boxes, it can be frustrating. Cat pee is notoriously difficult to thoroughly clean. Even with repeated attempts, the odor can remain.
When your cat pees on your dog’s bed, it can be even more confusing. Why would they choose to do this? When cats pee outside of their litter boxes, there is always a reason for this behavior. To get it to stop, you first need to understand why it’s happening.
Let’s examine four reasons that this might be occurring and how you can get it to stop.
The 4 Reasons Your Cat May Pee on Dog Beds
1. Stress
Cats are creatures of habit and routine. Any change in their usual routine can be hard on them, even if the change seems small to you. Cats can get stressed due to any of the following reasons:
This list is not comprehensive, but it will give you an idea of the things that may upset your cat. If anything has changed that coordinated with the time that your cat started peeing on the dog’s bed, that might be the cause.
How to Stop It
After you identify the stressor in your cat’s life, you may not be able to do anything to change it. For example, if you’ve recently added a new pet or baby to your home or changed residences, you can’t change things back to how they were before just because your cat is upset. But you can recognize that your cat needs time to get used to a new routine and have patience during the process.
Give your cat a safe place to go that is just their own, that no other pets can access. A tall cat tree, bed, or bedroom that the cat can retreat to and feel safe will help reduce their stress. If the change is related to your time at home or new people in the house, spend extra time with your cat. One-on-one time with them will help reassure them that they are still valued members of the family.
2. Litter Box Issues
Cats like to be clean. They spend a large part of their day grooming to keep themselves clean, and they prefer their surroundings to be clean too. If the litter box hasn’t been tended to in a while, the cat can show their displeasure with this by peeing on the dog bed.
The litter box location is important to note. Cats want their litter boxes to be as private as possible. They won’t want to use a litter box in a high-activity area. If it’s difficult to reach or your cat doesn’t find it convenient, they may pee on the dog bed because it’s an easier alternative.
How to Stop It
Scoop the litter box or boxes every day, and be sure to do a complete refresh of them at least every 3 weeks. Be sure to put the litter box in a quiet area away from any commotion, and give your cat as much privacy as possible.
If you have more than one cat, you should ideally have one litter box per cat, plus one extra box. This will give your cats options and prevent one litter box from quickly becoming dirty. If you have multiple cats and only one litter box, a simple solution to stopping your cat from peeing on the dog bed may be to just add more boxes around the home.
Even if you keep a clean and tidy litterbox, you probably still find yourself with cat odors and stains around the house – but with the Hepper Advanced Bio-Enzyme Pet Stain & Odor Eliminator Spray, you can permanently remove even the very worst pet stains and smells! Click here to learn more and get yourself a bottle.
At Pet Keen, we’ve admired Hepper for many years, and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding products of this cool cat company!
3. Territory Marking
Cats mark their territory in many ways, and one unfortunate way that they do this is with urine. They mark territory to signal ownership indoors. Outdoors, this is done to try to attract a potential mate. This is most commonly seen in male cats that have not been neutered.
How to Stop It
If you have a male cat or cats that are not neutered, get them neutered as soon as possible. This may decrease their urge to mark.
4. Health Problems
Cats peeing outside of their litter box can be indicative of health issues. If you notice that your cat is peeing on the dog bed, it could be because they are trying to get your attention.
If cats are in pain when they pee in the litter box, they may start to associate the litter box with pain and choose to go to more comfortable places instead. They also may not be able to control their peeing. Does your cat sleep in the dog bed and then leave a wet spot behind? The peeing could be involuntary.
Many things could be the culprit here. Bladder infections, urinary tract infections, crystals in the urine, and incontinence are conditions that can cause your cat to pee outside their litter box.
How to Stop It
Bring your cat to the vet as soon as possible. Blood and urine tests will be done to determine which condition your cat has so your vet can treat it. Medications and a possible change in diet can get your cat feeling better and eliminate their rogue peeing.
Other Ways to Stop This Behavior
If your cat is still peeing on the dog bed and nothing is working to make it stop, be sure to rule out a health problem. Once your cat gets a clean bill of health from the vet, you can try these methods.
Clean the Dog Bed Thoroughly
If your dog’s bed is machine washable, wash it in cold water and hang it to dry. If you can hang it outside in direct sunlight, that will be even better to eliminate odors. Don’t wash the bed in hot water or dry it on high heat, as heat can lock in cat pee odors.
If the bed isn’t machine washable, wash it by hand using a homemade or enzyme-based commercial cat pee cleaner. You may have to repeat the process to fully eradicate the odor.
It’s important to get rid of the odor as much as you can because if the cat can still smell their pee on the bed, they will think that it’s okay to pee there again.
Use Diffusers
Cat pheromone diffusers work by spraying pheromones into the air that reduce stress and anxiety in your cat. If the cat is peeing on the dog bed due to stress, this can be an effective way to calm them down and get rid of their desire to pee there.
Move the Dog Bed
Your cat could be peeing on the dog bed because they don’t like where it’s placed. Try moving it to another location or blocking your cat’s access to it completely.
Conclusion
Cat pee on the dog bed can be annoying and difficult to clean. It’s even more frustrating when the problem doesn’t stop. If this is new behavior for your cat, try to figure out what the issue is. If they’re stressed, sick, or acting out, following these suggested methods can help you get your cat feeling better and keep your dog’s bed pee-free. We hope that these ideas have helped you understand more about your cat’s behavior.
See also:
- Why Does My Cat Pee in the Bathtub? 8 Possible Causes
- How to Get Rid of Cat Urine Smells in a Basement
- Why Does My Cat Drink and Pee So Much? (4 Potential Causes)
Featured Image Credit: Jareerat, Shutterstock