Want a clean home and a happy cat? Cat deterrent sprays promise to keep cats from peeing, spraying or scratching in places they shouldn’t. But do they really work, are they safe, and how should you use them? Here’s what you need to know.
What Are Cat Deterrent Sprays?
Cat deterrent sprays (sometimes called “anti-marking” or “keep off” sprays) are designed to discourage cats from using certain spots as a toilet, or from scratching or climbing on furniture. There are many brands, but they work on the same principle: they contain scents that most cats dislike, such as citrus, bitter herbs or methyl nonyl ketone (the compound that gives the rue plant its strong smell). Some also contain enzymes to break down old urine.
Popular options in the US and UK include Beaphar Stop-It, Pet Organics No-Go and various “cat repellent” and “no-marking” sprays from pet stores. Motion-activated deterrents, such as the PetSafe SSSCAT, which releases a harmless puff of air when a cat approaches, work on a different principle and are often more effective than scent alone.
Before you buy: a cat that suddenly starts peeing outside its litter box may be ill. Bladder inflammation, urinary crystals, infections, kidney disease and arthritis are common causes. Have your cat checked by a vet first. A deterrent spray won’t fix a medical problem.
How to Use a Deterrent Spray Correctly
- Clean the spot thoroughly first with an enzyme cleaner designed for pet urine. Don’t use bleach or ammonia-based cleaners, which can attract cats back to the same place. If any smell of urine remains, your cat will keep returning, no matter how much deterrent you use. Read more: how to get rid of cat urine smell.
- Let the area dry completely.
- Test the spray on a small, hidden area first, to make sure it doesn’t stain or damage the surface.
- Spray the area as directed on the label, usually from about 8–12 inches (20–30 cm) away. Never spray the product on your cat, its food and water bowls, its bed or its litter box.
- Keep your cat away from the treated area until it’s dry, and keep the room well ventilated.
- Repeat regularly. Most sprays need to be reapplied daily or every few days at first, until your cat has stopped using the spot.
- Make the litter box more appealing at the same time. A deterrent only tells your cat where not to go. Your cat also needs a clean, comfortable litter box in a quiet spot. You can place a litter box near the problem area temporarily.
Pros
- They’re easy to use and widely available.
- Most are inexpensive, typically about $8–15 / £5–10 a bottle.
- Products designed for use around cats are generally safe when used as directed.
- They can help break the habit of using a particular spot, especially when combined with good cleaning and litter box management.
Cons and Precautions
- They don’t work for every cat. Some cats ignore the smell completely.
- They don’t fix the underlying cause, such as illness, stress, a dirty litter box or territorial anxiety.
- Many have a strong smell that people may find unpleasant too.
- Some cats and people may react to the ingredients with sneezing or skin irritation. Stop using the product if you notice any reaction.
- Avoid any homemade or imported products containing essential oils, which can be toxic to cats.
What Owners Say
Owners’ experiences with deterrent sprays vary widely. Some find that a spray helps keep a cat off a favorite rug or sofa, especially when used alongside thorough cleaning. Others report that their cat simply sniffed the treated spot and carried on, or that the spray smelled so strong they stopped using it. Many owners find that the problem only really stops once they’ve found and dealt with the cause: a medical problem, an unsuitable litter box, stress or the need to spay or neuter.
Other Ways to Stop Unwanted Toileting
- Spay or neuter your cat: it’s the most effective way to reduce urine marking.
- Provide one litter box per cat plus one extra, scoop at least once a day and use an unscented litter.
- Use a synthetic pheromone diffuser, such as Feliway, to reduce stress.
- Make problem spots less attractive with foil, double-sided tape or upside-down carpet runners, or put food bowls or toys there.
- Never punish your cat: it only increases anxiety and makes the problem worse.
Read more: why cats pee outside the litter box and how to stop it and smells that cats hate.
