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Litter & toileting

Why is my cat urinating outside the litter tray?

A sudden toileting change can be caused by pain or illness, stress, conflict, tray location, cleanliness or litter preference. Arrange a veterinary check first, especially if your cat strains, cries, passes only drops or repeatedly visits the tray.

A good next step

  • Do not punish your cat.
  • Scoop waste daily and offer a large open tray with unscented litter.
  • Straining without producing urine is an emergency, particularly in male cats.

Source checked: RSPCA Australia

Last reviewed 26 July 2026. General information only; not a substitute for veterinary or legal advice.

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Know when to stop searching

Some questions need a vet, not a webpage.

Seek urgent veterinary help for breathing difficulty, collapse, seizures, severe pain, major trauma, suspected poisoning, heatstroke, or repeated straining without passing urine.

If you are unsure, call your regular vet or nearest emergency veterinary clinic for triage.