Animal Welfare Professionals

Hi, I have a cat that likes to pee on the bed, blanket and pillow.  His litter box is cleaned everyday and we use pine pellets for litter.  How can I correct this behavior problem?  Any help or suggestion is appreciated.

Hi Kathy,

 A cat peeing on the bed (and other items with the owner's scent on them) can be an indication of underlying stress.  Or is it possible that your kitty doesn't like the feeling of the pine pellets on his paws?  Generally speaking, cats tend to prefer soft, sand-like clumping litter (though all cats are individuals, and he may be fine with his current litter).  There are several  variables to consider when  a cats starts peeing outside its litter box.

However, the recommended first step when trying to resolve inappropriate elimination in cats is a visit to the vet to rule out a medical issue, including pain.     

Cat behaviorist Pat Johnson-Bennett has a great website with lots of helpful information on cat behavior, including "litter box issues".   Here's a link to an article specifically on cats peeing on the bed:

https://www.catbehaviorassociates.com/why-does-my-cat-pee-on-the-bed/

Best of luck with  your kitty!  I know this type of situation can be hard on both cats and cat parents.

p.s.  I created a little video on this topic recently and will try to post the link later.      

Hi Lisa,

Thank you so much for your help!!  I bought the sand clump litter and for the most part he has stopped peeing on the bed.  I notice he now poops in the pellet litter box and pees in the sand clump litter.  I guess he likes to keep the 2 separate.  Also the article you linked was excellent at giving me further insight.  Thank you again!

That's great news Kathy!  You're quite welcome.