Inappropriate Urination

Question: Cat urinated in bed belonging to 14 year old boy. No abuse in
home, cat has urinated in bags on occassion in past. The cat is 5 to 7 years
old male, fixed, indoor/outdoor. Boy normally cleans litter box but the box
was fairly clean. Please advise on appropiate handling of situation,
retraining or other means to stop habit. Thank-you

ANSWER: Inappropriate urination is due to either medical causes or it is it behavioral. First, you must make an appointment with your veterinarian to rule out possible medical causes such as: urinary tract infections/inflammation, the presence of urinary or kidney stones, polyps, tumors, masses, hormonal imbalances, incontinence, underlying diseases (diabetes, etc). Once a clear medical record is ascertained, then you must consider behavioral problems and consult with a behaviorist. Also, our website at www.petservice.com has an "Ask the Trainer" section, and Petco stores have books that can help with behavioral training problems. If your pet is not spayed or neutered, then this would be a first step in eliminating the problem. The urine smell must be eliminated from the item that has been soiled or the pet will return to this spot and urinate again. There are some products available to help rid items of the odor, and ammonia-based products should be avoided, as they smell similar to urine. Petco stores also have products that will help rid items of urine odor. Good luck!