Why Is My Maine Coon Spraying & How To Stop It Fast!
Spraying is one of the most frustrating behaviors a Maine Coon owner can face.
Whether you’re a new owner or you’ve just added another pet to the home, discovering a foul-smelling mark on the wall is enough to raise alarm bells.
If your Maine Coon has started spraying, it’s crucial to understand why it’s happening, when it tends to begin, and how to stop it – before it becomes a long-term issue.
In this detailed guide, you’ll learn when Maine Coons typically start spraying, what triggers it (even in neutered cats), and practical solutions to help you prevent or eliminate this unpleasant habit for good.
When Do Maine Coons Start Spraying?
Most cats start spraying when they reach sexual maturity, usually between 4 and 6 months old. However, Maine Coons mature more slowly than many other breeds.
Most Maine Coons start spraying at 8 to 10 months old, though some may begin as early as 6 months.
Spraying is much more common in intact (unneutered) males and females.
Neutering before your cat reaches full sexual maturity is the most effective way to prevent this behavior from developing at all.
Key Point:
- Neuter or spay your Maine Coon between 4-6 months old to reduce the risk of spraying.
- Delayed neutering increases the chances that your cat will begin marking territory.
What Exactly Is Spraying?
Spraying is different from normal urination.
While normal urination occurs in a squat position into a litter box, spraying involves standing upright, raising the tail (often with a slight quiver), and backing up to a vertical surface like a wall, door, or sofa before releasing a strong-smelling jet of urine.
The purpose of spraying is communication, not elimination. Cats spray to:
- Mark territory
- Signal sexual availability
- Respond to stress or anxiety
This behavior is instinctive and deeply rooted in feline communication.
Why Do Maine Coon Cats Spray?
Although sexual maturity is the most well-known trigger, many Maine Coons spray for emotional or environmental reasons, even after being neutered.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common causes:
1. Territorial Marking
Unneutered males, in particular, spray to mark territory and ward off other males. Even in multi-cat homes, a Maine Coon might feel the need to reinforce its “ownership” over a specific space.
2. Response To Other Cats
If there are other cats nearby (whether inside or visible from a window) your Maine Coon may start spraying as a form of social dominance or rivalry.
The presence of new or strange cats can trigger insecurity and territorial behavior.
3. Mating Instinct
Intact male and female cats spray to signal reproductive readiness.
Female Maine Coons may start spraying during their first heat cycle. Males spray to attract mates.
4. Stress Or Anxiety
Changes in the environment or routine can trigger stress-related spraying.
Common stressors include:
- Moving house
- A new baby or pet
- Furniture rearrangement
- Visitors or loud noises
Cats don’t cope well with change. If they feel their environment is unstable, they may mark to self-soothe or re-establish a sense of control.
5. Boredom And Loneliness
Maine Coons are highly social and intelligent. If they’re left alone for long periods or lack stimulation, they may become anxious or frustrated, and spraying can result.
6. Loss Or Grief
Grieving a lost pet, owner, or companion animal can lead to behavior changes. Cats may spray as a response to grief, separation anxiety, or feelings of abandonment.
7. Medical Issues
Sometimes, spraying is due to a urinary tract infection (UTI), bladder inflammation (cystitis), or other medical conditions. If spraying appears suddenly and your cat is neutered and otherwise stress-free, visit your vet for a full check-up.
How To Tell If Your Maine Coon Is Spraying
If you’re unsure whether your Maine Coon is spraying or simply urinating outside the litter box, look for these signs:
- Location: Spraying usually happens on vertical surfaces (walls, doors, furniture legs), while inappropriate urination is often on floors or soft items like bedding.
- Body Language: A spraying cat stands with its tail upright, often twitching or quivering, while backing up to the object.
- Smell: Spray smells much stronger and more pungent than ordinary cat urine due to pheromones.
- Continued Litter Use: Spraying cats still use their litter boxes for regular urination.
How To Stop Maine Coon Spraying
Spraying is unpleasant, but the good news is it’s usually reversible with the right approach.
1. Neuter Or Spay Early
The most effective prevention is neutering your Maine Coon before they reach sexual maturity (ideally by 6 months of age).
In many cases, spraying will stop within a few days to a few weeks after the procedure.
2. Visit Your Vet
If your cat is already neutered and spraying, rule out medical issues such as UTIs, bladder stones, or kidney disease.
Your vet may run a urinalysis or bloodwork.
3. Reduce Stress
Identify and address sources of stress:
- Use pheromone diffusers (e.g., Feliway) to calm anxiety.
- Keep routines consistent (feeding, play, bedtime).
- Provide hiding places and vertical escape zones (cat trees or shelves).
4. Enrich The Environment
Maine Coons need mental stimulation and physical activity. Make sure your cat has:
- Interactive toys
- Window perches for outdoor viewing
- Daily playtime (chase toys, feather wands, puzzle feeders)
- Scratching posts
A bored cat is more likely to spray out of frustration.
5. Provide Separate Resources In Multi-Cat Homes
Give each cat:
- Their own litter box
- Separate feeding and water bowls
- Private beds or hiding spots
Competition over territory and resources increases the risk of spraying.
6. Clean Marked Areas Thoroughly
Clean sprayed areas immediately and completely with enzyme-based cleaners like Nature’s Miracle.
Avoid bleach or ammonia, which may mimic the scent of urine and encourage re-spraying.
7. Feed In Sprayed Areas
Cats don’t like to eliminate where they eat. Try placing food or treats in frequently sprayed spots once they are fully cleaned.
8. Block Access To Targeted Zones
Make sprayed areas inaccessible or unappealing by:
- Rearranging furniture
- Using aluminum foil or citrus scents (cats dislike citrus)
- Spraying pet-safe repellents
When Will Cat Stop Spraying After Neutering?
Most male cats stop spraying within 4-6 weeks of neutering, though some may take longer.
If spraying began as a learned behavioral habit before surgery, or if it’s anxiety-based, further training and environmental management may still be needed.
Cost Of Spaying Or Neutering A Maine Coon
| Region | Average Cost (Private Vet) | Low-Cost Clinics/Shelters |
|---|---|---|
| USA | $300 – $500 (USD) | $50 – $100 (sometimes free via ASPCA/local shelters) |
| UK | £60 – £150 (GBP) | £30 – £60 (via Cats Protection or PDSA if eligible) |
Always check with local charities or veterinary colleges for affordable options.
Side Effects Or Risks Of Spaying
While the risks are low, it’s good to be aware:
- Weight gain: Can occur if calorie intake isn’t adjusted after neutering.
- Temporary incontinence: A rare but possible side effect.
- Anesthetic risks: Especially if spayed at an older age or with undiagnosed health issues.
