Harsh punishment for any reason might cause the cat to eliminate in secluded areas in order to avoid family members. Although most cats urine mark on upright objects, some may mark on horizontal surfaces. When the cat is urinating on top of specific objects, such as the owner's clothing, bed, or favorite chair, an anxiety-motivated problem should be considered. If emotional factors are causing the housesoiling, you may see related behavioral changes occurring, such as avoidance, hiding, aggression or a general alteration in the pet's behavior patterns. Keeping a diary may help the owner identify situations that trigger the problem when the housesoiling is very sporadic and the reason for the problem is not immediately apparent.
Most owners use punishment in an attempt to change the pet's behavior.
This approach is rarely effective and often makes the situation worse. This is especially true if it is harsh or delayed, or when anxiety is an important factor in the development of the problem. No matter what the circumstances might be, the cat should never be swatted or physically punished. The owner should be cautioned against rubbing the cat's nose in the mess or roughly handling it and placing it in the litter box. Whether the problem is due to an aversion to the litterbox itself or due to environmental stress, make sure that the litterbox situation is ideal and that the soiled areas have been properly cleaned and deterrents have been set up.