A deliberate and – for cats – normal act which ensures that the scent of urine or faeces is left as a chemical marker for other cats. Spraying is more commonly associated with male cats (and wild cats, such as lions and tigers commonly practice it too). Spraying or marking is performed in a standing position against a vertical object,. This ensures other local cats have vital information about the cat's age, sex, health and rank – all at nose height. If spraying or marking occurs indoors, contact your vet for a full medical examination. Avoid punishment, as this will stress your cat and make the problem worse.