so I broke out the black light and....

[Lizzie]

It does sound like a reaction to the odors of previous cats. The combination of a cat's super sensitive nose and super sensitive feelings about the move have probably brought on this behavior. I wouldn't use bleach because, from what I've read, it doesn't get rid of urine smells and cats tend to pee over it. When you read the directions on Nature's Miracle, you will find that it warns you that the smell won't go away until the solution has completely dried out. It may look dry but is still damp within the wall or floor and working away at the pee. They also suggest that you cover the saturated spots with foil. I had one cat who used to like to roll in the stuff if I didn't cover the area.

You may have to do some serious investigation in order to stop the behavior completely. Put on a pair of rubber gloves and run your fingers hard along the floor/carpet just by the wall, then smell your fingers. I know this sounds gross but the black light may not pick up really old urine stains - though your cat can still smell them.

I just re-read your post and you said she isn't peeing on the bed etc. and that does reinforce the idea that she is responding to other cat smells and not upset with you.

Good luck! This is a tough issue to deal with, as I well know.

[kb2yjx]

I guess the previous poster and I have read conflicting articles about the use of bleach and cats. I have used it for years, and the cats have had no problems with it. However, AMMONIA is NEVER to be used, since there is the smell of it is close to that of urine. Whatever works best in your situation! I do agree with the suggestion of the rubber glove and checking for urine. When we had our floors refinished, and pulled up the wall to wall carpeting, were we surprised to find that a certain corner had been a favourite spot of the previous owners' cats' to pee on. The floor had discoloured to a black colour. After the floors were done, we put a chair there to hid the discolouration!!!

[RobLynn]

If the previous owner had cats, in the same spot, where urine could get on a wall, it could be the reason.

They say when a cat pees on a vertical surface, that they are marking their territory (I could be wrong, but this is what the vet told me).

Maybe repainting that area after a very good cleaning. If that don't work, you may need to replace the drywall in that area. I don't mean the whole room, just the affected area.