Male cats typically start spraying when they reach sexual maturity, which usually occurs around 5 to 6 months of age, but it can range from as early as 4 months to as late as 8 to 9 months. This behavior is mainly to mark territory or attract mates. Neutering male cats before they reach sexual maturity, around 4 to 5 months old, can prevent or significantly reduce spraying in up to 90% of cases. Female cats can also spray, but it is more common and pronounced in males. Spraying involves a cat standing upright with a quivering tail and releasing small amounts of urine on vertical surfaces, different from regular urination.