Male cats typically start spraying around 6 months of age, which is when they reach sexual maturity. However, this can vary individually, with some males beginning as early as 4 months or as late as 8-9 months. Spraying behavior is a form of marking territory, signaling mating availability, and communicating with other cats. It is most common in intact (non-neutered) males. Early neutering, usually recommended around 4-5 months of age, can prevent or greatly reduce spraying behavior in up to 90% of cases. In summary, male cats start spraying roughly between 4 to 9 months, with the average around 6 months.