should I let them mark their territory?

My indoor cats are marking inside because of a stray that comes into our backyard at night. They can see it through the sliding glass doors. We have a VERY SMALL enclosed back yard and I have let them out on a few occasions because they love it and they are safe. Well last night I saw the stray peeing/spraying in our yard! If I let my cats out will they spray the yard, marking their territory and cause the stray to stay away? Or will it make it worse for my cats to actually smell another cat? I cannot have them come back in tonight and pee everywhere. My hubby will put them out for good. Sorry I don't know enough about cat behavior.

Are they neutered? It will eliminate or significantly reduce the marking.

If it keeps up, they can start marking inside and then you will really have problems.

eliminate the stray coming into the yard, box trap it or call animal control

I would have the stray fixed as well as your 2 male cats. Having them go outdoors if they are intact may lead to fights.

Katie

My senior cat has been neutered for 13 years and while he doesn't spray in the house he will spray outside. Females that are not spayed will also spay. YOu don't want any spraying going on in the house!!