Causes and Their Importance
If you know the source of your cat's anxiety, it will go a LONG way in treatment. Sometimes, the cause simply cannot be known. I adopted Koshka from a shelter that couldn't begin to guess why she's afraid of rain. So, I'm at a loss - and you'll see why that can be detrimental.
If you can watch your cat and see patterns, or triggers, you're half way to your solution. A lot of it is just common sense. You bought the sale brand of litter this week instead, and suddenly the bathroom carpet is your litterbox. Your cat is simply saying, that stuff doesn't feel right on my paws - change it back. Simple.
If the only items your cat urinates on or destroys belong to your new husband, you know he's the source of the anxiety. Does your cat avoid one room? One set of steps? Was there a loud noise there one day? Did something fall on him? Have you moved? Did someone or some animal leave the home? These questions are invaluable, particularly when you have the answers.
So when you go to your vet, be prepared. Don't just say the kitty attacks my ankles now and then. Know if your kitty attacks your ankles when you open the fridge, or when you lay on the couch, or when you give him food. What does he destroy, where is it, whose is it, is it all the time, can you cause it - all these things can go a long way toward developing a treatment plan.