Preventing and Solving Cat Litter Box Problems

If you find that your cat is not using his litter box for elimination, there may be several causes for this common problem.

Medical Issues

Many medical conditions can contribute to litter box problems. Colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, hyperthyroidism, kidney or liver disease, urinary infections, and diabetes can all contribute to litter box rejection.  If there is pain involved in a cat’s medical issues, as in arthritis, constipation, anal sac disease, or colitis, this may cause him to associate pain with his litter box.  If your cat has arthritis or kidney disease, or if he is elderly, be sure that his box is low enough for him to get into comfortably.

Please have your cat thoroughly checked by a veterinarian to determine if a physical malady is the cause of the problem.

Litter Box Cleanliness

Most cats are particular about litter box hygiene and will often refuse to use it if it isn’t kept clean. If he doesn’t think the box is clean, he may use the area around the box, and some cats will not use a litter box that was recently used by another cat. Clean/strain the litter box at least twice daily and wash the box once a week (using soap and warm water….do not use a strong-smelling disinfectant).

Clean any soiled areas outside of the box with an enzyme-based cleaner, such as Nature’s Miracle, which is available on Chewy.com or Amazon.com, or in any major pet supply store.  Regular cleaners do not break down the urine or stool traces, so cleaning with these will deter your cat from using that same spot again.

Stress

Stress can be a factor in litter box problems

Cats experience stress from major changes such as moving, new family dynamics, grief, and changes in routine.  They can also be upset by smaller changes which may include rearranged or new furniture, new litter box location, or using a different brand of litter.  It is important to note that if stress is causing your cat to soil areas outside of his box, you need to give him plenty of attention, care, and reassurance to help him adjust. Extra play time is very helpful in these situations, as well.  Consider using a product that contains calming pheromones, Feliway (also available on Chewy.com or Amazon.com), and is designed to reduce anxiety, which in turn can reduce spraying and soiling.  When you have identified and are working on resolving the cause of spraying and have also thoroughly cleaned the area, try feeding your cat in that same area.  They will not urinate and eat in the same place, so this may stop your cat from using this same spot again.

Litter Preference

If you have changed litter brands lately, try switching back to the original brand and type.  Also try different depths of litter.   If you often find excess litter on the floor around his box, you’re probably using too much.  Try to aim for around 2 inches in depth of litter.

Litter Box Location

Avoid placing his box near his food and water.  Cats like privacy when using their litter boxes, so place it in an area where there is not much family traffic.  If he has access to different floors in your house, provide a box on every floor.

Spraying – What is it and why?

If you find a urine puddle against a wall or along the side of a chair or sofa, this is spraying, not urinating outside of his box.  It is not an emptying of the bladder as when a cat squats, but is done standing up with the tail straight up.  It’s not clear whether it is done to mark territory or a warning for trespassers to stay away, but both males and females spray. Male cats do it more frequently, and unneutered males almost always do it.  If the cat is an unneutered male and has just started to do it, neutering will often stop that behavior as hormones play a significant role in urine marking.  To change the cat’s marking behavior, punishment should never be used.  Instead, determine the conflict that may be causing the stress or reason behind the spraying and try to resolve the issue (stray cats outside, or being bullied by another family pet, for example).   Clean the sprayed areas with an enzyme-based cleaner (Nature’s Miracle) to remove traces of the urine odor.  If your cat is an indoor and outdoor cat, you may need to keep him indoors if the stressful behavior is related to something outside.

Productive and interactive toys are helpful in keeping him busy, and it is suggested that you try cuddling and petting him in the space where he has been spraying.  Again, the use of Feliway can be very helpful in keeping him calm and de-stressed.

Solve your cat’s litter box problem

General Tips

Have a veterinarian check your cat thoroughly for any medical issues that may be causing the litter box problem.

Pick a good location for the box, semi-private and not close to family traffic, but not in corners or closets where he might feel trapped.

Keep the box away from your cat’s food and water.

Avoid using covered boxes as many cats appear to be reluctant to use them.  They may feel uncomfortable in the small, enclosed space and with the concentrated odor.

Consider the size of the box related to the size of your kitten or cat.  Small kittens will need a smaller box with lower sides, and will need a larger box as they grow.

If you adopt another cat or kitten, provide an additional box for the new arrival.

Select the kitty litter carefully.  Generally recommended are litter types that are plain, unscented, and clumping.  Once your cat seems pleased with a certain type and brand, stick with that litter and do not change.  Also, aim for a 2 inch depth of litter in the box.

KEEP THE LITTER BOX CLEAN! Wet clumps and solid wastes should be scooped out twice daily.  The entire box should be emptied, washed out with warm water and mild soap at least once a week.  Do not use strong-smelling cleaners or disinfectants as this may discourage your cat from using the box.

DO NOT PUNISH!  This only increases your cat’s stress and anxiety and will likely make the problem worse.  It is important to remember that litter box problems have nothing to do with spite.

Inappropriate elimination is a common and frustrating problem.  While it can be difficult to control, it is important to address it as early as possible and determine the cause of the behavior.  Time, effort and patience on your part will play an important part in resolving the problem.

The key is to be positive and reassuring while giving your cat stability and structure.  Be sensitive to his needs and issues.  If you invest in quality time and attention,  you and your cat will both be rewarded.

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