There are many reasons why a cat might have toilet issues, but one of the most common (and fortunately, most easily solved) is the litter box itself. Here’s a quick checklist that can help you identify problems and correct them.
It has to be clean … but not TOO clean. Cats are fastidious creatures and a smelly, soiled litter box can be such a turn-off that they simply stop using it. Scoop daily and do a complete litter change on a regular basis, but don’t clean it so rigorously or so often that the box smells like disinfectant. Cats depend on their sense of smell and odors like detergent, disinfectant, etc. can be both off-putting and confusing. This is particularly important when you’re dealing with a new arrival or a very young cat that’s still in the process of mastering litter box training.
It has to be the right size. Generally speaking, bigger is better (especially if you have a multi-cat household). Many containers sold as litter boxes are simply too small to be efficient or comfortable. The litter box should be large enough to accommodate the cat’s entire body and deep enough to let the cat cover the waste. A too-small box is an invitation to problems. Make sure the sides of the box aren’t too high for the cat to climb over easily (particularly if you have an older cat).
It has to be in the right place. Cats are very private about toilet matters and if the box is in a high-traffic area a cat may feel vulnerable, exposed, and unsafe when using it. Try to locate your litter box in an out-of-the-way corner, and make sure it’s constantly accessible; if the cat has to get a human to open a door so she can get to the box, you’re both going to have problems. If you have an older cat, try to locate the box in the same room or at least on the same floor where the cat spends the most time. Going up and downstairs is can be a problem for older cats, just as it is for their human friends.
It has to contain a brand of litter the cat is comfortable with. The smell and texture of litter varies greatly from brand to brand. If you’ve just changed to a new type of litter, try changing back. Usually whatever brand the cat is most accustomed to will be the most successful.
It has to have the right cat-to-box ratio. Some cats are OK with sharing a box, but some aren’t. If you’re adding a new cat to the household, be sure to add a new litter box as well.
About the Author
Is Fluffy making fringe out of the furniture? Is Spot spraying every vertical surface in your house? Do you sometimes feel like you’re swimming in a sea of cat hair? For solutions to these and other common cat problems, CLICK HERE to visit CatStuff – Living With Cats and Loving It!
How can I keep my litter box smelling fresh?
I have two cats and two litter boxes. I scoop them everyday but I can still smell the odor.
Any suggestions?
Has anyone ever used baking soda in their litter? How would I do that?
I have used that powder you sprinkle on your carpet after I clean the box each time. It has baking soda and some sent. I like the all natural pine litter as well. Stays less stinky to me.
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