Why your cat isn’t using the litter box

Returning home to an unwelcome “surprise” on the floor? It’s part of being a cat owner.

Cats might not always use the litter box as expected, even if they’re well-behaved.

Sometimes, they choose different spots, especially when scared or trapped.

If this happens a lot or your cat avoids the litter box entirely, it could indicate a medical issue.

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WHY YOUR CAT AVOIDS THE LITTER BOX

Ever wondered why your cat stopped using the litter box?

If this habit is recent, it might signal a health issue like;

• FLUTD
• bacterial cystitis
• kidney failure
• liver disease
• diabetes.

ALSO READ: Can I give my cat Gatorade to drink?

IS THERE A CHANGE AT HOME?

Household changes can also affect your cat’s mood.

• Moving
• remodeling
• new pets or family members
• outdoor cats (can cause stress)

Is a cat’s age relevant?

Aging cats may soil due to mobility or cognitive decline.

Stress can lead to serious conditions like feline idiopathic cystitis, a common FLUTD type.

ALSO READ: Do dogs like sleeping next to humans?

CHECK IF THE LITTER BOX IS THE PROBLEM

Try to check off this list.

• Ensure it’s clean, of the right size (about 2 inches of litter), easy to access, and without uncomfortable liners.

• Have enough litter boxes around, and consider their locations.

• Does the cat associate the litter box with pain or discomfort?

Also, they might dislike the litter, especially if you’ve changed types. Cats prefer unscented litters.

ALSO READ: Do cats like sleeping next to their humans?

WHAT TO DO IF IT PERSISTS

If your cat keeps going outside the litter box, take them to the vet to find out why and how to fix it.

The vet will do a thorough check-up, including a physical exam, blood tests, and urine analysis.

After treating any medical issues, you may need to retrain your cat to use the litter box properly.

ALSO READ: How to switch your dog’s diet to raw food

Praise her when she uses the litter box correctly. Positive encouragement helps a lot!

Around 10 percent of cats experience urination problems in their lives.

Keep a keen eye out for clues to tackle this early and make both you and your beloved feline happier.

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This article was compiled with the help of Artificial Intelligence