Why Will a Cat Not Use a Litter Box?

Cats are among the easiest pets to housebreak. Often, showing your cat the litter box is all you need to do to get her started. If your cat does not use the litter box, it may be for a variety of reasons.

  1. Aversion to Litter Box

    • Some cats feel anxious or trapped in covered boxes, while others don't like the scent or texture of a particular litter. Many cats feel an aversion to a box that is not cleaned regularly.

    Illness

    • An ill cat may associate the litter box with the pain of her illness, or she may not be able to make it to the box on time.

    Other Pets

    • If another cat, dog or household pet bullies your cat, she may not use the litter box because it puts her in a vulnerable position. Make sure each cat in your household has her own box and that the boxes are located apart from one another so your cat can always find one that is free.

    Lack of Privacy

    • Cats may be scared to use a litter box that is in a high-traffick or noisy area of the house. Keep litter boxes in quiet, private areas.

    Stress

    • Cats may express their anxiety by eliminating outside the box. If your cat stops using her litter box reliably, consider whether changes in routine or household composition might be stressing her.

    Warning

    • Never yell at, hurt or punish your cat for eliminating outside the litter box. This will stress your cat and make the problem worse. If your cat stops using the litter box, take her to the vet to rule out medical reasons.