Why Does My Cat Lay in the Litter Box?

If you find your cat laying in its own litter box, you may think he has lost his mind. But, from the cat's point of view, there may be good reasons for hanging around this unusual spot.

  1. Familiarity and Comfort

    • A litter box may smell unpleasant to you and me, but to kitty it smells just like her. A shy or nervous cat may be drawn to the litter box because it gives her comfort. If you provide a soft, covered bed for her (even if it's just a cardboard box lined with a towel), she may move to that instead.

    Habits Die Hard

    • If the cat has been kept in a small kennel for some time (such as at a shelter), he may not have had anywhere comfortable to lay down except in the litter box, and these cats often choose the litter box for sleeping. If you adopted him recently, it may take him time to get out of that habit. (Note: Do not use clumping litter for kittens younger than 8 weeks.)

    Anxiety Relief and Safety

    • Since the litter box is a "familiar" place, a cat that is fearful or anxious, perhaps because she is being picked on by another animal or a child in the house, may retreat to the litter box. A problem like this may require some behavioral training for both parties, or a means of separation.

    Privacy

    • Most cats like having hiding places and tucked-away spaces where they can find privacy, even when they are not feeling threatened. Litter boxes often fit the bill. Once again, a hideaway bed or "cup" bed in an out-of-the-way place might draw her from the toileting area.

    Illness

    • A cat that is having bladder problems or diarrhea may want to stay near the litter box. But any kind of illness can cause a cat to retreat to a place where he feels safety, privacy and comfort. If you cannot diagnose the reason for his sleeping in the litter box, a veterinary examination may be a good idea.