Why Would a Cat Lie in a Litter Box?

If you've ever visited an animal shelter where cats are housed, you've probably seen cats sleeping or lying in their litter boxes. These cats probably feel like they're in the safest place they can be in the circumstances. But maybe your own cat lies in its litter box. In some cases, why the cat lies in its litter box is something only the cat knows. But several logical reasons may explain your cat's behavior, and knowing them could help you prevent it.

  1. Medical Issues

    • Urinary tract disorders can cause a cat to sleep or lie in its litter box. With a urinary tract infection, cats may feel a frequent need to urinate. This leads some cats to stay in the box. Take your pet to a veterinarian for a check-up. The veterinarian will likely perform a urinalysis and an exam. If your cat has a urinary tract infection, you can treat it with antibiotics.

    Guarding

    • In multi-cat homes, cats often guard the litter box from other cats.
      The cat lying in the box may be the guard or the victim. If guarding the box, the cat is staying there to ensure no other cat has access. If the victim, it's staying there to hold its turf and make sure it has access when it needs it.

    Security

    • Stress can cause a cat to sleep in or lie in its litter box. Minor changes, such as moving the furniture or a change in your schedule, can cause stress to cats. Major changes, such as a new family member, a new pet or a move to a new house, can induce incredible stress for a feline. If your pet feels like it's losing control of the rest of its world, it may lie in its litter box as a way to remain in control of at least this small--but important--part of the universe.

    Safe Place

    • Ensure your cat's litter box is in an easily accessible place--an area where dogs or children cannot harass it. Make sure it's a quiet place with some privacy. The litter box should not be too near the cat's food and sleeping area. To encourage your cat to find a better place to nap, give it a warm, comfortable bed in quiet, private area.

    Litter Box Care

    • Ensure there are enough litter boxes, especially with multiple cats. The general rule of thumb is one box per cat, plus an extra one. Be sure to scoop the boxes daily and replace the litter as needed so it stays fresh. It's also best to leave boxes uncovered. The covers cause the boxes to retain odors and leave cats with only one way out, which is an problem when one cat may be guarding another cat's access to the box.