Why Do Cats Go to the Bathroom Somewhere Other Than Their Kitty Litter?

One of the most frustrating parts about owning a cat is when it decides to stop using its litter box. Normally a simple solution can be found to eliminate any problems that are occurring. One of the worst things owners can do is overreact and physically punish their cat. This can lead to even more accidents occurring from an uncomfortable pet.

  1. Sanitary Issues

    • One of the reasons cats stop using a litter box is because of sanitary issues. Some cats will keep using a litter box even if it has not been cleaned in weeks. Other cats will not use a litter box if it has been used a few times without being cleaned. Cats have a very strong sense of smell, and not having a clean litter box will lead to problems. Sanitary issues can quickly arise if an owner has multiple cats and a small litter box. Some cats will not use the same litter box as another cat, which means cat owners may need multiple litter boxes.

    Litter and Litter Box Problems

    • Not having the right type of litter or the right type of litter box is a reason cats will stop using their litter. Switching from clay based clumping litter to a cheap clay based litter or other substance can prevent cats from being comfortable and using their litter box properly. Some cats do not like covered litter boxes, while others prefer it, making it important to choose the type of litter box that your cats feel most comfortable with. When a new cat is introduced and is having trouble using the litter box, it is probably because of the different litter and litter box .

    Location

    • Placing a litter box in the wrong location is a reason cats will not use the litter box. A litter box should be placed in a quite area outside of busy locations, such as areas where humans and other pets are frequently making noise and traveling through. Litter boxes also need to be placed in areas that are easily accessible, especially for older cats. Changing the litter box location can also confuse cats, and make them use other areas of the home for their toilet needs.

    Medical Problems

    • Older cats that are having medical problems, including trouble moving without pain, could have difficulty reaching litter boxes in hard to access places. Kidney problems, urinary tract infections, bladder stones and diabetes can make a cat unable to control its bathroom habits. These conditions need to be checked by a veterinarian. Look for signs of medical problems in accident spots that occurred outside the litter box. This would include looking for blood in the stool and making sure a cat is not in pain when urinating.