How to Correct a Cat From Urinating & Defecating Outside the Litter Box

Cats that frequently urinate and defecate outside the litter box cause great frustration and irritation to owners. Cat waste can stain carpets and furniture and leave unpleasant smells throughout your home. Cats that exhibit this type of inappropriate elimination may be doing so for one or several reasons. You may need to try more than one solution before finding one that works for your cat.

Things You'll Need

  • Litter boxes
  • Repellent spray
  • Enzyme-based cleaning solution
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean your cat̵7;s litter box regularly. Scoop the box out, dispose of solid waste and litter clumps at least daily, and change the entire litter supply about once a week.

    • 2

      Give your cat easy access to the litter box. Do not place it in a room where doors are frequently shut or in an area where your cat has to move around obstacles to get to the box.

    • 3

      Use more than one litter box, especially if you have more than one cat. Some cats do not like to share the litter box. Try using more than one litter box if you only have one cat as well; some cats do not like to urinate and defecate in the same box.

    • 4

      Purchase a larger litter box, particularly if you have a large cat. Cats like to be able to move around within the box to bury waste.

    • 5

      Remove litter box covers, hoods and plastic box liners if you use them. Some cats are finicky about these items and will not use the box if it is covered or lined.

    • 6

      Keep your litter brand and type consistent. Some cats will eliminate outside the box if the litter is changed. If you have recently changed litter brands, try switching back to the old one.

    • 7

      Use a repellent spray on the area where your cat has urinated or defecated outside the box.

    • 8

      Use an enzyme-based cleaner on carpets, rugs, furniture and wood floors where your cat has urinated or defecated to remove trace odors that may draw your cat to use the same spot again.

    • 9

      Feed your cat in the area where it is urinating or defecating outside the litter box, or temporarily confine it to a small room with food, water and a litter box to encourage it to use the box instead of soiling around its food. Cats do not like to eliminate where they eat.

    • 10

      Take your cat to a veterinarian for an examination and testing if it continues to eliminate outside the box or if your cat appears to urinate or defecate unknowingly. Many medical conditions can lead to inappropriate elimination.