You and your cat have been together for years. Living in harmony. Till one day you notice, the evidence can be found in various locations throughout your home. Your cat has stopped using his litter box. Why? What has happened? Why has he changed his routine. Is your friend ill? Angry? Sometimes finding the answer can be difficult.
Experts site many reasons that a cat may avoid using his litter box. Change in litter, not maintaining the litter box regularly. Some cats may actually develop a fear of being trapped or pounced on by other cats in the home, while they are inside the litter box. Location of the litter box may also become a problem.
If you are experiencing litter box avoidance or want to avoid it happening in the future, I have some tips that will help.
Select a cat litter that is bio-degradable, low to no dust residue and stick with it. Changing from brand to brand may cause your cat to reject new smells/textures.
Scoop regularly, a cats sense of smell is extremely powerful. Just because you can't smell it, does not mean that he can't.
The location of your litter box can be especially important. While hiding away that unsightly litter box may suit your needs, it quite likely does not suit your cat. Cats love privacy and dark, but not when coupled with the loud sounds associated with the basement. Try to find a location for your litter box that is out of the way, but still inviting for the cat. And remember to consider the cat's age and condition. For small kittens or older cats, make the box accessible as possible so that the animals will not have to negotiate stairs, cat doors, or other obstacles
Cats feel most comfortable using the litter box if it is a convenient, quiet, and private place. Find a location where your cat will not be bothered by heavy foot traffic, other animals, and loud sounds. If you have no alternative to the laundry room, be sure to place the box away from washing machines and dryers.
The LitterHouse is a litter box that allows you to hide your litter pan, and it looks great in any room. Safe to put almost anywhere, the LitterHouse contains 95% of litter inside the house. No more mess! Best of all cats love the LitterHouse for its privacy. If you are experiencing litter box avoidance or just don't want to look at that dirty litter box anymore; the LitterHouse is the litter box for you. Great for apartments and condos.
Sponsored By: LitterHouse.com Inc.
Important: If your cat stops using the litter box, or seems to experience pain when eliminating, consult your veterinarian immediately. If after a thorough examination your veterinarian rules out a medical cause, contact PAWS for more information about cat behavior and solutions to litter box problems.
