House-soiling, or feline inappropriate elimination, is the most common behavioral complaint among cat owners. This can include urinating or defecating outside the litter box, or marking behaviors like spraying.
Identifying the Cause:
Medical Issues: You must first rule out medical conditions such as urinary tract diseases, endocrine disorders, cognitive decline, or mobility issues that make using the litter box painful or difficult. A veterinarian should conduct a physical exam and necessary diagnostic tests (e.g., urinalysis, blood work).
Behavioral Factors:Â If medical causes are ruled out, consider factors such as litter, box, or location aversions/preferences, as well as stress, anxiety, or intercat conflict.
Multi-Cat Households:Â In households with multiple cats, it may be necessary to identify the specific cat responsible, perhaps by using a video camera in the area where soiling occurs.
Four Factors for Litter Box Success:
Litter Box Hygiene
Cats are prefer to eliminate in a clean area and will avoid using a dirty litter box in favor of a cleaner place – which might be your floor or laundry basket! Adhere to a strict cleaning schedule:
Scoop all boxes twice daily.
Dump out litter, clean the boxes with mild soap and water, and refill with fresh litter every 7-10 days.
Completely replace boxes every year.
Litter Box Type and Size
Select an appropriate style box and substrate.
Cats generally prefer large, uncovered litter boxes.
Boxes should be large enough for your cat to stand up, stretch out full length, and still be confined within the box.
Low sided boxes are appropriate for small kittens and older cats that have trouble getting in and out of the box.
While covered litter boxes offer cats extra privacy, they also trap odors more effectively than open designs. Because of this, your cat might stop using the box unless it is cleaned very frequently.
Litter Substrate
Research has shown that most cats prefer fine-grained, unscented litters.Â
Fine-grain scoopable litters are often easier to maintain daily than standard clay options.
Since many cats are sensitive to strong smells, it’s best to avoid scented litters or placing air fresheners nearby.
If the box is kept clean, odor shouldn't be an issue. Remember, if the smell bothers you, it likely bothers your cat enough to make them avoid using it!
Litter Box Quantity and Locations
To keep your cat happy, follow the "one box per cat, plus one" rule andÂ
place at least one on every floor of your home to ensure easy access.
Boxes should be located in quiet, private spots away from noisy appliances, air ducts, or areas where the cat might be startled or feel cornered by other pets or people.
Provide at least 1 litter box at all core locations: resting areas, feeding areas, etc.
Place boxes in open, accessible locations that have multiple entrances and exits. Avoid cramped spots like under sinks or in small bathroom corners so your cat has plenty of room to move comfortably.
Provide a box in any area where your cat is currently eliminating undesirably.
Should your cat eliminate outside the box, use an appropriate enzymatic cleaner.
Everything You Should Know About Litter Boxes - Cat Friendly Homes
Tips for designing the optimal litter box for your cat including litter box location, size, and type of cat litter to use.
Feline House-soiling - Useful Information for Cat Caregivers Feline Veterinary Medical Association
Feline Inappropriate Elimination Tracker
