Most indoor cats have no problems learning to use their litter box. However, if the situation should arise that she doesn't like the box or want to use it, there could be a problem to solve.
Cat Litter
There are many brands and types of litter on the market from which to choose. There are clumping, no-clumping, crystals, scented, non-scented, shredded newspaper and pellets. Your cat may have preferences. She may have been used to using one type of litter and for some reason you decided to change. Maybe the change was made because the cost was less, a friend's recommendation, or you just picked up a different brand. All are good reasons; it's just that your kitty didn't like the change.
The most preferred litter for your cat and for keeping the litter clean is the un-scented, clumping litter. Cat's also preferred fine to medium texture, and from 1" to 2" in depth.
Cleanliness of the Litter Boxes
Your cat likes a clean litter box, like we prefer using a clean toilet. Most of us do not like using a portable or pit toilet because of the elimination of other people plus unpleasant odor is present. Your cat is much the same way. She prefers a clean litter box without the scent of her elimination or any other cat's waste.
The cat box should be cleaned at least once a day, minimum. The litter box should have all of the litter removed and the box should be cleaned thoroughly, weekly. Use unscented soap and/or baking soda to clean the litter box. If you use a lining, the box does not have to be cleaned each week, but at a minimum of once a month. The lining should be changed every week, filling it with clean litter 1" to 2".
Litter Boxes
You should have one litter box for every cat in your home plus one extra box. There should also be one on every level of your home, especially if you have an older cat with arthritis or a disabled cat that can't run fast enough to get from one floor to the next and to the litter box.
There are several types of litter boxes available to purchase, so just make sure the one you choose is large enough for your cat.
1. One style is an open box with sides of approximately 4" high. These are probably the most common.
2. There are boxes with lids or domes that fit over the box with a front opening.
3. You can find a box that is very deep with a top opening. Cats would have to jump into it to use it.
4. Self cleaning litter boxes are another option. This can assist in the daily cleaning process, but remember that it still needs to be washed once a week and the litter replaced. There is an additional cost because you need to continually buy the bags in which the litter is deposited, those bags needing to be changed regularly.
5. You can also you a clear plastic sweater storage box.
Why your cat decides not to use the litter box.
If your kitty decides to eliminate in a place other than the litter box, do not scold her or punish her because that does not solve the issue. The situation could be the cat is under perceived stress because of several reasons: a change of homes, or being boarded at a kennel; a new person in the home such as a baby; you may have a new routine such as your work schedule; or a new pet, either a cat or dog, has come into the home.
Another factor could be that she may have a medical problem. Cat urinary tract infections are somewhat common, or there may be a blockage, which male cats more commonly acquire. You may notice your cat meowing in pain as she is eliminating or you may notice blood in the urine as you clean her cat box. In this case, a veterinarian needs to be contacted immediately because it could be a very severe issue that needs to be taken care of.
Sometimes your cat may not be comfortable with the location of the cat box. Do not place it in heavily trafficked areas, or next to her food and wash dish, or near noisy equipment such as the washing machine. Give her some privacy when placing it in its location.
Clean the area where the elimination occurred.
Should your cat eliminate somewhere in your house other than in the cat box, please stay calm and not hurt or punish the cat. Clean the area with an ammonia-free deodorizer. Several types can be purchased at a store or online for this very purpose. Since the urine has an ammonia odor, cats may want to reuse this area. You can cover the area with tin foil, or a product that would be uncomfortable for them to step on. Putting their food and water in the inappropriate area will also help because they don't want to do their bathroom duties near their food.
Things to remember:
1. Your kitty does not stop using her litter box to annoy you, or to cause you any kind of grief or problems.
2. Try to figure out the reason for her change, and why she is doing her elimination in another area of the home. She could have a medical issue, which would need to be taken care of immediately, or because of added stress in her life - as perceived by your cat.
3. Do Not punish her, such as rubbing her nose in the waste matter, or hit her, or any other type of abuse. This will NOT help solve her problem, even though you are becoming very frustrated!
4. If you are a multi-cat family, be sure to have enough litter boxes for all of your cats.
5. Place the litter boxes where she is comfortable, and where she can escape should she feel threatened.
6. Some cats will use a cat door so they can go outside and use dirt. I know of one case where this corrected the problem.
7. Use a product called Feliway that helps to reduce your feline's stress. It comes in a spray or a diffuser. Any product that diffuses a synthetic pheromone will help your kitty reduce her stress.
8. Clean the cat litter box daily, minimum. Change the litter and clean the cat box weekly. Don't be lazy by using a product that covers the smell of the litter box.
Always consider the health and welfare of your kitty. She has needs just like you do. She wants your love. She is not trying to be a bad kitty, she just is expressing her discomfort, whether it be her health or because of stress. Be patient and kind to every pet in your home. They are your guests. You invited them to be part of your family. A well cared for cat is a happy and loving cat.
Disclaimer: I am not a veterinarian nor do I have any formal training in any medical field. This article is not to replace the advice of your veterinarian. I am only providing options and ideas that you may want to discuss with your veterinarian.
