CAT LITTER BOX PROBLEMS

Litter boxes are a challenge of cat ownership when used correctly, but when the cat refuses to follow training, they can be a real mess.

Used correctly, litter boxes are indoor bathrooms for family pets, allowing the animal to live a life of luxury without stepping foot outside. When the cat uses it incorrectly or not at all, they can become the last straw that makes kitty an outdoor pet or worse, homeless.

In fact, litter box problems are a common cat behavioural problem and a major cause of cats being rejected or euthanased.

Most cats learn to use the litter box at a very young age from their mothers, but they may develop an aversion to using the litter box later in life for many reasons.

Owners often choose kitty litters with a pleasant aroma that masks odours, but this smell may be unacceptable to cats. Also, the bacterial action on waste releases ammonia that may be offensive to cats. Some litters use baking soda or other substances that produce unpleasant sounds or feelings for the cats.

Excessively dirty litter boxes drive some cats to use the bathroom elsewhere, while still others are picky about the texture, depth or dust of certain brands of litter. Some cats quit using the litter box if they find the enclosure unacceptable, such as too small or too exposed.

When establishing a place for the litter box ensure it is away from heavy traffic. Some cats just don't like where a litter box is placed. Also keep the litter box away from the feeding area.

Constipation and urinary tract diseases can make using the litter box an unpleasant experience, so some cats quit using it if they suffer these problems. Others have had a bad or fearful experience in the litter box area, so avoid it entirely.

Owners of a cat that refuses to use the litter box consistently or at all can take some actions.

Firstly, try choosing a litter that is not strongly perfumed, and begin by confining the cat and the litter box in a small, quiet room. Clean the box often, daily if needed, and experiment with different types of litter and litter boxes.

Move the litter box around until the best location is found, but move the box in steps to the new location. Consider providing several litter boxes when there are several cats.

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