Raising a cat or any pet for that matter is not a walk in the park. It´d be great if the pets just “did their business” in their designated areas, but it is often not the case. And, if your cat pees outside the litter box, you know exactly how difficult and arduous it is to clean after it. However, before putting the blame solely on your cat, it is necessary for you to understand why your cat dislikes using the litter box.
Here are 4 reasons why your cat is peeing outside of the litter box… and easy ways to fix the issues.
- Undesirable litter type
Cats tend to have a ¨litter type¨, a sort of personal preference they usually start developing by the time they turn a month old. Therefore, if your cat doesn’t use the litter box, it could perhaps be because of the change in the type of litter. Some of the common types of litter are non-clumping clay, clumping clay, silica gel crystals, and recycled paper etc. Hence, what one particular cat likes may not be preferred by another cat.
- Dirty litter box
Let’s be honest here — no one likes using a dirty and smelly toilet and the same goes for cats as well. Therefore, if your cat doesn’t use its litter box, it could be because it is dirty and unhygienic. Hence, it is imperative for you to clean the litter box thoroughly on a regular basis. You should know that compared to us humans, cats tend to have a heightened and enhanced sense of smell. Therefore, although the litter box may seem clean and fresh to you, it could still be dirty and smelly to your cat.
- Bullies
One of the primary reasons why your cat does not use the litter box could be because of a bully. Let us elaborate—if you have several cats at home, one of them could potentially be a bully, preventing the other cats from using the litter box. So, how do you take care of this situation? Well, during such times, it is necessary for you to install numerous litter boxes in your home. It is also not advisable for you to have covered litter boxes when you have several cats in your home.
- Health issues?
If your cat has health issues, it could be difficult for it to pee in the litter box. For instance, it can get extremely difficult for a cat suffering from arthritis to get into a litter box that boasts of a high cover and sides. And, according to vets, cats that suffer from diseases such as kidney problems, diabetes, and UTI, also tend to avoid using their litter boxes. If a cat feels unsafe or feels that its health and wellness is threatened, it is unlikely to use the litter box. Therefore, if your cat doesn’t use the litter box as often as you’d like or barely at all, you should perhaps take it to a vet clinic for a thorough check-up.
Have you ever experience this issue with your cat?
How did you go about resolving the problem?
Aw this brings back memories of when our cat was little and had a litter tray. Its funny what clean creatures they are and how often the litter needs changing.
My besties cat will not go to the toilet unless the litter box is completely clean!
My next door neighbours cat thinks our decking is it’s litter box. I’m now wondering if they have a dirty one and that’s why it comes over here to do its business!
Louise x
Cats are good pets. I do not have any cats but i know people who can benefit from this post.
My cats use their box thankfully but these are some very helpful tips to remember
My cat was very picky about her type of litter (the most expensive was preferred) and she like it to be spotless or she’s poo on the floor in protest!!!
Luckily my cats have got used to the litter box straight away and never peed inside the house. I couldn’t imagine not cleaning the litter box though, it’s not only a pain for the cat but it also for the house. Who would want a smelly house?
Our cat doesn’t have a litter box and has never used one. He’s definitely an outdoor cat and comes home for food only.
Luckily we clean our cats litter box frequently so don’t have problems at the moment. However there are some interesting facts here especially about the bullies!
Our oldest cat is 11 and youngest is 5 and neither have ever had problems using the litter tray. When we move and get a cat flap, we are getting rid of the litter trays though.
I often look after my Parents cats when they’re away, cleaning it is so important didn’t realise people didn’t do it frequently, who wants a smelly box in their house!?
Indeed! The problem is a lot of people place it out of their way and simply don’t check it as often as they should.
We don’t have cats but I’ll share these tips to our friends who are cat-owners. I’m sure these things will help them
Its crazy how many people do not clean their litter boxes. Like you said dirty litter boxes means the kitty would not want to use it just like we don’t like dirty toilets! x
We don’t have cats but this is so helpful for those who do. I think animals are complex creatures just as we are!
Such an interesting post. I likevtou believe there is often an important reason behind behaviour x
My furry baby sometimes goes next to his litter tray as if to say that it’s time for us to clean it! As you said it might seem clean, because they buried it after they went, but when you start scooping you find these hidden “treasures” lol