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Nine Behavioral Causes Of A Cat Litter Box Problem

There may be more than one cause of a cat litter box problem, but they come from one of two categories. If you've read my article on the physical causes of this dilemma, then you already know that this problem is either physical, or behavioral.

Since your cat can't talk, it is often necessary to use a diagnosis of exclusion in these cases. Rule out each issue one by one until you're left with the only answer.

In this case, it is always best to use caution and assume that your cat has a physical problem, unless your vet says otherwise. So, the first step is to have a consultation with your vet.

Next, after your vet has ruled out a physical problem, you have to assume that your litter box problems are behavioral. Let's think like a cat for a minute and try to understand some of the behavioral reasons for not using the litter box.

1. Dirty Cat Box - some cats prefer the box to be extremely clean, and others are willing to allow it to be somewhat less so. No matter what, you should clean your litter box at least once per day. You should also change your litter out completely at least every few weeks. Whenever you change the litter, wash the litter box thoroughly. Be sure to wash the lid too if you have a hooded box.

2. Box Odor - some cats will refuse to use a litter box if it doesn't smell right. Remember, that means smell right to the cat, not to you. You might be thinking that your clean box smells just fine. This is not always the case.

If you didn't clean it well enough, your cat will know. If you used a scented cleaner, or didn't rinse it well enough, it may not smell right to your cat. It's recommended that you use a solution of one part bleach to 30 parts water to help prevent the spread of parasites and recurring infections. Rinse well and dry thoroughly! When you're finished, the box should not smell like cat waste, soap, or bleach.

3. Litter Smells Bad - certain cat litters don't agree with certain feline noses. Unscented litters of varying brands have an odor all their own, and your cat may not like it. Different types of litter have unique odors as well. You may have to try different brands or types until you get it right.

4. Litter Type - your cat may be turned off by the type of cat litter you use. Also, try not to switch litters too quickly. When changing litters, try adding 20 percent new litter to 80 percent old, and then increasing the amount of new litter over several days until you're at 100 percent.

5. Type of Litter Box - the size, shape, and type of box may make a difference to your cat. Hooded boxes may prevent litter spill over, but some cats may prefer not to be closed in. On the other hand, your cat might like the privacy of high walls, and some will like a larger box. Have you recently changed litter boxes? Perhaps this is the problem.

6. Number of Boxes - in multi-cat households, territory is at a premium. Use the one plus one rule when selecting how many boxes you'll need in order to prevent traffic jams. That means one box for each cat, plus one extra so that there is always a free box available. Having more boxes also keeps each box a little cleaner, which makes the scooping chore a bit easier on you.

7. Poor Location - I've seen boxes in noisy kitchens and laundry rooms. This is usually a mistake. If your cat is not happy with the location of the box, he may stop using it. Always try to keep the box in an area that is low traffic and low noise. In some cases, finding a good spot for the box is difficult, but do your best.

8. Territorial Issues - territorial arguments are common in multi-cat households. Some cats like to sneak up on others when they're using the box and pounce. If your cat is attacked every time he's in the box, he may grow to hate the box. This is where the one plus one rule for multi-cat households is most important.

9. Stress - if your cat is stressed by a recent move, a new addition to the household, or perhaps simply a behavior shift on the part of a family member, this may be at the root of the box issue. Try to think about what might have changed recently in your cat's life, and then try to ease whatever stress she's under.

Cat litter box problems can usually be solved, once you know the cause. The solution doesn't have to mean getting rid of the cat. Your veterinarian needs to first rule out physical causes so you can tackle the behavior side of things. Think like a cat, and you'll be able to solve your box problems.

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Kurt Schmitt helps you solve cat litter box problems and other cat care issues at Cat Lovers Only

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