When Kitty Won't Use the Litter Box
Cats, like humans, are finicky about bathroom habits - here's a guide to keep your feline friend happy
By Matthew M. F. Miller
CTW Features
Cats have an established prima-donna reputation oft reserved for Hollywood starlets, and are more than happy to let you know when they are unhappy with their cuisine, water supply or that decorative vase now occupying their sun-drenched window perch.
Perhaps worst of all, however, is when your cat suddenly refuses to use the litter box. Here are a few things to consider when solving the mystery of why your cat no longer goes in the designated spot:
1. Cheap Litter/Switch Litter
Sale-of-the-week litter might be friendly on your budget, but as reluctant as you are to switch brands of toilet paper, so is your cat reluctant to change preferred litter. Grainier, clumping litters are preferred by most cats, as are unscented varieties.
Earth-friendly litters, such as those made out of recycled newspapers, can be met with reluctance at first, too, especially if you�re making the switch from traditional varieties. Much like switching foods, be sure to start slowly by mixing in small amounts of a new litter with the old litter to allow your cat time to adjust.
2. Don�t Box Me In
Sure, you don�t want the litter box anywhere near your living space, but cats have standards, too. If your litter box is in the dark recesses of the basement, next to a noisy machine such as a furnace or in an unheated garage, you might be met with reluctance. Try placing it indoors in a closet (line the floor with plastic and keep the door ajar), or somewhere in your home that is removed from the living space yet still warm enough for a cat to �make� it home.
3. Keep It Clean And Keep Enough
If you hate waiting outside the bathroom door when you�ve really got to go, so will your cats. One litter box per cat is the general rule of thumb, and if you have a multi-story home, it is recommended to have one box per floor regardless of the number of cats.
Boxes need to be cleaned daily, and litter must be changed twice a week for clay litter, but more frequently depending on the number of cats in your home.
If you can smell it, it�s likely time to change it. This will help prevent potentially fatal urinary tract infections. Also, cats like litter that is 2-inches deep or less, so don�t overfill the box.
Plastic liners are hit-and-miss depending on the cat: Give it a try and your cat will let you know whether or not he likes it.
If problems persist consult your veterinarian for further tips and/or training advice for your cat.
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