Why does a cat ignore the litter box and go to the toilet wherever it wants?

02.04.2024 11:30
Updated: 12.05.2024 22:02

Cats can sometimes cause some problems for their owners.

One of these problems is ignoring the litter box and using the toilet elsewhere. Why do cats do this and how to deal with it?

There are several reasons why cats may refuse to use the litter box.

Some of them are related to the animal's health, for example if the cat has a bladder infection or other problems with the health of the excretory system.
However, cats' behavior can often be related to their environment or stress. What should you pay attention to?

Inconvenient tray

Cats, like humans, can be picky about where they use the litter box. If the litter box doesn't meet their expectations, they may start going elsewhere.

cat
Photo: © TUT NEWS

For example, if the tray is too small or deep, the cat will refuse to use it. It may also dislike the smell of the filler or its texture under its paws. If the cat ignores the tray, it is worth checking its conditions: size, shape, smell and quality of the filler. Perhaps it needs to be replaced with another one or cleaned more thoroughly.

It is also possible that the cat simply finds it inconvenient to get to the litter box because of its location. It is recommended to place the litter box in an accessible and comfortable place for the animal.

The place where the litter box is installed is uncomfortable for the cat

Cats are picky animals, and the location of the litter box may not be suitable for them. Also, if the litter box is in a noisy or cool place, cats may also avoid using it.

It is possible that the tray is too small or its filler is not suitable for the pet. If the owner has noticed such behavior of his cat, it is worth checking all these factors and trying to do something about it.

If this does not solve the problem, you should contact your veterinarian for advice on this issue.

Many cats, but one litter box

If a person has more than one cat at home, but only one litter box, this may be the reason why one of the cats ignores it and chooses another place to relieve itself. Each cat needs its own territory and its own litter box.

If the tray is used by several cats, it can cause stress for some of them. This problem can be solved by purchasing one or two more trays for the house.

It is also worth paying attention to the location of the tray - it should be accessible and safe for the cat, as well as the type of filler - perhaps the pet does not like its smell or texture.

Previously, we talked about how to keep your four-legged friend clean during a walk .

Author: Valeria Kisternaya Editor of Internet resources
 
Expert: Julia Tychino Expert / HERE NEWS

Content
  1. Inconvenient tray
  2. The place where the litter box is installed is uncomfortable for the cat
  3. Many cats, but one litter box