10/03/2025
One of the most common (and preventable!) behavior concerns in cats is inappropriate elimination. The good news? Most litter box issues can be avoided with the right setup from the start.
Think About Your Cat, Not Convenience:
-Cats donāt like sharing bathrooms any more than we do! The rule of thumb is one box per cat, plus one extra, placed in quiet, easy-to-access locations.
-Automatic litter boxes may seem convenient for people, but many cats dislike the noise, motion, or timing of cleaning cycles.
-A simple, open litter box is often the best choice.
Keep It Clean:
Scoop at least once daily, fully change the litter weekly, and scrub the box monthly with mild soap. A clean box encourages use and helps prevent your cat from finding their own preferred spot.
Location Matters:
-Avoid placing litter boxes near loud appliances, areas of high traffic, and in difficult to access areas.
-Choose open, quiet areas where your cat feels safe and kids or dogs cannot interrupt their "business" or chase them away from the box.
-While litter box furniture might be more pleasing for you and your guests to look at, enclosed spaces can trap odors, make cats feel cornered, and it can be difficult for your cat to climb in and out of. Always choose accessibility and comfort over aesthetics.
Texture and Type of Litter Is Important:
-Most cats prefer fine, unscented clumping litter. Pellets and crystals are hard and can hurt your cat's sensitive feet. Would you like to stand on pebbles and glass barefoot to use the restroom?
-Avoid scented litters and odor-masking additivesāthe heavy scents are off putting to your cat. If you feel the odor of the box in too much, try adding baking soda or scooping the box more often.
-If you decide to change litter types, do it gradually to help your cat adjust comfortably.
