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What To Do About Litter Box
Accidents
There is probably nothing more frustrating to a cat owner than litter
box accidents. In fact, habitual litter box accidents are the number one
reason why cat owners give their cats up to animal shelters. When your cat
refuses to use the litter box, there is usually an underlying reason.
Before you become exasperated by your cat's inability to make it to the
litter box, here are some common causes for this problem.
Litter Box Woes
One of the main reasons why a cat begins to refuse
to use the litter box is because their own litter box is dirty. Many cats
are extremely fussy about the condition of their litter box, while others
will use it no matter how full it looks. If your cat has a litter box
accident, the first place you should check is the litter box. Some pets
prefer that their litter box cleaned out after each use. While this is
time consuming for you, it may be a simple fix to this problem. You should
start a daily routine of cleaning out your cat box and you may find that
this solves your problem.
Another common problem related to the litter box is there are not
enough litter boxes for the number of cats you have. For example, if you
have four cats in your home, and you should have at least one litter box
per cat. Cats like to have their own space, and this is especially true
when it comes to their litter box. In fact, many veterinarians recommend
that even if you have only one cat, you should have at least two litter
boxes.
In addition, when it comes to litter box accidents, look at the type of
litter you are using and the size and shape of the litter box. If you have
a tray litter box without a lid, maybe your cat would feel more secure in
a closed box. If you have an older cat, or a young kitten, you cat may
have a difficult time getting in and out of a closed top box. Watch your
cat carefully when he or she uses the litter box. If you find that, they
are having a difficult time getting in and out of the litter box and
consider getting a different box. Also, look at the type of litter you
use. Your cat may be extremely fussy about the smell or texture of the
litter. Many people preferred using the scoop away litter; however, many
cats will not use this type of litter, because it sticks in the paws. You
may also find that the litter you use causes a lot of dust that is
disagreeable to your cat.
Health Issues
Your cat may be refusing to use the litter box,
because of health related issues. If you have tried all the above tips and
nothing seems to be working, then it is time to visit your
veterinarian. Cats that have bladder problems, urinary tract
infections, kidney failure and diabetes are more prone to litter box
accidents than healthy cats. You need to take your cat to the vet and have
a thorough health exam performed to find out if your cat is suffering
around an ailment. If this is the case, your veterinarian can prescribe
medication to help your cat.
Habit and Your Cat's Territory
If your cat has been ill or have
stopped using the litter box for any of reason, you may find that your cat
returns to their old ways out of habit. It is extremely important that
when your cat has a litter box accident, that you clean the area
thoroughly to get rid of any odors that may remain. In addition, your cat
may have not stopped using the litter box at all but instead, your cat is
marking his or her territory. This is especially common in multi-cat
households or when you bring in new pet into the home. This is also more
common in males than females. Even male cats that are neutered can mark
their territory by spraying urine.
When you determine why your cat is having litter box accidents, you can
find a solution. It takes time and patience; however, this is much more
preferable than getting rid of your
cat. |
