Pet Health Articles 
Pet Health & Behavior
Litter Box Misbehavior
Does Your Cat Think Outside the Box?
Litter box solutions means understanding some basic facts, seeing the issue from the cat’s perspective, and exercising patience.
Creative thinking in people is great, but a cat who thinks (and acts!) “outside the box” presents a serious problem. In fact, litter box issues are the main reason frustrated owners relinquish their cats to shelters. Ironically, the behavior is almost always correctable. The most common causes of litter box misbehavior are medical problems, issues associated with the litter box itself, and stress. The solution lies in understanding some basic facts, seeing the issue from the cat’s perspective, and exercising patience.
Medical Causes
If your cat begins urinating or defecating outside the box, consult your vet to rule out medical causes, such as urinary tract infection or bowel disease. If a medical problem exists, your vet can prescribe treatment.
Issues related to the litter box
If the problem isn’t medical, consider issues related to the litter box. Cats are by nature clean animals with an extremely sensitive sense of smell, so they are understandably reluctant to step in a “used” litter box. The obvious solution is frequent scooping and regular sanitizing. If this isn’t practical, provide more than one litterbox to increase the cat’s options. Location of the box is also important. Cats like privacy, accessibility, and an easy exit (this last factor is especially important in a multi-cat household where one cat might try to “ambush” another while it’s in a vulnerable position). Another consideration is the box itself. A litter box with a cover tends to trap smells, whereas an open box allows for better air circulation. To reduce scattered litter, use an all-purpose plastic tub with high sides. Finally, the litter itself is important. Unscented, clumping litter, about 3 inches deep, usually works best. (Caution: do not use clumping litter with small kittens).
Stress
A third common cause of litterbox problems is stress, which requires the most patience to deal with. Whether it’s a new baby, a new pet, a new home, or domestic unrest—the effect on a cat may be stressful, and the result is often litter box misbehavior. If multiple pets create a stressful atmosphere in your home, try lowering the stress level by providing several feeding stations and litter boxes, as well as resting places that are up off the ground (for increased security). Also, try to spend some extra time with the stressed cat to reassure him of your affection. Often soft music has a tranquilizing effect. If space permits, consider separating your pets, at least for part of the time. Another option is to consult your vet about the advisability of giving your cat anti-anxiety medication.
Whatever the cause, once accidents occur, it’s important to thoroughly clean and deodorize the soiled area. If the smell of urine or feces lingers, the cat is more likely to return to the scene of the “crime” and become a repeat offender.
Of course, addressing these issues before problems develop is the best way to prevent litter box mishaps. By providing regular veterinary care, a comfortable litter box environment, and a relatively stress-free home, you will ensure that your cat never thinks outside the box.
