Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

shw will not use a litter box

How can I get her to use a litter box instead of the corners of my floor?
2 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
931697 tn?1246242383
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Any time a cat is not using the litterbox regularly the first step should be a thorough evaluation by your cat's veterinarian.  

The most common behavioral reasons I've seen for cat litterbox problems are surface and location preferences combined with litterbox aversion.  This means that your cat (for a variety of possible reasons) has come to prefer surfaces (textures) and locations other than the litterbox.  This is often secondary to a litterbox aversion that again, can develop for a variety of reasons.

If this is the case, and as Dr. Karnia said we need much more information (a private behavior history taking session in my consulting business usually takes about an hour and obviously isn't possible in this forum).  BUT - if surface and location preferences are involved, a good starting point is to look at the litterbox characteristics and compare them to the areas where your cat is soiling.  How are they different?  What beahvioral need or preference do the soiled locations meet that the litterbox and its location do not?  You have to think like your cat here!

An inexpensive resource to start with is Cats Come Clean: what your cat wants you to know about litterboxes - available here -
http://helpingkitty.com/booklets-cats-come-clean.htm

Most litterbox problems can be resolved IF a systematic approach is taken based on the reason for the inconsistent use.
Helpful - 0
975382 tn?1283482538
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Cats can urinate and defecate outside the litter box for many different reasons.  It can be a medical problem, due to stress, or a problem with the litter box itself.  Usually medical problems needs to be ruled out first with an exam and tests by your veterinarian.

If you can provide some additional information, we may be able to help more.  How long has this been going on?  Urinating or defecating out of the box or both?  Normal stool?  Normal urine?  Any other symptoms?  Any changes with the litter box or environment.  Does your cat normally go outside?  How many cats are in the house and how many litter boxes?  What kind of litter do you use and how often do you clean it?

In general, cats like soft clumping litter, cleaned regularly (scooped daily and changed weekly), in a quiet space.  Clean the spots where she went potty well with an odor neutralizer and try to block access to the spot.  Remember, cats do not respond to punishment, so don't yell at her when you find it after the fact.

Write again with more information and we can try to be more specific.

Judy Karnia, DVM
Scottsdale Cat Clinic
Helpful - 0

You are reading content posted in the Pet Behavior Problems Forum

Popular Resources
Members of our Pet Communities share their Halloween pet photos.
Has your pet ever swallowed your prescription medicine? Vet tech Thomas Dock explores the top 10 meds that harm pets and what you can do to prevent a tragedy from happening.
Like to travel but hate to leave your pooch at home? Dr. Carol Osborne talks tips on how (and where!) to take a trip with your pampered pet
A list of national and international resources and hotlines to help connect you to needed health and medical services.
Herpes sores blister, then burst, scab and heal.
Herpes spreads by oral, vaginal and anal sex.