10 Reasons Why Cats Poop Outside the Litter Box
- Change
- A New Cat (Indoor or Outdoor)
- Territoriality
- Your Cat Is Scared
- Your Cat Doesn't Like Its Litter
- Your Cat Doesn't Like Its Litter Box
- Not Enough Litter Boxes
- The Litter Box Is Too Dirty
- Your Cat Is/Was Feral
- Medical Issues and Age
Why is my cat not using litter box?
What Are the Causes of a Cat Not Using the Litter Box?
- Health Problems. If your cat suddenly stops using the litter box or starts eliminating in other areas of your house, a health issue could be to blame.
- Litter Box Overcrowding. When it comes to litter boxes, cats don’t like crowds. ...
- Litter Box Location. ...
- Other Litter Box Issues. ...
Why your cat Pees outside the litter box?
Here are some common causes of litter box problems. Health problems might be causing your cat to pee outside of the litter box, says Dr. Cathy Lund of City Kitty, a feline-only veterinary practice in Providence, Rhode Island. This behavior could be the result of a urinary tract infection, kidney disease, or diabetes.
How to stop your cat from pooping outside the litter box?
- Clean up the mess! Commence the process by cleaning all the areas where the kitty has pooped. ...
- Clean the litter boxes. If your cats poop outside the box, the first step of action is to ensure that your cat’s litter box remains clean.
- Add extra litter boxes: Have one cat box for every cat, then include an extra one. If you have a multi-cat household, this is a rule of thumb.
- Consider changing the type of litterbox: If you suspect that your cat isn’t accessing the litter pan easily because it is a covered cat box, make the switch.
- Fix the litter box issues: Is kitty using a scented litter pan? Then it is time to try an unscented one. ...
- Litter box training: If you have brought in a new kitten consider toilet training. This will minimize incidences of pooping outside the box.
Why does my cat poop outside the box?
Some of the common reasons for pooping outside the litter box include:
- Dirty litter box
- Aversion to litter or the litter box
- Pain
- Parasites
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Arthritis
- Inter-cat aggression
- Incontinence
- Territorial marking
Why is my cat suddenly pooping outside the litter box?
Why do cats eliminate outside the litter box? Your cat may have litter box trouble for any number of reasons, including medical problems, an aversion to the litter box, or a preference for urinating or defecating in places outside the box.
Why is my cat pooping on the floor all of a sudden?
Typically, cats prefer to poop in their litter box and cover it up with surrounding litter. If your cat is suddenly pooping on the floor, they may think the litter box is too dirty to use to cover up their poop. Or, an underlying health issue may need to be addressed by your vet.
Why is my cat peeing and pooping on the floor?
Territorial marking, also sometimes called spraying, is very common in cats, especially those who live in the wild. Pooping or peeing in certain places is a normal way to send messages to other cats or creatures in the area. Usually the message is to avoid an unexpected meeting such as, “Hi.
How do I get my cat to stop going to the bathroom outside the litter box?
Make the soiled area less appealing using smell aversion (air fresheners, perfumes, citrus sprays), or place an aversive texture (plastic, aluminum foil) over the area. Change the substrate in the box so that the texture is more like the soiled areas (make the litter softer — switch to fine grained, clumping litter).
What are the signs of worms in cats?
Symptoms of Worms in CatsVomiting (sometimes with worms in the vomit)Diarrhea (with or without blood)Tarry feces.Weight loss.Distended abdomen.Skin lesions.Generally poor body condition and a dull coat.
What do you do when your cat poops on the floor?
Basic Steps to Stop Your Cat From Pooping on the FloorRestrict his space. ... Add another box.Super-clean the offending spaces. ... Increase your cat's daily mental enrichment. ... Clean the boxes more. ... Try a Feliway diffuser. ... Add Cat Attract to the litterboxes. ... Your cat is sick.More items...
How do I know if my cat has a urinary tract infection?
The most common symptoms of urinary tract infection in cats include reduced amounts of urine, straining to urinate, pain or discomfort when urinating, not urinating at all, urinating around the house (outside the litter box), and passing urine tinged with blood (pinkish color urine).
Should I be concerned if my cat poops outside the litter box?
An old cat pooping outside the litter box may have arthritis, which Sinnott-Stutzman says can limit a cat's ability to climb over the side of the box. Diarrhea can result in accidents and can be a symptom of a range of diseases, including hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, and inflammatory bowel disease.
What smells deter cats from peeing?
Citrus scents such as lemon, oranges, and limes are hated by felines the world over. These natural cat repellents will keep your cat from peeing on your furniture for good.
Medical Causes of Inappropriate Urination in Cats
If your cat is peeing inappropriately, the first step is to visit your veterinarian. The vet will do a physical examination of your cat and check a...
Behavioral Reasons Why Cats Pee Outside The Litter Box
Inappropriate urination is one of the most common behavior problems in cats. If no medical cause is found, then it is important to determine what f...
How to Stop Your Cat from Peeing Everywhere
Perhaps the most common reason cats urinate inappropriately is that they dislike the litter box. If your cat is peeing everywhere and you have rule...
Why Do Cats Pee Outside the Litter Box?
A cat urinates outside its litter box for one of two general reasons: a medical problem or a behavioral issue.
Why is my cat's litter box so dirty?
Cats are particular about their toilets. The litter box may simply be too dirty for your cat. Or it may be perfectly clean but otherwise uncomfortable to use. For example, the box may be too small for your cat to use comfortably. Or it may be in a location that your cat doesn't like 5 . If it's covered, this may bother your cat. Perhaps the litter has a strong scent or an annoying feel on your cat's paws. Cat's like choice so too few litter boxes can also be an issue.
What is a cat's urinary tract condition called?
When one or more urinary issues are chronic, the condition is typically called feline lower urinary tract disease, or FLUTD. If your cat is diagnosed with FLUTD, your vet may recommend a special urinary diet and/or supplements to support the urinary tract. 4
Why does my cat pee so much?
3 Other metabolic diseases that may increase the amount of urination your cat produces are liver disease, diabetes, and thyroid issues. If your cat has been drinking more, or you have been finding yourself needing to clean the litter box more often, your veterinarian may want to run some blood work to check for these issues.
What is cystitis in cats?
Idiopathic cystitis : The term cystitis means inflammation of the bladder. Idiopathic means the cause is unknown. Cats with cystitis often have hematuria (blood in the urine). 2 Testing a urine sample is essential because the blood may only be detected microscopically. If your vet determines that your cat's urine contains blood, but there are no crystals, bacteria or stones present, the likely diagnosis will be idiopathic cystitis. Idiopathic cystitis is usually treated with a combination of diet change and environmental enrichment. Pain and antianxiety medications may also be used.
How to make your cat happy?
Make sure your home is a happy place for your cat. Add plenty of vertical space and feline enrichment to make your cat's environment optimal. Remember to play with your cat and provide toys. If environmental changes are not effective, your vet may recommend a supplement or prescription medication to reduce stress and anxiety in your cat.
What happens if my cat is not peeing?
If your cat is posturing to urinate and little or no urine is coming out, your cat might have a blockage or partial obstruction. In this case, get your cat to a vet immediately as this condition can quickly become life-threatening.
Why Do Cats Poop Outside the Litter Box?
Most often, litter box problems are caused by a change in the cat's routine or issues with its litter box. But if your house-trained cat suddenly stops using its box, your first step is to take your kitty to the vet to rule out any health issues. 1
Why is my cat missing the litter box?
The Spruce / Ana Cadena. A host of circumstances could explain why your cat might be missing the litter box. Sometimes it's a behavioral problem, but sometimes a health condition may cause your cat to go outside its box. If left unchecked, a health issue, such as a urinary tract infection, can lead to a potentially life-threatening condition ...
What to do if your cat defecates outside the litter box?
If, in spite of your best efforts, your cat defecates outside the litter box for any reason, thoroughly clean the area with an enzymatic cleaner so your kitty doesn't catch the scent and think it's OK to go there again.
Why does my cat turn up his nose in the bathroom?
A sudden change in your kitty's bathroom behavior may be attributed to several different possible causes, many of which boil down to feline stress. Smelly Litter Box: It's very common for cats to turn up their noses at a litter box if it doesn't meet their exacting standards for cleanliness and odor.
How to clean a cat's litter box?
First and foremost, scoop clumps from the litter box daily and deep clean it frequently. This means jettisoning the old litter, scrubbing the empty box with mild dish soap and warm water , rinsing it with clean water, letting it air-dry, and pouring in a fresh supply of clean, unscented litter (sometimes scented litter is unappealing to finicky cats). Whenever you handle your kitty's litter box, always use rubber gloves and a face mask to protect yourself from microscopic bugs and litter dust.
Why is my cat marking its territory?
Change in Household: If another cat or animal or even a new baby has been introduced to the household or if someone has moved in, moved out, or moved on, your cat may simply be marking its territory. This should be temporary until the cat gets used to the new situation. But be aware that any change to a cat's routine or environment can cause stress, which may result in out-of-the-ordinary behavior. 2
How to stop a cat from going to a certain area?
If there's a particular area where your cat has been going frequently and you can't block its access, try laying down aluminum foil or spray the area with a kitty-safe deterrent. The goal is to make the inappropriate area as undesirable to the cat as possible.
Why does my cat poop outside the litter box?
If your cat has diarrhea she can’t control, she may start pooping outside the litter box because she can’t help it. On the other hand, if she’s constipated, she might associate the litter box with pain and may try pooping elsewhere.
Why does my cat keep pooping outside?
Your cat may be uncomfortable with her litter box location, which could be a cause for why she keeps pooping outside of it. If so, you can try changing it to a new spot in the home. Just make sure your cat knows where it is and can always access it for best results.
What to do if your cat is stressed?
If your cat is stressed by changes in the household, you may need to spend some extra time showing her some attention and love to help her feel less stressed. Very anxious or stressed cats may need to be placed on anxiety medication by the vet.
Why do cats poop outside the litter box?
Cats are picky when it comes to litter. If you switch your cat's litter on them suddenly, that gives them a very good reason (in their cat mind) to poop outside of the litter box. Your cat's dislike may have to do with one or some of the following: texture. scent.
Why is my cat scared of the litter box?
Your cat might genuinely be scared. If your cat is not making it to the litter box in time to poop, they might be scared off by a family member, a noise, the shifting of the litter box on the floor, or something similar. While it might be hard to pinpoint what it is that is scaring them off, consider moving the litter box to a safe place for them. A safe place might be more private and away from the commotion. You might even considered a hidden cat bathroom that is built into furniture (like a chest).
What does it mean when a cat marks its territory?
Cats are territorial, and if there's a neighborhood cat on the prowl (mentioned above), a new dog in the house, a new baby, or wildlife lurking in the neighborhood, your cat might be trying to mark its territory with the smell of its feces.
How to keep cats from trespassing?
Make sure your cat has its own territory and quiet space and make sure your house is secure from trespassing wildlife. Consider flood lights, sonic deterrents, and other humane wildlife repellents if your cat is upset.
How to change out cat litter?
How to Change Out Your Cat's Litter. If you do have to change out your cat's litter for a better brand, do so gradually. That means first mix 4:1 (old to new), then mix (2:2 old to new), then mix 1:4 (old to new) until you've transitioned them entirely over to the new over the course of several weeks.
Why does my cat poop in the house?
Other medical issues that can cause a cat to poop in the house might include intestinal tumors, thyroid issues (causing excess elimination like urination), liver issues, food allergies (irritable bowel syndrome), constipation, and even musculoskeletal injuries (it physically hurts to get to the box).
How to get a cat used to a new carpet?
One way you can help your cat get used to change is with gradual exposure. If your landlord decided to change your carpeting to hardwood floor, you might want to keep your feline in a quiet, secure room (like the study) for several days while they get used to new things. Let them out a little at a time to observe the change, but make sure they have a safe place to retreat to. Even regular construction or street work outside can upset your cat.
Why does my cat pee outside the litter box?
Health problems might be causing your cat to pee outside of the litter box, says Dr. Cathy Lund of City Kitty, a feline-only veterinary practice in Providence, Rhode Island. This behavior could be the result of a urinary tract infection, kidney disease, or diabetes. Other health problems that are painful or simply make your cat feel “off” also could be to blame. For example, an older cat with severe arthritis might have trouble getting into a box with high sides or a cover, says Lund.
Why do cats need litter boxes in basements?
A box that is in a basement can be a problem for an older cat that has trouble with stairs or her eyesight, Lund says. In addition, the box should be in a relatively active area of the house. While pet parents often don’t want a litter box in the living room, removing it too far from social areas may make the box hard to find or unappealing ...
Why does my cat pee when she is anxious?
An anxious cat might pee elsewhere as a way to relieve her anxiety because the smell of her own urine makes her feel safer, Lund says.
How to keep litter box clean?
To keep your litter box clean, it’s important to scoop the litter every day— or multiple times a day if you have multiple cats in your home. Refresh the litter and do a deep cleaning of the box every few weeks. Keep in mind that the feline sense of smell is much stronger than ours, so a box that seems “clean enough” to you might still smell disgusting to your cat. This is especially true in multiple cat households. Smelling your own waste is one thing, being forced into close proximity to someone else’s is an entirely different problem.
What to do if you have a litter box problem?
With that in mind, the first step for any litter box problem is to consult your vet , says Dr. Neil Marrinan of the Old Lyme Veterinary Hospital in Connecticut. “Simple blood and urine tests can exclude most medical causes,” he says.
Why do cats pee in the yard?
Outdoor cats lingering in your yard may also cause stress for your cat—who might choose to pee near the front door as a possible response, Lund says. Cats use a special type of urinary behavior (spraying) to mark their territories, which they will do more when they feel stressed.
How old do kittens learn to use litter?
Lund also notes that kittens learn what type of litter they prefer from their mothers at about three weeks old. So using a different litter than the one that was used when your cat was a kitten, or deciding to switch the type of litter your cat is used to, could be at the root of litter problems. Pet parents may have to try a few different types ...
Why do cats poo outside the litter box?
Cats are very sensitive animals and they typically do not adapt to change very well. If you suddenly notice your cat is pooping outside the litter box, you may want to consider what kind of life changes have occurred or if there has been any alteration to your cat’s daily routine. Cats can be affected by even the smallest changes that you may not even think about. Rearranging furniture, reconstruction within the home, new objects in the house, and even visitors coming into the home can cause them a great deal of stress. Larger life changes such as moving to a new home, getting a new roommate, bringing home a new baby, or even pets being brought into the home can cause a great deal of stress and anxiety for some cats which can lead to them going to the bathroom outside of the litter box.
Why do kittens miss the litter box?
It is not uncommon for young kittens to miss the litter box. After all, they are new to this world and are learning different things every day. Kittens will pick up quickly but don’t be too surprised if you notice them going outside the box at first. Do consider they have just left the comfort of their mom and sibling and time to adjust is necessary. Senior cats may end up pooping outside the litter box as well. As they age, just like us, they can be prone to chronic pain and arthritis. This can make it difficult to get into and out of the box to go to the bathroom. Older cats are also prone to more age-related medical issues that could be contributing.
How to get a kitten to stop jumping in the litter box?
When first bringing home a kitten, ensure their litter box is easily accessible and they can get in and out with ease. Make sure it is an appropriate size and height when first starting out. Have patience with your kitten, if you notice frequent trouble, you can try shutting them in the bathroom with their litter box. Cats don’t like to go just anywhere, and this may prompt the kitten to turn to the litter box to relieve themselves, once this happens, they usually stick to it. If the issue is related to old age, make sure you have a litter box with an easy entry that does not involve jumping too high. Having one where they can simply walk into and out of is going to be your best bet. If there are medical issues involved, make sure you are working with your veterinarian for treatment.
How to help a cat with stress?
When your cat is pooping in your house, not only is it unpleasant to clean up, but it’s also stressful for you too. Make sure you don’t take your stress out on your cat or punish their behavior. Work to figure out the trigger and act accordingly. Pheromone-containing sprays, plug-in diffusers, and collars can be very helpful in reducing stress for some cats. These pheromone sprays mimic a chemical that cats emit through the glands on their faces when they are feeling calm and open to communication. It works with their brain chemistry and helps reduce stress and anxiousness. In more severe cases, your veterinarian may recommend an anti-anxiety medication to help calm your cat. It’s highly recommended to speak to your veterinarian if your cat is particularly sensitive to changes and you are aware of an upcoming drastic life change.
Why do cats poo in the middle of the kitchen?
Noises, repairmen or strangers in the home, other animals either within or outside the home can spark fear in your cat and cause them to make a rash choice like pooping in the middle of the kitchen or living room. While this is a rare response to fear in cats, it does happen, especially when they are younger.
How to make cats comfortable in the bathroom?
Thankfully, this problem has an easy solution. Just ensure you have an approximate number of litter boxes within your home so that your cats are comfortable using the bathroom.
Why do cats like to go to the bathroom?
Your cat simply may not prefer the location you picked for their box. Cats like to have privacy, feel safe and secure when they are going to the bathroom. This is simply a survival instinct from wild cats that have been passed down into our domestic feline family members. Outdoor cats pick quiet and secure areas as well, it keeps them safe from potential predators.
Why do cats go to the bathroom next to the litter box?
Some cats will even go to the bathroom next to the box because they find some litter scattered on the floor.
Why does my cat keep avoiding the litter box?
For example, if you’ve been using plain litter for years and then suddenly switch to a ‘scented’ variety, your cat might start avoiding the litter box just because the fragrance bothers him.
How to keep cat litter box clean?
Try keeping your cat's box as clean as possible. Litter boxes can fill up fast, especially in multiple cat households. Keep a bucket and scoop near the box as a reminder to scoop morning and night. Dump the scooped litter into a garbage bag or dispose of it in a covered trash container to keep odors away from the litter box area.
Why is my cat not using the litter box?
1. Cat Has a Medical Issue. If a cat isn’t using the litter box, especially if he or she always has in the past, it might be a cause for concern. A cat with a health problem such as a urinary tract infection or arthritis may associate pain with using the box and decide to go elsewhere.
Why doesn't my cat like litter boxes?
Cat Doesn't Like Litter Box Type. Cats can have distinct preferences about their litter box. If your cat’s not happy with the type they have, it’s another possible reason for him not using it. There are many types of boxes to choose from and finding the right type for your cat is important.
Why is it so hard to cover cat urine?
If there’s not the right amount of litter in the box, it makes it more difficult for your cat to properly cover his urine and stool. The level of litter gets lower each time you scoop, so this can become a problem if it’s not replenished often enough. Too much litter is another problem you’ll want to avoid.
How many litter boxes per cat?
The basic rule of thumb for litter boxes is “one per cat, plus one extra." Yes, it’s a little extra work to maintain multiple boxes, but each one stays clean longer than if you only have one.
