Maybe if feline urine smelled like roses, suntan lotion, or baby powder, we wouldn’t obsess so much over the noxious, overpowering, and long-lingering scent. But, all kidding aside, why do some cats suffer a litter box lapse?

First And Foremost

It’s always a good idea to rule out any medical conditions that trigger or exacerbate a litter box lapse. We recommend a wellness exam to address whether the change is behavior or age-related. Kidney failure, diabetes, or lower urinary tract disease could explain the change and require prompt care.

Discerning Felines

Some animals can urinate or defecate right where they happen to be and just keep on going. Others, like cats, have certain go-to areas just for bathroom purposes, and (it must be said) we adore cats for their sanitary choices. In other words, a dirty litter box is a major turn off to a cat, and could explain why a cat decides to “go” elsewhere. Many cats want the litter box cleaned every day, while others expect the box to be empty of waste before entering the box again.

It’s All In The Grit

A litter box lapse can also be explained by any change in litter style, brand, depth, or consistency. The feel of the litter underneath the paw is a big deal to a cat, and should be at least 2-3 inches deep to inspire instinctual digging and covering up.

Once you find the one your cat likes, don’t give in to a promotion of another litter, as a change could trigger an unpleasant reaction and a lapse in normal litter box protocol.

Plus, the style of box could be an issue. While humans think that a hooded box is the way to go for privacy and odor retention, a cat may feel trapped inside a hooded box and has a distaste for any lingering scents.

Private Eyes

True to a cat’s nature, your feline probably prefers to use the litterbox in a secluded or semi-private area. Although you don’t want your cat to feel isolated during a bathroom break, you also don’t want the box in an area that gets a lot of traffic or interruptions. Furthermore, the usual trick is to keep as many litter boxes as cats, plus another, and a box per level if your home is multi-story.

Litter Box Lapse

Other reasons behind soiling areas outside the litter box can include:

  • Changes in household routine
  • New family members or pets
  • Death in family or another household pet
  • Divorce
  • Absence of favorite family member

Increase interactive play time with your cat and try to understand why the his or her instincts have changed. Please never scold or punish your cat for not using the litter box; it will only serve to confuse him or her and the unwanted behavior may continue out of fear. Remember that cats don’t quickly embrace change, and deserve your patience and understanding.

Setting The Stage

You could help your cat by spraying the pheromone Feliway around the box. This can decrease stress and help your cat acclimate to any household changes.

After neutralizing odors on your carpet or upholstery with specially formulated enzyme products, place your cat’s food and water bowls on the same spot. He or she will not want to eliminate where the food is. Later on, you can turn over vinyl carpet runner on the spots to detract any future markings.

We understand your litter box lamentations and hope you’ll contact us with any questions or concerns. A litter box lapse is nothing to trifle with and we’re here to help you through it!