Behavioral Causes Of A Cat Litter Box Problem

There may be more than one cause of a cat litter box problem, but they come from one of two categories. If you've read my article on the physical causes of this dilemma, then you already know that this problem is either physical, or behavioral.

In order to determine the cause, it is often necessary to use a diagnosis of exclusion. In other words, you look at the situation and try to rule out each of the possible causes, until you are finally left with what must be the answer.

In this case, it is always best to use caution and assume that your cat has a physical problem, unless your vet says otherwise. So, the first step is to have a consultation with your vet.

Next, after your vet has ruled out a physical problem, you have to assume that your litter box problems are behavioral. Let's think like a cat for a minute and try to understand some of the behavioral reasons for not using the litter box.

1. Dirty Cat Box - some cats prefer the box to be extremely clean, and others are willing to allow it to be somewhat less so. No matter what, you should clean your litter box at least once per day. You should also change your litter out completely at least every few weeks. Whenever you change the litter, wash the litter box thoroughly. Be sure to wash the lid too if you have a hooded box.

2. Box Odor - some cats will refuse to use a litter box if it doesn't smell right. Remember, that means smell right to the cat, not to you. You might be thinking that your clean box smells just fine. This is not always the case.

If you didn't clean it well enough, your cat will know. If you used a scented cleaner, or didn't rinse it well enough, it may not smell right to your cat. It's recommended that you use a solution of one part bleach to 30 parts water to help prevent the spread of parasites and recurring infections. Rinse well and dry thoroughly! When you're finished, the box should not smell like cat waste, soap, or bleach.

3. Litter Odor - certain cat litters don't sit well with certain cats. Unscented litters of different brands still have a particular odor which some cats may not like. Different types of litter exhibit unique odors as well. You may have to try different brands and different types until you find the right one for your cat.

4. Wrong Litter Type - brand aside, your cat may be turned off by the type of cat litter you use. Switching litter types too fast can be an issue. When you switch litters, add 20 percent new litter to 80 percent old, and then increase the amount of new litter over several days.

5. Litter Box Type - the shape, size, and type of box does matter. For example, some cats may like a hooded box, while others prefer the open kind. Perhaps your cat would like higher walls, or a larger box. If you've recently changed litter boxes, this could be causing a problem.

6. How Many Boxes? - another cause of a cat litter box problem relates mainly to multi-cat households. Remember the one plus one rule when selecting how many boxes you'll need. You should have one box for each cat, and one extra box so that there is never any waiting for a box to free up. Cleaning chores are a little easier if you have more boxes since that keeps each box a little cleaner.

7. Bad Location - this can be an issue since in some cases, you just can't find a good spot for the box. I've seen them in busy and noisy areas like laundry rooms and kitchens. If your cat is not pleased with the location of the box, she may stop using it. Always try to keep the box in an area that is low traffic and low noise.

8. Territorial Battles - territorial arguments are common in multi-cat households, and usually of no consequence. Some cats, however, like to sneak up on others when they're using the box and pounce. If one of your cats is attacked every time he's in the box, he may develop litter box aversion. Follow the one plus one rule for multi-cat households.

9. Stress - if your cat is stressed by a recent move, a new addition to the household, or perhaps simply a behavior shift on the part of a family member, this may be at the root of the box issue. Try to think about what might have changed recently in your cat's life, and then try to ease whatever stress she's under.

Sadly, many cats end up in shelters due to cat litter box problems that can usually be solved. Knowing which solution to use means knowing the cause. Your veterinarian will rule out the physical causes first, then you can work on the behavioral possibilities. Think like a cat and you'll come up with the solution.

Article Source: http://publisherscloninghouse.com

Kurt Schmitt writes about cat litter box problems and other cat care subjects at Cat Lovers Only
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