The Scoop on Cat Litter: The Importance of a Clean Box
By: Vanessa Tolentino
The Scoop on Cat Litter: The Importance of a Clean Box. A clean litter box is important in making sure your cat is healthy and happy. While cleaning your cat’s box may be one of your worst chores, it is worth it to keep our feline companions feeling fresh and will prevent them from going in other places such as the bathtub or on your favourite rug.
In this series of blog posts, we’ll discuss the different types of cat litter, litter boxes and what your cat’s litter use may indicate. Many cat owners know the feeling of dread when they find that their cat has gone pee or poop outside of the box. Sometimes, this is simply because the box isn’t clean enough or perhaps the box you have for them is too small. Ultimately, monitoring your cat’s litter use is integral to identifying any health issues early.
Common Litter Box Problems:
Texture:
Some cats prefer softer litter. Consider trying paper litter or gel litter which is sometimes marketed for sensitive paws. Like with cat food, slowly transition your cat to new litter by adding in a little at a time. This may help in getting them used to the feel of new litter.
Location:
Cats may prefer lower traffic areas to do their business. They might also have aversions to areas like basements or laundry rooms. Try moving the box to areas where your cat is more comfortable.
Multi-cat household:
Some cats become territorial of their litter box and might bully other house cats in order to defend their territory. Owners with more than one cat should consider having different boxes in different places so that each cat can have their own box.
Negative association:
Many cats who suffer from UTIs or other illnesses may experience pain when using the litter box and develop a negative association with it. In this case, owners should seek veterinary help to ensure that your cat is not blocked or has an infection. Consider moving the box to another location or providing a secondary
box for your cat to use.
What to do if your cat isn’t using their box?
Change locations:
Try moving their box to a quieter spot in the house or in a room where they have privacy.
Move any food or water:
No one wants to eat where they do their business.
Remove liners or pads:
The sounds or textures of litter box liners or puppy pads may unsettle or disrupt your kitty while they are trying to go.
Add another box:
Some cats like to use multiple boxes for different functions.
Change the entry point of the box:
Some cats prefer to have a top entry litter box while others prefer to have a box with a wide entry. If your litter box has a flap, consider removing it as it often traps in odours that your cat might not like.
Change litter depth:
Some cats prefer deeper litter where they can dig and bury their business, while others prefer shallow litter.
If all else fails,
Please consult with a vet. Some cases of litter box misuse can be attributed to an underlying medical condition such as a UTI or the formation of crystals in the urethra. When unchecked, these conditions can be life threatening. At Cat Sitter Toronto Inc., our sitters are experienced in working with all kinds of litter material and boxes. We are also trained to monitor litter boxes for any changes that may indicate illness. Your cat’s business is our business!
In fact we have just introduced a new Litter Box Care Service, check out this infographic
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