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Litter Box Q&A

Does a cat have to be trained to use a litter box?

Just show your kitty the litter box and he or she will figure it out soon, since cats by nature prefer to bury their waste in soil. With a new kitten, limit available areas until he or she learns what the litter box is for, suggest the experts at Cats International (www.catsinternational.org). Do reward your cat the first few times he or she uses the box appropriately.

How many boxes do I need and where shoud I put them?

Provide at least one box per cat, plus one. Place boxes on most of all of the floors in your house, too. Avoid high-traffic areas; think privacy and safety. (Many cats prefer a corner.) Avoid placing the box near your cat's food bowl or bedding, as well. Scoop at least once a day, and change the litter as often as the manufacturer recommends. Wash the box with plain soap and warm water; don't use bleach or chemical cleaners.

Why would a cat stop using her litter box, and how can I correct the situation?

If your kitty beats a hasty retreat - or if she avoids the box in favor of soft bedding or your closet - she may have a medical issue or she may simply be stressed. Finicky creatures that they are, cats can give up on their litter boxes for any number of reasons - however, "housesoiling is never done to spite the owners", stress the folks at Cats International, so don't even think of punishing your pal. Here's what you can do instead:

• First, see your veterinarian for a checkup, to eliminate any possible health concerns.

• Try switching to a different litter; your cat may not like the current litter's fragrance or texture, for example. Several different types - suitable for different ages, needs, and preferences - are available, from plain clay to clumping clay (with or without antibacterial or deodorizing agents) to silica pearls to Earth-friendly newspaper-, wood-, or grain-based. When switching, introduce the new litter slowly, mixed with the old. And remember, cats like cleanliness - don't forget to scoop often.

• Check the size of the box. It should be big enough to turn around in - but a small cat or a kitten won't appreciate a huge one, either. Box sides may be too high, your cat may fear getting trapped, or the litter may be too deep (a couple of inches is sufficient). You may need to try a different box style or material; some cats like the privacy of a cover, others don't, for instance. Or, you may need to move the box to a quieter location.

Resources: www.catcove.com; www.sweatscoop.com; www.urine-off.com; www.worldsbestcatlitter.com ©2004 PetCare News

 


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