Common Litter Box Issues and How to Solve Them

If your feline friend is giving you some trouble when it comes to using the litter box, there may be a reason for it. Litter box issues can be complex, but there are some ways to help before they become too serious. Let’s look at the most common litter box issues and how you can solve them fast.

1.   The Litter Box is Too Small

You may have gone shopping and noticed there are numerous sizes and shapes of litter boxes. Additionally, some are covered, and some aren’t. If you have a larger kitty, it could feel like a tight squeeze using a smaller litter box. If you see your cat seems a bit uncomfortable, try a large cat litter pan. It may simply be a better fit.

2.   The Box Is Not Easily Accessed

Some pet parents want to put the litter box in an area where it is not seen by guests. That’s understandable, but it also could be detrimental to your cat. If the litter box is in a location that’s not easily accessible for your pet, the chances are good that it will go unused, at least part of the time. Find an area that works for you and your feline. Location is crucial for cats, so pick a space that’s comfortable for them.

3.   Not Enough Litter Boxes

First-time owners may not realize that it’s advised to have one litter box for each cat and one extra. That means if you have two cats, you need three litter boxes. We know this seems unconventional, but felines are finicky and like to have options. Trust us, your life will be easier if you use enough litter boxes.

4.   Wrong Amount of Litter in the Box

We always want to make our pets comfortable and sometimes we can go overboard, putting so much litter in the box that the kitties aren’t comfy. Most cats tend to prefer around one to two inches of litter. On the other hand, if there’s only a thin layer, your cat may feel there isn’t enough litter. The one to two-inch measure is typically a good goal.

5.   Keep It Clean

Cats are clean creatures by nature. You should aim to scoop the litter twice a day and be sure you replace the litter every week. That means emptying the box and completely replacing it with fresh litter. Cats don’t want to step in dirty litter, so keeping a clean environment is best for all felines. You can also use an additive to reduce or eliminate odor.

Resolving the Problems

Many cat litter box issues can be solved using these tips, but you always want to rule out any medical issues your cat may have. Get a thorough exam by your trusted vet to check for any problems that need to be addressed. Don’t punish your cat because that can often make the situation worse. Litter box issues may be caused by stressors and resolved quickly and easily if you take the steps in this article.