Cat Behavior for our Cat Lovers and Cat Sitters in Troy

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.

Since your cat can't tell you what's going on, you have to rule out each possible cause, until you are left with the most logical answer. This is known as a diagnosis of exclusion.

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.

If your vet has given the all clear, then you're going to have to assume, for the moment, that your litter box problems are behavioral. Let's try to understand our cat's point of view and see if we can think of some behavioral reasons for not using the litter box.

1. Dirty Box - some cats prefer a squeaky clean box, and others are willing to allow it to dirty up a bit. In any case, clean your litter box at least once per day. Depending upon your litter and cleaning method, you should change your litter at least every few weeks. Wash the litter box thoroughly whenever you change the litter. If you have a hooded box, be sure to wash the lid as well.

2. Box Smells - if the box doesn't smell right, don't expect the cat to use it. Your box has to be acceptable to your cat's nose, not yours. Just because you don't smell anything, it doesn't mean your cat thinks that way.

If you don't clean the box well enough, your cat will know. If you don't rinse thoroughly, or use a scented cleaner, your cat may detect a smell that says don't go in there. You should use a solution of one part bleach to 30 parts water to sanitize the box. When you're finished, the box should be clean and dry, and not smell like cat waste, bleach, or soap.

3. Litter Box Odor - some cats simply prefer the odor of one brand or type of litter over another. Even unscented litters have an odor your cat can detect and may not like. Be prepared to try different types and brands 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. Box Quantity - another cause of a cat litter box problem relates to multi-cat households. Remember the one plus one rule when selecting how many boxes you'll need. One box for each cat, plus one extra so that there is always a free box to use, no waiting. Having more boxes also keeps each box a little cleaner, which makes your job easier.

7. Location Choice - in some cases, you just can't find a good spot for the box, and you'll have to do your best. If your cat is not pleased with the location of the box, she may stop using it. Always try to keep the box in a low noise and low traffic area. Busy areas like laundry rooms and kitchens are usually not good places.

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.

Cat litter box problems can usually be solved, once you know the cause. The solution doesn't have to mean getting rid of the cat. Your veterinarian needs to first rule out physical causes so you can tackle the behavior side of things. Think like a cat, and you'll be able to solve your box problems.

Article Source: http://www.simplepetcare.com/pet-articles

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