If your cat is suddenly going to the bathroom outside the litter box, you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not without solutions. Litter box issues are a top complaint among cat owners, but thankfully, they’re often rooted in something that can be addressed and corrected.
We asked our Glen Burnie MD veterinary team to provide tips and insights to help you understand why litter box problems happen—and more importantly, how to fix them.
Q: My cat has stopped using the litter box. What’s the first step I should take?
What Our Staff Says: Health first. A cat who suddenly avoids the litter box might be dealing with a medical condition that causes discomfort. Common culprits include urinary tract infections, arthritis, or kidney disease. Schedule a veterinary exam with your Glen Burnie MD veterinarian to rule out medical problems.
Q: What kinds of medical problems lead to litter box trouble?
What Our Staff Says: Here are some health conditions that can trigger inappropriate elimination:
- UTIs (urinary tract infections)
- Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD)
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes
- Constipation or digestive upset
- Arthritis or joint stiffness
If you notice your cat crying in the litter box, straining, or making frequent trips with little success, that’s an urgent situation—get in touch with your Glen Burnie MD vet immediately.
Q: What if my cat is healthy—what else might be causing the problem?
What Our Staff Says: Environmental stress or routine changes can also cause litter box avoidance. Cats are creatures of habit, and small changes can feel like big disruptions. Watch out for:
- A litter box that’s not cleaned regularly
- New or different litter
- A box that’s been moved to a new location
- Household stress (new baby, guests, moving)
- Fights or tension with another cat
- Noisy appliances or distractions near the box
Even something as simple as a loud noise near the litter box can be enough to make a cat avoid it.
Q: How many litter boxes should I have in my house?
What Our Staff Says: Use this formula: one box per cat, plus one extra. So, if you have three cats, you should have four litter boxes. This ensures every cat has options and helps reduce territorial behavior.
Q: Does litter type really matter to cats?
What Our Staff Says: Yes! Most cats prefer a soft, clumping, unscented litter. Heavily scented products or unusual textures like pellets or crystals can deter them. If you need to change litter, do so gradually by mixing it with your current brand over several days.
Q: Where should I place the litter boxes?
What Our Staff Says: Choose locations that are quiet, private, and easily accessible. Avoid tucking them away in a busy laundry room or behind noisy appliances. Older cats, in particular, need boxes they can reach without climbing or jumping.
Q: What kind of litter box is best?
What Our Staff Says: Most cats prefer open (uncovered) boxes that provide airflow and visibility. Covered boxes can trap smells and make cats feel unsafe. Also, make sure the box is big enough—ideally 1.5 times your cat’s body length.
Q: How often should I clean the litter box?
What Our Staff Says: Scoop daily and give the box a full clean every week with mild, unscented soap and warm water. A dirty box is one of the most common reasons cats look for alternative spots.
Q: I’ve tried all of this—what else can I do?
What Our Staff Says: Keep track of your cat’s accidents—note time, location, and any changes in the home. This can reveal patterns. You might also try a pheromone diffuser or a litter attractant. If things still aren’t improving, reach out to your vet. Early intervention is key.
Final Thoughts:
Litter box problems can feel overwhelming, but most have straightforward solutions. Whether it’s a medical issue or something in your cat’s environment, the key is to investigate and act early. And remember—your cat isn’t misbehaving. They’re asking for help in the only way they know how.
Need Expert Help with Litter Box Problems? Contact Our Glen Burnie MD Animal Clinic
Contact us today to schedule a vet visit at our Glen Burnie MD pet clinic, or get guidance tailored to your cat’s needs. We’re here to help you and your feline friend feel comfortable again.
