If your cat has recently started eliminating outside the litter box—you’re not alone. This is one of the most frequent and frustrating problems cat parents face. But here’s the good news: there’s almost always a reason behind it, and once you figure out the “why,” it’s often very fixable.
We sat down with our Fayetteville, AR veterinary team to answer your most pressing litter box questions—so you can help your cat return to their usual routine and keep your home clean and stress-free.
Q: My cat is going outside the litter box. What should I do first?
Vet Advice: Begin with a trip to the Fayetteville, AR vet. Pain or discomfort is a common reason cats avoid their litter box. Medical conditions like urinary tract infections, arthritis, or kidney disease may be to blame. A veterinary exam and urinalysis are the best first steps to rule out health problems.
Q: What are the medical reasons cats stop using the litter box?
Vet Advice: A variety of medical conditions can lead to litter box avoidance, including:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD)
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Arthritis that makes getting into the box painful
If your cat seems to strain, cry out, or make frequent, unproductive litter box trips, it could be a medical emergency—call your vet right away.
Q: My cat is healthy. What else might be causing the problem?
Vet Advice: If health isn’t the issue, behavioral or environmental changes may be. Cats are creatures of habit, and disruptions can lead to litter box issues. Common triggers include:
- A dirty or rarely scooped litter box
- Switching to a new type of litter
- Relocating the box to a different area
- Stress from moving, new animals, or visitors
- Territorial disputes between cats
- Noisy surroundings, like a nearby washing machine
Even subtle changes in your home environment can cause your cat to act out in this way.
Q: How many litter boxes should I have at home?
Vet Advice: Use the one plus one rule—one litter box per cat, plus one extra. If you have two cats, that means three boxes. This helps avoid competition and gives cats choices in multi-cat households.
Q: Does the kind of litter I use really matter?
Vet Advice: It can make a big difference. Most cats like soft, unscented, clumping litter. Strong fragrances or unusual textures (like crystals or pellets) may deter them. Introduce any new litter gradually to allow your cat time to adjust.
Q: Where should I put the litter boxes?
Vet Advice: Keep litter boxes in quiet, low-traffic areas that are still easily accessible. Avoid isolating the box or putting it next to loud machines. Older cats, in particular, need easy access without having to climb stairs or jump.
Q: What kind of litter box do cats prefer?
Vet Advice: Most cats favor uncovered boxes. They provide better airflow, visibility, and less odor build-up. Covered boxes can feel cramped or insecure. Also, be sure your box is large enough—about 1.5 times your cat’s length from nose to tail.
Q: How often should the box be cleaned?
Vet Advice: Cleanliness is key. Scoop daily and fully wash the box weekly with mild, fragrance-free soap and water. A clean box is essential to encouraging regular use.
Q: I’ve tried everything. What else can I do if the problem persists?
Vet Advice: Keep track of your cat’s behavior with a journal. Note when and where accidents happen and any changes in the household. You can also try calming aids like Feliway diffusers or litter attractants. Still stuck? Call your Fayetteville, AR vet. Quick action often leads to easier solutions.
Final Thoughts:
Litter box problems are never fun, but they’re usually not permanent. Whether it’s due to a health concern or a change in the environment, most cats can be helped with the right care and attention. Remember—your cat isn’t doing it out of spite. They’re trying to tell you something’s wrong.
Need Help Solving Litter Box Issues? Contact Our Fayetteville, AR Pet Clinic
Contact our Fayetteville, AR veterinary clinic today for expert advice or to book an exam. We’ll help get your cat’s bathroom habits back on track.
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