Good Litterbox Habits

There are many factors that are involved in setting up a healthy environment for your cat’s litterbox. Following these tips can help your cat keep normal litterbox habits and keep you from cleaning up messes outside the litterbox!

• Choose the right size litterbox for your cat! Your cat’s litterbox should be 1 ½ times the length of your cat. The average litterbox is 16”x10”
• Do not use hooded or covered litterboxes. Covered boxes hold in odor and can keep litter from drying quickly which can be off putting to cats.
• Do not use automatic litterboxes. Automatic litterboxes can be convenient, but they can also be loud and frighten some cats. This can make cats want to avoid the litterbox completely.
• Clean out waste from the box daily. Litterboxes should also be completely emptied and cleaned with soap and water once weekly.
• Find a quiet, easily accessible location for the litterbox and don’t move it. Cats like consistency. Changing the location of the box frequently can cause confusion and cause your cat to go outside the litterbox.
• Have enough litterboxes. The general rule is 1 litterbox per cat, plus 1. So, if you have 2 cats, you should have 3 litterboxes.
• If you have multiple floors in your home, make sure to have a litterbox on each floor.
• Keep a mat or disposable pad under the box for potential accidents.
• Do not change the brand or texture of litter unless necessary. Cats like consistency.
• Do not use litters with scents/perfumes. Cats can be sensitive to smells.
• Give them enough litter! Cats generally like around ½ - 1 inch of litter in the box.
• Most cats prefer clay, clumping litter.

 
 
We always recommend monitoring your cat’s litterbox habits. Urinating or defecating outside of the litterbox or changes in color, amounts, or frequency can indicate a medical problem with your pet. If you notice any of these changes, please notify your veterinarian.