Guide
Why is my cat not using the litter box?
Litter-box avoidance can result from medical problems, box cleanliness, litter preference, location, stress, conflict, or access, so sudden changes deserve careful attention.
At a glance
- Medical first
- Sudden elimination changes can be associated with illness or pain
- Environment
- Cleanliness, number, location, and litter type can affect box use
Overview
Cats can stop using a litter box for reasons that are behavioral, environmental, or medical. Painful urination, constipation, mobility problems, stress, a dirty box, a new litter, poor location, or competition from another cat can all contribute. A sudden change should not automatically be treated as misbehavior.
Rule out health problems
Changes in urination, straining, blood, vocalizing, very frequent trips, appetite, or activity can require prompt veterinary attention. Urinary blockage can be an emergency, particularly in male cats.
Improve the setup
Keep boxes clean, place them in accessible low-stress locations, and provide enough boxes for multi-cat homes. Change litter or box style gradually when possible and reduce situations where another animal can block access.
Sources and review
MOOR's explanatory text is supported by the following source links.
- Cats — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Selecting a Cat — American Veterinary Medical Association