Why is my cat not using the litter tray?
Almost always medical, stress or tray management, never spite.
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House soiling is one of the most common reasons cats are given up, and it is usually fixable.
Rule out medical first
Cystitis, bladder stones, kidney disease and arthritis all cause it. A cat straining in the tray, especially a male, is an emergency.
Tray management
- One tray per cat, plus one
- Big trays: 1.5 times the length of the cat
- Unscented, fine, sandy litter, at least 3cm deep
- Quiet locations, not next to a noisy appliance or the food
- Scoop daily; avoid strong disinfectants
Stress
New pets, building work, a new baby or a neighbourhood cat staring through the window can all trigger it. Cover cat flaps, add hiding places and consider a pheromone diffuser.
Cleaning
Use an enzymatic cleaner. Ammonia-based products smell like urine to a cat and invite a repeat.
#cats#litter
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