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Why does a cat lie in a litter box: 6 reasons that should alert you
16.03.2024 06:10
Let's try to unravel this mystery of cat behavior.
We'll discuss possible reasons why cats choose the litter box as a resting place, explore how this relates to their instincts and habits, and give tips on how to break your cat of this habit if it bothers you.
Get ready to dive into the world of cat secrets!
Trying to reduce stress levels
If your cat has gone through a major change, such as moving to a new home or getting a new pet, she will likely try to find a way to cope with the stress.
Until she feels comfortable in her own home again, she may lie in the litter box, where her scents are strongest and where she feels she dominates the space. Cats don't want to spend time in a place they don't feel is theirs.
To stop your cat from lying in her litter box when she's stressed, create a comfortable and safe place for her where people and other animals won't be constantly passing by.
Once the cat feels safe in this environment, its stress levels should decrease.
Marks and defends its territory
Some cats like to know that their territory will never belong to another person or animal.
If the cat is new to the family, or another pet has arrived, it may use the litter box to mark and protect its territory.
This behavior is most common in cats that have not been neutered. Male cats are known for marking and protecting their territory, but any cat can exhibit this behavior.
Provide your pet with another space to “mark and protect.” Although you may have to wash your bedding because of the marking, your cat will not be stuck in her litter box all the time. After all, she should feel comfortable in the house.
Health problem
Sometimes a cat may use a litter box to heal from an injury or illness, or to sense that the end of its life is approaching. In these cases, it does so to maintain a close “connection” with its scents. Being around them helps it feel comfortable and reassured while it struggles with its health issues.
Take your cat to the vet to find out why he is feeling depressed.
Pregnant
If a cat becomes pregnant, she may lie in a litter box in preparation for the birth of her kittens. She will try to give birth in a place where she feels comfortable and in control, and she will feel that the litter box is a safe place for her kittens until they can see, explore, and eat on their own.
Provide a safe, clean place for your pregnant cat, such as a litter box. Make sure it is comfortable and has high enough walls to accommodate the newborn kittens. If necessary, place the box near her litter box to help her feel as secure as possible.
Digestive problems
Some cats develop digestive problems, especially as they age. If they eat something they are not used to, eat too much, or develop a gastrointestinal condition that prevents proper digestion, cats may want to spend more time in the litter box than usual.
Constipation may cause your cat to continually try to go to the toilet for hours before actually doing so. In this case, she may remain near the litter box until she does her business.
Feed your cat only the food it is used to eating, avoiding treats and extra snacks. If digestive problems do not improve within a couple of days, consult your veterinarian.
She's old, so she doesn't want to go too far from the toilet.
As cats age, they are less likely to have control over their toileting. Some may not be able to hold their feces or urine long enough to reach the litter box.
If the cat is aware of this, it may spend most of its time lying in the litter box to avoid risks. Sleeping in or near the litter box minimizes the risk.
Provide your older cat with a comfortable spot or place a bed near the litter box so that she feels more comfortable and can get to it when she needs to relieve herself.
The closer her sleeping area is to the toilet, the less likely she is to sleep in it.
Previously, we wrote about what to do if a hamster prevents you from sleeping at night.
