Why the cat stopped using the litter box: real reasons

15.05.2024 06:10

Cats can be unpredictable creatures, and when they suddenly stop using the litter box, it can be a worry for their owners.

Here are some possible reasons why a cat may refuse to use the litter box, as well as the consequences and possible harmful effects of this behavior.

Medical problems

It is important to remember that changes in your cat's behavior, including litter box refusal, can be a sign of medical problems such as a urinary tract infection, bladder stones, arthritis, or other conditions. Therefore, the first step when this problem occurs is to take your cat to the veterinarian for an examination.

Cleanliness of the tray

Cats can be sensitive to the cleanliness of their litter box. If the litter box is not clean enough, the cat may refuse to use it. Regularly cleaning the litter box will help prevent this problem.

Territorial issues

If you have multiple cats, one of them may start marking territory by refusing to use the litter box. This may be due to territorial battles or conflicts between cats. The solution may involve providing each cat with its own litter box.

cat
Photo: © TUT NEWS

Stress or changes in the environment

Changes in the home, such as moving, a new family member, or even new furniture, can cause stress in a cat and lead to changes in its behavior. In such cases, it is important to provide a calm environment for the cat and to gradually get used to the changes.

Suitable tray

Each cat has its own preferred type of litter box. Some prefer covered boxes, while others prefer open boxes. Experiment with different types of boxes to find the one that works best for your cat.

A cat refusing to use the litter box can be frustrating and worrying for owners, but it's important to understand that there is often a solution to this problem. Consult your veterinarian to determine the cause and develop a plan to resolve the problem.

We previously talked about dogs' attitudes towards hugs .

Author: Valeria Kisternaya Editor of Internet resources

Content
  1. Medical problems
  2. Cleanliness of the tray
  3. Territorial issues
  4. Stress or changes in the environment
  5. Suitable tray