Litter Box Problems: Why Cats Stop Using It

Medical first\n\nUrinary tract infections, kidney issues, diabetes, arthritis (painful to climb in), and constipation all cause litter box avoidance. ANY new avoidance behaviour warrants a vet visit before behaviour work.\n\n## The box itself\n\n- Number: one per cat plus one (2 cats = 3 boxes)\n- Size: 1.5x cat length; most commercial boxes too small\n- Type: covered boxes trap odour; many cats prefer open\n- Location: quiet, accessible, not next to noisy appliance, not next to food\n\n## The litter\n\n- Most cats prefer fine, clumping, unscented\n- Sudden brand change — common cause of avoidance\n- Depth: 5–7 cm; not too shallow, not too deep\n\n## Cleanliness\n\n- Scoop daily\n- Full change weekly for clumping, more often for non-clumping\n- Wash box monthly with mild soap (no strong-smelling cleaners)\n\n## Multi-cat dynamics\n\nA bullying cat can block another from the box. Make sure boxes are in multiple rooms, not all together.\n\n## Marking vs. inappropriate elimination\n\nMarking: small volume, vertical surfaces, intact cats more often. Treatment differs.