There are some good reasons that your cat may stop using the litter box. If you have multiple cats, make sure the box is big enough and that you're scooping it often.

There are some good reasons that your cat may stop using the litter box. If you have multiple cats, make sure the box is big enough and that you're scooping it often.

I don't have a cat, but the No. 1 question I get from family, friends and colleagues is, “Why is my cat suddenly not using the litter box?” So I decided to do some research and see what I could find.

If the family feline has suddenly decided she’d like to “go” anywhere but the litter box, it could be a sign that something isn’t right, either in the environment or with her health.

Litter box issues are a top reason cats are surrendered to shelters or put outdoors after living inside. So, why do some cats suddenly stop using it? Reasons for this new, unwanted behavior can range from a common and very treatable bladder infection to switching to a new litter to introducing a new cat or other pet into the home.

Litter switch? Was a new brand or type of litter introduced recently? If so, it may be the culprit. Most cats are not big fans of scented litter, as their sense of smell is much more sensitive than ours and perfumes or deodorizers are often a turnoff.

It is usually a case of trial and error to find a litter that the cat will like. Pellet or crystal litters are not recommended as they can be uncomfortable to step on. Use a clumping litter, unless the cat is a kitten. Kittens have to get the hang of using the litter box and clumping litter may end up stuck to their little paws and between their toes.

Make sure to fill the box generously with the litter. The litter should be at least two to three inches deep, completely covering the bottom of the box.

The scoop: The frequency of changing out the litter is also an important factor. Scooping the litter box twice a day is recommended.

Location, location, location: Place the litter box in a quiet area so the cat can do her business privately.

Size matters: The size of the litter box can sometimes be the issue. Make sure the litter box is large enough to accommodate the number of cats in the home. Also, if the cat is on the curvy side, she will likely require a larger litter box.

Ones with higher sides all around and with a lower side where the cat can enter the box are recommended, as this type of box will help keep the litter from being thrown out when the cat covers her poop/urine.

Hooded litter boxes are sometimes frightening and may deter use. If you have this type of box and you're having a problem with your cat, try removing the top and just use the bottom to see if that helps.

Change in environment? Did you move to a new home? Welcome a new pet into the household? Stress of a new environment or interaction with new people or pets can often disturb a cat’s intestinal tract. When an animal has stomach pain they automatically think they have to immediately go to relieve themselves, regardless of where they are. There are probiotic supplements on the market, available through the veterinarian, to keep the stomach and intestinal tract calm and working properly. Always consult a vet before using a new supplement.

Its attitude: My colleague’s cat, Louie, gets mad whenever his owner goes out of town or leaves him for a period of time, so his way of getting even: He boycotts the litter box for a few days upon her return just to make sure she suffers for leaving him!

Medical condition: If the cat appears to be straining to urinate or poop, whether in the litter box or not, seek medical attention immediately. Constipation or a urinary blockage must be dealt with as soon as possible. Both can be fatal if not treated. A urinary tract infection causes a lot of pain for a cat and leads to trying to urinate outside of the litter box.

If the family feline is suddenly not using the litter box, a trip to the vet can rule out any medical conditions.

Aug. 17-18: Shop at the Lakeside Mall or Magazine Street locations of Kendra Scott, mention Animal Rescue New Orleans and Kendra Scott will donate 20% of your sale to the animal rescue. Online orders can use promo code: GIVEBACK8396 during checkout at kendrascott.com for the 20% donationFor more info: https://kendragivesbackanimalrescuenew.splashthat.com/

Traci D. Howerton is the volunteer coordinator for Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO), a nonprofit, volunteer-based, no-kill shelter. For topic suggestions, email animalrescuecolumn@gmail.com or for more info on ARNO, visit www.animalrescueneworleans.org.

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