What your cat wants you to know when they go outside the box
Litter box issues can be a headache. If you find urine on the walls, near windows or doors, or on vertical surfaces, your cat may be marking his territory. Whether male, female, spayed, neutered, or intact, any cat at any age can start spraying urine to do this. The problem may be triggered by other animals in the house or animals your cat sees outside.
If the problem occurs on rugs, laundry, beds, or just outside the litter box, the problem may be the box or its surroundings. It might not have been scooped regularly, your cat may no longer like where the litter box is located, or your cat may have been scared while using it. Or, it could be a combination of these things.
Go to the Vet
Urinary tract infections and other medical-related issues are common culprits in litter box issues. Talk to your veterinarian right away to rule out this cause.
Remove the Smell
Cats are attracted to soiling in locations where they smell urine or feces. If the smell is partially removed, the cat will probably be triggered to “refresh” the spot.
When cleaning, be sure to not use common household cleaners, especially ones containing ammonia. Instead, use specialized enzymatic cleansers. If the stain is already dry, soak the spot with lukewarm water and blot it as much as possible. Next, treat the area with the commercial enzymatic cleanser. Repeat this process three times.
Create the ideal area for your litter box
Make sure the box is easy to find, especially for elderly cats. If your home has multiple levels, provide a box on each level. Avoid moving the box, as many cats do not like change.
Avoid scented litters, cleaning with bleach or heavily scented products, and do not spray your box with an air freshener.
Most cats prefer large, uncovered boxes. Others like smaller boxes or covered boxes. Offer your kitty a variety of boxes so they can choose which they like best.
Contact a professional for litter box issues
If you have tried all of the above and your litter box issues are not resolved, it is probably time to consult with a professional.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.