Senior Cat Litter Box Problems
In households with multiple cats only one cat may not be using the litter box.
Senior cat litter box problems. Medical conditions and litter box problems. For older cats try a litter box with lower sides and make sure the cat litter box is placed in an area that s easy to reach. If your senior cat seems unwilling to use the litter box he s always used it s time to change things up. Common medical conditions which may affect litter box use include.
Senior cat litter box problems happen all too often and aren t necessarily a reflection of the cat s previous habits. One cat uses the litter box the other cat does not. Please see our article litter box problems for additional suggestions and detailed information about resolving litter box issues. If there s a hood on the litter box take it off yes the hood is great for blocking the sight of the mess in the box but it can also trap smells inside unpleasant for kitty.
Many older cats have trouble or experience pain when attempting to get in or out of a litter box with high sides. Jackson galaxy a cat behavior and wellness expert host of animal planet s my cat from hell and a new york times best selling author says that a sudden change in behavior like an elderly cat pooping on the floor can be a small hint of a larger issue. If your cat frequently enters their litter box but produces small amounts of urine they may have a uti. Older cats can have a tougher time getting around and some even develop arthritis.
Common reasons why your senior cat is not using the litter box. Whether your cat failed to learn faithful toilet etiquette as a kitten or simply developed litter box problems as it got older such issues are common with advancing age.