Why is My Cat Not Using The Litter Box? Part 2: Box Setup Issues

Gray and white cat coming out of a litter pan

When your cat doesn’t use the litter box, they’re trying to tell you something is wrong in their life. Once you’ve taken them to the vet, if the vet determines the reason for the inappropriate elimination is not medical, you can begin the cat behavior detective work.

One reason they may not be using the box is because they’re unhappy with the box itself. It’s our job to figure out what they want. Since cats are a desert species, trying to replicate the experience of eliminating in the open desert could help!

This is part 2 in a series on litter box issues.

Why is My Cat Not Using The Litter Box? Part 1: Medical Issues

Dilute calico cat next to a small litter pan

When your cat doesn’t use their litter box, they’re trying to tell you something is wrong in their life. And it’s our job to figure that out and fix it for them. The first step is always to take your cat to the vet. Urinary issues can be life-threatening for cats. If the vet determines the cause of the inappropriate elimination is not medical, then you can start on the behavioral detective work to figure out what is wrong.

This is part 1 in a series on litter box issues.