One of the things I appreciate most about my cat – aside from her warm, fluffy purrs - is that I don’t have to put on my jacket and boots on cold winter evenings when she needs to potty.  In fact, I don’t even need to budge.  She’s happy to take care of those needs on her own as long as I hold up my end of the bargain.  My job is to keep 2 clean litter boxes available at all times.  Pretty simple.

Cats are typically fastidious creatures.  They like to be clean themselves – hence the frequent licking.  And they would like their living area to stay as clean as you would.  They are even willing to seek out a small box with loose material in it to help out, then cover up their waste.  This behavior is so genetically wired in most domestic cats, that the very first thing I recommend in response to any litter box problem is a visit to your vet – especially if “missing” the litter box is a new behavior. 

The most frequent cause for litter box problems happens when a cat is unable to get to a clean, appropriately-sized litter box.  Then they accidentally discover they can relieve themselves on other surfaces. 

So, make a pact with your cat:  I [your name here] resolve to provide you, [your cat’s name here], access to at least 2 appropriately-sized, clean litter boxes at all times.  In return, you, [cat’s name here] will make every effort to relieve yourself in only those locations.  Unless, of course, you are not feeling well, in which case I [your name again] vow to be wise enough to take you to the vet.

For detailed steps to help rectify existing litter box problems, check out our behavior information on “Solving Litter Box Problems.”

Today’s blog author is Marie Tripton. Marie is the manager of the Richmond SPCA’s Behavior Helpline. Call the helpline at 643-SPCA or e-mail .

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