Litter Box Aversion: 6 Fixes That Work

Why Cats Avoid the Litter Box

Litter box problems are the number 1 reason cats are surrendered to shelters. In my 20 years at the shelter, I've seen that most cases are solvable with simple changes.

6 Fixes

• Clean more often — Scoop daily, full change weekly. Cats are fastidious about cleanliness.
• Try unscented litter — Most cats prefer unscented, fine-grain clumping litter.
• Go larger — The box should be 1.5x the cat's length. Many commercial boxes are too small.
• Remove the lid — Covered boxes trap odors and feel confining.
• Relocate — Place boxes in quiet, accessible areas away from food and loud appliances.
• Medical checkup — UTIs, arthritis, and kidney disease can cause litter box avoidance.

The Rule of Thumb

One litter box per cat, plus one extra, on different floors of the house. This prevents resource guarding and gives options.