If your cat stops using the litter tray, consider a series of possible triggers. — INA FASSBENDER/dpa-tmn
Few things unsettle cat owners more than discovering their pet has turned the sofa, bed or carpet into a toilet. It's unpleasant, yes – but losing your temper won't help.
First rule: No scolding
"Under no circumstances should you dip the animal's nose in its faeces or punish it in any other way – even if, unfortunately, you often read this tip," says veterinarian Denise Riggers, who runs a mobile practice near Munich.
The cat won't understand and what the cat learns instead is: "I can't trust humans, and when they come, something bad happens," says the veterinarian.
Instead, she advises you focus on finding the root cause of the behaviour.
What's the reason?
When a previously house-trained cat starts urinating or defecating outside the litter box, there may be a serious cause.
"This is definitely not defiant or even malicious behaviour. On the contrary - sometimes cats show that they are not feeling well in this way," says veterinarian Maren Puschel.
Start by considering any recent changes in your home or routine. Even small shifts can unsettle cats.
Possible triggers include a new type or location of litter box, the arrival of a new pet or family member, a change in caretaker, or the owner's absence.
In older cats, cognitive decline can also cause disorientation. Stress from such changes may make the litter box feel unappealing or unsafe.
Visit your vet to rule out health issues
If your cat starts urinating elsewhere, you should have it checked by a veterinarian to rule out any health issues.
If a cat experiences pain when urinating, it associates this with the litter box and therefore looks for other places to do its business, says Puschel.
Toothache or other physical causes are also possible, according to Riggers.
Another explanation, especially in older animals, is that cats can also develop dementia and forget where their litter box is.
Is the litter appropriate?
If medical issues and stressors are ruled out, check whether your litter box setup meets feline standards.
Is it species-appropriate and does it meet the cat's needs? It often helps to try out different litter box models and types of litter.
As a rule of thumb, "the number of cats plus one. So if you have three cats, you should provide at least four litter boxes," says Riggers.
"This is because cats often like to deposit their urine and faeces in different places," explains the veterinarian.
It is therefore best to distribute the litter boxes in different rooms of the home.
Cats need peace and quiet
Comfort is important to cats. The litter box should be in an undisturbed, easily accessible place. It should also be large enough. The cat should be able to turn around comfortably without bumping into anything.
An open litter box is best. Most cats don't like litter boxes with doors. The smell gets trapped inside and they can't see what's happening outside the door, says veterinarian Riggers.
Litter boxes with high sides or top-entry designs are a poor choice for kittens and senior cats. Animals with arthritis or other pain may struggle to climb in every time they need the toilet, notes Riggers.
She also advises against self-cleaning models: the mechanisms can pose an injury risk, and some cats have even been trapped and traumatised.
In addition, these boxes are often noisy – the opposite of what cats want most during bathroom time: peace and quiet.
Litter matters too
Cats prefer fine, unscented litter that feels comfortable under their paws, says Riggers.
Fill boxes with at least 10cm of litter for proper digging, and avoid dusty types that may cause respiratory issues.
Clean daily, but avoid strong-smelling cleaners or vinegar.
New user
Taking in a stray that's only ever relieved itself outdoors requires patience – but even adult cats can learn.
"It's best to restrict the space at first and provide the animal with a selection of litter boxes in one room – with different types of litter," Riggers recommends.
This lets the cat explore and choose a preferred option. Praise successes and never scold; most cats are naturally clean and learn quickly.
Riggers also recommends covering flower pots at first – the soil can be an irresistible substitute toilet.
A cat's bathroom habits are often a health or comfort issue – not misbehaviour. With patience, observation and the right setup, most cases of "accidents" can be solved. – dpa
