Creating Cat Friendly Litter Boxes

A common behavioral complaint of cat owners is house soiling.  Many times this problem can easily be solved.  Many owners do not realize that the litter box location, size, and type of litter used can play a large role in whether or not their cat is using the box.  The following information can be used as a guide when setting up a litter box for your new kitty. 

First of all, litter boxes have to meet your cat's behavioral needs.  Many owners prepare the litter box to their liking, not the cats.  This is a common and very big mistake! 

Size of the Litter Box

• Bigger cats need bigger boxes
• Box should be big enough for cat to turn around in
• Geriatric cats and/or kittens may need boxes with little to no sides

Covered Boxes

• It is always best to start without a cover as many cats do not like to feel confined inside the box (a covered box is for the convenience of the owner, as it reduces odor).
• If you notice your cat eliminates in secluded areas of your home, your cat may prefer a covered litter box.

Type of Litter

• Cats prefer soft substrates.  The finer the litter, the better. 
• Unscented is best.  Cats have a stronger sense of smell than we do and those scented litters may be too strong for them.

Depth of the litter should be about 1 1/2 to 2 inches.  They need enough to scratch in and bury their feces, but too much litter is bothersome for cats.

Location

• Balance privacy with accessibility
• Avoid area where there are startling noises from appliances
• Make sure the cat has the ability to see and be protected while in the box
• Assure escape and access routes
• Keep kids and dogs out of location
• Keep multiple boxes in multiple locations - don't keep boxes adjacent to each other
• Locate box away from food

Maintenance and Cleaning

• Scoop daily - some cats may require you to scoop more than once daily
• Litter should always be dry and clean
• Dump the entire box once per week
• Maintain a washing schedule of once per month (don't use chemicals with strong odors such as bleach - Ivory dish soap works well).
• Never leave dried urine or feces on the box
• Consider a self-cleaning box such as the Littermaid if you feel that you cannot keep up with the daily scooping.