Why is my cat peeing outside the litterbox?

– by Kathy Kero, DVM –

 

When your cat starts peeing outside the litter box, what veterinarians call inappropriate urination or inappropriate elimination, they are usually trying to tell you something. There are several common reasons why a cat may stop using the litter box. In some cases, the issue is related to the litter box itself. In others, an underlying medical condition may be to blame.

 

Common Litter Box Problems

I like to think of a litter box like a public restroom or a porta potty at a fair. If the restroom is dirty or the toilet is not flushed, would you want to use it? Your cat may feel the same way.

 

Dirty Litter Boxes

If the litter box is not scooped free of urine clumps and feces at least twice daily, your cat may decide it is not clean enough and look for another place to go.

 

Covered Litter Boxes

Some cats dislike covered litter boxes because odors can become trapped inside. Others may feel vulnerable because they cannot see what is happening around them. This can be especially stressful in homes with multiple pets.

 

Not Enough Litter Boxes

If you have more than one cat, it is important to provide enough litter boxes. A common rule is one litter box per cat, plus one extra. Multiple boxes in different locations help ensure each cat has access to a clean, comfortable place to eliminate.

 

Litter Preferences

Cats can be surprisingly particular about their litter. While scented litter may smell pleasant to people, many cats find strong fragrances overwhelming. As your cat digs and stirs the litter, the scent becomes even stronger. Some cats may choose to avoid the litter box altogether because of this.

 

Cat-Related Causes of Inappropriate Urination

Sometimes the problem is not the litter box. Instead, your cat may be experiencing discomfort or an underlying health issue.

 

Paw and Litter Sensitivities

Cats with long hair between their toes can sometimes get litter trapped in their fur. This can feel uncomfortable, much like having a pebble stuck in your shoe. Some cats also dislike the texture of certain litters. If you are currently using clay litter, you may want to try alternatives such as recycled paper pellets or pine litter.

 

Medical Conditions

One of the most important reasons to take litter box issues seriously is that they can signal a medical problem.

Common causes of inappropriate urination in cats include:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Bladder inflammation (cystitis)
• Urinary crystals
• Bladder stones

These conditions can make urination painful. Some cats begin to associate that pain with the litter box itself and may start avoiding it.

 

When to Contact Your Veterinarian

If your cat is peeing outside the litter box, do not assume it is a behavioral problem. In many cases, there may be an underlying medical cause that requires treatment.

Our team at Walton Gwinnett Animal Clinic can help determine whether your cat’s litter box problems are related to a medical condition, litter box setup, or environmental factors. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and help your feline friend get back on track.