LITTERBOX BLUES
THE LITTERBOX BLUES
By Lynne M. Seibert DVM, MS, PhD, Diplomate American College of Veterinary Behaviorists
Lynnwood, Wash.
Housesoiling, or failure to consistently use the litterbox, is the most common behavior problem of cats. An estimated one in 10 cat-owning households will be affected by this problem. Consulting a veterinarian who can take a detailed behavioral history is crucial in order to determine the cause, contributing factors and appropriate therapy.
Medical causes for housesoiling must always be considered before concluding that the problem has a behavioral origin. Physical abnormalities that contribute to housesoiling problems include kidney disease, lower urinary tract disorders (bladder stones, infections or inflammation), diabetes, neurological disorders and thyroid disease. In addition, physical examinations and laboratory testing should be repeated periodically during treatment to ensure no new health problems have developed.
Defining the problem: Failure to use the litter box versus urine marking (spraying)
Failure to use the litter box, as opposed to urine marking, is identified when the cat defecates outside the box and/or when it deposits large volumes of urine on horizontal surfaces. Urine marking is generally characterized by spraying smaller quantities of urine on vertical surfaces.
Why do cats spray?
The exact causes of urine marking are not known. Outdoor cats commonly deposit urine on vertical surfaces, which may function as a signal for other cats in the area. Male cats (even neutered male cats) are more likely to engage in urine marking than females.
Normal elimination behavior of cats
There are specific behavior patterns that are exhibited by cats during elimination. Before eliminating, most cats will dig a hole in the substrate and bury after elimination. Cats that do not dig and bury in their litter may be trying to tell their owners there is a problem.
Factors that contribute to housesoiling problems
Litter boxes that are too small, too old, or covered with hoods may contribute to housesoiling problems. It is also critical to have an adequate number of litter boxes in multi-cat households. One litter box for every cat is recommended.
Substrate (litter) that is not cleaned, scooped or replaced often enough is a common problem. Aversions to specific litters can develop for a variety of reasons, as well as preferences for inappropriate surfaces (carpet, clothes and potted plants). Varieties of litter are available, including clay, paper, corncob, wheat, cedar and silica gel crystals. Cats generally prefer fine, unscented litters, but individual preferences should be considered.
Location of litter boxes is especially important. Inaccessible locations, such as the basement or laundry room, may not be ideal for the cat. High traffic or noisy areas should also be avoided.
Social stress between cats can result in housesoiling behavior. Households with multiple cats are more likely to have problems due to inter-cat aggression, too few litter boxes or poor litter box hygiene.
Soiled areas need to be cleaned well to discourage further housesoiling. A variety of enzymatic cleaners and odor eliminators are available.
FeliwayŌis a product intended to decrease urine spraying. It is a chemical copy of the facial pheromones present in cats. The presence of these pheromones has a calming effect, reducing the cat's impulse to urine mark. It is available through veterinarians as a spray and an electric diffuser.
See your veterinarian
It is important to see a veterinarian when a cat develops a housesoiling problem. Once potential medical problems have been addressed, the veterinarian can help with behavior modification, or refer owners to qualified behavior consultants.