Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 11/12/2005

Question
HI!  I have two cats w/ two different problems.  One sprays; he's male and has been neutered, I just think it was too late.  I also have a 12
year old cat who is not always using the litter box.  Do you have suggestions to eliminate the odor and habit?  I'm very nervous because I'm 10 weeks pregnant and am scared that it's unhealthy for me and the baby to be breathing this in (since ammonia is in their urine).  I always clean it up once I can find it but should I be worried?

Thank you!  

Answer
There are certain foods,like the urinary tract health foods, that reduce the odor of cat urine. If the cat cannot get to the litter box quick enough, then there may be a medical problem, like diabetes or something wrong with the kidneys or the bladder.  Some cats that cannot get into the litter pan may be arthritic and may be in pain.

As far as your pregnancy, the ammonia smell will have no effect, but you should wear gloves when changing the litter pan or have someone else do it.  We are concerned about pregnant women changing litter pans and toxoplasmosis.