Expert: Dear Tabbi - 6/14/2008

Question
WE are wondering why our cat isn't using the litterbox, it is a booda litter box and we have it in the laundry room ! It is near the washer, and dryer . So any ideas why she isn't using it ?

Answer
Jennifer,

There are a number of reasons why your cat may not be using the litterbox and sometimes you have to be a detective to find out what the reason is. You don't give very much information about whether she urinates...or defecates outside the litterbox, or both. And whether it is all the time or periodically. And where she is going besides the litterbox (corners/carpet/anywhere/in someone's room/etc.)

If a Booda litterbox is a covered one, then cats do not like to go inside them. It is a stronger smell for them when they are using it, plus they do not like it that they can't see if something is coming. Being near a washer/dryer is not good. Cats do not like the noise and the vibrations of the washer, nor the heat and noise from the dryer. Plus alot of cats prefer privacy and being by the appliances where there are people going to them is not private.

Try moving the litterbox to a different, quieter area. Also try an open litterbox that is larger and deeper. I don't know how old your cat is, but as they grow they need more litterbox room to be comfortable.

A cat can quit using the litterbox when they are upset at you or stressed over something or changes in or around the home. Or if another animal or child ambushed her while she was using the litterbox. Has she been left alone for a few days? Have you been giving her the same affection and attention that you used to? Can she see cats outside that she can't get to to defend her territory?

It also could be related to a medical issue instead of a behavioral problem. She could have a kidney or urinary tract infection, or urinary crystals. UTIs and urinary crystals are very painful and the cats associate that pain with the litterbox and go elsewhere. You might want to have a vet give her a checkup.

I am including a couple of links to good articles that you may find helpful on the subject of improper elimination:
(copy and paste, or type, the whole links into your address bar)

http://cats.about.com/cs/behavioralissues/a/outsidebox_two.htm

http://www.geocities.com/heartland/pointe/9352/litterboxhelp.html

I hope this helps. If you have more questions or concerns please feel free to write back.

Tabbi