Expert: Dear Tabbi - 9/25/2008

Question
Hi,
I am a somewhat new cat owner. I have had my (daughter) for about three
weeks now. She came from a foster agency. She is actually older about 5
years. So far a sweet cat. About a week in I had to take her to the vet to find
she had an upper respiratory infection. They gave me clavamax for her. It
seems to be working well. I was told that towards the end of the medicating
period I might notice more frequent bowel movements and diarrhea.  I have.
Luckily I try and clean the litter box as much as possible. But she is definitely
going a lot more. I have only left her for about 8 hours tops. Because of the
change in her routine I have a worry. I got a new job that for the next few
weeks while the company gets off the ground I will be working 12 hour days.
Normally I wouldn't worry. She has so far been a good cat. But I wont be there
for 12 hours to clean her litter box. Should I get a second one for her? Any
suggestions?
Adam

Answer
Adam,

Congratulations on your 'new daughter'!

If you check at PetSmart, Petco, etc. you will find self-cleaning litterboxes which are great. They are automated so that about 5 minutes after a cat uses it (it has sensors) the rake will start and rake anything in the litterbox into a tray that closes (keeps in the smell). I have used the Littermaid one and I loved it. The cats get used to the noise and the movements in the litterbox very soon and it doesn't bother them. As long as you don't fill the litter to the fill line (go under it) it won't jam. It keeps the litterbox clean at all times.

Yes, a send litterbox would be helpful too. With clumping litter, a large size box, and a lot of litter in the pan, she should be able to cover most everything and still have room.

Make sure you leave her toys to play with, or a place she can sit and look out the window to keep her occupied. Or even a playmate about her same age and temperment for company and play. If not, she will sleep all day, then want attention and play from you when you get home, and she will probably be up at night. Also leave her a bowl of good quality dry food (like Iams) in a bowl so she can munch if she gets hungry when you are gone.

PS: I only started with one cat! (smile)

I hope this is helpful.

Tabbi