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Cats/Senior cat is avoiding the litterbox

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Expert: - 7/31/2007


Question
I have 2 mixed breed, 14-yr old cats from the same litter. They have always been indoor kitties only and simply cannot live without each other. Over the past few months, one of the 2 has started randomly urinating outside of the litterbox and sometimes in other places as well. Occasionally she defecates outside the box as well. Her sister is as reliable as she has always been and I can't recall her ever making a mess. I have not changed their litter brand, the litterbox location, food, or anything. I clean the litterbox twice daily. I live alone and my time at home and away from home is very routine and consistent. I love my girls so much....but this change in bathroom habits is quite troubling. Otherwise both ladies are my perfect home companions. Can you suggest what may be causing this change in behavior?

Answer
Hi Candy,

Any change in an older cats litter behavior signals that there is something physically wrong with them. Take her to the vet and get her checked out. It could be something very simple like arthritis, (get a lower litter pan), to an infection. When you find out what is the matter please write back because you may need help getting her back to using the litter pan. Good luck.

Ciao, Karen

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Karen Craft

Expertise

I can give advice on cat behavior. I can help about newborn kitten care. I can help with senior cat care. I can answer questions about cat proofing a home or making it cat friendly. I can answer diet questions. I can answer home treatments questions for cats. At present I have 13 cats in home and two ferals outside. And there's always room for one more!

Experience

I have over 40 year's experience with cats. Father was a veterinarian and I assisted him in his work. I have 15 cats at present. Most are shelter or feral rescues. I have one purebred cat. I have done cat rescues and foster care. Some thoughts to carry with you. A Cat's 10 Commandments My life is likely to last 15-20 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful. Give me time to understand what you want of me. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainments. But I have only you. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it. Before you swat me, before you strike me, remember that I have teeth that could draw blood. And claws to strike back. And yet I choose not to attack you. If I don't act right then have me checked to see what is wrong. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old. On the difficult journey, on the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so. Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful thing without God's critters. Pass this on.

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I have an A.A.S.

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