There are many things to like about our kitty companions. Fluffy’s use of a litterbox to meet her needs is one of the many factors that contribute to her being such an ideal pet. You won’t have to rush home to walk your adorable little pet. However, while setting up your feline friend’s litterbox isn’t difficult, there are a few things to consider. A Treasure Coast, FL veterinarian provides some advice on this below.

What Is the Best Location for a Litterbox?

That old phrase “location, location, location” certainly applies here. This is actually critical in preventing litterbox problems. Choosing the right spot is crucial.

Here are some tips:

• Give Kitty Some Privacy. Cats, like humans, want peace and quiet when doing their thing. Make sure your pet’s box is at a convenient location that also provides her with privacy.
• Provide Easy Access Ideally, you’d want it in an area with multiple access points. This might also be beneficial if your pets do not always get along. That way, if Fluffy is hesitant to pass Mittens, she can always go around! (If your pets aren’t getting along, ask your veterinarian for help.)
• Choose the Right Spot Litter boxes should never be kept near your or your pet’s food or water. The kitchen is likewise unsuitable.
• Don’t Crowd Your Pet Have the appropriate amount of litterboxes.  Cats prefer not to share restrooms. As a general guideline, you should have one box for each furball, plus one extra. If your home has more than one story, keep litterboxes on each floor.
• Silence Is Golden. Do not place the litterbox near anything that may create unexpected noises, such as a speaker or doorbell. The washer and dryer may also be noisy enough to shock your kitty companion. Don’t choose a location where another kitty could be peering down at Fluffy as she does her business.
• Avoid Crowding. Kitties are unwilling to share litterboxes. However, simply adding two together may not be effective. Fluffy sees this as just one giant litterbox.
• Light It Up. You could consider installing motion lights and/or nightlights near your cat’s litterbox. No one likes to have to find the bathroom in the darkness!

Do I Need to Teach My Kitten to Use the Litterbox?

Cats rarely require instruction in this area; they bury their feces naturally. This helps to conceal their locations from predators in the wild. Baby cats may need some guidance, though, so if you have a kitten, you may need to help her out. Ask your vet for particular advice on this.

One crucial thing to remember about kittens is that they should never be given clay or clumping litters. Young furballs are clumsy. Little Fluffy could unintentionally consume some of the litter. This can result in bowel obstructions and other possibly fatal problems.

What If My Cat Stops Using Her Litter Box?

A kitten may develop an aversion to her litterbox. This can be exceedingly difficult for humans to deal with. Before you can address the issue, you must first determine why your cat is no longer utilizing her litter box.

The first thing to do is rule out any medical difficulties. If your feline companion used to be good about using her litterbox but has recently turned sloppy, there could be a health issue to blame. We recommend setting up an appointment with your veterinarian. If your feline companion gets the thumbs-up, you’ll know you have a fussy cat rather than a sick one.

It may also be a question of taste. Have you just switched to a new litter or litterbox? If so, return to the previous style. If you’ve recently added a hood or moved to a covered box, go back to a simple one.

Overcrowding may also be a concern. You might also want to check to see if there are any impediments that would prevent your pet from utilizing her personal powder area.

We realize how stressful litterbox mishaps can be, but you should never punish your cat for having an accident. This can cause confusion in your pet. If she slips up and goes just outside the box, punishing her where she produced the mess may cause her to create a negative association with the litterbox. This could make her feel anxious—or perhaps more anxious—about the box. That is the last thing you want.

Hiding The Litterbox

Fluffy’s personal powder area will never make a beautiful centerpiece. If your home is large enough, you might be able to store it in a spare bathroom or utility room. Otherwise, you may wish to take some steps to conceal it.

Here are some possible solutions:

Room Divider: Placing a room divider in a corner can also give your space a sophisticated look. Simply leave enough space for your kitty to enter and exit.

Table Upcycle: Another option is to put an end table above the litterbox. Getting the appropriate size may be the most difficult task. You can drape fabric over the table or add a pet-friendly plant. (As an added bonus, the plant will help filter the air.)

Closet: If you own your home—or don’t mind giving up a portion of your security deposit—you may put the litterbox in the closet and install a kitty door so your pet can come and go as she wants.

Upcycled Furniture: There are a variety of things that can be used here. End tables with doors are a nice choice. This can be done using a desk, trunk, or chest. Create a cat hole in one end. Then, use the existing doors to gain admission.

Custom Pieces: You can also purchase parts designed expressly to conceal litter boxes. They’ll be pricier than upcycling an old piece, but they’ll be more durable, attractive, and long-lasting.

How Do You Eliminate Litterbox Odors?

Cleaning is the last solution here. No matter what else you do or don’t do, keeping the litterbox clean is the only way to keep it from smelling.

Nonetheless, there are a few points to consider. Liners, deodorizers, air fresheners, and air purifiers are all useful tools. You can also try sifting or automated litterboxes. Consult your Treasure Coast, FL vet for advice.

Schedule An Appointment At Our Treasure Coast, FL, pet hospital.

Have you got any questions about your cat’s health or care? Contact us, your Treasure Coast, FL pet hospital at any time!