WHAT TO DO IF YOUR CAT'S NOT USING THE LITTER BOX

By: Door Buddy Editors | Published: 9 April 2025

No one likes waking up to an unexpected present from their cat - especially when that present should’ve been left in the litter box. As much as we adore our furry companions, dealing with litter box problems? Not so much.

But here’s the thing: if your cat is not using the litter box, there’s usually a reason. The good news? Once you crack the case, you can fix the issue! That’s where we come in. In this guide, we’ll break down the why, the what, and most importantly, the how - so you and your kitty can get back to a drama-free (and accident-free) routine.

WHY IS MY CAT NOT USING THE LITTER BOX?

If your cat used to be a litter box pro but is suddenly avoiding it, you’re probably wondering, why isn’t my cat using the litter box anymore? Cats are known for their independent streak, but when they change their bathroom habits, there’s usually a reason behind it.

Health Check First

Could it be a health issue?

Sometimes, avoiding the litter box can be a sign of medical conditions like:

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)
Bacterial cystitis
Kidney disease
Diabetes
Arthritis or other mobility issues

Look for signs like frequent attempts to urinate, straining, crying, or blood in the urine. If you notice any of these, don’t wait - book that vet visit ASAP.

To learn more about how to tell if your cat is sick, check out our blog.

LITTER BOX ETIQUETTE: THE DO’S AND DON’TS

Behavioral & Environmental Factors

Litter Preferences:

Your cat might be turning their nose up at:

The type of litter (too scented, too rough, not the right texture)
A hooded box they don’t like
A dirty litter box (yep, they’re neat freaks!)

Our “fur-mily” at the Door Buddy team loves Glo Litter because it helps guide your kitty to the litter box.

Litter Box Setup:

Is it clean? Scoop daily and change litter regularly.
Is it the right size? Larger cats need more space.
Where is it placed? Avoid noisy areas or places with heavy foot traffic.

Stress or Routine Changes:

Did you move house? Get a new pet? Even new furniture can be stressful. Cats love routine, and changes can throw them off their game.

Litter Box Placement Tips:

Place boxes in quiet, low-traffic areas. Make sure they’re easy to access but still feel safe and private.

DO scoop daily
DO provide one litter box per cat, plus one extra
DO keep boxes in different areas for multi-cat households
DO experiment with litter types - clumping, non-clumping, soft, sandy textures
DON’T place boxes near food or water
DON’T use strong-smelling cleaners or heavily scented litter

HOW DO WE KEEP THE DOG OUT OF THE LITTER BOX?

Let’s be real - would you want to use the bathroom if someone kept barging in?

If your dog is invading the litter box, your cat may seek alternative spots (ugh). The fix? Give your cat a dog-free zone. But since cats hate closed doors, we’ve got an even better tip…

Try the Door Buddy!

It’s an adjustable door prop that keeps dogs out while giving your cat the freedom to come and go as they please. Problem solved!

Wondering about the dangers of dogs and cat litter? Read more here!

SPECIAL CASES: TAILORED SOLUTIONS FOR DIFFERENT CATS

Kittens:

They’re still learning! Stick to unscented, non-clumping litter until they’ve got the hang of it. Keep the box easily accessible.

Senior Cats:

They may need a low-sided box for easy access or softer litter for comfort.

Multi-Cat Homes:

Competition or territorial disputes can lead to litter box avoidance, causing a cat to poop outside the box. To reduce tension, offer multiple litter boxes in different areas.

DEEP DIVE: CAT PSYCHOLOGY & STRESS SIGNALS

Understanding what’s going on in your cat’s head is half the battle. Cats may avoid the litter box due to:

Territorial behavior or scent-marking
Fear or anxiety from recent changes
A dirty litter box that makes them feel stressed or unsafe

Signs of stress to look out for:

Hiding
Aggression
Over-grooming
Sudden changes in appetite or activity

THE POWER OF DIET

Did you know your cat’s diet can affect litter box habits?

New foods can change stool consistency (which they may not like)
Inadequate hydration can lead to urinary issues

Make sure your cat has access to fresh water and is on a vet-recommended diet.

FAQ SECTION: QUICK ANSWERS TO COMMON QUESTIONS

A: Scoop daily, change the litter weekly, and wash the box with mild soap once a month.

A: Yes! The golden rule is: one per cat, plus one extra.

A: Absolutely. Cats are creatures of habit, and even small changes can lead to big behavior shifts.

A: If there are signs of pain, frequent urination, blood in urine, or sudden behavioral changes.

A: A healthy adult cat typically uses the litter box about 2 - 4 times per day. However, this can vary based on factors like age, diet, water intake, and overall health.

A: Yes, you can train your cat to use the litter box. In fact, most cats naturally take to it because they have an instinct to bury their waste.

CONCLUSION: WHAT TO DO IF YOUR CAT'S NOT USING THE LITTER BOX

Now that you have a better idea of why your cat isn’t using the litter box, it’s time to put on your detective hat. Whether it’s a litter preference, stress, or a medical issue, most litter box problems have a solution, and your cat is counting on you to find it.

Remember: be patient, stay observant, and when in doubt, talk to your vet. And don’t forget the power of giving your cat a safe, private space with tools like the Door Buddy.

Accidents happen, but with the right setup and understanding, you’ll both be back to your normal routine (and using the right toilet!) in no time.

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