Cat Litter box?

Question

I have a 7 year old female tabby.spayed
She has been litter trained for years.
I have had her medically checked out and no problem. She is healthy.

I have a continuous problem for the last six months. She will use the litter box then all of a sudden stop and start leaving her feces on spots hidden around the house.
I have changed the litter , I clean the litter all the time
I am frustrated and its really getting to me.

Any advice out there ?

Please and thanks

Answer 1

Is the litter box in a high traffic area? Did you change litter brand recently? (or did your brand change their formula recently?)

While you are at work one day, try putting your cat in the bathroom, with their water dish, food, and litter box (in the opposite corner) and leaving them in there for a day. It won't hurt them to be in a room the size of the bathroom for a few hours... Maybe being in a confined area where the litter box is may make them realize that it is the only alternative, because going anywhere else in the room will smell strongly and cats definatly don't like that.

Good luck!!!

Answer 2

Sounds like you're really thorough with keeping the litter box clean, and you're not changing brands all the time, which can affect some cats. Some can be very picky about what type of litter they like.

As your vet has ruled out any medical problems, it sounds as though your cat might be feeling a little insecure at the moment. When your cat is going to the toilet in places other than the litter box, is she going next to any doors? Has she had any fights with local cats or have their been any major changes in household? When your cat goes to the toilet, she's marking her territory and leaving it as a warning to any unwelcome visitors.

Years ago I had the same problem with a female cat who suddenly started ignoring her tray. I also noticed that she'd gotten afraid of going out in the garden, so I use to sit out with her just to reassure her that she was safe. It took a little while, but eventually she started going out alone and the problem of not using the litter box disappeared.

Good luck