Litter-Box Basics

Once your kitten learns her litter-box lessons, she is unlikely to soil other parts of the house. If a housetrained cat starts avoiding her box, one of the following is usually to blame:

• Did you change litter type, scent, or brand? If you must introduce a new litter, start by mixing a little of the new filler in with the old and gradually increasing the proportion of the new kind.

• Is the litter box being scooped or cleaned often enough? Scoop out solid waste every day. If using clumping litter, scoop out the wet clumps daily as well. If using conventional litter, replace it completely once a week.

• Is there too much noise and activity around the litter box? Make sure the area near the box hasn't suddenly become busier.

• Is it a territorial issue? If a new cat joins the household, provide him with his own litter box. Unless they get used to using a box together at an early age, or join your household at the same time, many cats balk at being asked to share this very private place with another animal.

All of these conditions are easy to address. But if none of them seem to apply, consult your vet. Avoidance of the litter box can sometimes signal a physical problem, such as a bladder infection or something more serious, such as FUS (feline urological syndrome). Your vet will examine your pet and rule out any possible medical concerns.