This cat toilet habit can be very frustrating for cat owners. For some reason, their cat is refusing to use their litter tray. Instead, they are soiling the house. The cat may even wee or poop right next to the tray, but refuse to use the actual tray itself. If this is happening with your cat, stay calm, remember it’s not personal and there is always a reason for your cat’s behaviour (which is logical for your cat). The trick is to figure out what that reason is.
There could be several possible reasons. Perhaps your cat dislikes where the litter tray has been placed or dislikes either the litter or the tray itself.
Just like people, cats like to feel safe when they go to the toilet. So, avoid putting the litter tray anywhere where your cat might feel vulnerable – for example, near the cat flap, in busy or overlooked areas, or in easy access of a dog or children. Try to place it somewhere that is quiet, accessible and private. Also, make sure the litter tray is clean. Some cats won’t use a litter tray if they don’t perceive it as being clean enough. If you think about it, people are generally very clean, too, and most flush every time!
Finally, if you are using an enclosed litter tray, you could try swapping it for an open litter tray. Some cats steer clear of enclosed litter trays because they don’t like being confined to a small space. Others may benefit from an open tray being placed inside a cardboard box, which is open at the top and then has two holes cut into adjacent sides for entry and exit. This is the best of both worlds, since it allows the cat to feel safe and hidden, but doesn’t trap in the smell like covered litter trays can.
Cats may also stop using their litter tray for health-related reasons. Conditions such as arthritis, cystitis, diabetes and urinary tract infections can affect their litter tray use, resulting in either fewer visits or increased, frequent use. If you suspect that your cat may be ill or in pain, then book an appointment for them with the vet straight away.