When a cat stops using the litter box, here’s how to fix it

I have three litter boxes for three cats: two females indoor/outdoor and one male indoor. The male uses the box. The other female either goes outside or uses the box.

Muffin has had UTIs before, but at her last vet visit, no problems were found. She uses the litter for her poop. I purchased a larger box and am trying to keep all three boxes clean. I purchased puppy pads, which are easier to clean up than newspaper. I have been tempted to put her outside in the morning and again in the evening for a few minutes.

Sally R.

Dear Sally,

The first rule of thumb is to have one more litter box than cats. I know you probably don’t want or have room for another litter box, but sometimes having one more than the number of cats you have helps.

If she has had UTI’s in the past, she may be associating that pain with the old litter boxes and therefore is reluctant to use them. The extra litter box in a new location can sometimes correct things if that is what’s happening. You could also try a different litter in one of the boxes to see if she prefers a substrate that better simulates the ground outside.

I also recommend using a litter box attractant, which you can find online or at a pet store. Sprinkle some into the litter as directed. The scent is supposed to help draw wayward felines back to the box.

Let me know if these things don’t work.

Dear Cathy,

So glad you are promoting clicker training to pet owners. Most people don’t realize how negative most training techniques are.

Most equine training is pressure release-oriented and traditional dog training is also. But clicker training is all positive.

You are, however, leaving out a step: “loading the clicker.” It’s a step I think helps the slower learners. Most dogs don’t need it, which likely why you left It out. But cat owners and some horse owners (and other less traditional pets) might benefit from it.

Sue

Dear Sue,

Loading the clicker involves clicking and treating your dog after so they learn quickly the clicker means a treat is coming. I have never loaded the clicker with my dogs, which is why I don’t include it my steps. I have found that dogs learn the “sit” command and what the clicker means very quickly.

But you’re right; if someone is clicker training a cat or other animal, they might want to “load the clicker,” so the animal learns what the clicker means.

Send your pet questions, tips, and stories to [email protected]. You can read the Animals Matter blog at http://blog.mysanantonio.com/animals and follow her at @cathymrosenthal.