Cats
do not come into this world knowing how to use a litterbox. Kittens
learn how to use a litterbox from their mother around 4 weeks of
age. If orphaned kittens are found, the caretaker must be responsible
for introducing, or imprinting the litter box concept.
Most kittens learn how to use a litter
box very quickly. Most often we hear horror stories from cat owners on how
their cat has been going to the bathroom in everyplace BUT the litterbox.
There are several factors that could be attributing to this problem.
First and foremost, make sure you rule out any health problems (worms,
cystitis, intestinal disease, urinary tract infections) by having
the cat examined by your vet. If your vet has ruled out any health
problems, then you must begin on working on the behavior problems
your cat is experiencing. Many owners do not realize this is not
just a problem for us humans, but for kittty as well.
Your cat CAN tell when you are upset and
frustrated and your behavior in helping your cat to use the litterbox
is very important. Make sure that you never punish your cat for
not using his litterbox properly.
Here are a few good rules to follow:
Never punish your pet. This includes
yelling, hitting, becoming aggressive, stomping, and throwing
objects. They do not understand punishment the way humans do and
this will only result in your pet being scared of you and cause
other behavior problems.
Always keep the litterbox clean. No one likes
to use a dirty toilet. The litterbox must be cleaned on a daily
basis, regardless of the litter you use.
Changing your litter or litter box style may
confuse your cat. Switching back to the former litter and obtaining
a litter box in the same style as the former litter box may correct
the problem.
The American Association of Feline Practitioners, Cornell Feline Health Center and the Cornell University of Veterinary Medicines state that “most cats prefer a non-scented litter. Because your cat's sense of smell is 1000 times stronger than yours, what seems like a little perfume to you is actually overwhelming and stressful to your cat. Unfortunately, most of today's cat litters are scented with perfumes to cover up litter box odors. We highly recommend Dr. Elsey's Precious Cat Scoopable Litter or an all natural clay litter.
Clean any soiled areas thoroughly with an enzyme-based
cleaner that will remove the source of the odor and remove the
stain. It is very important to clean this area properly so your
cat will not be attracted to the same area.
Keep your cat insulated from stressful
events, such as parties or home repair. Put kitty in a safe, comfortable
and confined area.
If you would like additional help you can download Dr. Elsey's Litterbox Solutions booklet found in a .pdf file format here. |
