Litter Box Management: The Key to Happy Cats
When it comes to the subject of litter boxes and litter, there is hardly anything more controversial to cat servants. We can talk ad infinitum extolling the merits of various types of boxes, different brands of litter and sometimes it even results in hissy spats between us. I tell you . . . when it comes to discussing kitty's toilet preferences, the fur can fly!
Of course, as a feline sanitation expert, I am able to boldly claim that the best brand in the world even carries that word in its brand name. World's Best litter not only is ecologically friendly, since it is manufactured from corn, contains virtually no dust, and for those of us with septic systems, it is flushable. It clumps nicely, and is easily bagged and dumped into the trash to be disposed of without dangerously impacting the environment.
Hush Puppy Photo by: Jo Singer
Cats generally prefer fine grained, soft litter, but it is best to experiment with a variety of litters, using several boxes, and observe which brands are more attractive to your cats. Of course, if you notice any special preferences, it is a great idea to provide more than one brand all the time. While it may be more inconvenient to us, it will certainly far better please our kitties.
If my cats were able to make a sales pitch for the type of litter box with which they are enamored, they would suggest, paw's down, the Clevercat litter box. At 15 inches high, 20 inches long and 15 inches wide, with an optional 9 -inch hole snap on top, with plenty of turning around room, this box is more than acceptable to our cats. Additionally, even though our cats are neutered, with their "macho" personalities, they prefer to stand up and "spray", so there is never any mess to clean up outside the box. This was a huge problem for me before I discovered this very clever cat-friendly product.
Cats can be very picky about what they deem acceptable in which to dig. If the litter is not up to their standards, it can result in most unpleasant consequences. Inappropriate elimination is one of biggest problems that cat servants face. While this issue may be caused by a urinary tract infection so checking with your veterinarian is crucial, very often the problem is caused by perfumed litter, or not of the right texture, or an insufficient quantity of boxes available, depending on how many cats reside in the home.
Litter box problems can also arise due to conflicts between resident cats. Since some cats refuse to use a box that another cat has used, the rule of thumb is one box per cat, plus one. Additionally cats often prefer to defecate in one box and urinate in an alternate box.
Litter box placement is also a key factor in assuring their use. Keeping litter boxes in remote locations is not appealing to cats, as they prefer them within easy range. Placed in an area in which your cat can view people or other cats approaching, makes them feel more secure. Older cats may not be able to quickly run up stairs, so providing litter boxes on different levels in the home is very cat friendly.
Most cats prefer at least a depth of two to three inches of litter in the box. It goes without saying that the box must be kept scrupulously clean and scooped out several times a day. As litter level drops, add clean litter. We wash our boxes out every two to three weeks with a mild detergent, rinsing it carefully, and then replacing it with fresh litter.
To be honest, litter box management is both an art and science. Many people don't realize how greatly we can influence the way in which our cats utilize their facilities appropriately, eliminating many of the problems associated with litter boxes.
Watch this short video for further information by a veterinarian, uploaded to YouTube by expertvillage.
How do you handle litter box issues in your home? Leave a comment with your great tips.
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Comments (3)
Rani October 20, 2009 6:16 PM
My cats are not fussy about the kind of box, nor about the kind of litter. The only cat I ever had who was particular was named Chutzpaw and if he didn't like the type of litter, he would urinate and defecate in the bathtub. But the kind of litter pan never mattered.
They are much more particular about what goes in than where it comes out.
jmuhj October 20, 2009 10:25 PM
The Clevercat box looks like a definite winner! Another very similar and very economically friendly alternative is the large plastic storage bin/box with lid sold at a lot of the discount stores. You can cut a "door" in the box, sanding it down to smooth rough edges, and use with or without the top. Or you could cut a hole in the top, as with the Clevercat. These boxes are loved by everyone who uses them, and they, too, are large and deep enough for "standing and delivering" by the males. They come in a variety of colors, too!
Amy October 21, 2009 4:37 AM
I have seven cats and nine litter boxes. I have 5 in the basement and 4 on the second floor. They manage to hit very single litter box on the house which is fine with me. I love the look of the Clevercat box. I haven't seen anything like that in our local stores. Will have to do some digging of my own.
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