It’s not that uncommon a problem, so here are some thoughts on why cats urinate outside the litter box. For that matter, it isn’t reserved to urine. But cats are very clean animals, so this is a serious problem for them as well as for you.
Some litter trays are far too small. Imaging using a small loo yourself. There isn’t enough room to get comfortable. Hanging their rear end over the edge may simply be for comfort, rather than a problem in itself.
If the litter tray is covered, then this can compound the issue. Now they really can’t turn round easily. Cats are not unlike people. They have their problems. Is your cat claustrophobic? Perhaps only those suffering themselves can fully appreciate the intense fear this can create.
The tops of a litter tray can also create a static charge, especially in long haired cats. So each time they go into the box, they get zapped. You may recall what that’s like yourself. It’s not uncommon to get a zap from touching a metal object, such as supermarket shelves.
Would you use a loo that zapped you every time you went in?
Litter liners may make you feel everything is more hygienic. However, if a cat gets their claws hooked into it, they may pull the whole lot out of the box in their attempts to disentangle themselves. Any cat would be concerned at the noise and load, but a sensitive cat may become seriously spooked.
If you use a disinfectant or bleach to clean the litter box, you may be contributing to a lack of use. Cats are extremely sensitive to chemicals and savvy cats will avoid them where possible.
Have you ever watched wildlife documentaries? The big cats spend a considerable amount of time urinating on trees to mark their territory. This is a signal to others cats that this is their territory. Domestic cats have this instinct. They need to smell a part of themselves within their territory.
That doesn’t mean you have to have a smelly house. Cats have a far more sensitive nose than you have. Just scooping out the litter box, rather than washing it, is enough. You won’t smell it, but they will. Keeps everyone happy.
Cats are also very sensitive to energy. It’s position can be the reason why cats urinate outside the litter box. Change the position and see.
Automatic cat litter boxes have at least two major problems.
1 – They can malfunction. Imagine the fear that this will create in a cat using the box at the time.
2 – And they hide the evidence. You need to know what the urine and stool looks like because these can be indicators of health, forewarning you of a potential problem.
Don’t try to control every aspect of your cat. Essentially cats are wild animals, who have graced us with their friendship. Allow them to be themselves. Why cats urinate outside the litter box may be down to you. Try to imagine your cat’s life from their perspective, rather than yours.
Here you can find more information about natural cat health.
