My cat is not using his litterbox. Is he just being spiteful because I work all day?
We discuss many litterbox problems with cat owners, in fact, inappropriate elimination is the number one reason most cats are surrendered to shelters. Unfortunately many of these cats could probably be saved if certain litterbox rules are followed. If your cat ever begins urinating or defecating outside the litterbox it is important that it have a physical exam immediately. Many times we find illness is responsible for this behavior. Oftentimes the cat has a bladder infection which causes extreme discomfort and pain, which he may associate with his litterbox. We also know that stress, dental disease, diabetes, kidney failure, behavior issues and a dirty box can cause an otherwise well-behaved feline to avoid the box. We have excellent handouts on litterbox issues for your reference. Many times cats develop bladder infections from holding their urine because they do not like their litterbox situation.
