My Cat

Question:

Hello, I have a female Persian kitty. She is 6 years old and as sweet as can be. The only problem is she poops and pees everywhere. I thought maybe the peeing was due to too many animals in one house and I recently moved into maybe own place and the peeing has stopped but she is now pooping outside of the litter box at the same times 2 times a day. It’s almost as if she holds it and then when she finally does go it’s outside the litter box. I scoop the litter boxes every single day and change them once a week just for her. I thought maybe she didn’t like andorty kitter box but that’s not it at all. I have 2 other cats and they get along with her fine even though she doesn’t necessarily care for them. Im just at loss because I don’t know why she is doing it and I don’t want to give her away. I just don’t know how much longer I can put up with it before I have to find her a new home.

Answer:

There are multiple reasons why cats will eliminate outside of the litter box.  One of them is a biggie – too many pets in one household.  It is possible that this is a learned behavior over several years and it may take a while to correct.  It is also possible that some “problems” are still occurring that are contributing to her inappropriate behavior.  We first recommend a thorough physical exam to ensure there is not a medical reason for the concerns. Then, we would discuss things including: do you have the recommended “1 litter box per cat, plus 1” in your household; are you cleaning daily or even multiple times a day (you mentioned daily cleaning), are there any subtle “inter-pet problems” that may be adding stress or anxiety and how to help with those (you mentioned they get along but she does not necessarily care for them).  There are aids that can be used for stress including a product called Feliway.  Ask your veterinarian if that product may be an option. Also, a good website to consult with is www.veterinarypartner.com.   You may find some helpful information there.

Dr. Nicola Gaither

Animal Hospital of Statesville

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