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AlexandraF02
Sun, Dec 10, 2023
Others

I live in a house with two cats. Ily, and another male cat. They both poop in the shower rather than the litter box even though the litter box is cleaned daily.


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Dr. Mason
Dr.Tail Vet

Firstly, it's important to ensure that the litter boxes are appealing to your cats. Cats have individual preferences regarding the type of litter, the depth of the litter, and the cleanliness of the box. You've mentioned that the litter box is cleaned daily, which is excellent, but you might also want to consider the following:

The general rule is to have one more litter box than the number of cats in the household. In your case, having three litter boxes might encourage proper litter box use.

Ensure that the boxes are placed in quiet, low-traffic areas where the cats feel safe and have some privacy. Avoid placing litter boxes near their food and water.

Some cats prefer open boxes, while others like covered ones. Similarly, the type of litter can be a factor—some cats have a preference for clumping, non-clumping, scented, or unscented litter.

To address behavioral issues, try to maintain a stable routine and minimize changes in the household that could stress your cats. Provide them with plenty of enrichment, such as toys, scratching posts, and interaction with you.

At home, you can take the following steps to encourage proper litter box use:

- Clean the shower thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove the scent of urine and feces, which can attract your cats back to that spot.
- Temporarily restrict access to the shower to break the habit.
- Place a litter box in the shower (if feasible) and gradually move it to a more appropriate location as your cats begin to use it.
- Use positive reinforcement by giving treats and praise when your cats use the litter box correctly.

If these adjustments do not resolve the issue, or if you notice any signs of illness such as lethargy, vomiting, changes in appetite, or difficulty urinating, it's crucial to seek veterinary care promptly. These could be signs of a medical condition that requires professional attention.

If you have any additional questions, please don’t hesitate to come back to us! Thank you.