5 Reasons Why Cats Pee Outside the Litter Box and How to Fix It

As a pooper scooper, do you have the same question: Why does my cat pee outside the litter box? Why does my cat loathe the litter box? If you have similar questions, this blog will answer these questions for you!

Explore the sections below:

Part 1: 5 Reasons for Why Cats Pee Outside the Litter Box

Part 2: Approaches to Resolving the Issue

Part 3: FAQs

Part 1: 5 Reasons for Why Cats Pee Outside the Litter Box

After five years of being a cat owner, I've faced various challenges, and through successful solutions, I've achieved a harmonious relationship with my three cats. Below, I've outlined the reasons why cats may pee outside the litter box. Feel free to share your additional insights in the comments section.

1. Health Problem

• Urinary tract infections (UTI): Infections in the urinary tract can cause discomfort and increase the frequency of urination.
• Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD): FLUTD is a collective term for various conditions affecting the bladder and urethra, including crystals or stones in the urinary tract.
• Diabetes mellitus: Cats with diabetes may experience increased thirst and urination.
• Kidney disease: Chronic kidney disease can lead to changes in urination patterns.
• Hyperthyroidism:An overactive thyroid gland can affect a cat's metabolism and result in increased urination.
• Bladder stones: The presence of stones in the bladder can cause discomfort and lead to inappropriate urination.

Lower urinary tract syndromes, fungal, bacterial, neurogenic cystitis, tumors, stones, etc. Can cause inflammation of the cat's bladder and urethra and cause painful dribbling, which means that the cat has the urge to urinate all the time and has the desire to urinate, but because of the pain, the cat is negatively attached to the urination potty area, and then urinates everywhere!

2. Litter Box Problem

• Entrance height: Cats with pain or mobility problems may find it difficult to access the litter box.
• Size of interior space: Not enough room for the cat to turn around and comfortably dig in the sand. He'd pee on the side in disgust.
• Litter box placement:The litter box is placed in a location that the cat is not happy with, so he won't go in there to pee.
• Number of Litter Boxes: In homes with multiple cats, there can be bullying, resulting in the weaker cat not having a litter box to use.
• Cleanliness: The litter box is not clean and smells, so the cat will change places to relieve itself.
• Litter box materials: Cats will refuse to go near the litter box if the litter box material is smelly.
• Litter Types: Cats have their own favorite litter, and if it's not his favorite litter in the litter box, he won't go in the litter box.
• Litter box with good odor control: Cats, like humans, don't like bathrooms with poor sanitary conditions.

3. Change in Living Environment

If you move to a new home and the cat senses a change in environment, it will become anxious and stressed, unfamiliar with its new surroundings, wary, and won't pee in the litter box.

4. Feline Instincts

It is the nature of cats that they mark their territory by urinating, which is usually male behavior, or that there are multiple cats in the house.

5. Owner's Absence

If you're away on a business trip for a long time and leave him home alone, he'll also have the problem of peeing outside the litter box just to show that he misses you.

Part 2: Approaches to Resolving the Issue

From years of owning cats, I've come up with some ideas on how to stop your cat from peeing outside the litter box in order for us to spend more time together and less time dealing with the problem. I hope these methods work for you!

1. Consult with Your Veterinarian for Professional Guidance

If your cat is urinating indiscriminately, consult your veterinarian for a thorough diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Professional guidance is crucial in ruling out any underlying health issues causing this behavior.

2. Set Up Multiple Litter Boxes for Your Cat

In multi-cat households, having multiple litter boxes helps prevent territorial conflicts. Each cat can have its own designated space, reducing stress and promoting a harmonious toileting environment.

3. Select a Right Litter Box 

• Low entry design: Choose a litter box with a low entry to facilitate easy access for your cat, especially if they are older or have mobility issues. This design promotes comfort and encourages regular use.
• Effortless cleaning: Opting for a litter box that is easy to clean proves to be a mutually beneficial decision for both pet owners and their feline companions. The convenience of easy cleaning not only alleviates the owner's cleaning challenges but also curtails bacterial growth, providing cats with a hygienic restroom environment!
• Wide and spacious: Select a litter box with ample width and space. Cats appreciate roomy areas, and a wide litter box provides them with the necessary space to move comfortably, promoting a positive toileting experience.
• Odor elimination capability: Unpleasant odors can deter cats from using the litter box. A litter box with its own deodorizing function can be very good at reducing odors, and cats will be more willing to use the litter box.

4. Relocate the Litter Box

If your cat is avoiding the litter box, try changing its location. A quiet, secluded spot away from high-traffic areas can make your cat feel more secure and encourage proper toileting behavior.

5. Offer Your Cat Their Preferred Litter

Experiment with different litter types to identify your cat's preference.The majority of cats favor clay cat litter without any noticeable odor, and this type of litter is highly suitable for use with automated cat litter systems, providing excellent value for your money! When selecting an automatic litter box, it is advisable to option for one compatible with the litter type that your cat is accustomed to and enjoys. This approach facilitates a faster adaptation process and diminishes the likelihood of encountering any issues or anxiety related to their new restroom environment.

No matter which method you employ, avoid resorting to violence to compel your cat to change, as it can have adverse effects. Option for an approach rooted in patience and love, as it is the most effective way to treat them.

Part 3: FAQs

Q1 Why is my cat peeing outside the litter box?

Disease, stress, the environment, and the litter box can all be causes of cats peeing outside.

Q2 What type of litter box is suitable for short-legged cats? Low-entry, roomy litter box for short-legged cats. More advice on low-entry litter boxes can be found here.

Q3 What cat litter fits in an automatic litter box

Clay cat litter is recommended, but it's best to choose a litter based on its suitability for the litter box. To learn more about this question, read this article.

Q4 Where should I put my cat's litter box?

Place your cat's litter box in a quiet and secure location, preferably away from high-traffic areas like the kitchen or laundry room. Consider situating it near the balcony for easy access. For more insights on optimal cat litter box placement, explore further reading on the topic.

Q5 Should I have two litter boxes for my cat?

If you own multiple cats and prefer to avoid having numerous litter boxes occupying space in your home, contemplate using an automatic litter box.