In the world of cats, certain rules need to be respected. Cats can be very loving and happy, but step outside of their personal safety zone, and you will see a disgruntled feline. Placing a top-entry litter box in the wrong location can trigger such a response.
Litter Boxes that Cats Desire
Cats have a history of doing their business outdoors in sandy-type dirt. They like to be able to bury their waste, much like how you flush a toilet. This covers their scent to predators and other cats. Litter boxes that are open with clean non-perfumed clay litter are a favorite inside toilet choice for cats. Looking around while conducting their business is important to them to foresee any danger.
One product that has been found acceptable to cats and humans alike is the Modkat Litter Box. It has tall sides but an open top for peering around corners for unwelcome visitors. A lower version is also fine for kitties. Just remember, your cat will remind you if something is off regarding their restroom’s scent, feel, or location.
Placement of a Top Entry Litter Box
Where you decide to place your top entry litter box is a big deal, not only to humans but to cats too. Think of your own personal preferences. Placing a litter box in a back hallway may seem appropriate until the back door opens and many kids enter the house. This type of commotion can scare poor kitty into never wanting to revisit their box.
Another idea many cat owners have is placing the litter box in the utility room. Once again, if there are noises like the furnace kicking on or running the washer and dryer can cause panic in your cat. They need an area where safety is felt without being scared out of their wits.
The perfect location for a top-entry litter box is inside a bathroom or a closet. Ensure the door is cracked so they can access this private area.
Get creative. If you have a basement with a pet door, a litter box can be placed inside on a landing where it is quiet, private, and perfect for a kitty.
Keep Litter Box Away from Eating Areas
Would you enjoy a meal in your bathroom? Of course not, and neither do cats. Never place a litter box in the same area where their meals are served. This is just poor etiquette. A cat’s senses are far more delicate than a human’s, and it can force them to change a routine. Not eating, using the restroom in another room, or acting out are a few behavioral problems you could notice.
Other Tips for Litter Boxes
Your cat is only as well-behaved as you provide for its environment. Another tip is to keep from overfilling their box with litter. The recommended depth is 2 inches. Cats may take it upon themselves to scoop out any extra, making extra work for you in cleaning their area.
If you can smell your cat’s litter box, it is twice as offensive to them. Try to get into the habit of cleaning the litter box twice daily. If you forget, do not be surprised to find poop in your bathtub or shower. If you have more than one cat, give them all their personal litter box. This may seem extreme, but the scent of their own box is important to your feline friend.
Last but least, never punish your cat if you discover that they are not using their litter box. Try and determine the problem by asking yourself these questions:
1. Are you cleaning the litter box regularly?
2. Have you replaced the litter or litter box recently?
3. Is your cat afraid of their litter box due to noise or offensive odors?
4. Are they drinking a lot of water or no water at all?
5. Has your cat’s behavior changed in any way?
Your cat provides signs that something is amiss, and many times it begins with the litter box. A trip to the vet may be in order.