https://www.chewy.com/education/cat/training-and-behavior/my-cat-is-pooping-outside-the-litter-box
*Cats are experts at hiding when they are feeling unwell or unhappy, but their bathroom habits often reveal what’s really going on.
When a cat starts pooping outside the litter box, it can be a sign of an underlying medical issue, such as constipation, or a reaction to changes in their environment.
Sometimes, it is simply about dissatisfaction with the litter box itself - whether it is the size, cleanliness, location, or type of litter used.
Stress, anxiety, or territorial behaviors can also contribute to this problem, especially when routines are disrupted or when there are multiple cats in the home.
If medical causes have been ruled out, adjusting the litter box setup can often resolve the issue.
This might mean moving the box to a quieter, more accessible spot, trying a larger or different style box, or providing more boxes in multi cat households.
Keeping the litter box clean by scooping daily and occasionally replacing it can make a big difference, as can experimenting with different litters to find 1 your cat prefers.
When accidents happen, thorough cleaning with pet-specific products is essential to prevent repeat offenses.
If the behavior continues for more than 1 day or 2, consulting a veterinarian can help identify any hidden health problems and guide you toward the best solution for your cat’s comfort and wellbeing.
Your cat’s litter box habits are an important window into their health and happiness, and noticing changes early can make all the difference.
Chewy editorial team understands how much you care about your feline friend’s comfort and is here to support you every step of the way in keeping your home - and your kitty - happy and healthy.
