Is your Sphynx cat “going” outside the litter box? Don't worry! There could be something that triggered them to “go” outside of the box, and you just need to adjust so they feel comfortable “going” in it again. Below, we'll dive into why cats may not “go” in their litter box and what you can do to fix it.
Why Do Cats “Go” Outside The Litter Box?
Unfortunately, it can happen where a cat just starts “going” outside their litter box - even with trained cats. This could indicate that there's something they don't like about their litter box. They may not like the litter you're currently using, the area around the litter box is too loud or chaotic, or the litter box needs to be cleaned. It could also be a sign of a health issue. Some health issues that could cause your cat to not be able to make it to their litter box could include:
Should I Be Concerned?
Don't panic. While this shouldn't cause you to become anxious about the issue, early intervention is key. Closely monitor your Sphynx. Look for:
If you notice this behavior could be connected to a health issue, make sure you contact your vet to further discuss the problem.
What To Do When Your Cat “Goes” Outside The Litter Box
First things first, you'll want to clean the area. Make sure you use an enzyme-based cleaner to effectively clean the area and remove odors. Simply wiping up the mess won't cut it.
Once the area is clean, make sure their litter box is desirable to them. Their litter box should be clean and placed in a low-traffic area to give your cat some space and privacy. You should also use a high-quality litter that your cat likes. Check out this blog for recommended litter brands.
Lastly, reward your cat for properly using the litter box. Let them know you're proud of them for “going” in the litter box, and before you know it, they will get back on track.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your litter box clean, full of a litter your cat will like, and placed in a quiet environment will help your cat to get back on track to “go” in the litter box. If you've checked all of these boxes, make sure you monitor your Sphynx to ensure there's not a bigger issue going on. Remain patient and calm, and your cat will get back to “going” where they should!
With Love,
April Arguin A.S., C.P.N., M.P.H.
(aka) PetCoach-April
