4 reasons for a cat peeing outside the litter box
It’s not uncommon for cats to go through a phase in their life when they no longer use the litter box and instead prefer other spots around your home to do their business. This can be… annoying. Especially if the bed or couch is involved, which happens all too often. Cat urine leaves stains and smells, and who needs that in their bedroom?
But you might be wondering, why has your cat suddenly changed their behavior? And why are they no longer using the litter box as they did before? The 4 most common causes are:
- Medical issues
- Stress
- The litter box is too small or dirty
- Wrong location
One thing is clear: your kitty doesn’t do it to annoy you, or because they think it’s funny!
1. Medical issues
One reason – that needs to be clarified urgently – is that there may be a medical issue causing your cat to pee outside of the litter box. For example, your cat may be suffering from a urinary tract infection. While cats are notoriously good at hiding illness, this painful condition can lead a cat to avoid the litter box, which they begin to associate with pain.
This in turn means they might look for a new place to do their business. Cats tend to hold on until it is no longer possible. So even if your cat seems healthy, consult with a vet who will be able to determine if your furry friend has a medical issue.
