Understanding the cause of inappropriate urinary elimination is the first step to devising a remedy. For example, if you notice that the cat has an adversion to a new litter product, the answer may be as simple as returning to what worked previously.
Urinary housesoiling may stem from attraction to certain substrates such as carpet or kitchen tile. In some instances inadequate cleaning of an accident spot may leave an odor, which attracts the cat back to eliminate. Clean the spot where the cat has urinated as soon as possible using an enzymatic cleaner such as Anti-Icky-Poo. We often have difficulty smelling or seeing urine-soiled areas within our home which need to be cleaned to reduce out pet's inclination to re-apply urine in this area. Using a black UV Light, such as the STINK-FINDER BLACK LIGHT ,in a darkened room will allow us to detect and clean those areas we missed.
To establish new litter box habits, the box and litter must be attractive to the cat. One study shows that cats prefer clumping, sand-like litter. Plus, the majority cats like open rather than enclosed boxes. You might offer a smorgasboard of several different litter products and boxes to determine your cat's preferences. Offer one box per cat and locate boxes in areas that are readily accessible and reasonably secluded and quiet.
Dr. Bruce Elsey, a feline veterinarian from Colorado, recently marketed several products aimed at attracting a cat back to the litter box. CAT ATTRACT litter and CAT ATTACT litter additive use a unique blend of herbs to entice the cat back to his box. In the case of CAT ATTRACT Litter, you use this product in place of the cat's old litter. The CAT ATTRACT additive is added to a medium-sized particle, non-scented scoopable litter. It is a good idea to start with a new litter box. Even though your cat's old box looks and smells clean to you, your cat may find it offensive.
After you have done everything in your power to make the litter and box attractive to your cat, limit his access to a room or suite of rooms. When the cat begins using his litter box in an appropriate manner, his territory can be extended. In instances when anxiety may be contributing to the cat's misbehavior, your cat's veterinarian may prescribe anti-anxiety drugs until the cat learns proper potty etiquette. |
