If your cat has started leaving messes outside the litter box, you’re probably wondering what’s going wrong—and how to fix it. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Litter box troubles are among the top concerns we hear from cat owners. The good news? Most of these issues can be resolved once the root cause is identified.

We asked our experienced Burleson, TX veterinary team to weigh in on the most common reasons cats stop using the box—and what you can do to help them get back on track.

Question: My cat is going to the bathroom outside the litter box. What should I do first?

Vet’s Advice: Start by checking for a medical issue. Physical discomfort is one of the most common reasons cats avoid the litter box. They may associate it with pain. Conditions like UTIs, kidney disease, or even joint pain can make it uncomfortable to use the box. A veterinary exam and a urinalysis at our Burleson, TX pet clinic are essential first steps.

Question: What medical conditions can cause this kind of behavior?

Vet’s Advice: Some common health issues that can lead to litter box avoidance include:

• Urinary tract infections
  
• Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD)
  
• Kidney problems
  
• Diabetes
  
• Digestive issues like constipation or diarrhea
  
• Arthritis or joint pain
  

If your cat is frequently visiting the box without results, straining, or crying out in pain, treat it as an emergency and call your Burleson, TX vet right away.

Question: The vet says my cat is healthy. What should I check next?

Vet’s Advice: Environmental or emotional factors are often the next place to look. Cats are incredibly sensitive to changes, and even small shifts in their surroundings can lead to issues. Consider the following:

• Is the litter box being cleaned often enough?
  
• Did you recently switch to a different type of litter?
  
• Has the box been moved to a new location?
  
• Have there been household changes—new pets, guests, or stressors?
  
• Is there tension between your cats?
  
• Are there loud noises or machinery near the litter area?
  

Even a noisy dryer or washing machine near the box can be enough to cause avoidance.

Q: How many litter boxes should I have in the house?

Question: One box per cat, plus one extra, is the general rule. So if you have two cats, provide three boxes. This gives each cat options and helps reduce conflict over territory.

Q: Does the type of litter really matter to my cat?

Question: Yes, it can make a big difference. Many cats prefer fine-textured, clumping, unscented litter. Strong scents or gritty materials like crystals or pellets can be unpleasant. If you’re changing litter types, do it slowly by blending it in over several days.

Q: Where’s the best place to set up the litter boxes?

Question:  Choose calm, quiet locations that are easy to reach and not too hidden. Avoid placing litter boxes near loud appliances, in busy walkways, or in areas that might feel unsafe or hard to access. Older cats should have boxes that don’t require climbing stairs.

Question: What kind of litter box works best?

Vet’s Advice: Most cats prefer uncovered boxes that allow for airflow and visibility. Covered boxes can trap odors and may make your cat feel vulnerable. Also, the box should be large enough—ideally about 1.5 times your cat’s body length.

Question: How often should I clean the litter box?

Vet’s Advice: Scoop at least once per day and do a full litter change weekly. Regularly clean the box with mild, unscented soap. A dirty box is one of the most common reasons cats will look for another spot to go.

Question:  I’ve tried cleaning, moving, and changing litter—but my cat still won’t use the box. What now?

Vet’s Advice: Keep a record of what’s happening. Note the time, location, and any changes in the household. You can also try litter attractants or calming pheromone diffusers like Feliway. If nothing seems to help, contact your Burleson, TX vet again. The earlier we intervene, the more likely we are to find a long-term fix.

Final Thoughts:

Litter box problems can be stressful, but they’re rarely without a solution. Whether it’s a medical issue, a reaction to change, or a matter of preference, your cat is trying to tell you something. With the right steps, most cats can return to healthy litter box habits.

We’re Here to Help

Have questions or need support? Contact our Burleson, TX animal clinic today to schedule a visit to get help with litter box problems.