Most litter box problems are not about a “bad” cat. They are about a box that is too small, a litter the cat dislikes, or a spot the cat does not feel safe using. Get those three things right and most cats will use the box happily for life.
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This article is general information, not veterinary advice. If your cat suddenly stops using the box, talk with your vet first, because many litter box changes start with a health problem.
Quick Answer
- Size: choose a box at least one and a half times as long as your cat, measured from nose to the base of the tail
- Number: one box per cat, plus one extra
- Litter: most cats prefer fine, unscented, clumping litter
- Cleaning: scoop at least once a day and wash the box regularly
- Location: quiet, easy to reach, and away from food and water
How Many Litter Boxes Do You Need?
The common rule from feline vets is one box per cat plus one more. Two cats means three boxes. Spread them around the home rather than lining them up in one room, so one cat cannot block another from every box at once.
In a home with more than one floor, put at least one box on each floor. Older cats with stiff joints may not want to climb stairs every time they need to go.
Choosing the Right Litter Box
Go Bigger Than You Think
Many boxes sold as “standard” are too small for an adult cat. A cat should be able to step in, turn around, dig, and squat without touching the sides. If you cannot find a large enough box, a large plastic storage bin with a low entry cut into one side works very well and is easy to clean.
Open vs Covered Boxes
Covered boxes keep litter inside and hide the view, which many owners like. But a cover can also trap odor inside, where your cat’s nose is, and some cats feel cornered with only one way in and out. Many cats prefer a large open litter box. If you want a covered box, offer it next to an open one and let your cat choose.
High Sides and Top Entry Boxes
Cats who kick litter everywhere or spray high may do well with a high sided box. Top entry boxes cut down on scatter, but they are a poor choice for kittens, senior cats, and cats with arthritis, because jumping in and out can hurt.
Low Entry Boxes for Seniors and Kittens
Older cats and very young kittens need an easy step in. Look for a low entry litter box with a front edge of only a few inches.
Self Cleaning Litter Boxes
A self cleaning box can save time, especially in multi-cat homes. Keep a few things in mind:
- Some cats are scared off by the motor noise or movement. Introduce it slowly and keep a regular box available at first
- Check the manufacturer weight limits before using one with kittens or very small cats
- Because you scoop less, you may miss changes in urine or stool that signal a health problem. Look in the waste drawer often
- They usually cost more and may need special litter or trays
Choosing the Right Litter
Clumping Clay
Fine, unscented clumping clay litter is the most popular choice with cats. It forms firm clumps that are easy to scoop and feels similar to the soft soil cats naturally like to dig in. Low dust formulas are kinder to both cats and people with sensitive lungs.
Natural and Plant Based Litters
Litters made from pine, corn, wheat, walnut, grass, or tofu are lighter to carry, and many are flushable or compostable. Some clump well and some do not. Check local rules before flushing litter, because many areas advise against it and septic systems can be damaged.
Crystal (Silica) Litter
Silica crystal litter absorbs urine and controls odor well, and it lasts a long time between full changes. Some cats dislike how it feels under their paws, so switch gradually.
Pellets and Paper
Paper pellets are soft and low in dust, which makes them a common choice after surgery or for cats with respiratory problems. They do not clump, so plan on changing them more often.
Why Unscented Is Usually Better
A cat’s sense of smell is far stronger than ours. Heavy perfumes and scented liners can make the box unpleasant for your cat even when it smells nice to you. Frequent scooping controls odor better than fragrance does.
Where to Put the Litter Box
- A quiet spot with little foot traffic, but not hidden in a dark corner the cat has to walk a long way to reach
- Away from food and water bowls. Cats do not like to eat where they go to the bathroom
- Not next to noisy machines such as washers, dryers, or furnaces that can start up suddenly
- With an escape route, so a cat using the box can see who is coming and get out easily
How to Keep the Box Clean
- Scoop at least once a day, and twice a day in multi-cat homes. A sturdy metal litter scoop lasts much longer than a flimsy plastic one
- Top off the litter so it stays 2 to 3 inches deep, which is enough for most cats to dig and cover
- Empty the box completely, wash it with mild unscented soap and warm water, and refill it on a regular schedule. Clumping litter usually needs a full change every few weeks; non-clumping litter needs it more often
- Avoid strong cleaners such as bleach blends and ammonia, which can leave odors that drive cats away
- A litter mat in front of the box catches litter from paws, and a litter disposal pail can keep odor down between trash days
- Replace plastic boxes when they become heavily scratched, because scratches hold odor
How to Switch Litter or Boxes
Cats like routine. To change litter, mix a little of the new type into the old and increase it over about one to two weeks. To change boxes, set the new one up next to the old one and remove the old box only after your cat is using the new one reliably.
When Litter Box Changes Mean a Vet Visit
Urinary problems, kidney disease, diabetes, arthritis, and stress can all show up first as changes at the litter box. Call your vet if your cat:
- Starts going outside the box
- Strains, cries, or visits the box often but passes little or no urine
- Has blood in the urine
- Is suddenly peeing much more than usual
- Has diarrhea or constipation that lasts more than a day or two
Emergency: a cat, especially a male cat, who is straining in the box and producing little or no urine may have a urinary blockage. This can become life threatening within hours. Call your vet or an emergency clinic right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can two cats share one litter box?
Some do, but many cats will start avoiding a shared box, especially if one cat bullies the other. Following the one box per cat plus one rule prevents a lot of problems.
How deep should litter be?
About 2 to 3 inches suits most cats. Some long-haired cats prefer less, and some diggers prefer more. Watch how your cat uses the box and adjust.
Are litter box liners a good idea?
Liners can make cleanup easier, but many cats snag them with their claws, and torn liners trap urine underneath. If your cat seems bothered by a liner, go without one.
Is clumping litter safe for kittens?
Some vets suggest a non-clumping litter for very young kittens who might eat it. Ask your vet what they recommend for your kitten’s age.
Bottom Line
Choose a large box, fill it with unscented clumping litter, put it somewhere quiet, and scoop every day. Most cats will reward you with years of trouble-free use. For more help with a new cat, see our essential cat supplies checklist and our guide to keeping cats warm in winter.
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