The litter box guide: odor, tracking and accidents

Litter that tracks everywhere, a box that smells, a cat that suddenly goes on the rug: litter problems are some of the most common frustrations cat owners share. Most of them come down to a few things vets have studied closely: the box, the litter, where it is and how often it's cleaned. Here's what the cat vets' guidelines say, and practical fixes for tracking and odor.

The litter box basics vets recommend

The American Animal Hospital Association and the feline vets' association (AAFP, now the Feline Veterinary Medical Association) agree on the essentials:

• One box per cat, plus one. Two cats need three boxes, in different spots. Boxes side by side count as one big box to a cat.
• Bigger than you think. A box should be about 1.5 times the length of your cat, nose to base of tail. Most store-bought boxes are too small; a large plastic storage tub is a common fix.
• Open is usually better. The feline vets' handout doesn't recommend covered boxes; some cats tolerate them, many prefer open.
• Quiet, private, easy to reach. Away from food and water, out of busy hallways, and somewhere a cat can't be cornered. In a multi-level home, one on each level.
• Low sides for kittens and seniors. Older cats with stiff joints may avoid a box that's hard to climb into.

Choosing a litter

Most cats prefer soft, unscented, clumping litter, according to the feline vets' guidance. Many dislike scented or dusty litters, deodorizers and box liners, even though those are sold to make life nicer for people. Cats with a history of urinary problems may do best on unscented clumping litter too.

Cats have strong individual preferences, so if your cat seems unhappy, offer two boxes side by side with different litters and see which gets used.

How to cut odor

• Scoop at least once a day, and top up litter as needed. This does more for smell than any scented product.
• Wash the box every 1 to 4 weeks with hot water and mild soap only. Strong chemicals and ammonia-based cleaners can put cats off the box.
• Add boxes before adding fragrance. An overused box smells. One per cat plus one spreads the load.
• Replace old boxes. Scratched plastic holds odor over time.

How to cut tracking

Tracking is a practical problem rather than a medical one, so these are common owner fixes rather than vet guidelines:

• Put a large textured mat where your cat steps out, extending well past the box.
• Use a bigger, deeper box so litter isn't kicked over a low edge.
• Try a lower-dust, larger-granule litter. Fine, dusty litters stick to paws more.
• Keep long-haired cats' paw fur trimmed, or ask your groomer.
• Be careful with top-entry and hooded boxes. They can reduce tracking, but some cats, especially seniors, won't use them.

When it's not the litter

If a cat that used the box starts going elsewhere, see your vet first. The feline vets' guidance says every cat that starts house-soiling needs an exam and a urine test, because urinary infections, cystitis, arthritis, kidney disease and diabetes can all cause it. Stress and sudden diet changes can make cystitis worse. Never punish a cat for accidents; it adds stress and makes things worse.

We're working on grading popular cat litters next. In the meantime, see our cat treat and cat food grades.

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