Get the basics right
Litter box problems are among the most common reasons cats are given up to shelters, and many come from boxes that are too few, too small, too dirty or in the wrong place. A few simple rules from veterinary behaviorists prevent most of them.
The rules
- Number of boxes: one per cat, plus one. Two cats need three boxes.
- Size: at least 1.5 times the length of the cat from nose to base of tail, and about as wide as the cat is long, so it can turn around and dig.
- Depth: about 2 to 3 inches of litter.
- Location: quiet places, on different floors if possible, away from food and water bowls and noisy appliances. Boxes side by side count as one big box.
The calculation
- Boxes = cats + 1
- Minimum box length = 1.5 × cat length; width = cat length
- Litter per box = length × width × depth
- Litter for all boxes = litter per box × number of boxes
Example
Two cats about 18 inches long, with 3 inches of litter:
- Boxes: 3
- Minimum size: about 27 × 18 inches
- Litter per box: about 24 liters (25 quarts)
- For all three boxes: about 72 liters (76 quarts) for the first fill
Many store-bought boxes are smaller than this. Large under-bed storage boxes or concrete mixing tubs make affordable, roomy alternatives.
Keeping it clean
- Scoop at least once a day, and top up the litter.
- Clumping litter: empty, wash with mild unscented soap and refill every 2 to 4 weeks.
- Non-clumping clay or pellets: change about once a week.
- Silica crystals last longer, about a month for one cat, but not all cats like the texture.
Most cats prefer unscented, fine, clumping litter and uncovered boxes. Change litter type gradually by mixing.
When to see a vet
A cat that strains in the box, goes often with little urine, cries while urinating or has blood in the urine needs a vet the same day; in male cats a urinary blockage can be fatal within a day or two. Sudden changes in litter box habits often have a medical cause.