Where Should You Put Your Cat’s Litter Boxes?
Where is the purr-fect spot for a litter box? Go ahead. Ask your cat. She probably will tell you, “in the middle of an empty room with a 360-degree view,” ensuring that there are no surprises.
LITTER BOX PLACEMENT MATTERS
Is your feline friend “taking care of business” outside the litter box? It could be because he is feeling insecure. Cats feel vulnerable in their litter boxes and once they are in the peeing or pooping position, they become more concerned about all the potential predators who could be in their territory—real or imagined.
GENERAL LITTER BOX GUIDELINES
- The number of litter boxes. One litter box for every cat, plus one. For example, if you have 2 cats, then you will need 3 litter boxes
- Size of litter boxes. Cats should be able to enter and turn all the way around with ease. The box should be longer than your cat, from head to extended tail. The width should be as long as your cat, head to non-extended tail.
- Litter type and amount. Most cats prefer two to three inches of unscented litter. Fine-grained, soft litter resembles what cats would use outdoors.
- Scoop boxes twice daily and deep clean them about every two weeks. Regularly check plastic boxes for any scratches that could harbor offensive odors and bacteria, replacing them as needed.
- Litter box design. Most cats like an airy, uncovered box. But a top-entry or covered box works just fine if she’s happily using one. As cats age, be on the lookout for any difficulty entering the box—arthritis can make top-entry boxes a feat. And if you welcome home a new kitten, opt for a low-sided box that suits little legs.
LITTER BOX LOCATION SUGGESTIONS
- A Quiet, but Socially Significant Area
Cats don’t want to be startled by the unexpected buzzing of the dryer or interrupted by unfamiliar houseguests. But she doesn’t want to venture far from you or her favorite lounging spot, either. Cats like convenience. Basements and laundry rooms are popular choices but not actually recommended. Instead, your bedroom is a good location for a cat litter box since it’s usually a quiet place. However, a 24/7 open-door policy is a must, and think twice if you’re a light sleeper likely to be woken up by the sound of a cat burying its poop.
- Private, But With a View
A room with multiple open doors (AKA escape routes) is preferred. If the box can be placed on the opposite side of the room as the entryways, even better.
- Not too Close to the Wall
Sharing a bathroom is great but tucking a litter box under a sink or in a corner isn’t ideal—tight spaces block the view and air circulation. Sliding the box a few inches away from the wall might increase the security level.
- Away From Food & Water
Do you want to eat in the bathroom? Neither does your cat. It’s tied to survival instincts. Cats want to pee or poop away from their food to keep predators from finding them.