Blog 8 | Toileting
Cats can be very fussy creatures but they are also very clean. They can be very particular when it comes to using a tray so it is important to get this right. Whether they are an outdoor cat and go to the toilet outside or an indoor cat, trays should be provided with a general rule of one tray per cat, plus one more.
Being very private about their business, find a quiet place to locate the tray to stop your cat feeling vulnerable when using it. Generally keep them away from doorways where they could be disturbed or washing machines which can be loud. Trays should also be positioned away from the cats food, water and favourite sleeping places. Also split the locations up where the trays are placed eg. one upstairs and one downstairs, rather than side by side.
SO WHICH TRAY SHOULD YOU CHOOSE FOR YOUR CAT?
Every cat is different so their preferences will vary. As a general rule, cats need a big enough tray to be able to turn around and circle in freely. Enclosed trays can cause problems, especially with elderly cats with mobility issues. We designed our trays taking into consideration all the cats needs to ensure they get a litter tray that is most suitable for all cats in general. If your cat prefers a hooded tray, you can simply place a large box over the top of our trays. However cats tend to want to be able to see 360 degrees around them when going to the toilet so they feel less vulnerable to prey.
Believe it or not, some cats wont even pee and poop in the same tray so this is another reason to provide two trays.
WHICH LITTER SHOULD I USE IN MY CAT'S TRAY?
When it comes to choosing litter there are lots of choices available on the market, from saw dust to sand, clumping, silica and paper. It is best to trial different ones when they are a kitten and see which they prefer then stick with this. Many cats prefer sand like litter as this is close to a natural out doors surface.
Cats have sensitive noses so be careful when considering scented litter. This could put your cat off using the tray but again you can trial this as it can hide the smell of the trays contents. Make sure you fill the tray with enough litter to satisfy your cats needs, generally 3-4cm should be enough. This should be adequate for them to dig but not too much to flick it everywhere.
MY CAT'S STOPPED USING ITS TRAY.
There could be a problem causing your cat to do this. It could be medical, in which case we suggest taking your cat to a vets to be checked out. Vulnerable, it may not feel safe or it may not been clean enough. If it goes close by to the tray, it may want to use it but is being put off by something. This could happen if you have a new tray or a different litter. The weather outside could be an issue or another cat. If your cat usually uses the outdoors for toileting but has not started going inside, it may have been frightened by something causing it to to go indoors.
What ever the reason, never blame your cat or punish it for soiling in the wrong area, this will probably just make the situation worse.
KEEP IT CLEAN!
It is very important to clean and maintain your cats tray. Make sure you filter out the pee and poop as soon as possible and top up or change the litter regularly. Weekly, you should empty the tray and wash out with warm soapy water. Liners may seem like a good idea but this can be another reason to put your cat off using the tray so we would not recommend them.
Cats are amazing family pets and although they are relatively easy to care for they do need a little help. By just keeping an eye on their toileting habits can ensure your cat remains happy.
Thank you again for reading and if you have any experiences or comments that can help other cat owners, please feel free to leave them below.
Purrfect regards
