Every cat owner knows the importance of a litterbox. Here are six secrets if you want to keep your cat happy - whether she is an indoor or outdoor cat, because even outdoor cats need a litterbox when it is raining outside.

 

1.       Clean litterbox

Cats are generally clean animals who often groom themselves and therefore it shouldn’t be surprising when your cat prefers clean litter. Not only is a clean litterbox better for your cat’s health, but also for the entire family’s health. Besides, who likes a smelly litterbox?

It is highly suggested that you remove the solids from the litterbox every day and replace the litter on average at least every two weeks, depending on the type of litter.

Clean the container with a pet-friendly soap that doesn’t contain ammonia. Sprinkle the bottom of the litterbox with a thin layer of baking soda. That will help to keep the odours at bay. Your cat will love the fresh and clean litterbox.

 

2.       Types of litter

Every cat is unique and some are more picky than others. Where some cats really couldn’t care what type of litter is in her container, others may prefer crystals to the more affordable options. One of the reasons for her choice could be that your cat’s paws are more sensitive.

Silica gel crystals is one of the popular choices of cat litter as it is more absorbent, almost dust-free and controls odours better than the most other types of litter. Then there is also clumping and non-clumping litter. Clumping litter makes it easier to remove the urine and faeces from the litter without having to remove all the litter.

Newer to the market is biodegradable litter, which makes the environment around the litterbox healthier. It is mostly made of plant-based materials that are biodegradable. Although some of them are flushable, we won’t recommend that you flush it down the toilet.

You are more than welcome to discuss your litter and container needs with us and we’ll see how we can help you. And don’t forget to enquire about our big range and any special offers that we might have on cat litter.

 

3.       Location of litterbox

The location of your cat’s litterbox is extremely important. First of all, once you’ve found the ideal spot for your cat, don’t move it around. Your cat won’t appreciate it – cats generally don’t like change. So, keep the litterbox in the same place.

Place the litterbox in a place where your cat will have some privacy. Afterall, you wouldn’t want to toilet where other people can see you, would you? She needs easy access to her litterbox where she can do her business in private.

 

4.       Number of litterboxes

It is very important that each cat has her own litterbox. If you have multiple cats, you need to provide one litterbox for each cat plus another one – even if they use each other’s litterboxes. Don’t ask why – just do it. We’re talking about cats after all!

 

5.       Types of litterboxes

You might ask whether an open or closed litterbox is better. The answer lies with your cat – let her decide.

With an open litterbox your cat will be able to survey her surroundings while she’s doing her business. As cats love caves, some cats might prefer a closed litterbox so that she can have complete privacy.

For us owners, a closed litterbox might be more convenient as there will be less litter outside of the box. But the choice is not ours to make (wink, wink). If litter outside of the box is a problem for you, then consider placing a large tray under the litterbox to catch most of the flying litter.

 

6.       Avoiding the litterbox

When your cat avoids the litterbox despite all your efforts, then you may want to take her to the vet for a check-up. She might be struggling with an illness, such as a urinary tract infection, and that may prevent her from using her litterbox.

Sometimes cats try to tell us something with their behaviour and avoiding the litterbox is one of the ways that she can communicate with you that something is bothering her. After a clear medical examination, consider seeing a reputable behaviourist to find out what the problem might be.

 

The conclusion is that every cat is unique and her needs can be different to your preferences. So, if you want a content cat, try out these secrets and see if that will make her happy.