Cats are very clean pets, which is one reason they are so popular pets. You’ll never have to rush home to walk your kitty: your pet will use her litterbox to discretely do her business. However, there are some things to keep in mind when setting up your cat’s litterbox. Read on as an Oshawa, ON vet discusses Fluffy’s powder room.

Location

Choosing the right spot for the litterbox is very important. Cats prefer to have some privacy in the bathroom, so pick a spot that is quiet but easy to reach. Don’t put the litterbox in direct sunlight, or too close to vents or heating ducts.

Concealment

If you have a small home, concealing the litterbox may be a bit tricky. One thing you can do is upcycle an end table or coffee table with doors. Cut a hole in one side, and use the doors for access when you clean it. You can also hide the litterbox behind a folding screen. Or, look for a custom piece that was made to hide a litterbox. There are some very attractive ones out there!

Smell

Although the fact that Fluffy will use a litterbox does make things easy for you, there are some downsides here… such as smell. The best way to defeat litterbox odors is to simply keep the box clean. Scoop it out daily, and replace the litter every week. Liners and deodorizers will also help. You may also want to put an air purifier or a timed-release air freshening spray near the box. Last but not least, set out some nontoxic plants to filter the air.

Products

There are many different types of litter available these days. Generally, you can use whichever you and/or your pet like best. There is one exception here, though: if you have a kitten, avoid clay and clumping litters for now. These are fine for adult cats. However, baby felines can be rather clumsy, and sometimes accidentally ingest litter. This can cause severe intestinal blockages.

Health

Litterbox issues sometimes develop because of anxiety, but they can also be due to medical issues. If you notice any changes in your kitty’s waste, or if Fluffy is having trouble, call your vet immediately. Please contact us, your Oshawa, ON vet clinic, with any questions or concerns about your cat’s health, behavior, or care. We’re here for you!