According to your cat, her litter box ought to be positioned in the middle of an empty space with a 360-degree view. There’s no risk of unanticipated guests, but her preferred human beings are right around the corner. And given that she needs at least two litter boxes, there’s a second space upstairs simulating the set-up. This is the “pie-in-the-sky feline world,” says Rachel Geller, EdD, cat behaviorist specialist and creator of All Cats All the Time, Inc
. Of course, we do not all have an extra space to dedicate to our cats’ litter boxes (and if you do, my felines are envious). While we might not have the ability to replicate their ideal bathroom setup, we can compromise on a litter box place that will please everyone.
From studio homes to multi-story houses, here’s where to put your cat’s litter box, according to a specialist.
Why Litter Box Placement Matters
” Cats feel very vulnerable in their litter boxes,” Geller describes. “Once they are in the peeing or pooping position, they end up being more concerned about all the prospective felines [or predators] who might be in their area– genuine or pictured.”
Feeling insecure in the litter box could suggest finding somewhere else to do their organization. Naturally, litter box placement isn’t the only factor your feline might be pooping or peeing outside the litter box. So, before switching things up, schedule a check-up with your veterinarian.
General Litter Box Rules
Number of litter boxes. Here’s the golden rule: One litter box per cat plus one. That’s right, even in single-cat homes Geller advises doubling up on litter boxes. Some felines like to poop in one spot and pee in another.
Size of litter boxes. Cats should be able to get in and turn all the method around with ease. Package ought to be longer than your cat, head to extended tail. The width should be as long as your cat, head to non-extended tail. “Remember, package you bought when your cat was a kittycat will be too small once the cat is fully grown,” Geller says.
Substrate type and amount. According to Geller, the majority of cats prefer two to three inches of odorless litter. Fine-grained, soft substrates resemble what cats would use outdoors.
Tidiness. Scoop boxes twice daily and deep tidy them about every 2 weeks. Frequently inspect plastic boxes for any scratches that could harbor offending odors and germs, replacing them as required.
If you’re wondering what type of litter boxes felines choose, Geller says that the majority of like an airy, exposed box. As cats age, be on the lookout for any difficulty going into the box– arthritis can make top-entry boxes an accomplishment.
4 Ideas for Where to Put the Litter Box
Once you have the ideal litter boxes and litter, you’ll need somewhere to put them. Here are some factors to consider, according to Geller.
1. A Quiet, however Socially Significant Area
“Cats like convenience,” Geller describes. “If your cat should pack a lunch, program her GPS, and go on an indoor journey just to get to her box, she may opt for another place.”
Basements and utility room are popular options but not in fact advised. Rather, Geller suggests the bedroom. “Your bedroom is an excellent area for a cat litter box since it’s typically a quiet location,” she says. “Plus, your feline can smell a familiar aroma– your scent.” A 24/7 open-door policy is a must, and think twice if you’re a light sleeper most likely to be woken up by the noise of a feline burying their poop.
2. Personal, however With a View
” When picking a location for the litter box, think about chances for a safe escape and a place that offers ample visual warning time to see any intruders or challengers,” Geller says. A space with several open doors (AKA escape paths) is preferred. If package can be placed on the opposite side of the room as the entrances, even much better.
3. Not Too Close to the Wall
Geller says sharing a restroom is terrific but tucking a litter box under a sink or in a corner isn’t ideal– tight areas obstruct the view and air blood circulation. “For some cats, sliding package a couple of inches far from the wall might increase the security level enough,” she says.
4. And Away From Food and Water
Would you want to consume in the restroom? Neither does your feline. It’s tied to survival instincts, Geller says. “They wish to pee or poop away from their food to keep predators from discovering them.”
What About Apartments and Small Spaces?
Geller specializes in the adoption of cats and the prevention of their surrender and desertion. That implies she’s committed to finding innovative methods to happily exist together with cats. If you have questions about where to put a litter box in a small space, Geller has the answers.
“Sometimes small apartment or condos have odd nooks and spaces that aren’t useful,” she states. Turn the area into a feline nook with a non-damage tension rod and a drape.
If you have two shallow bookcases, Geller says that can be the perfect option to litter box concerns. “Place the bookshelves a few feet apart and utilize a stress rod to hang a curtain in between them,” she discusses. By pulling the bookshelves a foot or more far from the wall, you’ll include additional depth and offer your cat with a private, secret entrance.
Geller’s last idea: Not all felines share the very same requirements and preferences. Whenever in doubt, listen to your cat, though it may take some trial and error.
