[LiteraryLark]

Hi all,

My 6 month old kitten peed in the closet. I had let the litter box go a couple days and I think that's why it upset him.

I bleached everything (hardwood floors) and threw away a couple ruined shirts.

I'm most concerned about him doing it again because cats will do it again unless I break the cycle.

Is changing his litter box more frequently enough for him to stop? Also, I read one cat should have two litter boxes...I don't know if I have the space for two in a tiny apartment. Also, the same article said he may need a bigger litter box. I think that is doable.

Any other suggestions? I'm freaking out a bit because it's a habit that can get really bad for me and kitty.

[SlumberKitty]

Hi LiteraryLark, I'd say change the litter box at least daily if not twice a day, and if you can get a bigger box that might help. I know you are supposed to have a box for each kitty plus one, but my Helen does well with just one box, and I clean it daily in the mornings. Also there is a possibility your kitty could have a UTI. When mine get one they tend to do things like pee in weird places, so if changing the litter more frequently doesn't help, maybe a trip to the vet is warranted. HUGS kit

[divine1966]

My daughters cat is so fussy that they clean his litter box at least twice a day. No need for two litter boxes. See if cleaning it would help. If not, check with the vet.

[lizardlady]

Going to echo others. Stay on top of keeping the box clean. If that doesn't work or he starts acting "different" time for the vet to check him out.

I use a plastic sweater box for my litter box. A couple of my guys are BIG boys. Their butts hang out of standard sized litter boxes which creates its own kind of mess.

an after thought... did you change anything about the box/litter before he peed in the closet? New litter? Moved the box? Changed what you use to clean the box? Like Divine mentioned, some kitties are REALLY particular about their boxes.

[LiteraryLark]

Everything has been changing for poor Elwood.

Since I have gotten him I have had hardly any routine:

Former workplace had my schedule changed all the time.

I had two family members visit within two or three weeks of each other, then I visited other family a few weeks after that.

I started introducing him to the outside on a harness and leash.

Changed his feeding schedule and today had to move his food and water dish so I can fit the new litter box.

Now, I'm on my second day of a new job which will have a more stable schedule.

But there's been lots of changes for Elwood since I have gotten him.

Now, I've gotten him a brand new "big boy litter box" and hopefully things will calm down in my life and I can get back to a routine again.

[lizardlady]

All the changes could be the cause. Some kitties HATE change.

[SlumberKitty]

Originally Posted by lizardlady

All the changes could be the cause. Some kitties HATE change.

Agree with lizardlady!!!! My kitty babies are very fussy about change of any kind. Hope things settle down for your baby and things will be good from here on out!

[LiteraryLark]

I am going to work on building a solid routine with Elwood. Mornings and evenings are crucial for his and my mental health. I still need to go out and do things, but it's important he gets as much love and attention as he can.

[SlumberKitty]

Sounds like a great plan, LiteraryLark.....also I love your kitty's name. Elwood. So cute!

[rechu]

Apart from all of the other useful suggestions, you may want to buy an enzymatic cleaner for pet smells/stains and put it on the area. I'm glad you are going to be able to establish a more stable routine for him. Similar to what others have said, In my experience, it is common for cats to not adapt well to changes and this can impact their behavior.

I agree, its likely to do with all the changes