Inappropriate elimination is an exhausting and all-too-common problem that results in the deaths of countless cats when people abandon or give up their pets because they can't cope with it. It's difficult to find a new home for a cat that does not use the litter box consistently. Sometimes, friends or family are willing to help. There is some evidence that changing the cat's environment will sometimes correct the problem. Spraying for example may be associated with some unhappiness or stress in the cat's current home. However, you must be cautious when attempting to find a home for a cat with this behavior problem, because these cats are likely targets for abuse, neglect and abandonment. If you do find someone willing to take your cat, arrange to have the cat returned to you should the problem persist. That way, you can determine your cat's future in a humane manner. Because it's so hard to find a home for a cat with this problem, you'll probably have to deal with it within your household. The first order of business is to set up a thorough physical exam with your veterinarian. Several physical problems may result in a cat not using the litter box, so they must be ruled out before you can move on to working on the behavioral aspect of the problem. The good news is that the physical problems that cause lapses in litter box use can often be easily and inexpensively remedied. Medical tests should include a urinary analysis culture and sensitivity test, and a blood panel to test renal values (this test can be costly but is very helpful if you can afford it). You may also find this fact sheet, “Inappropriate Elimination in Cats” helpful from the website of Best Friends. Contact an animal behaviorist. Ask your veterinarian or a local animal organization to recommend a qualified cat behaviorist. Another option is to ask your vet to consult with Tufts University or one of the other university behavior clinics. For help in finding a behaviorist, visit the Animal Behavior Society website. Use a behavior help line. Here are some examples: Read a book on cat behavior. You may find it helpful to read one of these books: If none of these options work, or if trying them is not feasible, you might consider changing your cat's current living situation so that the inconsistent litter-box use is not a problem. A possible solution is a cattery - an outdoor enclosure, roofed and protected, that you can place near a door or window, to allow the cat some inside access. Or, it can stand independently (similar to the idea of a dog run, but built for a cat). Thank you to Best Friends for allowing us to use these help sheets.
* ASPCA Companion Animal Services Behavior Help Line (New York), 212-876-7700, ext. 4357.
* San Francisco SPCA Behavior Help Line, (California), 415-554-3075. You may leave a voice mail message 24 hours a day. Within 48 hours, a behaviorist will return your call (collect) or they will send you written information.
* University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Behavior Clinic, 215-898-3347. If the clinic is not open at the time of your call, their recorded message will give you their call-in hours for the week.
* Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine Behavior Clinic (Massachusetts), 508-839-7934. This clinic offers consultations for a fee.
* Feline Health Center, Cornell University, Dr. Louis J. Camuti Feline Consultation and Diagnostic Service, 1-800-KITTYDR, open 9 am to 4pm EST, Monday - Friday, except holidays. You will be charged a $35 fee on a major credit card.
* "The Cat Who Cried for Help" by Nicholas Dodman
* "Think Like a Cat" by Pam Johnson-Bennett
* "If Only They Could Speak" by Nicholas Dodman
