Tips For A Successful Litterbox Setup

One of the many things we love about cats is the fact that they will use litterboxes to do their business. You’ll never have to rush home to walk Fluffy! However, there are some things to keep in mind when setting up your pet’s bathroom. Read on as an Ellicott City, MD vet offers discusses setting up Fluffy’s purrsonal powder room.

Choosing The Box

There are now quite a few types of litterboxes. Plain plastic ones will work, but you can also try a covered one. Or, if you want something a bit easier to clean, you can opt for a self-cleaning one or stackable ‘sifting’ ones. If your cat is a senior, we recommend get a litterbox with low sides. This will be easier for your furry friend to get in and out of. If you have a kitten, on the other hand, Fluffy may prefer a small litterbox until she gets bigger.

Litter

Cats all have their own unique tastes. Fluffy can be quite picky about litters! For instance, some kitties don’t care for perfumed litters, while others may not like clumping ones. If you change brands, and Fluffy suddenly starts avoiding her box, you may want to switch back again. For the most part, you can use whatever litter you and your feline buddy prefer. However, there is an exception here. If your pet is kitten, avoid clay and clumping litters for now. Baby cats sometimes accidentally ingest litter, and these types of litter can cause dangerous—and potentially deadly—intestinal blockages. Ask your vet for more information.

Placement

Choosing the right spot for your feline friend’s litterbox is also important. Understandably, cats like to have some privacy as they are doing their business. You’ll want to choose a spot that is quiet, but easy for Fluffy to get to. One option is to use a laundry room, and then add a kitty door. The area should also be well-ventilated, but not too hot or too cold.

Multiple Kitties

If you have more than one kitty, you’ll need to put out multiple litterboxes. Cats don’t really care to share bathrooms. The rule of thumb is one box per feline, plus at least one extra. Is your kitty due for an exam, vaccinations, or parasite control? Please reach out to us, your Ellicott City, MD vet clinic, anytime. We’re happy to help!