Why does my cat hang out in the litter box ? Cats enjoy hanging around in odd locations. It’s usual to discover your cat in odd situations, whether they’re curled up on top of a cupboard or lurking below your furniture.
In light of this, it can be reason for concern if you see your cat spending a lot of time in the litter box.
If your cat is sitting in the litter box, you might be thinking “Why does my cat hang out in the litter box ?” The six most frequent responses—which range from innocent play to probable illness—are provided in this article. We’ll also look at some possible ways to help your kitty companion break out of the box and resume their regular behavior.
Why does my cat hang out in the litter box ?
#1 It’s Their Safe Place
Have you recently adopted a new cat into your household? Even if you’re eager to show them around their new house, they could have other plans.
Newly acquired kittens frequently experience stress, which might show themselves as symptoms like:
- grooming problems
- a diminished appetite
- jittery or cautious behavior
- hiding in unusual locations
- One option for doing so is hiding in their litter box.
If your cat was adopted from a shelter, its litter box could be a welcome familiarity in an unfamiliar environment. Enclosed litter boxes can provide safety by providing a convenient place to hide.
We advise the following remedies for coping with a new cat who spends a bit too much time in its box:
- Give it time – Although it could be difficult, allowing your new pet enough time to acclimatize may be the only way to get them out of your cat’s litter box. However, if you build a joyful and loving household, we’re confident that your cat will find their way out of the litter box and into your arms. The length of time it takes might vary widely from cat to cat.
- Keep it extra clean – If you want your new cat to use the litter box, you may need to clean it more frequently. You may stop them from returning by eliminating the garbage that they leave behind. You also don’t want your cat lying about in an unclean litter box for reasons of cleanliness.
It’s crucial to remember that stress is frequently the cause of a cat choosing to spend time in their litter box. They need not be a recent addition to the family in order to take refuge in the restroom.
Always be on the lookout for signs of tension in your cat, and try to ease any possible worry before it becomes a serious issue.
#2 They’re Looking to Play
What possible amusement could there be in playing in the litter box? A much, according to some cats.
Young kittens that have never used a litter box are prone to taking a bit longer to get used to everything. However, this does not imply that adult cats are immune to carrying their playfulness into the restroom.
Cats frequently start having fun in their litter box for one of the reasons listed below:
- Lack of stimulation – Your cats may be seeking for another form of entertainment if work or life in general has kept you a bit too busy. A cat may start playing in the litter box to get a thrill out of things if they don’t get frequent attention and activity.
- Wild cat behavior: Cats actually take dust baths in the wild. This procedure enables them to get rid of a covering of fur and dangerous germs that bothers them and itches them. The litter box can be the next-best option if your cat doesn’t go outside to engage in this natural behavior.
There isn’t much you can do about your cat’s instincts, but there are many of activities you can do with your pet to keep them entertained and away from the litter box. Consider investing in some fresh playthings, scheduling some cat-only time, and demonstrating to your cat that there is enjoyment to be had outside the confines of the toy box.
#3 There’s a Problem with the Litter
Cats have unique needs. If you’ve ever had to deal with a cat that was really picky, you might even believe that’s an understatement. It’s important to take their favorite playthings, meals, and the arrangement of their litter box seriously.
If your cat isn’t using the litter box, it can be their method of communicating with you that they are unhappy about anything. Cats’ irritation with litter is frequently caused by, among other things:
- fresh kitty litter Your cat could not like the new litter, whether you converted from clay-based to soft litter or just changed brands. Your cat will often adjust to the new litter in a matter of days, but if they continue to express displeasure after two weeks, it could be time to switch again.
- It’s not enough clean. Although it might seem paradoxical, your cat may be using the litter box more frequently because it’s too unclean. This can be the most straightforward approach for your cat to seek your attention because she can’t ask you to clean the litter. Grab some new cat litter to help your cat out as a filthy litter box will make them spend more time searching for a clean location to relieve themselves.
More alternatives for your cat’s quiet time may even be appreciated. Think about putting in more litter boxes all throughout your house. If you want to make sure your cat always has a spotless location to relieve itself, you may also spend money on a self-cleaning litter box.
