older cat will not use the litter box since getting 2 baby kittens

Question
my older cat (3yrs)has refused to poop in the cat box with the younger kittens. I keep on large box and it was always enough for my very senior cat and middle aged cat and my 3 yr old and now that I got two new kttens about 6 weeks old she is pooping on the rugs/bed etc. What can I do she is not thrilled with the little ones and does come down and eat and drink some. She mostly stays up stairs and they are on the main level. What should I do? I did put a box up there for her but what else can I do?

Answer
Cindy,

Clearly, your 3 year old is not entranced with the new kittens.  However, everyone including your 3 year old, must learn to cope.  

Putting an additional box upstairs is a good start, however, there are some other things I might suggest.  Anywhere the 3 year old has messed inappropritely needs to be cleaned with an enzyme based cleaner specifically for pet stains and pet odors (check with pet supermarkets and farm stores). Once these areas are cleaned, see if you can make them inaccessible.  Also, I would try a product called "Cat Attract" (also available at most pet supermarkets) in all the litter pans.  You also might try putting a Feliway diffuser where your upstairs litter box is.

In addition, whenever you play with the new kittens, make a fuss over the 3 year old, giving her extra attention and treats as cats do get jealous.

Our rule of thumb is a litter pan for every two cats, and, for an odd number, add one. So 3 or 4 cats get 2 litter pans, 5 or 6 get three litter pans, etc.

Please let me know how things go.

Best regards... Norm.