neutered male cat refusing his box

Question
We are a retired couple. Our 12-year-old neutered male cat started refusing to use his box (for stools only)about six months ago. We keep several boxes, always clean, and have not moved them to a new spot. He always does urine in the box, but rarely stools. The vet tried antibiotics with no luck.
Recent events: a year ago our 21 year old female tabby died, but they were no great friends. We left him alone at home in the care of our cleaning couple(who usually scare him with the loud vaccuum sounds)about six months ago while we were on vacation for three weeks. They came in daily(his first time with no cat companion)while we were away. Shortly after our return he began this behaviour. He cries as though he is in great distress and runs all over before he squats, always in a new spot and on our carpet. Afterwards he continues to cry for a while and runs away from his accident.
Have you ever heard of this? Any ideas?
Thanks, Carol Tynan

Answer
Hi
well this sort of behavior is known as middening, I have a web page all about what it is and what causes it. I will add the link at the end of this message for your information.

basically it is a form of communication which a cat uses when they are particularly upset by something, it is designed to say hey this is mine and helps to make him feel better. The real problem is knowing what is causing it and this can be quite difficult to discover.
Here is my page about the subject, it may help to provide you with some answers.

/cat-poo.html

best wishes
Kate
http;//www.our-happy-cat.com