Senior cat is avoiding the litterbox

Question
I have 2 mixed breed, 14-yr old cats from the same litter. They have always been indoor kitties only and simply cannot live without each other. Over the past few months, one of the 2 has started randomly urinating outside of the litterbox and sometimes in other places as well. Occasionally she defecates outside the box as well. Her sister is as reliable as she has always been and I can't recall her ever making a mess. I have not changed their litter brand, the litterbox location, food, or anything. I clean the litterbox twice daily. I live alone and my time at home and away from home is very routine and consistent. I love my girls so much....but this change in bathroom habits is quite troubling. Otherwise both ladies are my perfect home companions. Can you suggest what may be causing this change in behavior?

Answer
Hi Candy,

Any change in an older cats litter behavior signals that there is something physically wrong with them. Take her to the vet and get her checked out. It could be something very simple like arthritis, (get a lower litter pan), to an infection. When you find out what is the matter please write back because you may need help getting her back to using the litter pan. Good luck.

Ciao, Karen