Litter Box Location

Question
We have recently moved the location of our cat's litter box so that it is out of our visitors' way, however the cat has decided to continue relieving himself in the old location (on the carpet). Is something medically wrong with him, or is he just "telling" us he is dissatisfied with the change. Also, the cat is pretty large and weighs about 16-18 pounds. His circular litter box is about 18 inches in diameter with a dome on top. Is this too small of a litter box, or is the size of the box insignificant?  

Answer
Cory,

I am including a link to an excellent article on house soiling problems with cats written by a vet who is also a cat breeder.

http://www.netcat.org/housesoiling.html

Cats are creatures of habit and you have just upset your cat's routine by moving his litter pan.  I do not believe it is a problem with the litter pan being covered, per se.  Also, are there other changes that occurred at the same time?  Cats are not super tolerant of change, as the above referenced article will point out.

If the box had been O.K. in the past, there should be no reason it would continue to suffice unless this is also a change.  It is hard to tell from your question whteher the only thing that changed was the placement of the litter pan or there were other changes you made.

I would consider putting things back to rights immediately before the inappropriate behaviors get ingrained and then try changing things much more gradually, so the cat can adjust better.

As for using the carpet and surrounding areas, you will need to go to your neighborhood pet supermarket and get an enzyme based solution made expressly for pet stains and pet odors (Simple Soultion is one such).  Clean the area thoroughly.

Good luck and best regards... Norm.