missing the box

Question
QUESTION: dear tabbi,

i've got a problem with my 2-y-o female kitty.  she knows to go to her box, but she hangs her butt out the door and poops all over the floor.  i have also had this same problem with previous kitties.  any suggestions?  thanks, mike

ANSWER: Mike,

Quite a few cats feel restricted when the litterbox has too small of an area for them. I would get a larger plastic container (like a plastic sweaterbox or storage container, etc.), one that is not necessarily a litterbox per se, and put deeper litter in it. That should help. Also cats a lot of cats do not like covered litterboxes which can cause avoidance or problems like you are having. They like to know what is coming when they are using it.

I hope this helps solve your problem.
Tabbi



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for your reply, Tabbi.  Actually, the "previous kitties" I referred to had "open air" boxes, and I still had the same problem.  This is the first one for which I have used a covered box (to cut down on odor, mess, etc.).  Obviously, I know that cats can jump, so are you suggesting that I get some sort of box with "foot-tall" sides?   If I do so, I guess I should put her in there, so that she knows what/where it is???  That is a really good suggestion.  And if it works, I might suggest that you consider marketing (patenting!) that idea to the pet industry.  To my knowledge, there is no such product on the market.  Thank you - Mike

Answer
Mike,

No, sorry I wasn't clear. A low-sided type plastic storage container, like the under-the-bed ones, or the ones that come with lids (no, you don't use the lid too (smile)). One that is larger than a normal size litterbox with plenty of room for her to dig and move around in it. Quite a few cats have a 'thing' about getting their paws 'dirty' by stepping in their waste. With using scoopable litter that you scoop out when you notice any clumps, there shouldn't be an odor.

Tabbi