House-soiling is one of the more common behavior problems reported in cats. In fact, 20 to 30% of cats in shelters are there because of relinquishment due to a behavior problem.
We know that cats may fail to use the litterbox because they consider it "inadequate" for a variety of reasons including:
Although we know much about litter and litterbox style preferences in cats, little has been known about their preference for litter box size ... until now! Newly published findings show that box size may also influence a cat's preference to use it or not. This is important information that could make a difference in whether a cat successfully remains in a household or is relinquished by a frustrated owner. This information potentially impacts the veterinarian's client retention and long term relationship in caring for a cat with a house soiling problem.
I discuss the findings of this study and clinical implications in this Evidence Based Update. View it now - on demand. (Approved for CE credit in NY and by the NJVMA; pending approval for CE credit by AAVSB RACE).
Litterbox size preference in domestic cats (Felis catus) - J of Vet Behavior, 2014, Vol 9, pp 78-82
Interesting information shared in the Feline Medicine Forum - from a recent publication in JVIM:
”Caregivers commonly underestimate urination frequency in cats when compared to video-based observations. Video recording appears to facilitate objective assessment of urination behaviors and could be of value in future clinical studies of urinary disorders in cats.”
Read more about this study and their findings!
