My Cat Is Laying In The Litter Box, Should I Be Worried?

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Questioning the curious and sometimes quirky behaviors of cats is normal. But if you’re asking, “Why is my cat laying in the litter box?” there may be something concerning going on. In this article, we discuss litter box behavior and why felines do what they do in the place they’re supposed to bury their waste. You’ll learn when a visit to the vet is necessary and how to help your cat overcome what may be anxiety. 

Let’s jump in! 

Understanding Your Cat’s Litter Box Behavior

Cats possess an innate ability to use a litter box, largely driven by their natural instincts. In the wild, felines are solitary and territorial creatures, and they bury their waste to avoid leaving scent trails that could attract predators or signal the presence of a rival. This instinct translates seamlessly for domesticated cats, they view a litter box as a designated area to bury their waste. Typically kittens observe and learn from their mothers, who instinctively teach them to use the litter box by digging and burying. 

When training your cat to use a litter box, start by introducing it and observing how it behaves in it. A key priority is to keep it clean so that your cat doesn’t decide to go outside of the box. Felines appreciate a clean bathroom just like we do.

A content cat will use the litter box consistently and properly. Any deviations from the norm, like laying in the litter box, are likely indicating something has changed or needs to change, and potential veterinary care.

YOU’RE DOING CAT LITTER WRONG & Here’s Why!

Why Is My Cat Laying in the Litter Box? 

There are several reasons your cat is laying in the litter box. It could simply be a matter of comfort, as cats can’t tell us why they do what they do. But more than likely there’s something else going on. 

Cats may choose to rest in their litter box due to stress or anxiety, using it as a safe space to retreat to. It can also be a sign of underlying health issues, such as urinary tract problems or gastrointestinal discomfort. You know how you hang around the bathroom when you’re not feeling well? Similar scenario.

If you notice your cat spending an unusual amount of time in the litter box, showing signs of distress, or having difficulty urinating or defecating, you may want to schedule a check-up with your veterinarian. The behavior could be a red flag indicating a potential medical problem that requires treatment. Overall, monitoring your cat’s litter box habits is important to help ensure their health.

Most Common Reasons Why Your Cat Might be Sitting or Laying in the Litter Box

Let’s further break down why your cat might be sitting or lying in the litter box. These are four of the most common reasons.

1. Stress or Anxiety

Stress or anxiety can significantly impact a cat’s litter box behavior. The small space can feel like a safe place. It also has familiar smells. If the litter box is enclosed, that’s all the more reason for it to be a hiding place of sorts.

Stress or anxiety can also disrupt a cat’s normal routine and cause them to use the litter box more frequently or avoid it. For example, stress can lead to cats urinating outside the litter box or experiencing frequent litter box usage due to an increased urge to eliminate. It can also bring on constipation or diarrhea. 

2. Health Issues

If your cat is frequently found lying or spending extended periods of time in its litter box, it could potentially signal underlying health issues. One concerning possibility is a urinary tract infection or gastrointestinal problems. These can lead to discomfort and increased urgency to urinate. So, your cat may associate the litter box with relief, causing it to linger there. 

Additional signs of a potential urinary tract infection (UTI) include increased frequency of urination or difficulty urinating. If your cat vocalizes discomfort or seems to be in pain while peeing or you see blood in its urine, we recommend contacting your vet. Cats with UTIs might also exhibit changes in appetite, become lethargic, or display signs of agitation. 

In addition, kidney issues or painful defecation due to constipation or diarrhea might also prompt a cat to hang out in the litter box. Also, certain illnesses or injuries could lead to weakness, causing the cat to rest in the box. 

3. Aging and Cognitive Decline

Cognitive decline is a natural part of a cat’s aging process, and it can lead to changes in litter box habits. As a cat ages, its cognitive abilities, such as memory and spatial awareness may diminish. It could forget the location of the litter box or have trouble knowing its purpose. Older cats may also have instances of wandering or urination outside the litter box. 

In some cases, cats may become disoriented or anxious, causing them to spend more time than usual in the litter box. It could be a way for them to feel secure. Be patient and understanding with older cats. You can help them by providing a consistent routine and maintaining a clean, easily accessible litter box. If odd litter box behaviors persist, consult with your vet to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

4. Litter Box Comfort

As we’ve said, oddly enough some cats may find the litter box a “safe place”. They could find it a comfortable place to rest. The litter could offer a cooling and soothing sensation for some cats. Or if your litter box is enclosed, they might find it a quiet and secluded place as opposed to other locations in the house. 

If you think your cat is laying in the litter box for comfort or safety, try offering it some alternatives. For example, cat trees with hammocks or enclosed boxes or platforms that are high off the ground are ideal places for felines to feel a sense of security. In cat trees, they’re able to watch everything going on in the house while keeping a safe distance.

How to Assess Your Cat’s Litter Box Behavior

Assess your cat’s litter box habits by observing any behavioral changes. If your cat starts changing its habits or expressing irritability, it might be stressed or anxious. Or if it’s displaying symptoms such as trouble urinating, there may be a health issue that needs to be addressed. 

There are symptoms and signs that should prompt you to visit your vet. One sign is if your cat is suddenly laying in the litter box and doing so frequently. If your cat has accompanying symptoms like struggling to urinate, there may be a health issue that needs to be evaluated by your vet.

How to Help Your Cat

If your cat is laying in the litter box, address the issue to work towards stopping the behavior. But be sure to do so with positive reinforcement. Let’s look at three methods to help your cat.

Providing a Stress-free Environment

Reducing stress in your cat’s environment can greatly contribute to contentment and litter box behaviors. Cats thrive on predictability, so being consistent is key. Provide hiding spots or cozy spaces where your cat can retreat when feeling overwhelmed. 

Scent is important to cats, so consider using prays designed to emit calming signals. Catnip, a member of the mint family, can have a positive impact on reducing stress in some cats. It contains a compound called nepetalactone that often induces a sense of euphoria and relaxation in cats. Not all cats are affected by catnip, but those that are may benefit from occasional exposure. You can offer catnip-infused toys or use it as a reward during playtime to help alleviate stress. However, catnip’s effects are temporary, so keep that in mind as you’re helping your cat calm down. 

In addition, you can destress your cat with interactive play sessions to alleviate boredom and promote exercise. Items like scratching posts and toys can redirect a cat with anxiety into positive behaviors. 

Improving Litter Box Conditions

Maintaining clean and comfortable litter box conditions is essential for both your cat’s well-being and your living environment. To ensure a pleasant and hygienic space for your pet, it’s recommended to scoop the litter box of clumps and waste at least once a day. This helps prevent odors and keeps the litter fresh. Also, every two to three weeks, do a more thorough cleaning by emptying the litter and scrubbing the box with soap and water. 

The type of litter you choose can also impact cleanliness. For example, try a litter like PrettyLitter. Also, place the litter box in a quiet and accessible location, away from high-traffic areas. This will allow your cat privacy and reduce any stress.

Encouraging Healthy Behaviors

To help your cat use its litter box appropriately, encourage healthy behaviors in all aspects of its life. This includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and plenty of rest. Routine plays a large role in ensuring your cat is getting what it needs for its overall well-being. Ensure you have the time to encourage healthy behaviors and provide your cat with consistency. 

Know How to Help Your Cat If It’s Resting in the Litter Box

If your cat is resting in the litter box, know how to help it overcome this behavior. Hopefully, your pet simply needs some adjustments in its routine or a new hiding place like a cat tree. But if it’s experiencing symptoms related to health issues, be sure to contact your vet. 

Does your cat lay in its litter box? How did you solve the problem? Share your experience in the comments below.