And Meow, A Word About Litterboxes

There are many things to love about cats, but one of the best things about our feline buddies is the fact that they are so clean. Fluffy will groom herself daily. She’s also litterbox trained, which makes caring for her much easier. After all, you’ll never have to rush home to walk your cat! However, there are some things to keep in mind when setting up your kitty’s litterbox. Here, a Thorold, ON vet discusses Fluffy’s powder room.

Choosing the right spot for Fluffy’s bathroom is very important! The litterbox should be in a spot that offers some privacy. Don’t put it in direct sunlight, or too close to a heater, vent, or fireplace. Also, place it as far away from your cat’s food dishes as possible.

Kitties can be picky about both litter and litterboxes. Some don’t care for perfumed litter, while others may not like enclosed litterboxes. Generally, whatever you and your cat prefer is fine. Just avoid using clay or clumping litters for kittens: it isn’t safe for them, as they could accidentally ingest some.

A litterbox definitely won’t do much for your décor. Use a covered screen to conceal it. You can also turn an enclosed end table, trunk, or storage chest into a litterbox holder. Jut cut a hole in one side for Fluffy to use as doors.

Older cats often have trouble getting in and out of litterboxes with high walls. If your feline friend is aged seven or older, she may prefer a bathroom with low sides.

We recommend scooping the litterbox out daily, and changing the litter every week. Cats hate dirty bathrooms! You can experiment with products that make this easier, such as stackable ‘sifter’ boxes or self-cleaning ones. Liners may also help.

When you are cleaning your furry pal’s litterbox, keep an eye out for changes in the color, shape, texture, or amount of her waste. These can indicate some serious medical issues! If you see Fluffy straining to go, call your vet immediately: this can be a sign of a medical emergency.

Do you have more than one cat? All of your feline pals should have their own boxes. You’ll also need at least one extra.

Please contact us, your Thorold, ON vet clinic, for your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!