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Litter Box
Article featured in City Kitty's May Newsletter

Litter Box The biggest reason cats are surrendered to shelters or given up to the streets is improper elimination. Read on to learn more......

• I get asked a lot about what type of litter to use for your cat. My favorite right now is Natural Pet (cracked pine). I do recommend bigger pieces for long haired cats, as the smaller pieces get stuck in their paws. Of course an all natural litter is important. Let's take a look at some interesting litter box facts.
• A healthy cat urinates twice a day and defecates once a day. Unwanted litterbox problems should be examined. First, have your vet eliminate any medical issues that might be causing this socially disruptive behavior. Is the litter box in a place that might be stressful such as next to a washing machine? Are you using a litter the cat does not like, or is not scooped out routinely?
• Some cats spray on walls and furniture as a a self-calming mechanism to cope with changes in the household or to mark their territory. Are there cats outside invading your cat's space? Urine spraying is not a form of spite but "Feline Graffiti". Anxious cats tend to spray anywhere they need assurance. Regular cleaning of litter boxes decreases urine spraying up to 50%. Provide enough boxes, one for each cat, and place in an area where there is room and the cat can use it without being disturbed. Thoroughly clean with a non-toxic cleanser at least twice a month. If a cat is spraying on a certain piece of furniture or a wall, put tinfoil on it until the behavior has stopped.
• There is also a product I have used called Ssscat, which is compressed air. It is motion controlled to keep your cat off and away from areas you don't want them to go. It is harmless and more of a positive approach than spraying the cat with water. It is available at Petsmart. When a cat gets punished for doing something that is natural for them, they only get hurt feelings and don't really understand why. Using your voice is never recommended to deter negative behavior in a cat. Putting coins in a can and shaking them when you see unwanted behavior is something a cat will remember, but again not using your voice. If you have a cat climbing on your dining table for instance, the compressed air can is great. It only takes once or twice and is harmless for the cat. Placing a nubby outdoor mat on a surface can work too. 

I hope this helps to have a more harmonious household.