Problem Solving & Advice by Pam Johnson-Bennett Cat Behavior Expert & Best-selling Author
In print and TV advertisements we’re bombarded by countless manufacturers claiming their products can reduce or eliminate litter box odors. Everyone claims to have the latest and greatest product to end the dreaded stinky litter box. Whether it’s something you sprinkle into the litter, spray in the box, or plug in, companies are working overtime to limit the odor associated with what comes out of kitty’s rear end. You’ll also find countless litter box configurations designed to self-clean. There are boxes that rake the litter, wash the litter, or have non-absorbing pellets that cause urine to pass through onto the pad below. The only thing these boxes don’t seem to be able to do is walk the bag of soiled litter out to the curbside trash for you.
The Litter Box Set-Up Should be Simple
I work with cat parents on a daily basis who have cats with litter box issues. The more I see the process get complicated, the worse it gets for the cat. The most effective way to control litter box odor is to scoop the box at least twice a day and thoroughly scrub the box clean on a regular basis. Your cat wants to step into a box that’s large enough to comfortably accommodate, feel an appealing litter texture, easily find enough clean space in the box to take care of personal business, cover the waste and then exit the box to continue on with the day. Many of the self-cleaning boxes aren’t large enough for the average cat (the box itself is large to house the motor but the litter surface area isn’t large), the noise is bothersome, or the rakes can get trapped in diarrhea clumps. In the case of the self-washing litter box there’s the added risk of having the cat in the box during the “wash cycle.” That’s a behavior problem waiting to happen.
Highly scented litters, additives, or plug-in fresheners only contribute to having cat parents get fooled into thinking the litter box is clean. The less cat parents pay attention to the litter box, the less it will get cleaned and ultimately, the less kitty will want to use it.
Here are the basics on litter box odor control:
- Get a box that’s the correct size for your cat (1 1/2 times the length of your cat)
- Make sure the box is uncovered
- Put it in a location that is convenient for the cat
- Scoop out the waste at least twice a day
- Thoroughly scrub the box regularly
- Keep the litter level consistent
- In multicat homes have the same number of boxes as you have cats plus an extra
That’s effective odor control!
Need More Information?
For more information on cat behavior and training, or to learn more about litter box issues, check out the best-selling books by Pam Johnson-Bennett. Pam’s books are available at bookstores and online. We’ve included Amazon links here on our website.
If you have a question regarding your cat’s health, please contact your veterinarian. This article is not intended as a replacement for your cat’s veterinary care.
