My 10-year-old tabby has been missing the box lately. He's on unscented clay now, which I changed to because I heard it's better for seniors, but he's stepping on the bathroom rug next to it instead. I've cleaned the box twice this week. I'm looking for a low-entry box. What are you guys using?
Check why cats stop using boxes first. Might be the clay. It's heavy on the paws. My Puff has hairball issues so I keep her on soft stuff, but for a senior, the texture matters. Also, clay and arthritis is a real thing. The rug is probably soft and warm. Cats like that.
Oh no, the rug! That's a classic. I had a thread about cats peeing on rugs a while back. It's usually because the box is too high or the litter is too scratchy. Biscuit and Whiskers are 6 so they don't have the joint issues yet, but I've seen this with older cats. Try a covered box with a low ramp?
Actually, covered boxes can be problematic for seniors who have cognitive decline or arthritis. They can feel trapped. I recommend an open, low-entry box like the ones in low entry box recs. Also, consider the cleaning frequency. If you're only cleaning twice a week, that might be too long for a picky senior. cleaning frequency threads suggest daily scooping and weekly deep clean. The clay might be retaining scent too strongly even if unscented.
SparrowLantern is right about the cleaning. I'm busy with work. I'll start scooping daily. As for the box, I found a cheap plastic one at the hardware store. It's 2 inches high. Is that enough? Or do I need something specific? I don't want to spend $50 on a fancy one if a plastic tub works.
Plastic tub is fine. Cheap and durable. Just make sure the sides are low. My Dre is 8 and missing an ear, he's not the sharpest, but he likes a simple setup. If the rug is still an issue, move the box away from the rug. Or get a rug that is easy to wash. But first, rule out medical stuff. If he's straining, call the vet. See vet check for soiling for what to look for.
Also, if he's a ragdoll mix or has long hair, check hairball control to make sure he's not in pain from that, which can make them avoid the box. But yeah, the low entry is the main thing. Good luck!
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