Knowing what size the litter box your cat will need can prove to be a challenge sometimes. Cats need to have a litter box that will accommodate their size and personal needs. Otherwise, they may choose to use the bathroom in spaces outside of their litter box.
This can cause health problems for you, your cat, and your family. One problem that many cats face is that their litter box is too small for them. In many cases, it is safest to have a bigger litter box in your home. Here are a few ways to determine whether or not your cat needs a bigger litter box.
How to tell if your cat needs a bigger litter box
Larger cats
Some cats are overweight and some cats are naturally bigger than other breeds. It is a proven fact that bigger cats need bigger litter boxes. Bigger litter boxes will accommodate their size and help them stay comfortable while using it. If the litter box is too small for them, they will feel cramped and uncomfortable. This will lead to them avoiding their litter box entirely in favor of wider, more open spaces.
An obese cat will usually weigh at least 20% more than the weight recommended by most veterinarians. Naturally larger cats can weigh anywhere between 12 and 20 pounds. It is safer to go ahead and opt for a bigger litter box so they can have enough room to feel comfortable. Perhaps taking the lid off of an enclosed litter box will also help them feel better about how much space they have.
Vulnerability
It is a proven fact that cats do not like feeling vulnerable. Smaller litter boxes will cause them great stress from feeling trapped, which will keep them from using it correctly. Your cat will feel the most vulnerable when they are using the bathroom. If they get interrupted by a loud noise or the presence of someone else, they will be startled away from their litter box. They may begin to associate danger with their litter box. If that happens, they may go out of their way to use the bathroom where they feel the most secluded.
Small litter boxes will also cause them to feel more claustrophobic. They will feel trapped within their own space and become wary of going near it. They also have a tendency to run once they have defected. This is because of an instinct that allows them to quickly run away from predators in the wild. If your cat does not feel as though they have enough space to run away, they might avoid going to their litter box in the first place. A larger litter box can help them resolve this issue. See more about litter boxes you can use for your adorable messy cats.
Health Problems
Your cat could be dealing with some underlying health problems that you may not notice. They could be avoiding their litter box because it does not do them any good for what they are suffering with. Alternatively, the litter box may need to be cleaned or you may need to change the litter entirely. The litter box could potentially become a health hazard to your pets and family if they are not properly maintained. Due to the unfit litter box, your cat will surely mess around the home resulting in excessive work for you to do. Cleaning your cat litter is really not what you want to do every day. Also, not every vacuum cleaner is best for litter cleaning. But there are few vacuum cleaners for pet households that you can check out online.
Always be sure to take your cat to the vet if you notice your cat behaving differently or seeming ill. There are some special litter brands that can detect certain health issues within cats by the color of their urine. It may be a sign to take them to the vet immediately if that litter indicates that there is a problem. If your cat is dealing with a health problem, you will need a litter box that will be easy for them to use without causing them discomfort.
Bigger litter boxes are the safe solution
It is the safest option to choose to have a bigger litter box for your home. This will be especially true if you have a bigger cat or multiple cats in one household. Having a bigger litter box will be a way of encouraging your cats to practice proper bathroom behavior. Cats feel comfortable if they have enough space to move comfortably and do not feel confined. Instead of opting for standard litter boxes, you can get creative and get a bin. Make sure the bin is big enough to make a huge litter box out of. That will definitely ensure that your cat has enough space to use the bathroom in peace.
Conclusion
Bigger litter boxes will benefit the health of your cats and your entire family. Switching to a bigger litter box is the safest option to begin with. This is especially true if your cat has to be accommodated for their size and health factors.
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