A question we all want to know the answer to. However, you’d be surprised that there are more solutions to this problem than you’d think.
But just like with any other problem, you must be sure about what’s causing it. Once you determine the source of this behavior and where all this mess comes from, you can act on it.
Until then, don’t make any assumptions and decisions on your own. Sometimes, your cat peeing over the edge of the litter box could be of medical nature.
Other times, it could have something to do with her behavior issues. Therefore, take some time to observe your feline so you can exclude some of the above-mentioned reasons.
1. Do your task
First and foremost, you have to make sure that your pet’s completely comfortable. What I mean is that you have to provide your feline with the necessary equipment, such as a suitable litter box.
If you have more than one cat, it’s possible she’s peeing over the edge because of that. Therefore, don’t be a cheapskate and buy another litter box so you don’t have to clean up that mess every day.
After all, it will make your pets happiest and eventually, bring peace to the house. Other than that, take your feline’s size into consideration.
Maybe you bought that bathroom when she was just a kitten and it fit her perfectly. However, she had a bit of a growth spurt and she doesn’t fit anymore. I know litter boxes are usually big enough for every pet but who knows, maybe you have one of those breeds they call gentle giants.
In that case, grab a bigger litter box like this one from Lucky Champ and see if your feline likes it more. Even if you have a senior cat, this litter box should suit her needs since it has a low front wall for easy access.
Other than that, remember to choose the right place to put the bathroom. You wouldn’t want to go somewhere where it’s more public and there’s a lot of commotion going on, would you?
Well, neither does your cat. She needs privacy so she can relax and do her business. If she’s peeing over the edge of the litter box, your cat might be telling you it’s time to change the location.
If you believe that you’ve fulfilled all of her requirements, don’t be fooled because there’s more. As demanding as they are, felines will openly try to tell you when they don’t like something.
So, you might want to try and change the type of litter box your pet uses. I know it seems strange, but it’s a thing. Also, don’t let your fussy pet down, and make sure you clean the box regularly.
2. Spay/neuter
Perhaps you’ve recently brought another pet into your home and your first cat decided that it’s a no from her. Now I know where Simon Cowell gets his inspiration from.
Jokes aside, your feline might be showing her dislike towards the new animal in the house by peeing over the edge of her litter box. Other than that, she could urinate all over the place as well.
Usually, it’s the vertical things, such as the walls. Even though this behavior is more common in meals, it doesn’t mean females can’t get jealous or territorial.
Therefore, you should consider spaying or neutering your feline. Talk to your vet about when would be the right time for that because it depends on a lot of things, such as age and your pet’s condition.
If this isn’t an option or your feline’s been spayed already, try reintroducing the two animals. Take it slow and see how it goes.
3. Treat medical conditions
As for urinary illnesses, these are often characterized by frequent urination, excessive genital licking, and, in certain cases, blood in the urine.
If you’re suspicious that there’s something wrong with your pet’s urinary tract, take your cat to the doctor. A vet will be able to provide appropriate therapy, which should resolve your litter box issues.
Other than that, diabetes also causes cats to pee more often, although this is accompanied by increased thirst. Any cat suffering from hyperthyroidism may experience these symptoms, as well as an increase in hunger and weight loss.
Again, your veterinarian can prescribe a therapy that should result in improved litter box habits. If your cat suffers from arthritis, it could be a bummer as well.
Reduced mobility, such as your cat straining to climb stairs, as well as limping, are early indicators of arthritis. Also, you might notice that she isn’t as active as she used to be and she stopped grooming herself.
Once again, your veterinarian will be able to determine whether your cat has arthritis and provide pain medication. You should also seek a spacious litter box with a low entry point so that your cat may use it without aggravating her joint problems.
4. Be aware of injuries
If your cat’s health is top-notch, there might be a problem that was recently raised. For instance, your cat perhaps injured her paw pads which makes her pee over the edge of her litter box.
If you observe your cat hobbling, examine her paws and keep an eye out for any signs of damage. If a foreign item becomes lodged in her tiny foot, it may be extracted, and an ingrown claw can be cut.
You should also consult your veterinarian, who can prescribe pain relievers and medicine if the incision is infected. I know this is sometimes easier said than done because they can be such active and agile animals.
It’s hard to always keep an eye on them. Thankfully, there are some obvious indicators that there’s something wrong with your feline, such as peeing over the edge of the litter box.