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How can I stop inappropriate urination AND pooping? I’ve recently taken in a stray cat, she did have tapeworm so I thought that was the reason. She’s been cleared of it for weeks now and still will not stop pooping in our hallway and peeing on the laundry room floor. I’ve tried deterring her. She will poop on the hallway carpet anyway. Would getting a Feliway diffuser help?

How can I stop inappropriate urination AND pooping? I’ve recently taken in a stray cat, she did have tapeworm so I thought that was the reason. She’s been cleared of it for weeks now and still will not stop pooping in our hallway and peeing on the laundry room floor. I’ve tried deterring her. She will poop on the hallway carpet anyway. Would getting a Feliway diffuser help?

Updated On April 26th, 2020

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

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Cats will urinate outside the box for many reasons. Here is a good article to explain the different reasons: https://www.petcoach.co/article/the-top-5-reasons-your-cat-is-avoiding-her-litter-box-and-what-to/ The first thing you need to do is have your kitty checked for a bladder infection or other urine abnormality. There may be a medical cause for the behavior. Constipation or a painful bowel movement is a common cause. You should also bring in a fresh stool sample so the doctor can check for other parasites as well as moisture/consistency. Increasing the amount of fiber in the diet can often help as can feeding a canned food with additional water added. There is also a special prescription diet made by Royal Canin called Fiber Response that many cats respond well to. If the veterinarian thinks this is behavioral, there are a few factors to adjust. Cats are sensitive to the type of litter, size of the box and location of the box. If you have more cats, you need 1 litter box per cat + 1 additional box. You should also have a litter box on every floor of the house. This article discusses different types of litter and litter boxes: https://www.petcoach.co/article/cat-litter-finding-the-right-fit-for-your-cat/ In general though, cats prefer large, uncovered litter boxes, clay-based clumping litter that is scoped every day and a private, quiet location. If you have other cats or dogs, if they can access the litter box, it may cause your kitty to be afraid that she could be trapped in the box. Cats are a prey species in the wild and they still retain those instincts. Clean the soiled areas with a good enzymatic cleanser. This will to get rid of any smells. There are things you can do at home to help to keep her relaxed and that may help to ensure good litter box habits. Here is a great article about cat's instinctual needs: https://www.petcoach.co/article/why-every-cat-needs-a-place-to-climb/ Use a Feliway diffuser, set aside 30 minutes a day for vigorous play and/or switch the food to Royal Canin Calm. Most cats response best to combination therapy. The veterinarian can also prescribe medications which can help with house soiling. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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