Excellent video. My favorite litter box to buy is a medium sized Home Depot cement/concrete mixing tub. It’s heavy duty and has a completely smooth flat bottom. The plastic doesn’t seem to hold odor like other plastics. It’s also inexpensive at less than $8.
How wonderful! I made this because I couldn't find a single comprehensive feline litter box resource anywhere! The closest I could find was a twitter thread, and the vast majority of my vet clinic clients aren't aware of what research tells us we should be doing! So to me, it made sense that there was a great need. Feel free to let me know if you ever have a topic that you'd like me to cover in the future!
I think I’m going to start leaving a comment on this video every time I share the link with someone (usually someone asking about litter box issues in FB groups either about cats or cleaning, ha). Because I link it all the time and you deserve to get that engagement boost! 😂 Will also be interesting for me to track how often I actually link it, ha! (I also recommend folks join PVC and Animal Sense, and always any questions about unwanted house soiling are answered with “first, go see your vet!”)
Your comment has just made my day! Thank you for sharing my videos with your clients 💜 my goal is to have info to make our clinic work easier so that we don't have to spend so much time repeating the basic info over and over every single day! Plus, we know that a lot of what we say doesn't get remembered by the time the client gets home, so this way they can go over the info as often as they need!!! I also have a video on the medical work up to consider for house soiling, and just last week covered FIC. I hope those videos can also be helpful for you/your clients! If you ever have a topic you wish I would cover, don't hesitate to ask. I don't know a lot about how the almighty algorithm works, but every single piece of engagement makes a bit difference, so thank you for helping VMC reach more people! 🙌
@@VetMedCorner Bless you for thinking I have clients, ha! No, these are just random people in Facebook groups who are asking about their cats’ issues. It’s nice to have such an easily digestible resource to share with them!
I have frequently heard both 1) that litter boxes should be put in places of "social importance" and 2) that they should be put somewhere quiet. I have litter boxes in both types of areas and my cats always use the ones in more social areas far more frequently.
My cats also missed the memo on using their quiet area litters lol. They dgaf if people are running up and down the stairs, they use the one on landing 😂
We use wood pellets. My cats are all fine using them. I wanted to add though that prior to my current cats i had indoor-outdoor cats and their favorite outdoor litterboxes were mulch.. spiky, uncomfortable mulch! They also climb trees, walk along fences, and hungout in gravel yards. I dont think they mind the round pellets in the litter box 🤷♀️
As is noted, you need sandy textured litter for your cat's stepping and burying comfort, especially as they age and develop arthritis. You need to gradually change to an appropriate substrate!
To my amazement I seem to have got everything right! Phew! I admin a large discussion group for cat foster parents and I'm going to link this video there. As you can imagine, litter box issues feature frequently! I'll add in a couple of comments and a question if I may. For my clowder, our favoured boxes are high-sided, lowish entry as I have two cats with CH and they appreciate being able to lean against the sides for balance. The two most used ones are in a high traffic area of our main living space to make it as easy as possible for the wobblers to get there conveniently. If you have a litter flinger, I don't advise the lightweight litters (Lord knows what range my flinger could achieve with that....). Because of having cats who are likely to topple over in the box, I need a litter which clumps excellently and is dust free and the best I've found is Arm and Hammer Slide. Question - what do you think of litter robots? My personal opinion is that a cat's output is a window into its general health and I want to see exactly what they're producing - hence no robots.
As is noted in the video, robots are unacceptable. They aren't large enough, they often scare the cats, they frequently result in house soiling, and they don't remove the soiled litter away from the box so the box still smells dirty for the cat. Lastly, it removes the ability of the people to monitor size/frequency of urination and the size/frequency/quality of BMs. I hadn't thought about higher sides for cats with CH - that's a great way to problem solve! Thanks for sharing and welcome to VMC! ☺️
Good to know. I have one cat, but just one box in my den. I have another box and ill put it in my upstairs bathroom. I use Tidy Cat, World's Best Cat Litter, or Dr Elsey unscented.
Hi thank you for this information video! Does it matter what type of mat is used or I should say to avoid using when cats exit the litter box? I need something that will gather the remnants when they exit the boxes. Thank you again!
What an excellent question!!! I'm not aware of any specific research on the topic (although I obviously can't know about every single study, so if you find one, please let me know!). So when we don't have specific research, I will use related information to try make an appropriate, educated recommendation - and please take it as only that! I would test out any potential mats in a completely separate environment from the litter box to see if the cat will investigate and walk across it on their own. Using treats to help them investigate is great, so long as you aren't causing conflict in the cat (ie putting pressure on them to do something they are worried about). Once you find one that your cat(s) will walk across when it's in their environment, then you can consider moving it to the litter box area! As we know cats can have pretty sensitive feet when it comes to texture, I would trial things that feel soft/decent to your palm if you put some pressure on it. Something that's very hard or pointy may be less likely to be successful! I'm sorry I don't have a clear/direct answer for you, but hopes this helps a bit! 🐾
apologies for commenting on an older video, but i have a question after watching. i've struggled for about two years with one of my dogs eating from the litter box. i admittedly don't scoop every time that the cat voids; usually once or twice daily. to combat the dog problem, i purchased "furniture" that conceals the litter box. it's a three-sectioned cabinet with a center entrance for accessing two side cabinets at the back. my cat moves freely in and out & my large dog is blocked from accessing the litter box. there is also a motion-activated light so that my cat is not using his box in darkness. the side cabinet doors open to allow me to scoop easily. on occasion, the cat will open the cabinet door from the inside, which does give the dog litter access if the room is open (it's a cat only room via cat gate when humans are not home), but i feel better knowing that my dog isn't eating the clay, urine, or feces & that my cat can void without the dog hovering impatiently waiting to grab a snack afterwards. my cat seems to use the "hidden" litter box without issue. my question: was it a bad idea?
From this description, it's tough to know. The 'issue' with covering litter box locations are twofold. First, it will trap odour, which the cats tend to find off-putting as they tend to be fastidiously clean. As an analogy, I tend to think about how I don't want my bathroom to smell of urine or feces and how much I dislike it when it does smell. The second issue is that cats tend to prefer being able to watch the environment when they are vulnerable (ie eating, drinking, eliminating). That's why we should give them litter box locations that allow them to watch the environment while they eliminate as that helps them be comfortable in the box. When I have a situation where my dog wants to help themselves to a litter box I will tend to block off the rooms the boxes are in (use baby gates or cat flaps or something else that allows the cat in easily but keeps the dog out). In situations where that isn't possible, I would consider a tall sided clear large tote that doesn't have a lid on it, with cat entrances and exits cut into the sides as that would still allow for the cat to monitor the environment while they eliminate. ETA - never worry about commenting on an older video, that's totally fine! I may miss some of those comments due to the number of them, but if I see them I do try to reply where I can!
Great video! Thank you! Is there an opinion on the "height level" of the litter box? Meaning like can it be on a table or desk or other "human waist height" location? As long as it is quiet and private etc?
Hi! I watched this but did not catch what litter you recommend? I’m trouble shooting and trying to figure out why one of my cats is going outside of the box consistently. I’ve had her checked out at the vet and have her on methegel for stones and have treated her for uti but just cannot figure out why she’s still going on our floor. Also could our other 2 cats be causing her problems? They seem to get along but I’m just so confused. Thanks for your video and help!
We use a clumping cat litter made from grass seed. My cat who had issues with other litters LOVES the texture of the grass seed litter and it is also remarkably non-stinky! I’m not sure if it is containing the pee odor as it clumps or if it is neutralizing the odor, but it works extremely well. We buy the Kroger brand called Abound, it is a good price and the store often has coupons or sales. But it is often out of stock, so I’ve found another brand of grass seed litter sold at PetSmart - it costs more but comes in a bigger bag and works just as well!
What do you suggest for a cat the likes to roll like a flippin' chinchilla in the litter? I'm currently using a clay clumping litter and I was thinking to switch to pellets to discourage her from rolling but it sounds like pellets are a bad idea. Do you have another suggestion because it's gross and she smells like litter and she sleeps in bed with me...
Pellets are only a good idea if you want your cat to start house soiling. If you have appropriate litter box husbandry implemented then the boxes shouldn't have an odor. You also need to figure out why your cat does this. Do they have appropriate enrichment implemented? Enough resting places? Enough brain enrichment? Cat grass? Food puzzles? Toy rotation?
She did it starting as a kitten when I got her. She doesn't do it all the time just sometimes. I clean the boxes twice a day. Most of the smell is the scent bc I used to use Dr Elsy's but then it suddenly got really dusty when I bought a new batch of it. I tried again and again dusty so I had to switch to arm and hammer slide which is not at all dusty but I couldn't find it unsented. And I had tried many litters before that and they all ended up being dusty. I also really don't like the idea of throwing out so much clay litter not only bc of the expense but because of the waste and harm to the environment. I'd love to find something not dusty, not scented, not crazy expensive and more eco-friendly. It seemed like wood pellets checked all the boxes but it sounds like the cats won't like them. I'll keep on the hunt I guess. Thank you for your reply.
@@boudiicea hi! I have a kitty with cerebellar hypoplasia which means he wobbles and loses his balance easily so often ends up flopped over on his side in the litter box. I also prefer the most environmentally sustainable dust free unscented clumping litter with comfy texture - after much trial and error I’ve found my guy LOVES the grass seed based litters! It checks off all the boxes plus extremely effective odor control - I don’t know how simple grass seed controls the odor so well, but it really does! If you have a Kroger-owned grocery chain where you live, they sell their own generic store version under the label “Abound”. It runs $7.29 cents for an 8.5 lb bag at my local store and there is often a digital coupon or sale. Currently, there is a 20% off coupon. Only problem is that it seems to disappear off the shelves quickly. I’ve ordered it through VitaCost before, as they are owned by Kroger, but they don’t always have it available. In which case I purchase the ExquisiCat brand at Pet Smart which I am seeing listed at $20 for 14 lbs $37 for 28 lbs, and when ordering online even just for curbside pick up at PetSmart there are usually rewards points and often a sale or promo code. I’d say the price is well worth the effectiveness of the litter!
My cats shoot their pee much higher than the height of the sides of the box you’ve shown. This requires me to provide them with higher sides as well as a top. This must be quite common.
I have 3 of the electric litter boxes that my cats seem to love, and they are always in "clean" litter, but now I am worried about the size. I don't have any issues using outside the boxes. I do have several cats and they say 1 box is good for up to 4 cats. Any thoughts? I love your videos, very informative and your voice is very soothing!😊
The company selling those boxes lies to you. As the video states - the boxes need to be large enough and you need the number of different box locations to equal the number of cats plus 1, as the bare minimum.
Yes, put a brand new under the bed storage container with the appropriate litter substrate in it beside one of the current box set ups. Leave it for at least a week, and track (with pieces of paper on the wall by each box or however else you wanna do it) until you note the cat is using the new set up regularly. Then you can remove the old set up.
@@VetMedCornerwhat if they never start using the clay one? I use to have 2 pine pellets and 2 with clay. My cats would not even go in the clay ones so I stopped using it and we've used the pine pellets for the last 7 years
Was the clay unscented, sandy textured, clumping, scooped at least twice per day? Were the boxes large enough? No lids? In locations the cats preferred?
Thank you so much for watching and for your comment! Is it clumping and sandy textured? I would not rely on its reported colour changing as over time, at room temperature, urine pH can change. It's definitely not going to be diagnostic. I also don't know how the price compares to regular litter, and if it is more expensive I certainly wouldn't bother to pay for it. Monitoring your cat's urinary habits by scooping the litter morning and evening, plus doing the yearly bloodwork and urinalysis panels with your veterinarian is an excellent start. Also make sure to see your veterinarian if you note any changes to your cat's habits. I hope this helps!
I pet sit and I hate Pretty Litter. It does not clump so you are supposed to just stir the pee soaked litter around. It does not hide the pee smell. It's SO dusty! It's pretty... that's about it.
Not sure if you'll see this, but do you have any tips for cats with "elevator butt" (i.e. he starts squatting to pee but stands as he goes). He has done this his whole life so we have been using clear rubbermaid-like totes, but can't cut entrances into them as recommended because he will then pee out of said cut area.
The first thing would be to see your veterinarian as back/pelvis issues that cause either the inability to posture or pain when posturing need to be ruled out. This may involve x-rays and should involve a trial of pain management (because there are a lot of issues that can cause pain that don't show up on physical exam/x-rays). How fascinating that he will choose to eliminate out any holes that you cut... Does that possibly mean that he feels the box is not big enough? Are they easily 2.5 times the length of his body? Dr. Em
@@VetMedCorner thanks for the reply! He's 5 and has done it since he was little - given the all clear medically every visit. He won't always urinate out the entrance hole but due to the standing to urinate if he chooses a corner, it will splash out the entrance. For the last few years he has used just a tote he jumps into with no issues, but am always looking for other ideas to do better! He does squat to defecate.
As noted above, a trial of pain meds would still be the standard of care to rule out pain (whether cystitis or orthopedic or neurologic etc). And then trialing a larger box with holes cut out would be a good idea as well. As he ages jumping in and out of something with tall walls will no longer be possible. Dr. Em
My new kitten seems to know how to use the litter and doesn’t have a problem with it, however she keeps peeing on my duvet. I have three litter boxes and another cat. When she is locked out of the bedroom she doesn’t pee anywhere else. Do you have any recommendations? I put her on the litter before bed but then she pees on the blanket the following morning
Do you have all of the rest of the necessary husbandry implemented? Did you put a litter box location right beside the bed so it's very close when she wakes up?
This is fantastic information thank you! Might I ask about enzymatic cleaners? Does it need to be geared towards cats specifically? I have the Amazon brand enzyme cleaner for any accidents that may happen (luckily they never do) and I normally just use dawn to wipe down the sides. Would it be safe and effective to use a general enzyme cleaner for this?
Welcome to VMC! I'm so glad you found the video! So long as the cleaner does work enzymatically it would hopefully be successful when used to wipe down the walls of the box between the full cleanings! I do use the unscented Anti Icky Poo because most other options I've found have had scents... Since scents can be offensive to our sensitive nosed cats I avoid using them, especially for things that they need to use often!
@@VetMedCorner thank you so much for the quick reply! It doesn't say unscented or otherwise but I will definitely check that before I use it and get the Anti Icky Poo (it really is an awful name). I appreciate you!
If the one you have is unscented it's likely great! It's impossible for me to keep up with all the options out there, so I just give you the information you need to find an appropriate product. If you do end up finding another wonderful option, feel free to let me know what it is!
what is your opinion on paper pellet litter? it’s like wood pellet litter, but much softer. i have one of those litter systems that has a pee pad that collects urine at the bottom through a grate and i scoop out poo on the top (if you’re having trouble imagining, google breeze litter box system, it looks like that). what’s your opinion on that?
The pellets often cause foot/joint pain and are not recommended for regular use for that reason. As you'll see in the video, you need unscented, sandy textured, clumping litter to scoop every morning and evening. Adding a new box that is set up as is best practice beside a box with the current set up is the best way to start transitioning your cat over. Take care!
This is a great video. My problem is this, I have a new kitten, 3 days he's been with me. I keep the litter box in my bathroom, he is urinating in it just fine but he's pooped in my room twice now. I never had this problem with my previous cat. Might he be trying to tell me something? I have no idea where I can keep a 2nd litter box.
Welcome! As the video notes, you will need to add a second box in a different room. Enjoy getting to know your new cat! I don't know if you already saw the video about feline enrichment and husbandry needs, but you might also find that helpful with your new addition! All the best!
What do you think about corn-based litters like Worlds Best or chicken feed? I've heard of health issues with wheat litter but not sure of the corn. Is clay safer?
This is an excellent question! The research I am aware of did not include corn litters. Does it have the characteristics discussed in the video (sand texture, clumping, unscented...)? I have not personally used a corn based litter in my home because I fear my cat would be tempted to eat it! I also wonder about if mold formation would be possible when corn comes into contact with moisture... However, as noted above, I do not have any research on this, so talk with your local veterinarian about what you should consider with your cat(s)! Thank you for your comment!
My cat doesnt like to bury her poo so she scratches the walls of the litter box. I didnt have a lid on it for a long time and she scratched up the drywall. How do i stop this then if i shouldn't have a lid?!
As the video discusses, there are taller sided clear containers that can be used as well so long as they are large enough and you cut more than one entrance/exit hole so a cat isn't ever trapped in the box without another escape option
Cats have the need to watch the environment as they use their box. When the sides are opaque they are unable to do so which makes them less likely to use the box. This is just like why all water dishes/cat grass/food puzzles etc must be kept away from the wall so the cat can be between the wall and the resource, allowing them to feel safer.
ok.. I have to call BS on the unscented litter.. I tried this with BOTH of my cats and they LOATHE the unscented litter.. they would not EVEN use the box..
There's a few possibilities here: it's something with the rest of the husbandry that's lacking (ie not scooping often enough, not having enough litter box locations etc) or the texture while stepping on the unscented was not preferred by them... or the depth of the litter was incorrect for them... Cats also take time to get used to changes so a new box location can take time for a cat to start using.
@@VetMedCorner yea nah... that wasn't it.. I've tried to switch to the non scented equivalent multiple times - provided two boxes etc etc... I know it's weird.. but sometimes .. yes.. cats DO have a preference..
Excellent video. My favorite litter box to buy is a medium sized Home Depot cement/concrete mixing tub. It’s heavy duty and has a completely smooth flat bottom. The plastic doesn’t seem to hold odor like other plastics. It’s also inexpensive at less than $8.
That's an excellent idea - thank you so very much for this comment! 🙌
I love your way to explain things
Thank you - that means a lot 🥰
Thank you for taking the time to create this. Will be making a few changes to keep my guy happy!
How wonderful! I made this because I couldn't find a single comprehensive feline litter box resource anywhere! The closest I could find was a twitter thread, and the vast majority of my vet clinic clients aren't aware of what research tells us we should be doing! So to me, it made sense that there was a great need.
Feel free to let me know if you ever have a topic that you'd like me to cover in the future!
I think I’m going to start leaving a comment on this video every time I share the link with someone (usually someone asking about litter box issues in FB groups either about cats or cleaning, ha). Because I link it all the time and you deserve to get that engagement boost! 😂 Will also be interesting for me to track how often I actually link it, ha! (I also recommend folks join PVC and Animal Sense, and always any questions about unwanted house soiling are answered with “first, go see your vet!”)
Your comment has just made my day! Thank you for sharing my videos with your clients 💜 my goal is to have info to make our clinic work easier so that we don't have to spend so much time repeating the basic info over and over every single day! Plus, we know that a lot of what we say doesn't get remembered by the time the client gets home, so this way they can go over the info as often as they need!!!
I also have a video on the medical work up to consider for house soiling, and just last week covered FIC. I hope those videos can also be helpful for you/your clients!
If you ever have a topic you wish I would cover, don't hesitate to ask. I don't know a lot about how the almighty algorithm works, but every single piece of engagement makes a bit difference, so thank you for helping VMC reach more people! 🙌
@@VetMedCorner Bless you for thinking I have clients, ha! No, these are just random people in Facebook groups who are asking about their cats’ issues. It’s nice to have such an easily digestible resource to share with them!
I have frequently heard both 1) that litter boxes should be put in places of "social importance" and 2) that they should be put somewhere quiet. I have litter boxes in both types of areas and my cats always use the ones in more social areas far more frequently.
My cats also missed the memo on using their quiet area litters lol. They dgaf if people are running up and down the stairs, they use the one on landing 😂
This is a fantastic and thorough explanation of how to care for cat litter boxes! Nicely done!
Thank you!
Thank you for the info !!! I really learned a lot
I'm so glad the video was helpful! ☺️
We use wood pellets. My cats are all fine using them. I wanted to add though that prior to my current cats i had indoor-outdoor cats and their favorite outdoor litterboxes were mulch.. spiky, uncomfortable mulch! They also climb trees, walk along fences, and hungout in gravel yards. I dont think they mind the round pellets in the litter box 🤷♀️
As is noted, you need sandy textured litter for your cat's stepping and burying comfort, especially as they age and develop arthritis. You need to gradually change to an appropriate substrate!
To my amazement I seem to have got everything right! Phew! I admin a large discussion group for cat foster parents and I'm going to link this video there. As you can imagine, litter box issues feature frequently! I'll add in a couple of comments and a question if I may. For my clowder, our favoured boxes are high-sided, lowish entry as I have two cats with CH and they appreciate being able to lean against the sides for balance. The two most used ones are in a high traffic area of our main living space to make it as easy as possible for the wobblers to get there conveniently. If you have a litter flinger, I don't advise the lightweight litters (Lord knows what range my flinger could achieve with that....). Because of having cats who are likely to topple over in the box, I need a litter which clumps excellently and is dust free and the best I've found is Arm and Hammer Slide. Question - what do you think of litter robots? My personal opinion is that a cat's output is a window into its general health and I want to see exactly what they're producing - hence no robots.
As is noted in the video, robots are unacceptable. They aren't large enough, they often scare the cats, they frequently result in house soiling, and they don't remove the soiled litter away from the box so the box still smells dirty for the cat.
Lastly, it removes the ability of the people to monitor size/frequency of urination and the size/frequency/quality of BMs.
I hadn't thought about higher sides for cats with CH - that's a great way to problem solve!
Thanks for sharing and welcome to VMC! ☺️
Good to know. I have one cat, but just one box in my den. I have another box and ill put it in my upstairs bathroom.
I use Tidy Cat, World's Best Cat Litter, or Dr Elsey unscented.
Hi thank you for this information video! Does it matter what type of mat is used or I should say to avoid using when cats exit the litter box? I need something that will gather the remnants when they exit the boxes. Thank you again!
What an excellent question!!! I'm not aware of any specific research on the topic (although I obviously can't know about every single study, so if you find one, please let me know!).
So when we don't have specific research, I will use related information to try make an appropriate, educated recommendation - and please take it as only that!
I would test out any potential mats in a completely separate environment from the litter box to see if the cat will investigate and walk across it on their own. Using treats to help them investigate is great, so long as you aren't causing conflict in the cat (ie putting pressure on them to do something they are worried about).
Once you find one that your cat(s) will walk across when it's in their environment, then you can consider moving it to the litter box area!
As we know cats can have pretty sensitive feet when it comes to texture, I would trial things that feel soft/decent to your palm if you put some pressure on it. Something that's very hard or pointy may be less likely to be successful!
I'm sorry I don't have a clear/direct answer for you, but hopes this helps a bit! 🐾
apologies for commenting on an older video, but i have a question after watching. i've struggled for about two years with one of my dogs eating from the litter box. i admittedly don't scoop every time that the cat voids; usually once or twice daily. to combat the dog problem, i purchased "furniture" that conceals the litter box. it's a three-sectioned cabinet with a center entrance for accessing two side cabinets at the back. my cat moves freely in and out & my large dog is blocked from accessing the litter box. there is also a motion-activated light so that my cat is not using his box in darkness. the side cabinet doors open to allow me to scoop easily. on occasion, the cat will open the cabinet door from the inside, which does give the dog litter access if the room is open (it's a cat only room via cat gate when humans are not home), but i feel better knowing that my dog isn't eating the clay, urine, or feces & that my cat can void without the dog hovering impatiently waiting to grab a snack afterwards. my cat seems to use the "hidden" litter box without issue. my question: was it a bad idea?
From this description, it's tough to know. The 'issue' with covering litter box locations are twofold. First, it will trap odour, which the cats tend to find off-putting as they tend to be fastidiously clean. As an analogy, I tend to think about how I don't want my bathroom to smell of urine or feces and how much I dislike it when it does smell.
The second issue is that cats tend to prefer being able to watch the environment when they are vulnerable (ie eating, drinking, eliminating). That's why we should give them litter box locations that allow them to watch the environment while they eliminate as that helps them be comfortable in the box.
When I have a situation where my dog wants to help themselves to a litter box I will tend to block off the rooms the boxes are in (use baby gates or cat flaps or something else that allows the cat in easily but keeps the dog out). In situations where that isn't possible, I would consider a tall sided clear large tote that doesn't have a lid on it, with cat entrances and exits cut into the sides as that would still allow for the cat to monitor the environment while they eliminate.
ETA - never worry about commenting on an older video, that's totally fine! I may miss some of those comments due to the number of them, but if I see them I do try to reply where I can!
@@VetMedCorner thank you for the thoughtful response 🙂
Great video! Thank you! Is there an opinion on the "height level" of the litter box? Meaning like can it be on a table or desk or other "human waist height" location? As long as it is quiet and private etc?
I'm not aware of any research on this. The litter box locations have always been on the floor.
Hi! I watched this but did not catch what litter you recommend? I’m trouble shooting and trying to figure out why one of my cats is going outside of the box consistently. I’ve had her checked out at the vet and have her on methegel for stones and have treated her for uti but just cannot figure out why she’s still going on our floor. Also could our other 2 cats be causing her problems? They seem to get along but I’m just so confused. Thanks for your video and help!
Any sandy textured, clumping, unscented litter is great!
She stated Dr. Elsey’s cat litter but note the disclaimer in the video. I personally use Worlds Best Cat litter, the least dusty.
We use a clumping cat litter made from grass seed. My cat who had issues with other litters LOVES the texture of the grass seed litter and it is also remarkably non-stinky! I’m not sure if it is containing the pee odor as it clumps or if it is neutralizing the odor, but it works extremely well. We buy the Kroger brand called Abound, it is a good price and the store often has coupons or sales. But it is often out of stock, so I’ve found another brand of grass seed litter sold at PetSmart - it costs more but comes in a bigger bag and works just as well!
What do you suggest for a cat the likes to roll like a flippin' chinchilla in the litter? I'm currently using a clay clumping litter and I was thinking to switch to pellets to discourage her from rolling but it sounds like pellets are a bad idea. Do you have another suggestion because it's gross and she smells like litter and she sleeps in bed with me...
Pellets are only a good idea if you want your cat to start house soiling.
If you have appropriate litter box husbandry implemented then the boxes shouldn't have an odor. You also need to figure out why your cat does this. Do they have appropriate enrichment implemented? Enough resting places? Enough brain enrichment? Cat grass? Food puzzles? Toy rotation?
She did it starting as a kitten when I got her. She doesn't do it all the time just sometimes.
I clean the boxes twice a day. Most of the smell is the scent bc I used to use Dr Elsy's but then it suddenly got really dusty when I bought a new batch of it. I tried again and again dusty so I had to switch to arm and hammer slide which is not at all dusty but I couldn't find it unsented. And I had tried many litters before that and they all ended up being dusty.
I also really don't like the idea of throwing out so much clay litter not only bc of the expense but because of the waste and harm to the environment.
I'd love to find something not dusty, not scented, not crazy expensive and more eco-friendly. It seemed like wood pellets checked all the boxes but it sounds like the cats won't like them. I'll keep on the hunt I guess. Thank you for your reply.
@@boudiicea hi! I have a kitty with cerebellar hypoplasia which means he wobbles and loses his balance easily so often ends up flopped over on his side in the litter box. I also prefer the most environmentally sustainable dust free unscented clumping litter with comfy texture - after much trial and error I’ve found my guy LOVES the grass seed based litters! It checks off all the boxes plus extremely effective odor control - I don’t know how simple grass seed controls the odor so well, but it really does! If you have a Kroger-owned grocery chain where you live, they sell their own generic store version under the label “Abound”. It runs $7.29 cents for an 8.5 lb bag at my local store and there is often a digital coupon or sale. Currently, there is a 20% off coupon. Only problem is that it seems to disappear off the shelves quickly. I’ve ordered it through VitaCost before, as they are owned by Kroger, but they don’t always have it available. In which case I purchase the ExquisiCat brand at Pet Smart which I am seeing listed at $20 for 14 lbs $37 for 28 lbs, and when ordering online even just for curbside pick up at PetSmart there are usually rewards points and often a sale or promo code.
I’d say the price is well worth the effectiveness of the litter!
My cats shoot their pee much higher than the height of the sides of the box you’ve shown. This requires me to provide them with higher sides as well as a top. This must be quite common.
As the video discusses, there are high walled tote options for those scenarios...
I have 3 of the electric litter boxes that my cats seem to love, and they are always in "clean" litter, but now I am worried about the size. I don't have any issues using outside the boxes. I do have several cats and they say 1 box is good for up to 4 cats. Any thoughts? I love your videos, very informative and your voice is very soothing!😊
The company selling those boxes lies to you. As the video states - the boxes need to be large enough and you need the number of different box locations to equal the number of cats plus 1, as the bare minimum.
Are there any recommendations on how to change from one brand/type of litter to another?
Yes, put a brand new under the bed storage container with the appropriate litter substrate in it beside one of the current box set ups.
Leave it for at least a week, and track (with pieces of paper on the wall by each box or however else you wanna do it) until you note the cat is using the new set up regularly. Then you can remove the old set up.
@@VetMedCornerwhat if they never start using the clay one? I use to have 2 pine pellets and 2 with clay. My cats would not even go in the clay ones so I stopped using it and we've used the pine pellets for the last 7 years
Was the clay unscented, sandy textured, clumping, scooped at least twice per day? Were the boxes large enough? No lids? In locations the cats preferred?
What’s your opinion on Pretty Litter?
Thank you so much for watching and for your comment!
Is it clumping and sandy textured?
I would not rely on its reported colour changing as over time, at room temperature, urine pH can change. It's definitely not going to be diagnostic.
I also don't know how the price compares to regular litter, and if it is more expensive I certainly wouldn't bother to pay for it. Monitoring your cat's urinary habits by scooping the litter morning and evening, plus doing the yearly bloodwork and urinalysis panels with your veterinarian is an excellent start. Also make sure to see your veterinarian if you note any changes to your cat's habits.
I hope this helps!
I was just wondering the same thing… Pretty Litter
I pet sit and I hate Pretty Litter. It does not clump so you are supposed to just stir the pee soaked litter around. It does not hide the pee smell. It's SO dusty! It's pretty... that's about it.
@@VetMedCorner It's very expensive.
Not sure if you'll see this, but do you have any tips for cats with "elevator butt" (i.e. he starts squatting to pee but stands as he goes). He has done this his whole life so we have been using clear rubbermaid-like totes, but can't cut entrances into them as recommended because he will then pee out of said cut area.
The first thing would be to see your veterinarian as back/pelvis issues that cause either the inability to posture or pain when posturing need to be ruled out. This may involve x-rays and should involve a trial of pain management (because there are a lot of issues that can cause pain that don't show up on physical exam/x-rays).
How fascinating that he will choose to eliminate out any holes that you cut... Does that possibly mean that he feels the box is not big enough? Are they easily 2.5 times the length of his body?
Dr. Em
@@VetMedCorner thanks for the reply! He's 5 and has done it since he was little - given the all clear medically every visit. He won't always urinate out the entrance hole but due to the standing to urinate if he chooses a corner, it will splash out the entrance. For the last few years he has used just a tote he jumps into with no issues, but am always looking for other ideas to do better! He does squat to defecate.
As noted above, a trial of pain meds would still be the standard of care to rule out pain (whether cystitis or orthopedic or neurologic etc).
And then trialing a larger box with holes cut out would be a good idea as well. As he ages jumping in and out of something with tall walls will no longer be possible.
Dr. Em
Thanks, I'll mention it to my vet. She is aware of his issue and hasn't mentioned doing any pain meds
My new kitten seems to know how to use the litter and doesn’t have a problem with it, however she keeps peeing on my duvet. I have three litter boxes and another cat. When she is locked out of the bedroom she doesn’t pee anywhere else. Do you have any recommendations? I put her on the litter before bed but then she pees on the blanket the following morning
Do you have all of the rest of the necessary husbandry implemented? Did you put a litter box location right beside the bed so it's very close when she wakes up?
This is fantastic information thank you! Might I ask about enzymatic cleaners? Does it need to be geared towards cats specifically? I have the Amazon brand enzyme cleaner for any accidents that may happen (luckily they never do) and I normally just use dawn to wipe down the sides. Would it be safe and effective to use a general enzyme cleaner for this?
Welcome to VMC! I'm so glad you found the video!
So long as the cleaner does work enzymatically it would hopefully be successful when used to wipe down the walls of the box between the full cleanings!
I do use the unscented Anti Icky Poo because most other options I've found have had scents... Since scents can be offensive to our sensitive nosed cats I avoid using them, especially for things that they need to use often!
@@VetMedCorner thank you so much for the quick reply! It doesn't say unscented or otherwise but I will definitely check that before I use it and get the Anti Icky Poo (it really is an awful name). I appreciate you!
If the one you have is unscented it's likely great! It's impossible for me to keep up with all the options out there, so I just give you the information you need to find an appropriate product. If you do end up finding another wonderful option, feel free to let me know what it is!
what is your opinion on paper pellet litter? it’s like wood pellet litter, but much softer. i have one of those litter systems that has a pee pad that collects urine at the bottom through a grate and i scoop out poo on the top (if you’re having trouble imagining, google breeze litter box system, it looks like that). what’s your opinion on that?
The pellets often cause foot/joint pain and are not recommended for regular use for that reason. As you'll see in the video, you need unscented, sandy textured, clumping litter to scoop every morning and evening.
Adding a new box that is set up as is best practice beside a box with the current set up is the best way to start transitioning your cat over.
Take care!
This is a great video. My problem is this, I have a new kitten, 3 days he's been with me. I keep the litter box in my bathroom, he is urinating in it just fine but he's pooped in my room twice now. I never had this problem with my previous cat. Might he be trying to tell me something? I have no idea where I can keep a 2nd litter box.
Welcome! As the video notes, you will need to add a second box in a different room. Enjoy getting to know your new cat!
I don't know if you already saw the video about feline enrichment and husbandry needs, but you might also find that helpful with your new addition!
All the best!
What do you think about corn-based litters like Worlds Best or chicken feed? I've heard of health issues with wheat litter but not sure of the corn. Is clay safer?
This is an excellent question! The research I am aware of did not include corn litters. Does it have the characteristics discussed in the video (sand texture, clumping, unscented...)?
I have not personally used a corn based litter in my home because I fear my cat would be tempted to eat it! I also wonder about if mold formation would be possible when corn comes into contact with moisture...
However, as noted above, I do not have any research on this, so talk with your local veterinarian about what you should consider with your cat(s)!
Thank you for your comment!
@@VetMedCorner corn does mold if you live in a humid climate like the Deep South
My cat doesnt like to bury her poo so she scratches the walls of the litter box. I didnt have a lid on it for a long time and she scratched up the drywall. How do i stop this then if i shouldn't have a lid?!
As the video discusses, there are taller sided clear containers that can be used as well so long as they are large enough and you cut more than one entrance/exit hole so a cat isn't ever trapped in the box without another escape option
Why should a storage box be clear?
Cats have the need to watch the environment as they use their box. When the sides are opaque they are unable to do so which makes them less likely to use the box.
This is just like why all water dishes/cat grass/food puzzles etc must be kept away from the wall so the cat can be between the wall and the resource, allowing them to feel safer.
@@VetMedCorner Thank you!
It's a good question! You're welcome! ☺️
ok.. I have to call BS on the unscented litter.. I tried this with BOTH of my cats and they LOATHE the unscented litter.. they would not EVEN use the box..
There's a few possibilities here: it's something with the rest of the husbandry that's lacking (ie not scooping often enough, not having enough litter box locations etc) or the texture while stepping on the unscented was not preferred by them... or the depth of the litter was incorrect for them...
Cats also take time to get used to changes so a new box location can take time for a cat to start using.
@@VetMedCorner yea nah... that wasn't it.. I've tried to switch to the non scented equivalent multiple times - provided two boxes etc etc... I know it's weird.. but sometimes .. yes.. cats DO have a preference..
For 2 cats you should have, as the bare minimum, 3 separate litter box locations