Senior cat bladder issues: How many litter boxes do we need?

I would try a large litter box. Some cats, especially males, need a large space in order to not accidently drip on the outside of the box. You may also try the option of a covered box. Some cats don't like those so I would still leave out the uncovered boxes. You could also get some of the urinary pads like puppy pads or geriatric human bed pads to put under the pans to make clean up easier. Finally, I would make sure you have enough boxes in general. The typical rule of thumb is a litterbox per cat plus one extra. I know with 6 cats, that can be a lot so however many you can put throughout your house, the better. I hope this helps!

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Dusty. I recommend that he sees his veterinarian to ensure that he does not have a medical problem. If he is healthy, then it is more likely a behavioral issue. Yes, I recommend scooping his box daily. You should one litter box per cat plus one. So that means two boxes for one or three boxes if you have two cats. Most cats prefer large litter boxes and ones that are uncovered. I hope this information helps!

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Tobei. First, it is a good idea for him to see his veterinarian to determine there is not a medical cause contributing to his condition. For example, a disease that will increase his thirst will make him urinate more and this can lead to going out of th box. If he does not have an underlying disease, then it is a behavioral problem. In this case, you need a minimum of one litterbox for every cat in the house plus one. Most cats prefer uncovered boxes. The boxes need to be in safe locations away from loud noises such as appliances. Older cats are prone to arthritis and it can be difficult to get in and out of the litterbox. In this case using the lid to a large Sterilite storage container is an option. The very low lip may make it easier for him to access it. I hope this information helps!

Behaviorists recommend as many litter boxes as you have cats plus one. However I have 5 cats and three litter boxes and that works as well. I suggest you go to a big department store and get two plastic storage boxes (the see-through ones), (approx 12 inches high). Use clumping litter and preferably clean out the poop and the clumps every day. If this is not enough, add a third box. I suppose it is trial and error at the end of the day.

Ther are no health problems, however you may find that they are happier to have more than one litter box available to use especially as the little one grows into an adult cat. I would still give them the option of having a second litter tray available to use, so it willl be easier to make sure one of them at least is always clean and ready to use if needed.

Where are the litter boxes located? Can you create a safe space for Bubba by putting a secluded litter box in an area just for him. Good job on the number of litter boxes, that’s perfect. I would experiment with a new location. And try feliway a pheromone spray or defused to help him feel secure.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! There are a few things you can try here. It may be that Kasey does not like the litter in her litter box as much for urination so you may change that to a different litter material/type. Another thing you can do is use a product called Feliway which can help resolve some of these issues if they are behavioral in nature. You may find that online. It has been going on for so long that I think a medical issue is less likely. Good luck and have a great day!