The cat litter box is often seen is the preferable option in the eyes of human owners. We look at the mess of the open litter tray and, understandably, want to make sure that it is nicely hidden out of the way. This is especially true with apartment living where the litter tray has to be in a small living room. However, we cannot simply think of ourselves when choosing the best style of litter tray or litter box. The final choice must come down to the cat. Studies have shown that cats often choose to go to the toilet within an enclosed space rather than a tray, when there are the two options on offer. Why might this be the case, and are there any reasons why they might turn against them?
An enclosed space is an appealing option for many cats
The cat litter box is a great space for animals to go to the toilet with ease, away from prying eyes. It is their own secure space where they can defecate, spray, dig around in the litter and not face any consequences. We also know from their love of tight spaces (boxes, dens, e.t.c) that they like the security of enclosed areas – to the point where we sometimes wonder how it could be comfortable at all. Therefore there is something appealing to these boxes as a cat-friendly structure.
Is this true for all cats?
There will be some cat owners that read this and wonder why their own cat doesn’t want to go in the litter box they just bought for them. There are different factors that may be to blame here. First of all, you have to consider the fact that you may not have given them enough time to get used to this new box yet. They may come around to this strange contraption and enjoy using it with time. Other cats may turn against it if they feel that it doesn’t provide the comfortable, secure space that they need. We focus on this idea of privacy and security within a cat litter box, but this isn’t always guaranteed. Also, owners that don’t clean the box out often enough may find that their cats no longer want to go in.
Self cleaning cat litter boxes reduce this last issue and increase the appeal of the enclosed box further
This is where a self cleaning litter box can help. If the mess is sifted into a container, and the waste disposed off regularly, there is a nicer environment for the animal. Also, remember that cats have a much more sensitive nose than u,s so we may not realize quite how bad it is. On that note, the scent of the cat litter, rather than the box, may be putting them off, so opt for an odorless brand that works with the machine.
In the end, each cat has his own preferences and opinions on litter trays, boxes and general toilet habits.
Some will love the designs and cleanliness of the best litter boxes and there is a good chance that many animals will prefer this option to the standard litter tray. However, others will refuse to use them and stick to trays. Understand this preference and don’t force your pet into a situation they are not comfortable with.
Leave a Reply