Cat Litter Boxes & WC

In nature, a cat doesn’t use the same spot twice. In that sense, using a litter box is somewhat against its natural instincts. To make using the litter box pleasant, it’s worth choosing a sufficiently large box and keeping it as clean as possible.

It’s a good idea for the litter box to be located in its own quiet place. It’s also helpful if there’s room nearby to store clean litter, so topping up the box is easy. As a clean animal, the cat prefers the toilet to be in a different place from its feeding bowls and accessories.

If cleanliness is maintained regularly, unpleasant odors won’t have a chance to develop. Urine spots and feces should be cleaned daily—preferably right after the cat has used the box. As the litter level goes down, add fresh litter evenly so that there is always about a seven-centimeter layer of litter at the bottom.

The litter box should be washed thoroughly about once a month. At the same time, you can replace all the litter. How often you need to wash and change the litter depends a lot on the litter’s quality and composition, and of course the cat’s health. With cheaper litter you may need to clean more often, while higher-quality litter can allow for a longer replacement interval.

If two cats use the same litter box, the replacement interval is shorter. Cat litter and waste should always be disposed of in the trash—never in the toilet. Otherwise there’s a risk the litter will permanently clog the drain. So place an easy-to-use litter bin next to the litter box.

Some cats like having a covered litter box that provides shelter, while others find an enclosed “box” toilet threatening. If possible, let your cat try different options to see what kind of toilet space it prefers. The cat should be able to access its own litter box without obstacles. A human bathroom isn’t always the best option if the door is usually closed rather than open.