Cats also have super sensitive smell so I only use non scented & low dust litter. The "odor control" litter smells worse than the actual cat urine to me.
Absolutely agree! 👃 Cats’ sense of smell is incredibly powerful—far beyond ours—so what might smell “clean” or “fresh” to us can actually be overwhelming (or even off-putting) to them. Unscented, low-dust litter is often the best choice to keep both cats and humans happy. Thanks so much for sharing this important reminder! 💛🐾
I’ve also gotten it wrong in the past, but have tried to learn and change. No more litter liners. No more litter boxes with domed lids. Large, flat boxes for older, arthritic cats (though Mosi has staunchly refused to use a box with the lowest edges I’ve seen - ideal for her severe arthritis). Fine, scentless clumping litter (scientific studies suggest that clumping litter is preferred). Positioned in a calm, safe spot, away from loud noises (such as the garage door or the washing machine)
I would say toileting outside the box is never, ever a sign of spite. It is always a sign of a medical issue or of something stressing the kitty.
Thank you so much for sharing this—and for your thoughtful post on Substack! 💛 I really appreciate how you highlight the need for adaptability as we learn more. Like Dr. Rachel said in the episode, “Cats solve problems like cats,” and our job is to listen, learn, and adjust.
You’re absolutely right: toileting outside the box is never about spite—it’s about stress, pain, or unmet needs. The details you shared about litter type, box style, and location are so important, especially for older or arthritic cats like Mosi. Thanks again for adding your voice to this important conversation. 🐾
Cats also have super sensitive smell so I only use non scented & low dust litter. The "odor control" litter smells worse than the actual cat urine to me.
Absolutely agree! 👃 Cats’ sense of smell is incredibly powerful—far beyond ours—so what might smell “clean” or “fresh” to us can actually be overwhelming (or even off-putting) to them. Unscented, low-dust litter is often the best choice to keep both cats and humans happy. Thanks so much for sharing this important reminder! 💛🐾
Very timely. I’ve just been having a conversation about litter boxes and litter here https://substack.com/@mindingmittensbykcolitti/note/c-108247816?r=1o5jkh&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=notes-share-action.
I’ve also gotten it wrong in the past, but have tried to learn and change. No more litter liners. No more litter boxes with domed lids. Large, flat boxes for older, arthritic cats (though Mosi has staunchly refused to use a box with the lowest edges I’ve seen - ideal for her severe arthritis). Fine, scentless clumping litter (scientific studies suggest that clumping litter is preferred). Positioned in a calm, safe spot, away from loud noises (such as the garage door or the washing machine)
I would say toileting outside the box is never, ever a sign of spite. It is always a sign of a medical issue or of something stressing the kitty.
Thank you so much for sharing this—and for your thoughtful post on Substack! 💛 I really appreciate how you highlight the need for adaptability as we learn more. Like Dr. Rachel said in the episode, “Cats solve problems like cats,” and our job is to listen, learn, and adjust.
You’re absolutely right: toileting outside the box is never about spite—it’s about stress, pain, or unmet needs. The details you shared about litter type, box style, and location are so important, especially for older or arthritic cats like Mosi. Thanks again for adding your voice to this important conversation. 🐾
Thank you! I really enjoyed listening to the podcast episode with Dr Rachel. Will for sure look her up.