Reasons include a treatable bladder infection, switching to some new kind of litter or introducing a new cat into the home.
The frequency of changing the litter is also very important. Scooping the litter box twice each day is recommended. Who wants to continuously walk in their own poop, right?
SIZE MATTERS: Make sure the litter box is large enough to accommodate the size and number of cats you have in the home. Litter boxes with higher sides all around and with a lower side where the cat will enter the box are highly recommended, as this type of box will help keep the litter from being shot out of the box.
Try to avoid litter boxes with hoods. They are sometimes frightening to a cat and, therefore, your cat(s) may avoid using it. Note: the hood top can be removed from this type of box if the cat is not keen to it.
SWITCHED LITTER BRANDS RECENTLY? The new litter used may be the issue your cat has. Never use a scented litter, as a cat’s sense of smell is much more sensitive than ours and perfumes or deodorizers are not something cats care much for.
Finding a litter that your cat actually likes is usually a case of trial and error. Pellet or crystal litters are also not recommended; rather, pick a litter that is comfortable for your kitty to walk on. Also, use a clumping litter, unless the cat is a kitten.
Kittens have to learn how to use the litter box, and clumping litter may end up stuck to their paws and between their toes.
You should never flush clumping litter down the toilet! It stays clumped and can clog up sewer pipes quickly.
Make sure to generously fill the litter box with litter, at least 2 to 3 inches deep, completely covering the bottom of the litter box.
LOCATION IS KEY: Place the litter box in a quiet area of your home. Stress of a new environment or interaction with new people can often disturb a cat’s intestinal tract which is sensitive anyway. When an animal has stomach pain, it automatically thinks it has to immediately go to the bathroom wherever it may be. Probiotic supplements available through your vet can help keep the stomach and intestinal tract calm and working correctly. Do not use a supplement without first consulting with your vet.
If the cat appears to be straining to urinate or poop, whether in the litter box or outside of it, get to the vet immediately. Constipation or a urinary blockage can be fatal if it goes untreated.
A urinary tract infection also causes a lot of pain for a cat and can lead to her trying to urinate outside of the litter box.
If the family cat is suddenly not using the litter box, a trip to the vet is what is recommended to rule out any medical conditions.