Every indoor cat owner has an important decision: Where should I put my cat’s litter box? You might think this is a small detail in the grand scheme of cat ownership. But as you’ll discover in this article, finding the right spot for your cat’s litter box can drastically improve your cat’s (and your family’s!) happiness.
Why location matters
Cats are very particular about their toilet habits. The location of their litter box can significantly influence their stress levels and overall well-being.
Placing the litter box in a noisy or high-trafficked area can discourage your cat from using it. This is a problem because it results in accidents around the house. You don’t want them using the back of the couch as a toilet!
A well-placed litter box in an area that suits your cat can make all the difference in maintaining a clean and harmonious home – because they are more likely to use it.
The best spots for your cat’s litter box
When choosing the ideal spot for your cat’s litter box, monitor your cat’s habits. Cats prefer a quiet, accessible location where they feel safe and undisturbed.
A corner in your spare room or a discreet spot in a laundry (provided it’s not too noisy) can be perfect. Just like humans, cats like a bit of privacy, so place the box in a secluded area for them to do their business.
Once you find the right spot, consistency is key. Moving the box around the house can confuse your cat. They might choose not to use it and instead make a mess somewhere else.
Where to avoid placing a litter box
Feeding areas: Just as humans wouldn’t have dinner in their bathrooms, cats prefer their dining area to be well separated from their litter box.
Busy parts of the home: High-traffic areas can be stressful and may deter your cat from using the box.
Areas with strong smells: Cats have an acute sense of smell. With such heightened senses, they can be easily turned off by strong smells. So don’t put the litter box somewhere with an offputting smell (Such as citrus. Cats hate citrus by the way!).
Humid rooms: Bathrooms can sometimes work, but if it’s a small, damp bathroom, the moisture can amplify odors. You don’t want to make the litter box extra stinky.
Special considerations
Multi-story homes: If you live in a house with multiple floors, consider having a litter box on each level. That way the cat won’t have to trek too far.
For the multi-cat households: The golden rule is one litter box per cat, plus one extra, to prevent territorial disputes.
Bedroom or bathroom?: Weigh the pros and cons carefully. Your need for convenience should be balanced with your cat’s need for a peaceful, private spot.
My experience
When I fostered Miso, I thought the bathroom was the best spot for her litter box. But she didn’t use it. Instead, she was either going outside or peeing in the laundry basket!
After some trial and error, I placed the litter box in a corner of my home office. It was a game-changer.
I think the reason she didn’t use the litter was too much noise – with the shower, washing machine and toilet flushing all nearby. Anyway, I was relieved when she stopped using the laundry basket.
The lesson is that you need to understand and adapt to your cat’s preferences.
Frequently asked questions about cat litter box locations
Should I place the cat litter box in my bedroom?
Doing so is fine for your cat – though you will need to consider if you can live with it. If you don’t mind a bit of late-night rustling and have plenty of ventilation, it can be fine. You’ll want to ensure you have enough space to place the box away from your bed. Personally, though, I don’t think I’d want the smell in my bedroom.
Should I place the cat litter box in my bathroom?
Yes, bathrooms can work, if there’s enough room and ventilation. You’ll want to avoid loud noises (like a washing machine or dryer) as this can scare your cat – and they may not use the litter box.
Should I place the cat litter box in my kitchen?
Generally, the kitchen no-go for cat litter due to hygiene concerns and the proximity to food. The kitchen is also a well-trafficked area of the house – which is unappealing to most cats.
Should I place the cat litter box away from their food?
Cats generally do not like the food or water being placed near their toilet. So try to place the litter box some distance away, ideally in another room.
How do cats find their litter box?
Cats use their excellent sense of smell and memory. This allows them to locate their litter box easily, even if it’s tucked away in a quiet corner.
However, this doesn’t mean you can move the litter box frequently. This can confuse them and lead to them not using it. For your cat’s peace of mind, try to find a good spot and then stick to it.
Closing Thoughts
Finding the perfect spot for your cat’s litter box requires a bit of trial and error. Every cat has their own preferences, and what works for one cat might not work for another.
Pay attention to your cat’s habits, and be willing to experiment a little. Remember, the goal is a happy cat and a clean, odor-free home.
