House soiling is the most common behavior problem reported by owners and is one of the most common reasons that cats are relinquished to animal control agencies. The cause can usually be placed in one of the following two categories:

Medical problems
Litter box problems

With appropriate therapy and environmental modification you and your cat can stop singing the litter box blues.

Medical Problems
Several medical problems have been associated with changes in litter box behavior. Constipation and diarrhea often result in apparent loss of litter box training. Diabetes, thyroid disease, kidney and bladder disease are frequent causes of inappropriate urination. Arthritis can make it difficult for a cat to climb into her box.
The first steps to solving a house-soiling problem are a physical examination and appropriate laboratory testing.

Litter Box Problems
Litter box aversion leads to inappropriate urination and defecation. The following steps will make the box acceptable to most cats.

• Use unscented litter. Perfumes generally repel cats and should be avoided in and around litter boxes.

• Remove covers from box. Covers retain odors and dust and prevent the cat from seeing their surroundings.

• Have one litter box per cat in the house plus one extra box. Distribute the boxes in multiple locations.

• In the alternate box, do not use a liner and try an alternate type of litter.

• Keep the box clean. The litter should always look dry and clean.

• Locate boxes in quiet, easily accessible locations.

1. Clean the area with an enzymatic cleaner. Many times urine will go through the carpet to the carpet pad and to the supporting floor. All layers must be cleaned and many times portions of the carpet pad will need to be replaced. After cleaning, the area may be treated with aversive smells such as perfumes and potpourri.

2. Limit access to the soiled area.

3. Protect the soiled area by covering with plastic carpet runners.

4. Change the significance of the area by adding toys or food to the previously soiled location.

House soiling is a frustrating problem that can damage the companion animal bond. Prompt attention and intervention can resolve the problem.