Why Is My Cat Peeing Outside the Litter Box?

By April Liu

Why Is My Cat Peeing Outside the Litter Box?

Quick Answer:

When a cat is peeing outside of the litter box, it is usually due to medical issues, stress, litter box aversion, or territorial marking. It's important to rule out medical conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney disease, and bladder stones. Also keep in mind, that factors like stress, anxiety, or a preference against the type of litter or the box's location can contribute to this behavior. To help fix the issue, make sure that the litter box is clean, properly placed, and utilizes a litter type that your cat prefers.

Solution: Try switching to a crystal cat litter like Boxiecat’s Glo Crystal Cat Litter, which absorbs moisture quickly and keeps the box inviting.

 

 

Medical Reasons Why Cats Pee Outside the Litter Box

1. Could Your Cat Have a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

Yes, UTIs can cause painful urination, leading to avoidance of the litter box. Signs of a UTI include:

  • Straining or crying while urinating

  • Blood in urine

  • Frequent, small urinations

📌 Solution: A vet visit is necessary to diagnose and treat the infection.

Read more about feline UTIs on PetMD.


2. Is Kidney Disease or Diabetes Causing Excessive Urination?

Cats with kidney disease or diabetes drink more water, leading to:

  • Large puddles of urine

  • More frequent accidents

  • Increased thirst

📌 Solution: A vet check-up can confirm if treatment is needed.

3. Could Your Cat Have Bladder Stones or Crystals?

Bladder stones or urinary crystals make urination painful. Cats may associate the litter box with pain and start avoiding it.

📌 Solution: Special prescription diets and medical treatment can help.

Behavioral Reasons Cats Avoid the Litter Box

4. Is Stress Causing Litter Box Avoidance?

Stress is a major trigger for litter box issues. Common stressors include:

  • Moving to a new home

  • New pets or people in the household

  • Loud noises or disrupted routine

📌 Solution: Keep consistent feeding times, provide safe hiding spaces, and use pheromone diffusers to help ease anxiety.

ASPCA explains stress-related litter box problems here.

 

 

5. Does Your Cat Hate Their Litter?

Some cats are picky about litter texture, scent, or dust levels. If your cat refuses their box, try switching to:
✅ Crystal litter (like Boxiecat’s Glo Crystal Cat Litter) for better absorption and odor control.
✅ Unscented options to avoid overwhelming their sensitive nose.

📌 Solution: Slowly introduce new litter by mixing it with the old one over a week.

6. Is Your Cat’s Litter Box in the Wrong Location?

Cats prefer quiet, private spots for their litter box. Avoid placing it:
→ Near loud appliances (washing machines, dryers)
→ In high-traffic areas
→ Too close to food/water bowls

📌 Solution: Move the box to a calm, accessible area where your cat feels safe.


7. Is Your Cat Spraying Instead of Urinating?

Spraying is different from peeing! Cats spray on walls and furniture in small amounts to mark territory.

📌 Solution:
✔️ Neuter or spay your cat if they aren’t already.
✔️ Clean urine-marked areas with an enzyme-based cleaner to remove the scent.

Fixing the Problem- How to Stop Your Cat From Peeing Outside the Box

8. Keep the Litter Box Clean

Cats are clean animals—if the litter box is dirty, they’ll avoid it.

📌 Cleaning Routine:
→ Scoop waste daily
→ Change the litter every 2–4 weeks
→ Wash the box with mild soap monthly

9. Try a Different Litter Type

Some cats refuse to use their litter box because they don’t like the litter.

📌 Best Litter for Odor Control & Absorption:
Boxiecat’s Glo Crystal Cat Litter – Controls odors, absorbs moisture and minimizes dust.


10. Add More Litter Boxes

In multi-cat homes, some cats refuse to share a litter box.

📌 Solution: Follow the “one box per cat, plus one extra” rule.

FAQs

Why is my cat suddenly peeing outside the litter box?

A sudden change usually means a medical issue or stress. See a vet if symptoms persist.

How do I stop my cat from peeing outside the litter box?

  • Rule out medical issues first

  • Keep the box clean

  • Try a different litter (crystal-based, unscented)

  • Move the box to a quiet area

  • Reduce stress with pheromones and a stable routine

What’s the difference between spraying and urinating?

  • Spraying: Small amounts on vertical surfaces (marking behavior)

  • Urinating: Large puddles on floors, beds, or furniture (usually medical or behavioral)

Can a dirty litter box cause a cat to pee outside of it?

Yes! Cats avoid dirty boxes. Scoop daily and change the litter regularly to prevent accidents.

A Clean, Stress-Free Litter Box Means a Happy Cat

If your cat is peeing outside the litter box, don’t panic. The first step is to rule out medical problems and then address behavioral triggers.

A clean, properly placed litter box with the right litter can solve most issues. Some cats prefer gentle scented, moisture-absorbing litter like Boxiecat’s Glo Crystal Cat Litter, which helps maintain a dry, inviting space.

With patience and the right adjustments, you’ll get your cat back to using the litter box in no time.