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Why is my cat pooping outside the litter box and running away?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 1 year and 7 months old | 14 lbs

My cat recently has randomly been freaking out, running around, and pooping around the house. He will sometimes start pooping in his litter box but then sprint out before he's done so he gets some on the floor. I have taken him to the vet and they said he isn't constipated, doesn't have mega colon, and looks completely healthy. How can I stop him from pooping around the house/running out of his box?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on May 5th, 2017

Poor Bear! If this behavior is usually triggered by pooping, it's likely that he has some type of pain or discomfort when he defecates - some possibilities would include an anal gland infection, hip or spinal arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, or some other medical problem. I'm not sure what kind of testing has been done so far, but I would definitely suggest blood work and x-rays at a minimum to help identify any potential problems that could be causing discomfort. Your veterinarian can also check his anal glands to see if they are overly full or infected. A trial course of pain medication might also be helpful to see if this improves the behavior. I would suggest talking with your veterinarian about these options, or seeking a second opinion from another vet in your area if needed.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 21st, 2019

    Pooping outside the litter box can be related to pain when having a bowel movement or a behavioral condition. The most important thing is to have your cat examined by the veterinarian for signs of discomfort. Make sure to bring in a fresh stool sample so the doctor can examined the firmness, moisture content and check for parasites. Sometimes these cats need a higher fiber diet and additional water (like canned food). A dry stool, parasites or constipation issues will cause pain and avoidance of the litter box. Here is a good article to explain the different reasons cats will avoid the litterbox: https://www.petcoach.co/article/the-top-5-reasons-your-cat-is-avoiding-her-litter-box-and-what-to/ Make sure to clean the soiled area with a good enzymatic cleanser. This will to get rid of any smells. If the veterinarian suspects this is behavioral, there are things you can do at home to help control some stress. Here is a great article about cat's instinctual needs: https://www.petcoach.co/article/why-every-cat-needs-a-place-to-climb/ Also using a Feliway diffuser, setting aside 30 minutes a day for vigorous play for your cat or switching his food to Royal Canin Calm may help. The veterinarian can also prescribe medications which can help with house soiling and stress management. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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