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Does too much litter make my cat's litter box smell like ammonia?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Longhair | Male | neutered | 9 years and 10 months old | 25 lbs

my husband empties about half of the box of litter into the litter box. I tell him I don't think it's a good idea, I constantly smell the ammonia from the box, even though we clean it every day. We have 2 cats. I find by adding to much litter the urine might get trapped way down below where we don't see it but can smell it. I can smell it but he doesn't. He has no problem with using half of the box, saves time, he says.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 31st, 2017

It may be the litter you are using that is reacting to your cats urine smell. However you should always scrape the bottom of the litterbox to ensure you get all the urine out of the box. When filling the litterbox you are usually ok with filling it to 3-4 inches of litter. Also, if your cats are tolerant to it, you can put in litter liners that will coat the bottom of the litterbox and prevent any sticking at the bottom. I hope this helps and if you still feel like you are smelling a bad odor, I would consider having the cats checked for a urinary tract infection. Pay attention to how often each cat urinates and drink water to determine which is likely to have an issue. Best wishes with your cats moving forward. Take care.

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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 12th, 2018

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding your cats. I would start by changing the litter and scrubbing out the box to see if that helps with the odor. Also observe the cats for signs of a urinary problem. Things to watch for are an increased frequency of urination, blood in the urine, changes in attitude or appetite or straining to urinate. If you notice any of these signs, I would recommend having a urine sample tested. I hope this information helps!

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