How to help my anxious cat use litter box and get along with others?

Question

I have 4 cats- 2 male 2 female. Have lived together for 6 yrs. females are 12 and 7, HATE each other. 7yo is small, abt 7lbs, scared of other cats, jumps on my shoulder as soon as I walk in, stays there no matter what I do. Hangs out next to me in bed, but usually sleeps in another room at night. Does not use litter box at all. Have tried litter attract and plug in pheromones. Not sure what to do for them to get along, help her potty habit, and anxiety. Please help! Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 6 years and 10 months old | 7 lbs

Debi Matlack · Accepted Answer

The older cat probably has the smaller, younger one intimidated. I suggest providing more litter boxes, maybe one the smaller cat has exclusive access to. To avoid behavior problems due to territorialism, the rule of thumb is one litter box per cat, plus one, that way no cat can 'guard' all the boxes and limit access to the others. Make sure the timid cat has plenty of places to hide, perch, separate food and water sources if needed, anything to help her relax and be able to be less intimidated by the other. Also, make sure the older cats get plenty of attention, playtime, treats, to help them stay calmer and less likely to lash out. Calming diets are also available, if you have not tried them yet. Royal Canin and Science Diet both have well-received diets of this kind. A good source of additional information about how to help cats get along and how to make your house more appealing and enjoyable for your cats is Jackson Galaxy's Catification books.

How to help my anxious cat use litter box and get along with others?

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