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My cat won't use the litter box. I've tried everything. What now?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Curl | Female | 3 lbs

I have tried EVERYTHING to get Scruff to use her litter box. 1. Multiple types of litter 2. Diffuser 3. Putting her in the litter box 4. Putting the box in a quiet place 5 . adequate number of litter boxes She has been to the vet, she's healthy. I don't know what to do, She just will not use the litter box. Any suggestions? She is about 3 months old, previously feral. Very friendly, adapting well to inside except for this issue.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

Published on January 27th, 2018

I'm so sorry that you're dealing with this with scruff. I would consider Dr. Elsey's Cat Attract litter (https://www.drelseys.com/shop/cat-attract/) or additive (https://www.drelseys.com/shop/ultra-litter-attractant/). I would also consider covering part of a litterbox in sand or dirt to attract Scruff if she is used to going outside. Some cats hate covered litter boxes and some love them. I would try to use the hints of where Scruff is going to try to replicate those conditions in the litterbox. If she is going in the bath tub or on a tile floor, then leave half of the litter box empty for her go on a hard surface. If she likes soft surfaces, then try shredded paper or a soft paper litter. I would also consider something like Yesterdays News because kittens often like to dig in it (https://www.yesterdaysnews.com/Products/CatLitter.aspx). Good luck! I hope that was helpful and gives you some ideas. Thanks for using PetCoach.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 11th, 2018

    My only other suggestion would be a dog crate with just enough room for the box and a tiny bed. If he tends to go in a specific area you could also try to micmic that with a different box: empty plastic box if he poops in the bathtub or box with a potty pad if he pees on fabric. It sounds like you’ve tried everything else!

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