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Why does my cat poop outside the litter box in different spots?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 5 months and 6 days old

My cat has been pooping outside her litterbox for a couple of days now. I have had her checked and treated for parasites, the litter is fresh, box cleaned, size is perfect, as she is still somewhat small. Dr. Davis, from here, recommended using another box, but she is not pooping at the same spot, she picks different room/spot each time. Would taking the poop and placing it in her litter help? So as to show her where she has to poop? I'm helpless in this. Also, she pees in the litterbox.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Ladd, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 7th, 2018

I agree with your doc about an extra litter box or two. I always recommend at least one more than the number of cats. I do not think placing the feces in her box will help at all. It is a good sign that she is urinating in the box. I would be anxious to know what kind of food she is on and the consistency of her feces. Is she constipated or having loose stools, for example. I would start by trying the extra litter boxes and then go from there.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Karly Macon, DVM, MS, CVA Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 5th, 2017

    Making her smell the feces will not encourage her to use the litter box. The box needs to be a pleasant environment, large enough for her to get in and out of easily, and very clean. Clean it daily if you have one cat. Try using a different kind of litter. Some cats don't like scented litter, others don't like clumping, etc. Try a different location for the litter box. Try a larger litter box with a lid. Hope that helps!

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 13th, 2018

    Some cats do not like urinating and defecating in the same litter box. So you could try giving Julia a second litter box,, so she has a choice. She may also hate to poop, and hold it in until she cannot hold it anymore and then does not manage to keep it in long enough to make it into the litter box on time. She may also not want to have the poop in the box because it grosses her out. So a second box just might do the trick.

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