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My new 8-week-old kitten won't use the litter box. Should I worry?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed

I have a 8 week old kitten and I just got her yesterday. She hasn’t gone to the bathroom yet since I’ve had her but she’s eaten and stuff. I’m not sure if I should be worried. I’ve set her in the litter box many times.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 14th, 2018

I would be a little worried that Jinx might be urinating somewhere else in the house! I'd recommend confining her to a small area like a bathroom with the litter box so that you can closely monitor what is happening - pull all rugs up. It is also possible that she is nervous about her new situation and simply hasn't urinated yet. If she is eating and drinking well and you're not seeing her straining to urinate or defecate you could probably give her another 24 hours of very close supervision. If she still does not go I would recommend seeing a veterinarian.

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 22nd, 2018

    Give her time , make sure she knows where the litter box is, preferably confine her to a room so she does not have to run far when the urge hits. She will probably do her business when it is quiet in the house and she feels safe. The new home is scary at this time as there are new people, new smells, a new place.and she misses the security of being with her mommy and siblings.

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