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Why does my cat keep pooping outside the litter box after illness?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Persian | Male | unneutered | 4 months and 8 days old | 1.6 lbs

Peanut was sick a while ago and he had diherea. He started pooping outside the box (which is expected). After that he got all better and the poop went back to normal. But now he keeps popping outside the box. I put multiple boxes in the house (especially in the spot where he pooped on the floor). He pooped inside the new box. Then after a couple of days he pooped outside of it. I don't what to do.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on December 1st, 2018

You may want to try to add some feliway diffusers around the house. Feliway is a feline pheromone that can help with this type of behavior. If it continues I would talk to your vet about an anti-anxiety medicine to see if that helps as well. I hope he starts to feel better!

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 26th, 2020

    She has probably associated pooping in the litter box with pain from the diarrhea she had previously. I suggest you try some Feliway diffusers around your house and try to move one of the litter boxes to a different location and try a different type of litter in it. https://www.feliway.com/us/Products/FELIWAY-CLASSIC-Diffuser

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