Why does my cat poop outside the litter box but pee inside it?

Question

My cat has started to poop outside the litter box. He only uses the litter box to pee. I took him to the vet but he said that it’s because his anal glands weren’t expressed. After which he expressed them but that didn’t work. I keep the litter box clean. Pet's info: Cat | Persian | Male | unneutered | 6 months and 19 days old | 4 lbs

Dr. Elizabeth · Accepted Answer

Cats will defecate outside the box for many reasons. Here is a good article to explain the different reasons: https://www.petcoach.co/article/the-top-5-reasons-your-cat-is-avoiding-her-litter-box-and-what-to/ Constipation or a painful bowel movement is a common cause. Increasing the amount of fiber in the diet can often help as can feeding a canned food with additional water added. There is also a special prescription diet made by Royal Canin called Fiber Response that many cats respond well to. If the veterinarian thinks this is behavioral, there are a few factors to adjust. Cats are sensitive to the type of litter, size of the box and location of the box. If you have more cats, you need 1 litter box per cat + 1 additional box. You should also have a litter box on every floor of the house. This article discusses different types of litter and litter boxes: https://www.petcoach.co/article/cat-litter-finding-the-right-fit-for-your-cat/ In general though, cats prefer large, uncovered litter boxes, clay-based clumping litter that is scoped every day and a private, quiet location. If you have other cats or dogs, if they can access the litter box, it may cause Luna to be afraid that she could find herself trapped in the box. Cats are a prey species in the wild and they still retain those instincts. Clean the carpet with a good enzymatic cleanser. This will to get rid of any smells. There are things you can do at home to help to keep Monkey relaxed and that may help to ensure good litter box habits. Here is a great article about cat's instinctual needs: https://www.petcoach.co/article/why-every-cat-needs-a-place-to-climb/ Using a Feliway diffuser, setting aside 30 minutes a day for vigorous play for Monkey or switching his food to Royal Canin Calm may help. The veterinarian can also prescribe medications which can help with house soiling. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

Why does my cat poop outside the litter box but pee inside it?

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