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Why is my kitten playing with and eating poop? What can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 3 months and 6 days old | 4 lbs

I noticed today that my kitten has been playing with her waste in the litter box and possibly eating it. I can’t be around to clean the box every time she goes obviously. Why is she doing this and what can I do to stop her?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on August 11th, 2019

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is unusual but can happen. This is probably out of boredom. You can try changing the litter material to see if she becomes less interested. Otherwise, you may change the litter box to a different place in the house. That may help. Best of luck!

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