Why did my indoor/outdoor cat suddenly start pooping inside?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Male | neutered | 12 lbs
My cat is an indoor outdoor male fixed. He always has pooped outside. Recently I had family visit. During their stay he started pooping in the living room. I haven’t caught him doing it. I thought maybe stress from family. They are gone but he’s still pooping in house. I don’t want to put a litter box in house. How can I get him to go outside again.
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on August 14th, 2019
It's possible there is another cat outside who is bullying Harry and is not letting him use the bathroom like he use to. I recommend to use a litter box for now (it's better than cleaning up feces in the house). I also recommend to have Harry examined by the veterinarian and have his stool checked for abnormality. It's possible he is having a sudden urge to go and he can't get outside in time. Since he can't talk, it's best to play it safe. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on January 19th, 2019
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This may be due to a change in the environment causing this change. Sometimes, this may be due to a gastrointestinal condition such as parasites which can be causing him to defecate more frequently being less able to hold it to go outside. If this continues to happen, it would be best to have him evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Best of luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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