Have you ever thought that your fluffy friend’s refusal to use the litter box might be related to the wrong choice of its location? This can indeed lead to “disobedient behavior.” But where is the best place to set up the litter box for your cat?
“One of the most common problems we face in the cat world is litter box training,” notes Blair de Jong, a cat behavior consultant. Therefore, if you are having difficulties, the first thing to determine is whether the chosen location is suitable for the litter box.
Where to Place the Cat Litter Box
According to de Jong, optimal locations for a cat litter box are quiet and accessible corners that provide privacy.
“Pay attention to where your cat spends the most time,” advises de Jong. “If she never goes up to that strange room in the attic, don’t put the litter box there.”
So where is the best place to put the litter box?
Typically, cat owners try to hide the litter box from sight and smell, so they often place it in hard-to-reach areas. However, it is important to remember that a cat is a member of your family and a legitimate inhabitant of your home! You will have to accept some unpleasant odors.
Experts recommend placing the litter box in a location that the cat can easily access, preferably in a low-traffic area, away from food and water bowls. Cats generally like to be near their owners, but that doesn’t mean the litter box should be in the bedroom or living room; its place could be somewhere you also frequently check, such as in the bathroom.
Remember that cats, like humans, need a “toilet minimum.” An animal may feel uncomfortable using a litter box in a dark corner without light. Additionally, consider your cat’s individual characteristics, her age, physical condition, and the layout of your home. For example, do not expect an elderly cat with limited mobility to reach a litter box that is placed too far away.
