In this article
1. Your cat is still a kitten
Young kittens might lie in the litter box simply because they haven’t figured things out yet. The little felines should eventually learn that the litter box is not meant to be a cat bed. Older kittens, on the other hand, may hang out in the litter box because they’re looking for a quiet spot that feels familiar, especially when they have just moved in with you. Luckily, there are a few easy ways to stop this behavior.
How to stop a kitten from lying in the litter box
- Make sure your cat has plenty of cozy beds in safe, quiet places
- Provide enclosed spaces such as cardboard boxes
- Place a cat bed near the litter box (especially for young kittens)
- Gently redirect the kitten if necessary
2. Your Cat Is Feeling Stressed or Anxious
When cats feel stressed or overwhelmed, they often look for small, enclosed spaces where they can feel safe. A hooded litter box might seem comforting to your cat because it offers a sense of shelter and smells familiar. However, it’s not the best place for your cat to spend time, and it’s important to encourage them to relax elsewhere.
Things that can cause your cat to feel stressed or anxious:
- Recent changes to their living space (e.g., moving, renovating)
- New people or pets (e.g., new partner or baby, builders)
- Loud noise (e.g., thunderstorm, toddler)
A few tips to help your cat feel less stressed
- Provide hiding spots (like a covered bed or cardboard box) in quiet areas, away from strangers and other pets.
- Give your cat time and space to adjust
- Consider using calming pheromone diffusers
3. Territorial or Resource-Guarding Behavior
In multi-cat households, one cat may lie in the litter box to guard it from others, especially if there aren’t enough litter boxes available. Cats are naturally territorial, and this could be their way of claiming the space.
How can you help your cat feel less territorial?
- Provide one litter box per cat, plus one extra
- Place litter boxes in different locations, not just side by side
- Monitor interactions between cats for signs of bullying or dominance
- Provide each cat with their own feeding bowls, cat bed, etc.
4. Your Cat May Not Be Feeling Well
Sometimes, lying in the litter box is a sign of discomfort or illness. Some major red flags are straining to pee or poop, going to the box frequently, or appearing lethargic. Watch out for any of these symptoms, even when your cat is not lying in the litter box.
Medical issues that may cause your cat to spend more time in the litter box:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Constipation
- Kidney disease
- Bladder stones or crystals
- Urinary blockage
Monitor for signs like straining, vocalizing, or lack of urine. The latter is a life-threatening situation that needs medical attention right away!
Final Thoughts
Cats might lie down in the litter box for all kinds of reasons, from stress or illness to just liking the cozy, familiar space. The key is to look at the bigger picture and pay attention to your cat’s overall behavior. If you’re ever unsure how to stop your cat from using the litter box as a cat bed, it’s always a good idea to check in with your vet. Better safe than sorry when it comes to your feline friend!
