Help!
My kittens have decided to abandon their litter tray in favour of pooing in the living room. They were both using the tray fine, then the boy started weeing outside the tray next to it, then yesterday both of them pooed up in the same corner of the living room.
Why might this be and how can I deter them from doing this?
Do you have separate litter trays - one each? As they grow up, they often object to others using their tray. Make sure that you clean the trays scrupulously after each visit - cats like to be clean.
Are the trays in a secluded, low traffic area? Most cats hate being 'visible' when they do the business. It's pretty much the most vulnerable they can be. Covered trays in quiet areas are best.
Have you changed litter brand recently? Cats don't like change and they can often object to perfumed litters.
Any other changes of routine recently? I seem to recall they are new to your household? If so, invest in some calming Feliway pheromone sprays.
Make sure you clean the areas they have had the 'accidents' on very thoroughly, as any lingering odour will reinforce the idea this is there new place to go to the toilet.
Is there a cat flap of other means of ingress for a strange cat?
Are they eating well? Any change in diet?
These are the initial questions I'd look at to understand what's going on. Cats don't change their toilet routine easily, so try and understand why they feel bad about their current arrangements.
