Is your cat not using the litter box regularly? While many will refuse to use a dirty box, what if your’s is cleaned daily? Find out other reasons why kitties may not use their designated elimination spot.

Cats are particular about the litter used. If you have recently switched brands, try changing back. Otherwise, you might try using different type since kitties can have sensitive feet and may not like the feel of some litters. The scents of some litters can also be an issue.

Make sure that your cat associates pleasantness with the litter box. Don’t toss your pet into it as punishment for not using it or yell at him or her while they are in the container.

Cats like privacy while they are toileting. Put the litter box out of high traffic areas, away from windows where another cat may be looking in, and preferably not in the laundry room where a washer or dryer could make a loud sound that would scare your kitty.

If your cat insists upon using the bathroom in a particular location, put another litter box there if possible. Often, the kitty will start using the box instead of the carpet if one is available where they have decided to eliminate.

Cats can be very territorial about litter boxes and might be prevent another cat from using the favorite box. If you have more than one feline, you need at least one litter box per cat plus one extra.

Be sure that the size of the litter box fits your cat. You don’t want a small kitten having to climb to get in, nor do you want a large kitty in a small covered box that they can’t turn around in.

Hopefully, one of the above tips will get your cat using the litter box again instead of your flooring. If not, a visit to the vet is in order since some medical conditions can lead to inappropriate elimination.

Did you ever wonder where catnip comes from? It’s actually a plant in the mint family. For many cats, a little bit can make them act as if they’ve had several margaritas. Others seem to be oblivious to the plant.

Catnip contains a chemical called nepetalactone, which causes reactions in many kitties. While humans cannot smell it, your feline definitely can.

Many kitties will stop to sniff and give a little lick to any catnip they find. Some will chew on the leaves. Others just love to roll around until they are covered in it.

If your pet is going to react to catnip, it won’t take long after exposing them to it Your kitty may start leaping about the room, wiggling excessively, or seem to go crazy. Unfortunately, some cats have bad reactions to catnip such as getting aggressive. If this describes your pet, then you should keep the substance out of your home to avoid injuries. Young kittens tend not to react to the plant and should not have any. Older cats are also less sensitive to it.

You can buy catnip wherever pet supplies are sold either in dried leaf form or in an essential oil. Catnip toys are also available, but these do lose their potency over time. Be sure to replace these toys regularly if you want your kitty to continue to have the catnip experience.

Catnip can be a great treat for cats that react nicely to it and that are not too young or old to enjoy it.