How to Get a Cat to Use the Litter Box After Being Sick

Sick cats can have a hard time using the litter box again after a long illness. They may have become accustomed to using the area around their safe nest. Because cats are creatures of habit, it is important to get them back to using the litter box as soon as they feel well again. Take your cat to the vet to make sure they aren't experiencing a urinary tract infection, because avoiding the litter box is also a common sign of this infection.

Instructions

1

Bring the cat over to his litter box area. Leave the litter box in one area close to where your cat likes to nest, so it can see the box and have close access.

2

Change litter type if your cat had a urinary tract infection. If you use clumping litter and the cat had a urinary tract infection, use a crystal type like Pet Gold Crystals Premium Litter. Clumping litter can produce dust that gets trapped in the animal's urethra and cause urinary tract infections, while crystals are almost dust-free.

3

Get the cat used to the new litter by setting him in the litter box. You may want to slowly get your cat accustomed to the litter by mixing new litter with the old before completely replacing.

4

Make the litter box more accessible for the cat by elevating it. Place a book or small step by it so it is easy to climb.

5

Give your cat a treat when he uses the litter box. The cat will begin to associate using the litter box with treats and be more inclined to start using the box.