How to Deal with Common Litter Box Problems

May 19, 2025

Trouble in the tray? Let’s fix that.

If you’ve got a cat, chances are you’ve also dealt with the occasional litter box drama. From odd bathroom habits to full-on litter strikes, it can be frustrating and messy - but the good news is most litter box issues have a simple solution. Here’s how to troubleshoot the most common problems.

1. Your Cat Won’t Use the Litter Box

Possible causes:

Medical issues (UTIs, constipation, etc.)
Dirty litter box
Wrong location
Stress or changes in routine

Solutions:

Rule out medical problems with a vet visit.
Daily cleaning (scoop solids and aerate litter) and full change every week.
Move the tray to a quiet, low-traffic area.
Avoid sudden changes to litter type or box style. Gradual introductions work best.

2. Your Cat Is Peeing Just Outside the Box

This is your cat’s passive-aggressive way of saying something’s wrong.

You can try:

Checking the size - your cat might have outgrown the tray.
Switching to a high-sided tray if there’s splash or overshooting.
Cleaning any mess thoroughly to remove the scent, so your cat doesn’t return to the "new spot".

3. There’s Litter Everywhere

Litter tracking is a universal cat-parent struggle.

Solutions:

Use a litter mat underneath or next to the tray.
Try a different litter texture - some types scatter less.
Upgrade to a tray with higher sides or a smoother base to keep things tidier.

💡 Psst - stainless steel trays like Tabby Trays don’t hold onto litter dust like plastic does.

4. The Tray Smells… Fast

If you’re doing everything right but it still stinks?

Tips:

Scoop daily, deep clean weekly.
Switch to unscented clumping litter - less perfume, more performance.
Avoid plastic trays that absorb odour over time.

🔥 Fun fact: stainless steel doesn’t absorb smells or stains.

5. Your Cat Is Digging Like They’re Building a Tunnel to Narnia

Cats love to dig - it’s instinct. But if your floors are suffering, try:

A deeper layer of litter (7–10 cm is ideal).
A larger tray that gives them room to dig without flinging it out.

Litter box problems are common, but they’re rarely permanent. With a bit of patience, the right setup, and a good-quality tray, you and your cat can live in harmony.

Ready to upgrade your cat’s bathroom experience? Shop the Tabby Trays range of hygienic litter trays - built for picky paws.