Are you tired of constantly picking up litter from your floor? Litter can be an eyesore and a hazard to your home, but there are ways to help prevent it from ending up on the ground.
If you have cats in your house, then you know that one of the toughest challenges is trying to keep litter from getting all over your floors. No matter how hard we try, cat litter sneaks onto carpets and other surfaces. This isn’t ideal for keeping a neat home, but fortunately, some practical solutions can help prevent this fiasco from happening again!
In this blog post, we’ll explore various ways how to stop litter from getting on the floor so you can maintain tidy spaces without compromising your beloved fur babies’ comfort.
Why Does My Cat Put Litter on the Floor?
Cats are notorious for scattering their litter around, leaving a trail of mess wherever they go. This can be incredibly frustrating – especially if you’ve just vacuumed your floor or mopped the tiles, only to find that your furry friend has scrolled some of their litter around! But why do cats do this?
The most common reason is that cats seek a more comfortable and secure spot to do their business. If your litter box is not where your cat feels safe or if it’s too small for them, they may feel the need to take matters into their paws and look for somewhere else to go.
What Will You Need?
The most important thing you’ll need to stop litter from getting on the floor is a good quality litter box. So before we dive into the tips, please ensure you have a good litter box at least one and a half times your cat’s body length in each direction. Additionally, it should be made out of plastic or another non-porous material so that it can easily be cleaned and disinfected.
Next, you’ll need a good-quality litter. Look for litters that are clumping, absorbent, and preferably dust-free. These litters help to reduce the amount of tracking and are better for your cat’s paws, too!
10 Easy Steps on How to Stop Litter From Getting on the Floor
Step 1. Invest in a Litter Mat:
One helpful way to reduce the amount of scattered litter is to purchase a litter mat. These mats are designed to catch the litter as your cat exits the box, trapping it before spreading it over your floor. You can choose from various styles and materials, but whichever one you pick, make sure it’s easy to clean!
Step 2. Change the Litter Regularly:
Regularly changing the litter in the box is another crucial step in the fight against stray litter. If the box becomes too full or the litter is overused, cats are likelier to kick it onto the floor. Aim to fully empty and replace the litter at least once a week while scooping out waste daily. This will not only help to keep the floor clean, but it will also ensure a hygienic environment for your cat.
Step 3. Use a High-Sided Litter Box:
A high-sided litter box can be a great solution for cats who like to kick their litter around. The high sides will keep most of the litter within the box, preventing it from being scattered onto the floor. However, ensure the entrance is low enough for your cat to easily get in and out, especially if they’re older or have mobility issues.
Step 4. Position the Litter Box Correctly:
Where you place the litter box in your home can also prevent litter from getting on the floor. Position the box away from high-traffic areas to give your furry friend some privacy, yet make sure it’s easily accessible. Also, consider placing it on a surface that’s easy to clean, like tile or laminate, rather than carpet.
Step 5. Try a Litter Box with a Lid:
Another effective solution to keep the litter from scattering is using a litter box with a lid. These covered boxes have a small opening for your cat to enter and exit, but keep most of the litter inside if your cat likes to scratch or dig. However, ensure the box is spacious enough for your cat to move around comfortably — it should not feel claustrophobic. It’s also essential to keep the interior of the covered box clean and odor-free, as a build-up of smell can deter your cat from using it.
Step 6. Use Litter Attractant:
Litter attractants encourage your cat to use the litter box and can be quite effective in preventing litter scattering. These attractants use a mix of herbs that cats find irresistible, drawing them to the box. Sprinkle a bit of this attractant on the litter after each cleaning, and it will entice your cat to do their business in the box, reducing the chances of litter ending up on the floor.
Step 7. Maintain Multiple Litter Boxes:
If you have more than one cat, it’s advisable to maintain multiple litter boxes. Cats are territorial creatures and might not appreciate sharing their private space. Multiple boxes mean less competition, reducing the likelihood of cats kicking litter out of the box in frustration or haste.
Step 8. Regular Training:
Regularly train your cat to use the litter box properly. Reward them with treats when they use the box correctly. This reinforcement can help in forming good habits and reducing the tendency of litter scattering.
Step 9. Try a Different Type of Litter:
Sometimes, it is the type of litter that encourages your cat to scatter it around. Experiment with different types of litter and see which one your cat prefers. Some cats prefer finer litters, while others prefer larger, pebble-like ones. The right litter can make all the difference.
Step 10. Use Litter Box Furniture:
If all else fails, consider investing in litter box furniture. These pieces are designed to hide the litter box and contain stray litter. They often have a drawer or cabinet for the litter box and an entrance for your cat. The top of the furniture can be a perch for your cat, making it a multi-functional piece in your home.
Following these easy steps and investing in the right products can help keep your home free of scattered litter. So don’t be afraid to take the necessary steps and give your furry friend a comfortable place to do their business! With a little effort, you can ensure that all the litter stays where it belongs — inside the box.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Place the litter box in a quiet, out-of-the-way location. Cats prefer their privacy while doing their business, so you can help reduce litter tracking by giving them some space.
- Make sure to clean up any spills or messes quickly. The faster you act, the less chance of your cat kicking out more litter.
- If your cat is still tracking litter, add a few inches to the box. This will create a deeper layer that can help reduce tracking and scattering.
- If you have multiple cats, provide enough litter boxes for them all. Each cat should have their place to do their business so they don’t feel like they need to compete with each other.
- If you’re using clumping litter, try switching to an unscented variety. Some cats don’t like the smell and may be more likely to kick it out of the box if they find it unpleasant.
With these few tips and tricks, you can help keep your home clean and free of stray litter. Take the necessary steps and create a comfortable environment for both you and your feline friend!
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Don’t use scented litter, as they can be too strong for cats and put them off. This might encourage them to kick the litter around and scatter it about.
- Avoid putting the litter box in a cramped or small space – cats need plenty of room to maneuver in their box, so make sure there is enough space for your cat to move comfortably.
- Don’t fill the box too high – cats need space to dig and move around, so make sure the litter is no more than two inches deep.
- Avoid using a covered litter box if your cat doesn’t like it – some cats don’t feel comfortable in enclosed spaces, so try an open-top litter box instead.
- Remember to clean the litter box regularly – cats are sensitive to odors and may become discouraged from using their box if it’s too dirty or smelly. Clean out the litter at least once a week or more often, depending on your number of cats.
By avoiding these mistakes and taking the right steps, you can help keep your home free of scattered litter and ensure your feline friend has a pleasant place to do their business!
Conclusion
Needless to say, how to stop litter from getting on the floor is the ultimate goal of any responsible homeowner. Taking the time to follow these simple tips can make a world of difference in the appearance and value of your home.
From strategically placing receptacles and consolidating items into containers to regular maintenance such as vacuuming and spot cleaning, there are many ways to keep your floors pristine. Lastly, encourage everyone in your home to adopt the habit of putting things away properly so that you can avoid creating piles of clutter, which could end up on the floor eventually.
It’s all about creating good habits early on! Remember that spending some time on practical measures now will certainly pay off in the long run. Good luck!
