Cats life

It’s a common myth that cats always use their litter boxes without issue. For the most part, cats indeed learn to use a litter box rather quickly, but this doesn’t mean that you’ll never encounter problems with your cat going potty outside the litter box or, worse yet, going in undesirable places, such as your bed or other pieces of furniture.

When a cat goes potty outside the litter box, it’s not an act of misbehaving or trying to annoy you. Your cat is trying to tell you something, and the reasons for the behavior vary from an unclean litter box to a medical issue. Come with us to learn eight common litter box issues and how to fix them.

The 8 Common Litter Box Issues & How to Fix Them

1. Possible Medical Issue

We wanted to list this possibility first because having your cat checked out by your vet should be the first step in figuring out the problem. A few medical factors could be the culprit for your cat having litter box issues. Let’s take a look.

Urinary Tract Infection

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in cats are not routine but can occur. Cats with a UTI may urinate outside the litter box, which is a huge red flag. Cats with UTIs may also urinate very little in the box, or they may even cry out in pain while trying to urinate. There may even be blood in the urine. Another sign of a possible UTI is if your cat frequently licks their rear end. If your cat displays any of these signs, take them to the vet for an examination.

Feline Interstitial Cystitis

Feline interstitial cystitis, also called feline idiopathic cystitis, is a medical term used to describe inflammation of the bladder. It’s a diagnosis used when no other causes or clinical signs can be identified. Previously called IFLUTD (idiopathic feline lower urinary tract disease), it’s most common in young to middle-aged cats. Common signs of the condition are bloody or discolored urine, straining to urinate, frequent urination, and urinating outside the litter box.

Bladder Stones/Bladder Crystals

Bladder and kidney stones can cause your cat a great deal of problems. These stones are a collection of crystals, minerals, and organic matter that can be brought on by a disease or a type of inflammation. They can block the urethra, making it difficult or even impossible to urinate, and one sign is urinating in unusual places and not the litter box. If your cat cannot urinate, this is a medical emergency.

2. Unclean Litter Box

It’s vital to keep the litter box clean for your cat’s sanitary use. If it hasn’t been scooped or replaced with fresh litter, your cat may choose to avoid the box altogether and go potty elsewhere. Most cat owners prefer clumping litter for easy scooping, so if you’re not using it, you may want to consider it for easier cleaning.

You should also thoroughly clean the entire litter box once a week with a mild soap or a diluted vinegar solution (do not use bleach or ammonia). Scrub the box and rise completely before adding new litter for your cat’s use.

3. Not Enough Litter Boxes

In a multi-cat household, you’ll absolutely need more than one litter box; otherwise, your cats may not use the box at all. A rule of thumb is to have one litter box per cat plus one extra. For example, if you have two cats, you’ll need three litter boxes. If you have a multi-level home, try placing a litter box on each level.

Some cats prefer to defecate in one box and urinate in the other, so ensure you do not place the boxes next to each other.

4. Bad Location

Cats are reserved beings and prefer going potty in private. If the litter box is placed in a busy location in the home, your cat may avoid the litter box and choose to go elsewhere. Cats will also seek out an area to go potty with multiple escape routes, which is a trait they inherited from their wild cousins, and placing the litter boxes in an area where your cat feels comfortable will help eliminate avoidance of the litter box itself.

5. Litter Preference

The type of litter you’re using may not be a litter your cat fancies. Cats are sensitive to chemical smells, and some litter may have this odor. Studies show that cats prefer unscented, clumping litter with a sand consistency, and if you’re not using this type, consider switching.

Speaking of switching, if you recently changed litters, your cat simply may not be fond of the new product. It may take time to find an appropriate litter for your cat, but once you do, do not deviate from it if possible.

6. Wrong Size/Shape of Litter Box

Sometimes, the shape and size of the litter box itself may be an issue, especially if you have a geriatric cat. Avoid litter boxes with hoods, as many cats prefer the litter box to be open so they have plenty of room to maneuver around. Hoods also trap odor and may cause your cat to avoid it. Hoods also prevent cats from standing erect while going potty, which most cats prefer. Avoiding litter boxes with high walls is also advisable for senior or overweight cats.

7. Household Stress/Bullying

Suppose you have multiple cats in the home. In that case, one may be bullying another, which can cause litter box issues. Moving to a new home or a new addition to the family, whether a human or another animal, can also cause litter box issues.

How to Remedy a Bullying Problem: Separate the cats and try reintroducing them slowly. Territorial issues are a common reason why bullying happens in the first place, and separating the cats for a period of time may help. Ensure you share your attention and enrichment with all cats in the home, and if your cats are not spayed/neutered, consider having the procedure done.

8. Negative Associations/Stress

Some cats will remember a negative event associated with the litter box. For example, if your cat had a medical issue in the past, like a UTI, the painful memory may keep your cat from using the litter box. The memory of painful waste elimination may resurface, even if your cat is back to good health.

What to Do if Your Cat Avoids the Litter Box

First and foremost, do not punish your cat if they’re experiencing litter box issues, such as rubbing the nose in the urine or feces. Remember that cats are not avoiding the box to annoy you. There is a reason for the behavior, and it’s likely one of the reasons mentioned above.

After visiting your vet to rule out medical issues, here are more tips:

Conclusion

Some cats avoid the litter box for various reasons, but it’s important to rule out a possible medical problem first. Once your cat is clear from a medical issue, you can then start a process of elimination. Remember to evaluate the type of litter you’re using, the location of the box, the style of the, and the number of boxes you have. Ensure you scoop the litter box daily and replace the scooped area with fresh litter. Clean the entire box once a week with mild soap and water or diluted vinegar, and don’t forget to rinse it and dry it completely before refilling it with litter!

Related Reads:

• Cat Litter Box Tips: 9 Vet-Approved Ideas For Placement, Cleaning & More
• 8 Cat Litter Box Tips to Promote Healthy Habits (Vet Verified)

Featured Image Credit: jamesjoong, Shutterstock

Ordinarily, perpetrators of breaking & entering, petty theft, and grand larceny eventually find themselves being poked with the pointy end of the law. In the case of one Tuxedoed Domestic Shorthair named Juno, such acts have been met with international fame, worldwide admiration, and even a nomination for honorary mayor. Since 2019, this prolific cat burglar has brought home more than 1,800 items, ranging from gloves, rags, and clothes to toys, plants, and tools. If she can carry it, consider it hers.

Juno was an orphaned five-week-old feral kitten who found herself in the home of Connie Geston in West Los Angeles, California, in 2015. As is often the case with kittens who have not had the standard socialization period with a litter, Juno was something of a wild child, whose antisocial behavior only started to calm down when she was allowed out for supervised outdoor adventures. As time went on, Juno became much calmer at home, but more independent and insistent on setting her own hours and territory. However, it wasn’t until she was around four years old that she started to perplex Connie by returning from her daily exploration with various household items.

Political Career

During the height of the Covid epidemic, Juno’s kleptomania really started to hit its stride, and her habit of hoarding plastic gloves, face masks, and steri-wipes earned her the admiration of the local community for her efforts to ‘clean up the hood.’ As her popularity was steadily gaining momentum, locals suggested that her efforts ought to be recognized in ‘paw-litical’ circles, with a nomination for honorary mayor in 2020. Unfortunately, being under 18 years of age and not human took her out of the running.

The Collection

When random items first started to appear in the house and around the garden, Juno’s family was mildly perplexed but not overly concerned. But when the number of items doubled from 60 to 132 from October to the end of December 2019, they decided it was time to start cataloguing her ill-gotten gains.

Fortunately for this sticky-fingered feline, the victims of her criminal proclivities are more amused than affronted, no doubt owing to the fact that the monetary value of Juno’s prized possessions is generally low. Had she developed a penchant for diamonds or small, green pictures of Benjamin Franklin, her thievery might not have been so well received!

Charitable and Entrepreneurial Endeavors

Not content to simply pilfer and provide entertainment, Juno has also tried her hand at charitable work, using her fame and theft to help raise money and awareness for a number of causes, such as animal shelters, rescues, and supporting Ukraine. In 2021, she pledged $1 for every rag she gathered to the animal shelter assistance program (ASAP Cats) during their ‘Giving Tuesday’ campaign, ending with a total of 225 rags.

When you visit her website and see the heading ‘Shop,’ you might wonder if Juno is attempting to offload items from her prolific collection, but no. What you will find is a cute collection of ‘Juno’ themed merchandise. How amusing it would be for Connie to someday discover that a ‘Klepto Kat’ tote bag has been dragged into her garden.

Whilst the bric-a-brac, bits-and-bobs, and knick-knacks that Juno has hunted and gathered over the years are of very little value in the traditional sense, as her fame rises, perhaps she may one day find her collection fetching a respectable price at auction.

Why Does She Do It?

Why does Juno spend her days and nights searching for treasure and trinkets, only to head back out for more? The trouble with this question is that it requires a deep understanding of the feline psyche and motivation, an area that even the most dedicated ailurophiles and feline specialists have yet to master. One could hypothesize that her early separation from mother and littermates has left her with an unrequited yet displaced mothering instinct. Perhaps she is driven by an instinctive need to hunt, but is not aware that socks are not typical feline prey. Or it could be for a reason that we humans could never hope to fully comprehend, and only Juno herself will ever know.

If you want to follow Juno the Klepto Kat’s hilarious adventures, you can find her here:

• Instagram: JunoTheKleptoKat
• TikTok: junothekleptokat
• Facebook: JunoTheKleptoKat

Welcome to the Wednesday Cats of Catster! Every week, we share a story from one of our cat-loving Catsters. This week is about Isabel and her sassy rescue, Milly.

Greetings! Welcome back to Keeping Up With The Kardashians Milly on a Golf Course (Part Two)!

In part one, I shared more about our little “Fa-Milly’s” journey moving to an idyllic golf course, how quickly Milly settled in and started going on leashed walks with me, and how she grew more curious by the day!  Now, get ready to join us for the next chapter in her tale—where things really start to get interesting…

From her very first solo outdoor adventures to leisurely off-leash strolls and serene picnics, Milly quickly made the quiet residential village of Devonvale her own. But of course, with great freedom comes great… mischief. Milly’s impeccable hunting instincts reawakened, and we found ourselves facing the unexpected challenge of keeping local wildlife safe from our pint-sized predator.

In this part, we’ll share how we navigated Milly’s growing independence, the adorable moments that stole our hearts, and the creative solution we found to balance her freedom with our love for nature. Let’s dive in!

A Killer Instinct: Milly, the Furrocious Furry Assassin

Milly didn’t just dabble in hunting—she excelled at it. With the precision of a feline ninja and the enthusiasm of a kitten discovering her power, she quickly proved herself a formidable predator from a young age (with flies and moths). I’m terrified of moths, okay…

Honestly, it was probably our fault she was so good at stalking and catching prey. We unintentionally created a skilled little hunter as curious and creative students ourselves! We held her little kitten body like a machine gun, and she caught flying invaders with her two front paws like a karate kid! A karate kitten, if you will. Those poor suckers didn’t stand a chance… Also, it was hilarious to witness us running around the dorm with a professional insect catcher that can fit in your pocket, literally.

Even by cat standards, her natural ability was impressive… and just a little terrifying.

A Delicate Subject: Before You Come for Me

Let’s take a moment to address the elephant (or rather, the bird) in the room. If you’re sensitive to the topic of wildlife and hunting, you’re not alone—so am I. I adore birds, and I never took Milly’s impact lightly.

But at the same time, a cat is a cat. This was never about turning a blind eye; we found a solution (keep reading!).

Please consider this a gentle disclaimer: this story includes nature being nature.

Sunset Magic: Walks, Whiskers, and Stillness

After the last golfer packed away their clubs, the course became our golden, peaceful playground. Milly, leash-free and content, would chill alongside us on the lush green lawn, staring at the sun setting over the horizon. These beautiful, calm moments we shared bonded us as a little “Fa-Milly.” We were all so content.

We’d settle in for a picnic-for-dinner or a glass of red wine to conclude the day while she rolled in the grass, got the zoomies, and chased moths. Those evenings felt suspended in time—quiet, glowing moments that will forever live in my heart.

Garage Greetings: Meows That Melt the Day Away

One of the sweetest surprises came at the end of long days. As we pulled into the garage—still a little walk from the house—there she’d be. Sitting pretty, tail curled, ready with chirpy meows and purring welcomes. No matter how chaotic the day had been, Milly’s happy little face waiting for us was pure, instant joy.

She even became quite popular among faraway neighbors sharing the garage space with us. Giving everyone a quick little show before turning in for the evening after a long day’s work. Instant dopamine!

The Good, the Bad, and the Mole

Her hunting résumé grew quickly: rats and mice, a few unlucky birds (most thankfully rescued), and one tragically chubby mole who never saw it coming. We held a little funeral for him. But here’s the thing—Milly was thriving. She glowed with health, confidence, and purpose. It was hard not to be in awe of her, even as I cleaned up the aftermath.

Believe it or not, Milly had 2 bells around her collar, plus a shiny, metal ID tag (which basically acted like a 3rd bell) and an Apple Air tag to track her every move (helicopter parents). And yet, she still managed to trick a handful small defenseless animals… In her defence, they weren’t exactly the sharpest mammals in the shed.

Anyhow, the collar accessories made quite the noise. I heard her galloping home from a mile away! Which was good because it enabled her to classically condition me to jumping up from my desk the moment I heard her bells. I then proceeded to run up and down between her two entry points (the balcony window and the office window beside me) to see where she’s coming from and spot whether she’d caught something or not (most of the time, not). But still, I was ready for anything!

Sadly, I couldn’t be home 24/7, despite working from home. I was home like 70% of the week. But there were one or two incidents were we came home to an unexpected surprise… One day, the unlucky victim was the cutest, fattest little mole, laying on our living room floor. I was really sad and felt extremely guilty. The mole got a little burial and we decided that it was time to take more serious steps to curb Milly’s hunting capabilities.

The Puffer Jacket Era: Fashion Meets Function

Enter: the solution. After much Googling and guilt, we landed on an answer—Milly’s iconic designer cat puffer jacket made by my mother-in-law. Equal parts adorable and effective, it made her look like a tiny, unimpressed, stylish diva, and it dulled her stealth just enough to give the little critters a fighting chance.

She loathed it at first, but it worked. And best of all? Our sunset picnics, garage greetings, and Milly’s freedom could continue, just with fewer to no casualties.

Life is a Balancing Act

Milly’s story is one of balance—between instinct and intention, freedom and responsibility, wildness and love. Watching her flourish outdoors was a gift, even when it came with unexpected challenges. But finding a way to let her be a cat while protecting the world around her felt like a small triumph.

These memories—of her frolicking through golden grass, of soft meows echoing from the garage, of her reluctantly stylish puffer jacket—make up the tapestry of a season I’ll never forget. I’m grateful for every moment and lesson.

Next up! After 18 months, we moved back to our 2nd-floor apartment, and Milly was very confused. So, we got a cat door!

Tune in next time for another dramatic tale of being Milly’s parents.

Cheers vir eers!

(Cheers for now!)

Is the cat population in your neighborhood increasing? Are you feeling the pressure of the judgmental feline gaze? It’s not just you – they are growing in number, seeking world domination, and it may already be too late…

There is a new pandemic on the way, and this time, there is no stopping it. One touch from a cat and the mutation will begin, and before you know it, you too will join the legion of four-legged felines that are systematically replacing the human race.

We don’t wish to cause hiss-teria, but we urge people not to be taken in by their cute faces and soothing purrs. If you are offered a fluffy belly, do not touch – IT’S A TRAP! Once they have you in their thrall, you will soon find yourself swarmed by a clowder with no hope of escape, and by then it’s too late – there will be no more work, no school, no fancy cars; only meow meow.

Don’t Panic, We’re Only Kitten-ing Around

Okay, obviously we’re not really facing a cat mutation virus, but the characters in the exciting new post-apocalyptic comedy anime series from executive producer Takashi Miike are, and it’s sure to be a wild ride. Nyaight of the Living Cat is an upcoming global release exclusive to Crunchyroll*, a streaming service renowned for its vast collection of anime and manga content. The premiere date has not yet been released, so we must stay alert for any mews.

The series is set in the not-so-distant future, where the world is ruled by cats – though of course, some people would say it already is. The cat-astrophic story comes from the same animation studio behind Pokémon and The Apothecary Diaries, so we know we’re in good hands.

*In Asia, the series will be distributed by Sony Pictures Entertainment.

Nya-What Now?

The series title, a play on the title of the 1968 film Night of the Living Dead, incorporates the Japanese word for “mew” (nya) and “meow” (nyan), just some of many puns we are likely to encounter in this tongue-in-cheek take on a global ‘nyandemic.’

Whilst we may have reached saturation point when it comes to zombie apocalypse entertainment, this feline twist breathes fresh air into the genre. Of course, in terms of incurable conditions, becoming a cat probably isn’t the worst thing in the world. However, there’s one major flaw in the design: if all humans become cats, who will be left to serve them? We’re going to need to keep someone around with opposable thumbs to operate those can openers. Perhaps this is one problem that will be tackled in the series.

So tell your family, tell your friends, but don’t tell your cat – we don’t want to give them any ideas.

You can watch the trailer here:

Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their cat’s health and well-being.

Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned cat lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your kitty happy, healthy, and feline fine. Stay tuned for expert guidance on a range of topics that matter most to you and your cat, so you can make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your furry companion. ‎

Have‎ a ‎question? Send it in here!

Help! My Cat Won’t Eat His Wet Food!

“Dear Dr. Paola,

My 5-year-old Ragdoll Winston will not eat wet food, he will eat the gravy but not the meat. I have tried everything, even making my own gravy for him. Does he really need wet food? He eats a prescription dry cat food with no problem. He does like cat treats. “– Carol

Hi Carol,

You may find a bit of relief in hearing that you are not alone! It’s actually quite common for cats, especially those with a strong preference for certain textures, to favor certain things in their food, like in Winston’s case, the gravy in wet food, and leave the rest behind. Ragdolls love routine, and they can be quite particular about changes, which may result in them being picky with food textures. Winston’s behavior may also suggest he might be what’s informally referred to as a “licker”: a cat that enjoys the moisture and flavor of the sauce but isn’t keen on chunks or pâtés. This can be frustrating when you’re doing your best to provide variety and hydration through wet food.

While wet food isn’t absolutely essential if Winston is thriving on a balanced, veterinary-prescribed dry diet, incorporating moisture is still very important for urinary tract health. A little creativity with moisture consumption could go a long way to support his long-term health. Cats naturally have a low thirst drive, and their ancestors evolved to get most of their hydration from prey. Since he enjoys gravy and treats, you might consider adding lukewarm water or a cat-safe broth (homemade and onion-free) to his dry food or offering water-rich treats like lickable purées that are complete and balanced or at least formulated with healthy, species-appropriate ingredients in mind. If he’s eating a prescription food, though, there are certain restrictions and requirements, so it’s crucial not to introduce new treats or toppers without consulting your veterinarian to make sure the ingredients are allowed and compatible with his case. You should also consider incorporating multiple water stations and moving sources, such as a water fountain, to entice Winston to drink more water if he is only allowed his prescription dry food. I hope this helps!

– Dr. Paola

Help! My Cat Has a URI!

“I have a little kitten called Smokey. He just showed up on my front porch one day. He has an upper respiratory infection. I’ve been putting him in a carrier with a nebulizer and saline solution. It seems to be helping. Does he have to have antibiotics as well? Now I need to find the little guy a home. I already have 5 cats, so I can’t keep him. Love Catster. Lots of great info. Thank you“ – Cher

Hi Cher, thank you so much for stepping up to care for little Smokey. It sounds like you’re doing a beautiful job already, and I’m sure he feels that warmth. Upper respiratory infections (URIs) are unfortunately quite common in kittens, especially those who have had a rough start outdoors. Your use of a nebulizer with saline is a gentle and effective way to help loosen secretions and support his breathing, which is wonderful supportive care.

Whether or not antibiotics are needed depends on the cause and severity of the infection. Many URIs in cats are viral, particularly due to feline herpesvirus or calicivirus. In these cases, antibiotics wouldn’t address the root cause but might be prescribed to manage or prevent secondary bacterial infections, especially if there’s green or yellow discharge, fever, or if the kitten seems lethargic and isn’t eating. Smokey’s signs suggest he requires a physical exam and potentially diagnostic tests to determine the best course of action, so the recommendation is to have him checked by a veterinarian. This way, they can decide if antibiotics or additional treatments like antivirals or eye medications are necessary. If you’re unsure whether he needs an urgent visit, a teletriage veterinary service can be a helpful first step to assess the urgency based on what you’re observing at home, but keep in mind that medical treatments, especially antibiotics can only be prescribed by a veterinarian after checking Smokey and establishing a doctor-patient relationship.

As for rehoming him, thank you for your compassion in thinking of his future. Since he’s already receiving care, he’s on a great path to recovery and will likely be a loving addition to the right home. Reaching out to local rescue groups, posting on community boards, or asking your trusted vet if they know of any potential adopters can be helpful next steps. If you can share that he’s already been started on care, that can be reassuring for potential adopters. He’s lucky to have crossed your path by showing up on your porch, Cher. I admire your compassion!

– Dr. Paola

Help! My Cat is Pooping on the Floor!

“Dear Dr. Paola,

Lindsey is 18 years old. She has always used the litter box for peeing and pooping, until the last year. She pees in her litter box but poos on the floor. Any solutions for this problem? Thank you. PS. She is diabetic. One unit twice a day.” – Inez

Hi Inez,

At 18, Lindsey is considered a longevous pet cat, and your love and care have clearly made a difference. Changes in litter box habits, especially in senior cats with underlying conditions like diabetes, often signal that something is making the experience uncomfortable or confusing for them. The fact that Lindsey is still using the box to pee but is pooping outside of it gives us a few clues.

When a cat uses the litter box for one purpose but not the other, it often suggests a behavioral or sensory aversion rather than a physical limitation. Some cats begin to associate the act of defecating in a particular spot with discomfort, such as straining due to constipation, or they may develop a preference for a certain surface or location. In senior cats, cognitive changes can also play a role, especially when chronic illnesses like diabetes are present. These changes might affect memory, spatial awareness, or routine behaviors. It’s a bit like how elderly humans might suddenly misplace familiar objects or lose track of regular routines.

For Lindsey, ruling out gastrointestinal discomfort or irregular stool quality would be the next step. If her stool is hard, or irregular, or if she seems restless before pooping, that could point to a source of discomfort worth exploring further with her veterinarian. Once her health is checked, an online vet consultation with one of our veterinarians at PangoVet could be a good support to discuss her behavior in more depth and determine the best way to reinforce her routines and gently guide her back to consistent habits, or provide her with any additional support needed for her aging mind.

Best Wishes!

Dr. Paola

Of all my indoor cats, only Clutch tries to shimmy his way through a gap in the door. Fortunately, he is the antithesis of stealth, meowing loudly to announce his escape, and immediately coming to a stop upon finding a suitably lush and delicious patch of grass to munch on. This is very much a fair-weather enterprise, so I never have to worry about chasing him through rain or hail, only shine.

With his mild inflammatory bowel problem, Clutch tends to enjoy the positive digestive effects of grazing, but I have to limit his exposure to the green stuff. If left to his own devices, he will destroy an enormous mound of grass in a single sitting, and then suffer the intense emetic (vomit-inducing) effects that come from overindulgence. I provide one or two planters with cat grass inside their outdoor catio, but I have to make sure they don’t become overgrown.

Paved Paradise

I will never forget the look of confusion, shortly followed by disgust, the first time Clutch darted into our back garden after we had replaced the patchy, dog-destroyed grass with the artificial variety. As he explored the four corners of the ‘plastic monstrosity,’ I swear I could hear him thinking: What fresh hell is this? An unfortunate consequence of this particular garden makeover is that Clutch has redoubled his efforts to dart through the narrowest gap in the front door, taking advantage of our numerous parcel deliveries. Luckily, we live on a quiet cul-de-sac, and the only real danger is from the obligatory cat-hating grumpy old man at the end of the street – every neighborhood seems to have at least one!

Clutch was even more devastated when many of the occupants of our little street paved over their front gardens, trading a small grassy patch for much-needed parking space, further shrinking his munching opportunities. On a positive note, it has made it much easier for me to give chase, as his options are now somewhat limited. You could say that Clutch’s plight has become a metaphor for the world’s ever-shrinking natural habitats. He is Joni Mitchell, lamenting the fact that ‘we paved paradise to put up a parking lot,’ so to speak.

No Indoor Jungle for Me

While the amount of accessible grass around the house has reduced, much to Clutch’s chagrin, his fetish for foliage is the reason our indoor greenery has been seriously reined in. His propensity for gorging on greenery means that I can’t even enjoy cat-friendly plants inside the house without coming downstairs to a sprinkling of half-digested leaves, stems, and petals each morning. Husband’s beloved bonsai has been banished to the downstairs loo, floral arrangements are re-gifted or relegated to the patio, and the only plants that are safe from Clutch’s herbivorous pursuits are either cacti or fake.

Clutch has never tried to chew a cactus, for obvious reasons, but he also avoids the non-spikey succulent types, giving me a few more options to choose from. More recently, however, he has taken to using some of my smaller cacti for another purpose: a pillow, proving yet again that cat logic is very different from ours. Most of the time, I would argue that theirs is usually superior, but clearly, there are exceptions to the rule.

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Enter Your Cat

Welcome to the Wednesday Cats of Catster! Every week, we share a story from one of our cat-loving Catsters. This week is about Crystal and her soul cat, Ivy.

Hi, Catsters!

We all know what we think about cats: they’re funny, wonderful, smart, sometimes very strange, and always adorable.

But have you ever stopped to think: what do cats think about us?

Oftentimes, when I’m busy around the house with certain things, like cleaning the bathroom, doing the laundry, or coming home with groceries, Ivy intently watches me with what I imagine to be a look of confusion on her cute little face. I then find myself wondering: what is she thinking?

Here are some human habits that I think cats find strange:

1. Showering or Taking a Bath

I think this one might seem the strangest to them, since most are not big fans of water. Every day (hopefully!), we shed our clothes and climb into a giant tub or stream of water, where we drench ourselves with water completely, only to dry off and do it again either later in the day or the next day.

2. Our Strange ‘Hunting Ritual’

Do cats think we went out hunting when we come back with groceries? And why do we put some of the groceries in a giant, cold box? And how is their cat food almost instantly replenished without them having to lift a paw?

3. Phone Calls

You’re talking, but not to them, and there’s a semi-familiar voice coming out of a device. Sometimes, when we’re on the phone, we might laugh or cry, or become instantly angered. Sometimes, we stay on the phone for hours, talking to the voice on the other side.

4. Watching TV

Oftentimes, our nightly rituals involve watching a big, glowing rectangle. We stare at this rectangle for hours, sometimes laughing, sometimes crying, sometimes with no expression at all. Pretty weird to think about, right?

5. Cleaning

After your cat has carefully and selectively secured its territory by rubbing up against certain things, we remove it by cleaning it. More often than not, we use cleaning products that smell very strange and invasive to them.

6. Vacuuming

Hot on the heels of the strange cleaning phenomenon, we have the dreaded beast, which is referred to as ‘the vacuum’ – what’s the deal with that? It’s loud, it’s invasive, and in their minds, it’s out to kill them.

7. Wearing Shoes

This one’s a no-brainer: we cover our ‘paws’ with some sort of covering before heading out into the world. I mean, what even?

8. Walking on Two Legs

How strange must this seem to them?! The more I think about it from a cat’s perspective, the more creeped out I get. Also, they must think us highly inefficient. How will we climb trees or quickly get away from threats?

9. Having Guests Over

Why are there strange, loud, weirdly smelling strangers in my territory? Also, why are they constantly trying to pick me up and pet me? Imagine if a stranger walked up to you and just simply picked you up. Definitely a huge cause for concern.

10. Seeing Us Fall

Ivy has seen – and caused me to – fall on numerous occasions. Does she think I’m weak and pathetic because I can’t land on all fours? I have to admit, it is very embarrassing to fall with your feline watching.

Living with humans must be a constant source of bewilderment – and amusement – for our feline overlords! Their silent judgments are likely far more astute (and humorous) than we can ever imagine.

Did I miss something? Can you think of another human behavior that cats find puzzling?

Catch you next time, Catsters!

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Enter Your Cat

If you want to set off a heated debate, announce to UK cat owners that their pets should be kept indoors, then tell feline fanciers in the US to do the opposite. It is amazing how passionate people are about this topic, and both arguments have some very valid points.

In Australia, where I spent my first 31 years, cats were originally seen as a largely outdoor pet; free to roam as they pleased, with some individuals allowed to venture indoors if they were lucky or felt so inclined. These days, the situation is completely reversed, with cats kept almost exclusively indoors, and laws limiting, even preventing, their outdoor excursions. So what changed? Two things: flea control got better, and the impact cats were having on wildlife populations got too severe to ignore. If the first thing hadn’t happened, I’m not sure if it would have been the cats or the wildlife that would have suffered more.

Felines, Fleas, and Feral Populations

Like many of its residents and visitors, fleas love Australia’s warm climate, and until the mid-1990s, when potent ectoparasiticides like Frontline and Advantage revolutionised flea control, indoor cats invariably meant fleas. I remember my first cats being strictly outdoors (apart from when I would sneak them in for a cuddle), with Mum adamant that she would not risk a flea infestation. By the time Muffin & Tiger had passed on and Gilbert & Sully hit the scene, the tables had turned, and my tabbies were only allowed to venture outside in the safety of their enclosure or on the end of a leash.

Cats were first introduced to Australia in the 1800s, with stray cats becoming an apex predator, the likes of which the current ecosystem had never experienced. The feral cat population is now estimated to fluctuate between one and four million, and kills around six million native animals per day, threatening the survival of over 100 animal species. These cats, more wild now than domestic, are culled on sight, and strict laws have been introduced in an attempt to reduce new cats entering the population. I can’t help but wonder if pet cat numbers would have dwindled had flea control not improved by the time we were waking up to the damage this introduced species was causing. Cope with fleas or forgo having a cat? I know which one my mother would have chosen!

While the indoor/outdoor status of Australia’s cats has been decided by policy and not necessarily preference, pet owners down under will attest to the fact that their indoor kitties are certainly healthier than their outdoor predecessors, living twice as long on average. With that in mind, why are so many feline fanciers so vehemently opposed to keeping their pets indoors? Let’s break it down.

The Argument FOR Indoor Cats

Health and Longevity

Statistically speaking, indoor cats have longer lifespans and have fewer health problems than their outdoor counterparts. Without the risks of cars, dogs, other cats, infections, poisons, parasites and cruel people, they are bound to live longer.

Wildlife Protection

Evidence of domestic cats in the UK has been found dating back to the first century AD, so theirs is not a recent introduction into the ecosystem. Despite there being a long history of large feline predators in America as far back as the last ice age, the domestic cat was only introduced in the 1600s. They are responsible for killing smaller mammals and birds that their larger wild relatives would likely not waste time on, so their ecological impact must be considered.

Indoor Cats Can Have Outdoor Experiences

Catios, cat enclosures, and cat harnesses are all ways we can allow our cats to safely experience the great outdoors. Even those living in upstairs apartments can buy or make window boxes that can allow their cats a taste of fresh air without putting their health at risk.

The Argument AGAINST Indoor Cats

Welfare

The primary argument made against keeping cats indoors is that it is ‘cruel and unnatural’ to keep them confined, as their nature is to roam and explore. Although this is true, the same assertion is never made about dogs, whose wolf ancestors are every bit as wild as the lion or puma. Is it simply that dogs are more easily contained? Additionally, it can be argued that cities and suburbs with crowded housing, fast cars, and high population densities bear little resemblance to the native habitat of wild cats.

Certainly, a small house or apartment is not an ideal environment for a creature whose instincts tell them to run, jump, hunt, and explore, but this is something that can be overcome with cat runs and enclosures, cat trees, shelves, and platforms, and through the selection of more placid cats over the ‘wilder’ breeds like the Bengal or Savannah.

Environmental enrichment is a major consideration for pet wellbeing, but a compromise needs to be reached between the risks to their health and that of the local wildlife.

Preference

Many people prefer having a pet that comes and goes as it pleases, doesn’t require a litter box, and is seen very much as a ‘low-maintenance pet.’ This may be seen as a somewhat selfish argument, but it can be difficult to go against a long-held view of a cat’s place in the household.

It’s Hard to Keep Cats Inside

While the escape efforts of dogs are generally stymied by the building of a fence, cats are not so easily contained. In the UK, flyscreens and security screens are few and far between, so keeping a cat inside means keeping windows and doors securely latched, which can be stifling in the summer. Many cat owners assert that it is virtually impossible to keep their cat inside, and they often give into their pet’s incessant attempts to escape, reinforcing the belief that keeping a cat indoors is cruel.

What’s My Position?

You might assume that, with five indoor cats, my position is pretty clear, and yes, I am largely in favor of keeping cats indoors. However, it is an opinion with several caveats based on geography, ecology, and history.

Using the example of Australia, the way cats fit into the ecosystem there is simple: they don’t. For thousands of years, there have been no predators with the size, stealth, and killing capacity of a feral cat, so the impact of a carnivore of their caliber introduced less than 250 years ago has been devastating. The feral cat situation in Australia is an ecological emergency, and the only way for people to continue living with them is to keep them indoors – end of discussion.

Although the domestic cat has only been found in America for around 500 years, the continent has its fair share of feline predators, and the impact made by these smaller felines is not as great. However, the presence of such predators, along with the number of deadly and dangerous diseases endemic to a considerable part of the continent, makes me err on the side of keeping kitty safely inside.

So what about merry old England? The lengthy presence of the domestic cat suggests that the current ecosystem has evolved alongside these small predators, and in fact, they have arguably taken the place of some wild felids and canines that have been driven out through hunting and habitat destruction. However, I would argue that built-up areas with a high concentration of pets, people, and cars are not a natural environment, and are likely a source of stress and high mortality for the average housecat, and these are the reasons I keep mine confined to the house and catio. If I were to move to a more rural area with no near neighbors and minimal traffic, I would reconsider my position, though probably not with my current clowder of inexperienced cats.

Despite what many believe, the indoor/outdoor debate is not black and white – more tortoiseshell, perhaps? What is most important is that you consider all the variables, including the health and welfare of your pet, their impact on local wildlife, and your ability to provide them with an enriched and happy life.