If you’re a cat owner, chances are you’ve watched your furry friend enthusiastically kick litter around their box. While it might feel like they're purposefully trying to make a mess, this behaviour is rooted in their instincts and natural tendencies. Let’s delve into why cats kick litter and how you can manage this behaviour effectively.
Instincts at Play
Cats are hardwired to bury their waste. In the wild, this practice helps conceal their scent from predators or other cats. Kicking litter ensures their waste is fully covered, mimicking the natural behaviour they would exhibit outdoors.
Territory Marking
While burying their waste hides their scent, some cats may kick litter to spread it around, subtly marking their territory. This is more common in multi-cat households where competition for resources can occur.
They’re Having Fun!
For kittens, the litter box might double as a playground. Kicking and digging can simply be an outlet for energy and curiosity, especially in young or playful cats.
Litter Box Preferences
Cats can be quite particular about their bathroom environment. They might kick litter around if they feel the box isn’t clean enough or if the litter texture isn’t to their liking.
If your cat is kicking up a storm, consider the Petsafe Scoop Free 2nd Generation Self Cleaning Litter Box, a hands-off solution that automatically scoops waste into a covered compartment, keeping your cat’s space fresh and clean for longer.
If a litter box is too small, your cat might have trouble manoeuvring comfortably, leading to excessive kicking. Choosing a larger box can help minimise this issue.
How to Minimise Litter Scatter
If your cat’s enthusiastic kicking is causing a mess, here are some tips to keep things under control:
- Invest in a High-Sided or Covered Litter Box: a box with high sides or a dome can contain the litter your cat kicks up. Consider the Bono Fido Cat Toilet 26808, which features a hooded design that helps trap litter inside the box while giving your cat plenty of space to dig. This can be an excellent option if you’re looking for a litter box that keeps the mess contained without compromising your cat’s comfort
- Choose the Right Litter: cats are less likely to kick up litter that feels heavy or satisfying under their paws. We recommend high quality litters like Breeders Choice or Catmate litter. Both options are highly absorbent, biodegradable, and provide a satisfying texture that encourages your cat to use the box while minimising the mess
- Keep It Clean: scoop the box daily to ensure it’s fresh and appealing. Cats are less likely to kick excessively in a clean environment. For a hands-off cleaning solution, consider the Petsafe Scoop Free 2nd Generation Self Cleaning Litter Box. This self-cleaning system automatically scoops waste into a covered compartment, keeping your cat’s litter box fresh and reducing the need for frequent manual cleaning
- Use a litter mat: place a mat around the box to catch stray litter. These mats trap litter from your cat's paws as they exit the box. We recommend the Smart Cat Ultimate Reversible Large Litter Mat, which is designed to catch litter effectively while being easy to clean
- Ensure Adequate Space: for larger or more energetic cats, a bigger box might provide the space they need to dig and bury without causing chaos
At Woonona Petfoods, we know how important it is to keep your home clean while ensuring your cat feels comfortable and happy. That’s why we offer a range of litter options, mats, and litter boxes designed with both you and your cat in mind. Got questions about choosing the best litter products? Drop by our store or give us a call—we’re here to help!
