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Do cats get upset when you change their litter?


Cats can be quite particular about their litter boxes and may show signs of distress when litter is changed. However, with some care and planning, most cats can transition smoothly to new litter. Here’s what you need to know about changing cat litter and keeping your feline friends happy.

Why Cats May Dislike Litter Changes

Cats prefer consistency and can be adverse to change. Here are some key reasons cats may resist a change in litter:

  • Scent – Cats have a strong sense of smell. Used litter takes on their own scent over time for identification. New litter will smell unfamiliar.
  • Texture – Cats develop preferences for the texture of a specific litter. A change in grain size or material can put them off.
  • Depth – Cats are accustomed to the depth of their own litter. A change may alter the feeling under their paws.
  • Sound – Some litters make more noise than others when stepped on. A different sound can unsettle cats.
  • Routine – Cats are creatures of habit. Altering any aspect of their normal routine, like litter, can cause stress.

Signs of Stress in Cats from Litter Change

Watch for these common signs that your cat is not happy about a change in litter:

  • Avoiding the litter box
  • Relieving themselves outside the litter box
  • Excessive scratching around the litter box
  • Not covering waste with litter
  • Shaking paws after using the litter box
  • Vocalizing complaints around the litter box
  • Going in and out of the litter box frequently
  • Digging all the new litter out of the box

If you notice any of these behaviors, your cat may be stressed by the litter change.

Tips for Transitioning Cats to New Litter

Switching litter doesn’t have to be a traumatic experience for your cat. Here are some tips to help make the change smoother:

  • Mix in the new litter – Don’t throw all the old litter out. Mix some of the new litter in with the old so the scent and texture change is gradual.
  • Add more litter boxes – Give your cat some options with boxes containing both old and new litter.
  • Try different litters – Offer a few types of new litter to discover which one your cat likes best.
  • Change gradually – Swap out small portions of old litter for new over a period of weeks.
  • Use litter mats – Mats outside the litter box can help absorb excess litter stuck to paws.
  • Try cat attractant – Look for new litters with herbal scents that appeal to cats.
  • Reward use – Give treats and praise when your cat uses the new litter. Positive reinforcement works!

Making a slow transition is key to getting your cat comfortable with new litter. Be patient and understand it may take some time.

Which Type of Litter is Best?

With so many options on the market, which litter is right for your cat during a transition? Here’s an overview of the main types:

Litter Type Properties Considerations for Transition
Clay litter
  • Absorbs well
  • Tracks outside box
  • Affordable
  • Look for similar grain size
  • Shift texture gradually
  • May need mats to limit tracking
Clumping litter
  • Forms clumps
  • Low tracking
  • Can be pricey
  • Transition clump texture slowly
  • Try adding cat attractant
  • Watch for clump aversion
Natural litter
  • Made from plant materials
  • Often less dusty
  • May have strong scent
  • Blend scents gradually
  • Note texture differences
  • Ensure adequate absorption
Crystal litter
  • Very low dust
  • Odor reducing properties
  • Can track more
  • Shift texture slowly
  • Try mats to limit tracking
  • Watch for digging behavior

The key is to look for a litter that is as close as possible in attributes to your cat’s current preferences. Slowly transitioning to a new scent, texture, and particle size will make the change easier.

When to Switch Litters

Here are some good times when switching your cat’s litter makes sense:

  • Kitten to adult litter – Kittens may need a finer, fluffier litter. Adult cats do better with larger granules.
  • Litter box avoidance – Elimination outside the box can signal a need for a change.
  • Allergies – Try a hypoallergenic litter if your cat has irritated skin or respiratory issues.
  • Too much dust – Low dust litters help limit airborne particles.
  • Strong odor – Switching to odor reducing litter keeps the box smelling clean.
  • Cost – Moving to a more affordable litter saves money long term.
  • Availability – Trying a new type of litter if your regular brand is hard to find.

Make litter changes when clearly needed for health or practical reasons. Be strategic about timing and gradual with the transition.

Cats Prefer Consistency

While cats may resist litter changes at first, be patient and stick to the tips above to help them adjust. Try to minimize variables by keeping the box in the same spot and maintaining their normal routine. With time, your cat will grow accustomed to the new litter. Consistency in other areas will reassure them that the world really hasn’t turned upside down!

Conclusion

Changing cat litter can be disruptive for many felines who prefer consistency in their routines and environments. Cats may show signs of stress such as avoiding the litter box, vocalizing displeasure, or digging in the litter. Make any transitions gradually by mixing old and new litter, adding cat attractants, and rewarding litter box use. Be aware of differences in texture, scent, and absorbency that may put your cat off. With strategic timing and patience helping them adjust, you can successfully introduce your cat to a new litter without too much upset. Consistency in all other aspects of their care will help reassure them when litter changes are needed.