Mary Allen
Does your cat sleep in the litter box? Then you should watch her carefully because something is wrong with her in this case. Don’t be afraid to go to the vet and have your cat checked out, as often an illness is the cause of the unusual behavior. However, it can also be due to stress.
A cat will sleep in the litter box when it is sick or scared. In some cases in a multi-cat household, cats lying in their litter box can also be a form or consequence of bullying. They want to deny the other cats the litter box or they have been denied it before and they no longer dare to go down. Either way, when a cat sleeps in the litter box, it’s always a warning sign of health or mental health issues.
Does the Cat Sleep in the Litter Box Because It’s Sick?
If a cat sleeps in the litter box, you should take it to the vet if in doubt. It doesn’t have to be an illness, but the probability is there and if you wait too long, in the worst case it’s too late. Older cats can often be seen lying or sleeping in the litter box. In the case of very old animals, dementia can be the reason why they suddenly no longer know exactly where they are and that the litter box is not a suitable place to sleep. It is also possible that high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid or renal insufficiency triggers changed behavior. Have the vet carry out appropriate tests; once diagnosed, they may be able to help your cat with medication and special food to help her condition improve. The sooner a health problem is discovered, the better the chances of improvement.
Younger cats, especially males, will sleep or lie in the litter box if they are having trouble urinating or defecating. Does your pet sit on the litter box for a long time without defecating or urinating, does it seem to be straining, or is it nervously scratching at the litter? It may be constipated or have a bladder infection. This could be an emergency, your cat may have an intestinal obstruction or a dangerous urinary tract condition such as feline lower urinary tract disease caused by resin crystals. Visit a veterinarian or an animal hospital immediately!
Stress As a Cause: Cat Sleeps in the Litter Box
If your cat appears to be physically healthy, not in pain or having difficulty urinating or defecation, it may be a stress reason she sleeps in the litter box. Think about any recent changes in your furry friend’s life. Moving house, the death of a caregiver or an animal roommate are all possible, but a new pet, baby, or partner coming into the house can also be stressful for your cat. It can sometimes be observed in shelter cats that they like to sleep in the litter box. This is because the litter box is usually a safe retreat for the velvet paws that smells familiar and give a sense of security. If your cat only sleeps in the litter box, but otherwise eats normally, drinks enough water, and seems healthy and alert, you can wait a few days.
If you notice any other changes in behavior, particularly a loss of appetite, apathy or lethargy, increased irritability or aggressiveness, and unusual anxiety or shyness, see your veterinarian. If he determines that your cat is physically healthy, you can contact a cat psychologist. Your pet may have developed depression or an anxiety disorder.