Is An Automatic Litter Box Safe for My Cat?

Does My Cat Need a Litter Box When Travelling?

Traveling with your best furry friend by your side can be an exciting adventure. It’s a great opportunity to make lifelong memories while strengthening that special bond. However, some questions about their essential needs will naturally arise as you start planning…One of the biggest concerns for cat owners is whether or not to bring a litter box. It’s a valid question!This article will explore the pros and cons of traveling with a litter box. I’ll also discuss the different litter box types available and which may be best suited for different forms of travel, including road trips, camping, hotel stays, and more.Ensure a smooth journey for both you and your cat by checking out these tips and recommendations:Do Cats Need a Litter Box When Traveling?Whether or not your cat will need a litter box during your travels will depend on the style of travel you plan. Setting your cat up comfortably in your vehicle for a long road trip makes it much easier to provide access to a litter box during travel than flying with a cat.You must also consider the length of your travels, where you will stay overnight, and other factors related to your vacation plans. While your cat can take a flight safely without access to a box (assuming they have been given a chance to do their business before boarding the plane and after you have landed), the same can’t be said for an overnight stay at a pet-friendly hotel.Let’s break it all down a little further…How Do You Travel with a Cat Without a Litter Box?Some travel plans simply can’t accommodate the use of a litter box. The most common example of this is flying with a cat. However, litter boxes are also off the table when taking your cat on other forms of public transit, like a bus or train.If you know your cat will be without their litter box for an extended period, allow them to “do their business” right before your travels begin. Many airports have dog bathroom stations, where you could also go to let your cat relieve themselves. Alternatively, you may choose to let them have their last bathroom break before leaving your cat to enter the airport.One way to handle this is to bring a disposable litter box with a small amount of litter when you leave the house. Alternatively, if your cat is a frequent traveler, you may be able to train them to do their business on a puppy pee pad. This is easier to bring along in these situations and easier to dispose of when they are finished.It is also recommended to not feed your cat at least six hours before any travel where a litter box won’t be available. This allows any food in their system to hopefully pass, reducing the risk they will need to go and, in turn, preventing accidents. Although, I still recommend lining their carrier with a pee pad as an extra layer of protection.How Long Can Cats Go Without a Litter Box?Will your cat be without a litter box for a while during travel? Don’t fret! While you shouldn’t encourage your cat to “hold it” on a regular basis, cats have been known to go 24-48 hours safely without going to the bathroom. This is, of course, the extreme. However, it does mean that a 6-hour flight isn’t a significant concern.Of course, every cat is different. Some cats will be able to wait this time without a problem. Others, however, may need to go to the bathroom more frequently. This is especially important to note if you have a kitten, a senior cat, or a cat with a medical condition that could impact their bathroom needs.What is the Best Type of Litter Box for Your Cat-Friendly Travels?There are several different types of cat litter boxes to choose from, each with its own pros and cons. Let’s look at the options available and which may be the best choice for your next vacation (and why):Standard Plastic Litter BoxesIf you are traveling in an RV or travel trailer, you may be able to bring your cat’s usual litter box. Some common places to place a box include inside a floor-level cupboard, under a bench seat, or in the shower area when the shower isn’t in use.The biggest benefit of bringing your cat’s litter box from home is familiarity. Your cat knows that box, and it already has their scent. While the box's location is obviously going to change, having so many familiar elements may make it easier for your cat to adjust, reducing the risk of accidents.Cloth Travel Litter BoxesThese travel litter boxes are constructed from a durable material with a leak-proof lining, creating a lighter-weight solution for travel. I recommend choosing a cloth box with a lid. This allows you to seal off the box, keeping the litter (and odor) contained and allowing you to make a litter box accessible when needed without having to empty and refill it each time. Cloth boxes also usually have some form of carrying handle.The HiCaptain Portable Travel Litter Box is an excellent example of a standard cloth travel box. However, if your cat is used to a covered box at home, you may want to splurge on the Petsfit Upgrade Travel Portable Cat Litter Box.Nylon Travel Litter BoxA favorite of mine for travel due to how small it folds up, the OutdoorBengal Travel Litter Box for Cats is a portable and fully collapsible litter box option that folds up smaller than any other box on this list. We often use this box when backpacking or backcountry camping, where we are extremely limited on space for our gear.When your cat needs to use the box, snap the four corners together, and this flat piece of material transforms into a square box. It is constructed with a waterproof Oxford liner that can be easily wiped clean with a disinfectant wipe for quick and effective cleaning.

Why Is My Cat Avoiding the Litter Box?

Cats are known for their strong instinct for cleanliness, and most will use a litter box without issue. So, when your feline companion suddenly starts avoiding it, this can be a sign of an underlying problem. The reasons can range from medical conditions to environmental stressors, and identifying the cause is crucial for resolving the issue. Here are some of the most common reasons why your cat is avoiding the litter box.#1 Medical IssuesOne of the first things to consider is a medical condition. Cats experiencing pain or discomfort while urinating may associate the litter box with that discomfort and avoid it altogether. Common health issues that can lead to litter box avoidance include:Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) – Can cause pain, frequent urination, and accidents outside the box.Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) – Often leads to straining, frequent attempts to urinate, and licking of the genital area.Bladder Stones or Kidney Disease – May cause increased urination or discomfort.Diabetes – Can result in excessive thirst and urination, sometimes overwhelming the litter box.If your cat is exhibiting signs of discomfort, straining, or unusual urination patterns, a vet visit is essential to rule out these conditions.#2 Hygiene and Litter Box MaintenanceCats are fastidious creatures, and a dirty litter box can be a major deterrent. If the box isn’t cleaned regularly, your cat may seek alternative places to relieve itself. To maintain a clean and inviting space:Scoop the litter box daily to remove waste.Perform a full clean weekly, replacing old litter with fresh, unscented litter.Use an appropriately sized litter box—cats generally prefer a box at least 1.5 times their body length.Place the box in a quiet, low-traffic area where your cat feels safe.

Why is My Cat Peeing Outside the Litter Box?

Is your cat peeing outside the litter box and you don’t know what to do about it? The key to fixing the problem is to understand why she’s doing it. Cats will naturally take to using the litter box, but, according to the ASPCA, at least 10 percent of felines will develop problems when it comes to using the litter box. While this issue can become a nuisance in the long run, it still isn’t too much of a big deal if you act on time- the solution is usually just around the corner. However, before you find the ideal fix, you need to pinpoint the reasons behind the occurrence. So why is your cat peeing outside the litter box? Once you’re able to find the problem, you can work with your kitty to resolve the issue. Just remember that punishing your cat won’t result in her using the box; instead, try to understand why she’s doing what she’s doing, and then take steps to fix the problem. The issue at hand is always something that can be solved without resorting to punishment. Related: The Most Common Litter Box Mistakes You’re Making The Way You Maintain the Litter Box If a cat isn’t happy with her litter box and doesn’t feel comfortable using it, she may end up avoiding it, so it’s important that you maintain a clean litter box at all times. The area where you place it, as well as the general hygiene in and around it are also important. Not at all surprisingly, cats can be a bit picky and peculiar when it comes to hygiene. That is why you need to follow these crucial steps in order to provide a pristine kitty bathroom. Make the litter box easy to access in a private location that your cat will feel comfortable with. It might be crucial to observe your cat’s patterns at an early age and find out which area in the house it’s most comfortable with. Usually, this is the bathroom, but it’s never certain. Also, avoid putting the litter box close to their food or in a place in which they love to lounge. It can be a turn off for them. Clean the litter box often, whether that means once a day, several times a day, or every other day. This will depend upon how often your cat uses the box and how dirty it becomes, as well as how many cats share the same box. Remember, cats have a much keener sense of smell than humans do, so even if a litter box seems fine to you, the cat may not feel comfortable going into a box that smells really dirty to her. Of course, no kitty is identical – some might turn out to be real squeamish and picky when bathroom duty is considered. This means that they might avoid the litter after just a single use. And that means scooping after every use and offering a clean surface for the next time. Sure, it might yield some extra work or litter expenses, but it can be the best solution for all the litter avoiding issues. In addition to scooping the litter clean, you should regularly throw out all of the litter in the box when it becomes too dirty and replace it with new litter. If you use a litter box liner, you can just throw it away, replace it with a clean liner, and fill up the box again. If you’re not using a liner, it’s a good idea to regularly wash out the inside of the litter box with soap and water. Similarly, if you have been using some scented cleaning agents for litter box leaning, try stopping for a while, and observe the results – your pet might be bothered by the fragrance.If you have more than one cat, you should have more than one litter box. Some experts recommend one litter box per cat, along with an extra one for good measure, but see what works for you and your feline family, as well as how much space you have for litter boxes. Kitties are notoriously willful and can be territorial at times. Using a litter that another cat already soiled might be a big “no no” for them. Make sure the litter box you use is large enough for your cat, and bear in mind that a hood or a liner may make it uncomfortable for your kitty to use the box, so try to hone in on her preferences, if possible. A more open design, without any boxy constraints ensures ease of access and quick use. Perhaps that is just what your cat was looking for. The amount of litter in the box is also important, as some cats will prefer about one or two inches of litter and may not like a very deep box. Again, this may depend on your cat, so observe her behavior to note preferences. For example, do you find your cat peeing outside the litter box when the litter gets too low, too dirty, or when it’s too deep? Related: 5 Fresh And Effective Ways To Control Litter Box Odor The Type of Litter You’re Using In addition to keeping your litter box clean and in an easy-to-access area of your home, keep in mind that the type of litter you use may influence whether or not your cat eliminates outside of the box. Some cats, for example, may prefer only clumping clay litter while avoiding the use of pellets, but other cats may be the opposite. Also, if you happen to change an established pattern, your cat might not like it. For example, if you have been using a certain type of clumping clay litter for two years and then you suddenly shift to pellet type, your cat might not find that acceptable. Try to stick to the usual fare. If the problem of your cat peeing outside the litter box still isn’t resolved, you may want to try changing the type of litter you’re using if the litter is already kept as clean as possible. Contrary to the situation above, sometimes a change is exactly what is needed. After all, a lot of issues can be resolved with a “trial & error” approach. Medical Problems A variety of medical conditions can contribute to your cat peeing outside the litter box. An older cat or one who has physical ailments may not be able to climb into a box with high sides, for example. But other more serious conditions can also be the cause of your cat’s poor litter box habits. If your cat isn’t using the litter box, have her examined by a veterinarian. Your kitty may be suffering with a urinary tract infection, feline interstitial cystitis, and kidney stones or blockages. Watch for straining, crying in pain, and other indications that a medical condition may be the cause. If these symptoms are present, have your cat checked by a vet right away, as urinary blockages can be fatal. Rarely, a senior kitty might develop a health issue called incontinence. Just as in humans, this issue can appear in cats as well. This is an issue with the urinary tract and results in involuntary peeing. This occurs usually in senior felines or those that suffered a spinal injury. But, with patience and ample care, this issue can be managed. When in Doubt, Talk to Your Vet This isn’t meant to be a complete list of every possible reason why your kitty isn’t using the litter box. Other factors can include stress, a negative association with the litter box, and more. When in doubt, discuss the problem with your vet, who knows your kitty best and can steer you in the right direction. As with anything, it helps to observe your cat and its behavior, and to take a rational and caring approach to fixing any issue that appears. Sometimes, the reasons why your cat is avoiding the litter are simple, but sometimes they can have bigger underlying problems.

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Let's Trick Out the Ultimate Cat Sanctuary.

(photo credit: beton studio / shutterstock.com)If you could build the ultimate dream space for your feline buddy, what would it look like? We’re not talking about a cat tree near a window. More, a dedicated space that you could trick out with some fun furnishings that turn a basic spare room into a cat pad where she can kick back and relax - in privacy. Now, not all of us have an extra bedroom that isn’t already serving as a home office or guestroom, so maybe it’s not going to be Fluffy’s exclusive space, but still, something that focuses on her needs while doing double-duty when the time comes.Beyond the fun stuff, tips for creating a safe environment for her may include introducing a baby gate that lets kitty through but keeps inquisitive dogs (and toddlers) at bay. Or, an indoor cat flap that allows her to enter and exit at will. Most feline pet parents can also confirm that Venetian blinds or any type of drawstring closure is a no-go because curious kitties can quickly become tangled. I can personally attest to that, having experienced a blind ripped down and carried through to another room by an ensnared kitty. So, I would heartily recommend any of the trendy new cordless blinds sans dangling bits that can cause your feline to become a little too curious!Now that you’ve created a safe space for your cat, let’s talk décor!

What’s Behind the Orange Cat Coat Color? A Genetic Mutation

Experts have been able to figure out a lot about cat coat colors, but the orange coat, in particular, had left them with questions. That is, until recently. Researchers discovered the genetic mutation that is responsible for the orange/ginger color, and we’ve summarized the findings for you below.

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies in Cats

With the arrival of spring and blooming trees, seasonal allergies make their return - and believe it or not, cats can have them too! Just like humans, our feline friends can suffer from allergies triggered by pollen, dust mites, and mold. While cat allergies aren’t as commonly recognized as those in dogs or people, they can still cause significant discomfort. Understanding the symptoms can help you take the right steps to keep your cat happy and healthy. Here’s what to look out for!Common Signs of Seasonal Allergies in Cats1. Persistent Scratching and Over-GroomingOne of the first signs of allergies in cats is constant itching. If your cat is scratching, licking, or biting their skin - especially around the face, ears, paws, or belly- it could be due to allergens in their environment. Excessive grooming can lead to hair loss, bald patches, and even skin infections.2. Skin Irritation and InflammationAllergic reactions often cause redness, swelling, or rashes on a cat’s skin. Some cats may develop scabs, sores, or flaky patches due to repeated scratching. If left untreated, these irritated areas can become infected, requiring veterinary care.3. Watery Eyes and Runny NoseSimilar to hay fever in humans, seasonal allergies can make a cat’s eyes watery and irritated. Their eyes may appear red or swollen, sometimes with a clear or slightly cloudy discharge. Some cats also develop a runny nose, sneezing, or mild congestion, which can easily be mistaken for a respiratory infection.4. Sneezing, Coughing, and WheezingAllergens like pollen and mold can trigger sneezing fits, coughing, and even mild breathing difficulties. If your cat is sneezing more than usual, especially during allergy season, it could be a reaction to environmental allergens. Cats with asthma or other respiratory conditions may experience worsened symptoms, such as wheezing or labored breathing.5. Ear InfectionsInflammation from allergies can lead to excessive wax buildup in a cat’s ears, increasing the risk of ear infections. If your cat is shaking their head frequently, scratching at their ears, or if you notice an unusual odor, it’s a sign that their ears may need medical attention.6. Paw IrritationAllergens can affect a cat’s paws, causing itching and discomfort. Excessive paw licking or chewing, redness, or swelling can indicate an allergic reaction. In more severe cases, open sores or infections may develop.When to See a VeterinarianMild seasonal allergies can often be managed at home, but if symptoms become severe or persistent, a vet visit is essential. Excessive scratching, hair loss, open wounds, breathing difficulties, or recurrent ear infections may require medical treatment. Your veterinarian can perform allergy tests to identify specific triggers and recommend treatments such as antihistamines, medicated creams, or dietary adjustments.How to Reduce Allergic Reactions at HomeThere are several ways to help minimize allergens in your home and keep your cat comfortable:

Rescue Dog Goes Viral After Demanding Pets from Owner

There are few things as heartwarming online as a heartwarming pet video, and the internet has once again delivered. This time, it comes in the form of a viral video featuring a rescue dog named Cactus and his irresistible way of demanding cuddles from his dog dad. The short clip was posted by user @cactustherescue and has quickly earned nearly 80,000 likes on Instagram and over 81,000 likes on TikTok. It proves just how much a simple act of affection can resonate deeply with an audience of pet lovers. Since capturing the hearts of thousands of pet lovers, it caught the attention of online publications and news platforms, including Yahoo, AOL, DogTime, and more. With a look of determination on his face and the charm of his adorable puppy eyes, he approaches his dad, pawing gently at him as if asking for something. Eventually, after a little persuasion, he falls back into the cuddle position with his head against his dad’s, melting hearts around the world.

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5 Top Tips for Looking After Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs are gentle, social pets that bring a lot of joy to their owners. But like all animals, they need proper care to stay healthy and happy. Here are five essential tips to keep your guinea pigs in top shape.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

It's Valentine's Day! And What Your Pet Wants is a Great Massage.

(photo credit: Javeir Brusch / shutterstock.com)Forget those boring treats, ho-hum toys, and expected cuddles next month. What your good buddy really wants for Valentine’s Day is a great massage and he’s counting on you to come through - because you always do.Now, just like with humans, massage can be therapeutic and a great way to relieve the stress and tension your pooch has been carrying around lately. It’s also a perfect opportunity to bond with your dog, improve his range of motion, and let you know if he has any tender spots you may want to keep an eye on.Ready to push the boat out this year? Try adding calming music or aromatherapy – both are special touches that any dog will appreciate. But before you go all Zen, it’s important that you’re working with the right equipment for your particular pooch. Is he cool with sound or vibration? Does he enjoy his back being rubbed but not so much his head and neck? There’s a massage tool for every dog type and you’ll be glad to learn you don’t need to break the bank or invest in formal training to deliver that relaxing rub-down your best buddy deserves. In fact, it’s almost guaranteed that he’ll enjoy this one-on-one time so much, he’ll be back again and again and again…

Rescue Dog's Sweet Reaction to His New Life Goes Viral

The internet is often a place where we, as pet lovers, come to watch hilarious cat videos or random trending dances (yes, people dance with their pets, too). But sometimes, a moment of pure, raw emotion captures the hearts of people across the globe. That’s precisely what happened recently when a TikTok video showcasing a newly adopted rescue dog exploring her new forever home went viral. The video, posted by user @annabanana5783, showed a glimpse of the sweet rescue pup tentatively checking out the place she now called home, offering a heartfelt look at the initial moments of her journey from life in a busy animal shelter to the comfort and security of a loving home. The brief footage showed the dog, named Bella, moving through the house with cautious steps and wide, inquisitive eyes. The way she slowly and gently navigates these unfamiliar surroundings makes it clear that the young pup is still unsure but interested in this new beginning. Set to the melody of “Stuff We Did” from the movie “Up,” the scene is undeniably touching and emotional. The dog mom’s caption, “She’s still adjusting to living in a house,” speaks volumes about the dog’s likely past experiences, a life spent within the confines of an animal shelter where (especially with current shelter overpopulation) space and freedom were limited.

Gardening Tips for Pet Parents

When spring returns, it’s the right time to get outside and start tending to your garden. But if you have pets who will be out there with you, it’s important to know that there are many hazards that can pose a risk to their health.

Why Does My Pet Stare at Me While I’m Eating?

So here I was, minding my own business, eating a perfectly ordinary sandwich on the sofa, when I felt it: the stare.You know the one.I looked up… and there was Jasper. Sitting silently. Eyes locked on my every move. Not blinking. Not breathing (probably). Just channeling all his hope, energy, and emotional manipulation into my tuna melt.And the worst part? I felt guilty.Like I was doing something deeply selfish by… eating my own lunch?If you’ve ever found yourself apologizing to your pet mid-bite or accidentally dropping a bit of food you “definitely didn’t mean to share,” you’re not alone. So let’s talk about it: why do our pets stare at us like they’re starring in a heartbreaking indie film while we eat?

Why Does My Dog Stare at Me All the Time?

Dogs are sweet, loving, and endlessly entertaining companions - but sometimes, they do things that leave us scratching our heads. One of the most common (and slightly mysterious) behaviors is staring. You might be lounging on the couch or walking around the house, only to look up and find your pup locking eyes with you, completely still and focused. So naturally, you might wonder: Why does my dog stare at me so much?The answer? It’s not as strange as it seems. In fact, that steady gaze is usually a sign of something sweet, practical, or occasionally, a little cheeky.They’re Trying to Tell You SomethingOne of the main reasons dogs stare at us is simple: they’re trying to communicate. Since they can’t speak, dogs rely on body language and facial expressions to get their point across - and eye contact is a big part of that.If your dog is staring at you, they might be saying:“Is it dinner time yet?”“Can we go outside?”“I’d love some cuddles now, please.”Dogs are incredibly good at making connections between cause and effect. If staring at you has previously resulted in a treat, a walk, or even just your attention, they'll remember - and they’ll try it again.It’s a Sign of Love and BondingBeyond simple communication, eye contact between dogs and humans can actually be a bonding behavior. Research has shown that when dogs and their humans look into each other’s eyes, both experience a boost in oxytocin - the “love hormone” that helps us feel connected and emotionally close.This is the same hormone that strengthens the bond between parents and babies. So, when your dog gives you that soft, lingering look, they might not be asking for anything at all - they’re just sharing a moment of connection.They’re Watching for CuesDogs are excellent observers. They notice our routines and learn what specific actions mean: picking up keys might mean a car ride, reaching for a leash could mean walk time, and heading into the kitchen might mean food is on the way.That intense stare? It could mean your dog is simply trying to anticipate what comes next. This is especially true for intelligent, highly trainable breeds like Border Collies, German Shepherds, or Poodles, who tend to watch their humans closely for signals and commands.Sometimes, It’s About SnacksLet’s be honest - dogs are opportunists. If your pup tends to stare at you while you’re eating, cooking, or holding food, they’re probably just hoping you’ll share. Even if you’ve never fed them from the table, dogs know that humans equal food. And if you’ve ever slipped them a bite? You’ve created a hopeful little habit that might just involve a lot of staring.And Sometimes, It’s Just for AttentionDogs are quick learners. If your dog stares at you and it gets your attention - whether that’s a pet, a kind word, or a treat - they’ll keep doing it. From their perspective, it works. So, why stop?When to Be ConcernedWhile most dog staring is completely normal, there are exceptions. If your dog is staring and also seems disoriented, confused, or is acting strangely, it could be a sign of a medical issue, such as a neurological condition or canine cognitive dysfunction (the dog equivalent of dementia). In those cases, it’s important to check in with your vet.ConclusionSo the next time your dog gives you that intense gaze, take a moment to appreciate it. Whether they’re asking for something, waiting for direction, or just showing love, that eye contact is one of the ways your dog connects with you. And in most cases, it’s just another reminder of how closely they’re tuned into your world.

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Arizona Humane Society Supports Shelters Affected by California Fires

The devastating wildfires in California have left many pets in need of rescue, and a lot of them have also suffered injuries that require extensive veterinary care. Unfortunately, some animal shelters in California are not able to care for all of the pets in need because they are at capacity, especially since they have had to take in so many more animals since the fires broke out. But the good news is that shelters and rescues in other states are stepping in to help, and one example is Arizona.