Is It Normal for Cats Not to Cover Their Poop?

Part 1: Is Cat LitterHiding an Innate Behavior?

Cats are renowned for their cleanliness, often grooming themselves and indulging in waterbased baths. However, their habit of covering their feces is not only for hygienic purposes but also deeply rooted in instinct. Long ago, cats used the scent of their feces to mark their territories. Each cat's stool has a unique odor, and to assert dominance, they would leave their feces exposed to the air. Cats in lower social ranks, to avoid attracting predators and not to challenge the status of more dominant cats, would bury their feces. Even though domesticated cats have been tamed over time, they still retain this instinctual behavior.

Part 2: Reasons Why Cats May Not Cover Their Feces

1. In households with multiple cats, the cat's territorial instincts might lead to increased vigilance. They may use feces to mark their territory, ensuring their place at home. Some cats may even defecate outside the litter box, which could indicate they are in a vulnerable position or being bullied. In such cases, multiple litter boxes are essential in a multicat household.

2. Cats' picky nature might also be a factor. Cats are highly sensitive to their food and environment. Some may refuse to cover their feces simply because they dislike the litter box or the litter itself. Issues like the size, height, or material of the litter box, or the texture and size of the litter granules, can disrupt their bathroom habits.

3. Illness can also lead to a cat's refusal to cover their feces. This behavior is often seen in older cats suffering from conditions like urinary tract diseases, arthritis, or foot dermatitis, which can cause discomfort during the process.

Some cats might not cover their feces simply because they haven't learned how. As pet owners, it's important to be patient and teach them this essential daily skill. If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to consult with an online veterinary professional.