Originally posted by Kittylady:
<STRONG>Hi Tara,

I know it's frustrating to have a cat who doesn't use the litterbox. I've had that happen before, so I can sympathize. I would like to ask you a few questions if you don't mind answering them so we can shed some light on the problem and hopefully find a solution.

1. Have you changed the brand or type of litter you have always used?

2. Does the litterbox have a cover?

3. Have you moved the litterbox from its previous location?

4. Have you changed his diet?

5. Has there been a dramatic change in the household about the time he started this, like someone new living there or someone leaving?

6. How do you react and what do you do when you discover he has used the carpet?

I hope I can help. Cats are such complex creatures and I have done a lot of research on the subject as well as having been on the receiving end of the problem.

Luv', Kittylady

</STRONG>

Thanks Kitty lady.
Some background info...
1. I did not change the litter brand
2. Litterbox does not have a cover
3. Litterbox has never been moved
4. I did change his diet. He lost a lot of weight a few months ago so I took him to the vet who suggested I put him back on kitten food. He had a tooth infection at the time but I don't know if that had anything to do with the weight loss. I gradually eased him back to kitten food and he loved it.
5. There hasn't been anyone new in the house or anyone leaving.
6. I don't react at all because there is no way he can associate my reaction with his behavior. So, I just clean it up and pretend that nothing happend.

I did notice that my other cat seems to bully him. They both get along with each other and play and groom each other but the one with the litterbox problem is definitely a scaredy cat. Maybe that has something to do with it?

Thanks,
Tara