How often is cat eliminating outside of the box?

(Count indicates over the past week)

Rarely or never — this is a new or occasional thing

Once or twice this week

Several times — it's becoming a pattern

Almost daily — the litter box is being largely avoided

When did this behavior start?

(Sudden onset vs. gradual change matters clinically)

It's always been somewhat unpredictable — no clear onset

It started suddenly within the last 2–4 weeks

It's been slowly getting worse over several months

It started suddenly and also includes blood or straining

How does your cat behave around the litter box?

(Watch for approach and entry behaviour specifically)

Approaches and enters normally with no hesitation

Sniffs or circles the box before entering — seems cautious

Approaches, then backs away or leaves without using it

Avoids the box area entirely or seems frightened of it

Have there been any changes in your home?

(Select the most significant change - even small changes affect sensitive cats)

Nothing has changed — the household is stable

Minor disruptions — visitors, schedule changes, new furniture

Significant change — new pet, new baby, renovation, or moving

Ongoing instability — persistent conflict, noise, or unpredictability

What is your litter box setup?

(The "n+1 rule": one box per cat, plus one extra)

I have more boxes than cats — the setup is well-resourced

One box, one cat — technically adequate

Fewer boxes than cats — resources may be creating competition

One box for multiple cats — and I can see tension or guarding

Where is your litter box located?

(Location is a primary factor in elimination anxiety)

Quiet, low-traffic area with at least one clear escape route

Somewhat accessible but near a busy area or appliance

Tucked in a corner or enclosed space — limited escape routes

High-traffic area, near a loud appliance, or in a dead-end space

Is your cat showing any other signs of stress alongside this?

(Litter box avoidance rarely apperas in isolation)

No — everything else seems normal

Slightly more withdrawn or clingy than usual

Hiding more, eating differently, or over-grooming

Multiple other changes — this feels like a whole-cat shift in mood

Has your vet recently ruled out a medical cause?

(UTIs, kidney disease, and diabetes can trigger litter box avoidance)

Yes — vet has cleared a medical cause within the last few months

Haven't seen the vet — I'm not sure if it's medical or behavioural

There's blood in the urine, straining, or crying when eliminating

Multiple other changes — this feels like a whole-cat shift in mood

Get your results!

First Name

Email *