April 7 is World Health Day, and it doesn’t have to be limited to humans – we at Sanicat think your cat’s health is equally important. And because your cat has natural instincts, it makes sense that they need to feel safe and comfortable when nature calls.
Naturally hygienic animals, cats instinctively bury their waste to hide their scent. Your feline friend’s litter box behaviour simulates what a cat would do in the wild. If your cat stops using the litter box, there may be a larger problem at hand.
A well-maintained litter box can make an important difference to your cat’s health and well-being. So, in order to ensure a happy cat and a hygienic home, there are a few simple litter box rules to follow.
Scoop daily
Even though Sanicat’s wide range includes every option for your cat’s specific needs and helps keep the box fresh, it’s important to scoop the clumps daily to reduce build-up.
Don’t shake the scoop
When you scoop daily, don’t shake the scoop to release the excess litter. If you shake, you also break up the clumps that have formed. This allows dirty litter to fall back into the tray and makes the clumping power less effective.
Refresh and refill
It’s important to clean out the litter box entirely at least once a month. Wash your box with a mild washing powder so as to not mix smells and agitate your furry friend. Refill the box with seven to eight centimetres of litter, ensuring that you cover the base so your cat can cover their waste.
Don’t hide the box
Keep your cat’s litter box in a space that is private, but easily accessible. Avoid keeping litter boxes near your cat’s food – you wouldn’t want to eat in your bathroom either.
Dispose of waste immediately
For tips on how to properly dispose of your cat’s waste, check out our Reducing waste with Sanicat post. Choose a tray option that cuts down on waste and uses biodegradable liners if you can’t pitch the waste daily.
Practise effective hygiene
Be sure to wash your hands after scooping and pitching to avoid toxins. And take additional precaution if you’re pregnant by wearing gloves, washing your hands thoroughly or asking for someone to help.
Follow these simple tricks to keep your cat happy, respect their natural instincts and make an important contribution to their health and well-being.