Can Two Cats Share Two Litter Boxes?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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One of the questions we get most frequently from new cat owners is about the cat’s litter box, especially how many boxes you need and if you can put them next to each other. The short answer is yes.

It is perfectly fine to put two litterboxes next to each other

.

Do you really need 2 litter boxes?

Follow this simple rule: one box per cat, plus one extra. So

if you have two cats, you should have three boxes

. Making sure everyone has their space can help ease elimination issues. Some owners prefer a hooded box, but some cats don’t like them.

Can I put two litter boxes next to each other?

One of the questions we get most frequently from new cat owners is about the cat’s litter box, especially how many boxes you need and if you can put them next to each other. The short answer is yes.

It is perfectly fine to put two litterboxes next to each other

.

Do cats like two litter boxes?

“The

rule of thumb is one litter box per cat, plus one extra

,” Galaxy says. As a cat foster mom, I recommend that new adopters have at least 1.5 litter boxes per cat. … Some cats just don’t like sharing litter boxes, and this ratio lets each cat claim his own.

Can litter boxes be in the same room?

Some people place litter boxes together in the same room —

often within inches of each other

. From a cat’s perspective, this is the same as having one litter box. If for some reason the room where the boxes are housed does not feel safe, cats often will find other places to eliminate.

How long should a litter box last?

We recommend totally changing the litter out in the cat box every

three to four weeks

depending on use. Wash your cat boxes with hot water and a mild detergent like Ivory dish soap and then replace with about 3 inches of new litter.

Why do you need an extra litter box?

The benefit of having extra litter boxes throughout the household is that you may find that each cat picks their own particular litter box. … I like them because they

help keep the kitty litter dust and smell in

, prevent excessive kicking of litter onto the floor, and are more aesthetically friendly to houseguests.

Are cats sad when you leave?

Some single indoor-housed cats become anxious when left alone for long periods of time. These cats appear to be unusually sensitive to their surroundings, and may be very attached to their owners. Here are some signs of “separation anxiety” in cats: Excessive vocalization (crying, moaning, meowing)

Is it better to have 2 cats?

Having another cat around can lessen the boredom and loneliness that a solitary cat might experience when you’re not there. … Another benefit to having two cats is

that they teach each other social skills

. We tend to spoil our cats, but cats won’t tolerate it when other cats cross the line.

Is it better to have two cats of the same gender?

Cat lovers who desire two cats do best by

getting two kittens

, right at the beginning. … If you have a young cat at home and want a second, consider adopting one kitten of the opposite sex, as same-sex cats are much more prone to fight each other for dominance.

Where should you not put a litter box?

  1. High-traffic Areas.
  2. Near Appliances.
  3. Far Away.
  4. Next to Food or Water.
  5. The Bathroom.
  6. The Living Room.
  7. The Laundry Room.
  8. The Bedroom.

Is it bad to keep a litter box in your bedroom?

Litter boxes and children don’t mix, so putting one in a kid’s

bedroom is not a good idea

. It jeopardizes the child’s health and may prompt your kitty to take care of business outside the box. After all, she prefers some privacy when using the bathroom, just like you do.

Can you get toxoplasmosis from being in the same room as a litter box?

You can change the litter box

safely while

you’re pregnant, but it’s better to have someone else do this chore if possible. The concern here is toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection that can be transmitted through cat poop (such as in kitty litter or outdoor soil where cats have defecated).

Do cats like when you clean their litter box?

You might find this odd as, despite everything,

cats do appreciate having a clean litter box

and won’t use the litter box if it is dirty. You can try to deter this behaviour by ensuring there is a reserve litter box that your cat can use while you are cleaning their main one.

How often should you completely change litter?


Twice a week

is a general guideline for replacing clay litter, but depending on your circumstances, you may need to replace it every other day or only once a week. If you clean the litter box daily, you might only need to change clumping litter every two to three weeks.

Do cats prefer open or closed litter boxes?


Cats prefer clean, large, uncovered litter boxes

. Ideally, they are at least one-and-a-half times the length of the cat — big enough for the kitty to comfortably fit and turn around in. Having no covers helps these little ones feel safe while they go the bathroom. They can see possible threats and easily exit the box.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.