Litter tracking can be a frustrating problem to deal with, especially if you often walk around your home barefoot. Many solutions to litter tracking compromise your cat’s litter box experience. This may seem trivial, but you won’t like the results if your cat doesn’t enjoy using the litter box.
That doesn’t mean you have to simply put up with litter all over you home. With a few simple changes, you can significantly reduce the amount of litter that makes its way onto your floors.
Try A Different Litter With Caution
While you should still choose a litter that your cat will love, look for litter specifically designed to minimize tracking. These litters often have a finer texture and are less likely to stick to your cat’s paws. The fine texture may also appeal to senior cats.
That said, skip any litters with large pellets. You’ll be cleaning cat pee instead of unused litter off your floor.
Or Maybe A Different Box
No, this doesn’t mean you should rush to get one of those robotic litter boxes that your cat will probably hate or, possibly worse, a top entry litter box. If your cat tends to fling litter all over the place like they’re burying treasure (pirates loved cats so it fits), getting a high sided litter box with a low entry can keep the litter contained. Better yet, make your own.
Another option? A pee shield. It blocks flying litter, too.
Location, Location, Location
Putting your litter box in a distant location of your home isn’t an amazing idea because it creates extra work for your cat to choose to use the litter box. That doesn’t mean it needs to be the first things folks see when they walk into your home, either. Choosing a quiet, off to the side location that’s still easy for your cat to find can keep the litter contained to one area.
Conveniently, that also makes it easier to…
Let Robots Do The Work For You
A good use of automatic cleaning technology is robot vacuums. I’ve had a vacuum from Eufy for a few years and have been very impressed with how well it cleans pet hair off my rugs. Where it really shines is with litter. It will go around the room a few times and significantly reduce the amount of litter on your floors.
Will it replace regular vacuum? No. It will reduce the mess between more robust cleaning.
Now, not every cat is going to be a huge fan of these so make sure you skip the preprogrammed cleaning schedules. You don’t want one going off when your cat is IN the litter box. If you want to monitor when your cat is in the box, consider an indoor camera. Conveniently, Eufy also has great cameras that don’t require a monthly subscription. You can even get one that launches treats for your cat!
Just… maybe use that one in your living room away from your cat’s litter box.
Keep The Box Clean
Keeping your litter box clean will mean less litter tracking and, if tracking occurs, it the litter will be a little less gross. Important things to do:
- Scoop daily: Yes, daily. Ideally twice daily. Remove soiled litter and clumps daily so your cat will want to use the box. If this is tough, a Litter Genie makes scooping really easy.
- Clean the box monthly: Wash the litter box with a mild detergent and warm water at least once a week to remove any lingering odors, bacteria, and stuck on used litter.
- Replace litter regularly: Replace the entire litter box contents at least once a month to keep it fresh and prevent odor buildup. If things start to stink, dump the litter and start fresh. If that doesn’t help, replace the box itself.
Keep Your Cat Clean, Too
Brushing your cat regularly can help remove excess litter from their fur, reducing the amount they track around your home. Plus, some cats love being brushed!
If needed, consider taking them to professional, Fear Free groomer to make sure they stay nice and clean. Not all cats need to go to a groomer, but they can be a great help for cats who do need some extra help!
Try A Litter Trapping Mat
A litter mat placed outside the litter box can help capture litter that your cat tracks out. Choose a mat with a textured surface that can effectively trap litter particles, though keep in mind some styles of mats aren’t going to trap litter effectively. I personally love mats with a honeycomb texture as they aren’t rough on your cat’s paws while still effectively trapping litter.
And if you make your own litter box like I do, you may even be able to use the lid of the litter box to catch the litter. A two in one purchase!
Keep Your Expectations Realistic
You can significantly reduce litter tracking and create a cleaner living environment for both you and your feline friends with a few strategic changes. You may not completely eliminate litter tracking, but you can make it more manageable so you can focus on the things you enjoy about your cat.
