If you are the proud owner of multiple cats, you will likely be wondering whether they can both share a litter box. Besides, who wants multiple litter boxes in their home? Not only will they take up more space, but it’s double the cleaning, right? So naturally, the question comes…
Can cats share a litter box? Cats can share a litter box, but it is far from ideal and not recommended. This is for hygiene (health) purposes, to reduce the potential for aggressive territorial behavior and to reduce the possibility of litter box aversion (from the less dominant cat).
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Why Cats Should Have Their Own Litter Box
Cats should have their own litter box for three primary reasons: to reduce aggression (the chance of territorial behavior), to ensure the litter boxes are not avoided (or used altogether) and for hygiene (health) reasons.
Reduce Aggression/Territorial Behavior
Cats are independent by nature, and having their own litter box gives them a sense of control over their environment.
So, suppose you were to only offer one litter box for two cats, it could result in stress and anxiety in one of, or both of your cats.
It could even result in aggressive behavior between them, or the more dominant of the two preventing the other from being able to go altogether.
The result, your less dominant cat has to find somewhere else – and that could be in your home.
Growling and hissing are signs to look out for, as is swatting or even chasing.
For Hygiene Purposes
Having separate cat litter boxes will also prevent the spread of bacteria and diseases.
Equally, a litter box being shared will become much dirtier, much quicker.
It requires a lot more upkeep, which is mostly unrealistic to stay on top of.
The result is that your cats will either forgo using it, or it will become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, which can result in adverse health issues.
How Many Litter Boxes Should You Have?
The general rule of thumb is to have one litter box per cat, plus an additional litter box.
So, if you have two cats, you should have three litter boxes.
This ensures that each cat has their own space and reduces the likelihood of litter box issues.
It’s also important to note that litter boxes should be placed in different areas of your home.
This provides cats with options and should prevent the need, or opportunity, for one cat to dominate them.
How to Encourage Cats to Use Separate Litter Boxes
If you have multiple cats and they are not using their own litter boxes, there are a few things you can do to encourage them to do so.
Keep The Litter Boxes Clean & Accessible
First, make sure the litter boxes are clean and easily accessible.
Cats are clean animals and may avoid a dirty litter box.
Additionally, litter boxes should be placed in quiet, private and separate areas where both cats can feel safe and secure.
Ultimately, even if you were to have two litter boxes, if you placed them in exactly the same area you will largely experience the issues of just having one.
You will want to have the litter boxes in separate rooms; preferably on other sides of your home.
Better still would be to add a third litter box in another room, perhaps even somewhere in between.
Consider The Litter Box Design
Second, you may need to consider the type/style of litter boxes you have.
Some cats prefer open litter boxes, while others prefer covered litter boxes.
Experiment with different types to see what your cats prefer.
Keep A Close Eye
Lastly, provide each cat with their own litter box and monitor their behavior.
If you notice any issues, such as litter box aversion or inappropriate elimination, consult with your veterinarian to rule out any medical issues.
Finally
While cats can share a litter box, it’s not recommended.
Providing each cat with their own litter box promotes hygiene and reduces the likelihood of behavioral issues.
Remember to have one litter box per cat, plus an additional litter box, and encourage your cats to use separate litter boxes by providing them with clean, accessible, and comfortable options.
Related Questions
3 cats may be able to share a litter box, depending on the nature of the cat and size/style of the litter box. That being said, even still, it is not recommended nor advised. Instead, each cat should have their own litter box, and it would be even more beneficial if you had an extra (fourth) litter box, too.
Learn more: How Many Litter Boxes For 3 Cats?
I am a practiced pet owner with decades of experience owning a number of different pets. I am also the main writer and chief editor here at Pet Educate; a site I created to share everything I’ve learned about pet ownership over the years and my extensive research along the way.