Cat litter boxes

Litter trays, liners, mats and scoops.

The rule that solves most litter problems is placement and number, not product. One tray per cat plus one spare, in separate quiet places, away from food and water. A cat that has to pass another cat to reach the only tray will eventually stop using it.

Size: a tray should be about one and a half times your cat's body length. Most trays sold are too small for a full-grown cat.

Covered or open is your cat's call, not yours. Many cats prefer open, and a hood traps smell in the place the cat has to sit.

A cat that suddenly stops using the tray needs a vet, not a new tray. Urinary problems are common, painful and can be an emergency in male cats — rule that out before assuming it is behavioral.

Also see Cat grooming & care and Cat feeding & hydration.