How do I stop my cat from tracking litter everywhere?

Answered by Robert Flynn

I totally understand the frustration of dealing with cat litter tracking all over the house. It can be a never-ending battle to keep your floors clean. But don’t worry, there are some tips and tricks that can help minimize the tracking and make your life a little easier. Here are five tips to help stop cat litter tracking:

1. Choose a Lower-Tracking Litter: Not all cat litters are created equal when it comes to tracking. Some litters have larger granules that are more likely to get stuck in your cat’s paws and get tracked around the house. Look for litters that are specifically labeled as “low-tracking” or “dust-free.” These litters are designed to minimize the amount of litter that gets scattered outside of the litter box.

2. Use a Covered, Top-Entry, or High-Sided Litter Box: One of the simplest ways to prevent litter tracking is to use a litter box with a cover, a top-entry design, or high sides. These types of litter boxes help contain the litter inside and prevent your cat from flinging it out when they dig or cover their waste. However, it’s important to note that some cats may not like covered litter boxes, so you may need to experiment to find the right option for your cat.

3. Put the Litter Box in a Hider or Away from High-Traffic Areas: Placing the litter box in a hider or in a less frequently used area of your home can help contain the litter and prevent it from spreading all over the house. Hiders are specially designed furniture pieces that discreetly hide the litter box and often have built-in entryways to keep the litter contained. If you don’t have a hider, try placing the litter box in a bathroom or laundry room where there is less foot traffic.

4. Use a Litter Mat with Your Litter Box: A litter mat is a great tool for trapping and containing loose litter. Place the mat right outside the litter box to catch any litter that may be stuck to your cat’s paws as they exit the box. The mat’s textured surface helps remove litter from their paws, preventing it from being tracked throughout the house. Be sure to regularly clean the mat to maintain its effectiveness.

5. Scoop More Carefully and Clean More Frequently: Regular maintenance of the litter box is crucial in preventing litter tracking. Scoop the litter box at least once a day to remove any waste and clumps. The less litter there is in the box, the less chance there is for it to be tracked around the house. Additionally, consider emptying and cleaning the entire litter box more frequently to minimize any lingering odors that may attract your cat to dig excessively.

Remember, every cat is different, so it may take some trial and error to find the right combination of strategies that work for you and your furry friend. But with a little patience and persistence, you can significantly reduce the amount of litter that gets tracked throughout your home.