Semi-Frequent litter box "Accidents"

tiexgrr

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I've noticed in the past month or so Mozart has taken to peeing in the corner outside where his litter box is, he's about 7months now and is in perfect health (as per his most recent check-up)

I've tried different litters, and he seems to have no preference. I have noticed however that he will dig in the box then climb out completely and pee on the floor, there is no missing happening as he is about 2.5 feet away from the box. 

I clean his litter on a frequent basis as its kept quite close to my main living area, yet still nice and private for him.

I've used cleaners every time I see he's made a mess, and it seems to prevent the next puddle for about a day.

One thing I've noticed is he doesn't behave like this when I'm home, I always come home to this mess. Is this a possible anxiety issue could he be getting lonely? He doesn't seem to be spraying as its a puddle, and always in the same spot....

*EDIT*

I should clarify and mention that the vet suggested a bigger box, which he now has as recommended yet the issue is still present.
 
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white cat lover

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I'm sorry to inundate you with a million questions, but with more info we're more than likely able to offer better help. :)

My first question when dealing w/ "out of the box moments" is - did the vet specifically test a urine sample to rule out a UTI/crystals?

Prior to this behavior starting, did you change litters, or litter box locations at all?
Is Mozart neutered?
Any changes to his environment - changes in schedule, moved furniture, etc?

There are things you can try, like Feliway or Cat Attract litter. Sometimes if it's a covered box something as simple as removing the lid helps.

Some cats won't pee & poop in the same box, so adding in another box may help also (it sounded like you only had one, so I apologize if that's not the case).
 
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tiexgrr

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I'm sorry to inundate you with a million questions, but with more info we're more than likely able to offer better help.

My first question when dealing w/ "out of the box moments" is - did the vet specifically test a urine sample to rule out a UTI/crystals?
Prior to this behavior starting, did you change litters, or litter box locations at all?
Is Mozart neutered?
Any changes to his environment - changes in schedule, moved furniture, etc?
There are things you can try, like Feliway or Cat Attract litter. Sometimes if it's a covered box something as simple as removing the lid helps.
Some cats won't pee & poop in the same box, so adding in another box may help also (it sounded like you only had one, so I apologize if that's not the case).
Not a problem, I'll do my best to fill you in!

1.) I'll have to check the vet bill to see, they're currently packed as I'm moving (it was a few weeks ago and I've unfortunately been home rather infrequently, or get home late at night)

2.) I did change his litter, but I went to the multi-cat formula of the same brand several months ago, long before this issue started. His box has always been in the same location, and is honestly the only place I can fit it as of now. (I live in a 650Sq/Ft 1 bedroom apartment, so space is limited). Also he has a Non covered box.

3.) Mozart is not Neutered as of yet, but he will be as soon as funds are available this will be done at the same time he's declawed.. (Please don't patronize me on the declawing part. it is medically necessary as he's polydactyl and has some defects to the additional toes. This issue has been discussed in detail with his Vet.)

4.) My Schedule has changed somewhat, however he's always fed at the same time morning and night and has always had the same food. As well my soon to be roommate spends time with him while I'm away to avoid him getting to lonely.  He also has an abundant amount of toys to keep him occupied.

5.) I'll give two boxes a try, as well I'll try to find the Cat Litter Attractor or Feliway. there will be two cats shortly so it can't hurt!
 
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tiexgrr

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Update:
 

I couldn't find room for a second litter box but I purchased the largest box I could find today. You could easily fit Mozart in to it 3-4times! (He's only about 7-8Lbs). I wasnt able to find the Feliway, or Cat attract litter at the small pet shop I was at. I'll have to make a trip to one of the bigger stores.

Also I think I may have discovered a potential reason for his peeing issue. His Litter grabbing Mat needed a good wash, but underneath it was sticky and had a cat pee like sent to it, it looks like he was peeing on or beside it so I let that soak in bleach and water for awhile then gave it a good scrub with detergent, we will see how this goes for him.
 

princessesme

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Esme was doing something similar. At first, she would pee straight on the litter mat. After cleaning it numerous times from her peeing, I removed it and she stopped peeing outside the box.

Then, just recently she started it again but on the side of the box. We now have three boxes for the 2 cats and we found she preferred a minimum of twice daily scoop (she used to be happy with once a day).

It took a little figuring out for us, so maybe it's just something simple like cleanliness /multiple option preference?
 
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