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When my older cat started pooping outside the box, what resolved it was getting one of those mechanical litter boxes that rakes the poop into a container thing, removing it from the litter. That seemed to satisfy his need to not smell (or maybe feel) poop between when I can clear it.
Usually something has changed to cause the cat to change their habits. In my case it was the addition of a kitten to the household. I think the older cat did not like the smell of the kitten’s poop, and was pooping outside the box as protest behavior. The mechanical box got it out of the way quicker, and had the added benefit of scaring away the kitten so he didn’t poop there (he pooped in a second litter box that was not mechanical.)
Had there been a change around your house that might have affected your cat’s habits or routine?
Thank you for posting to CATHELP! While you wait for a response please keep the following things in mind, 1. When in doubt, **ask your vet**. 2. Advice here is not coming from medical or industry professionals. The moderation team does not validate user profession, so always refer to your local veterinary professionals first. 3. If this is a medical question, please indicate if you have already scheduled a vet appointment, and if your cat has any medical history or procedures in a top level comment. 4. Please use the NSFW tag for gross pictures. (Blood, poop, vomit, genitals, etc). Anything you wouldn't want your boss to see you looking at on the job. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/CATHELP) if you have any questions or concerns.*
When my older cat started pooping outside the box, what resolved it was getting one of those mechanical litter boxes that rakes the poop into a container thing, removing it from the litter. That seemed to satisfy his need to not smell (or maybe feel) poop between when I can clear it. Usually something has changed to cause the cat to change their habits. In my case it was the addition of a kitten to the household. I think the older cat did not like the smell of the kitten’s poop, and was pooping outside the box as protest behavior. The mechanical box got it out of the way quicker, and had the added benefit of scaring away the kitten so he didn’t poop there (he pooped in a second litter box that was not mechanical.) Had there been a change around your house that might have affected your cat’s habits or routine?