Q&A for How to Clean a Litter Box

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  • Question
    How often should you change out all the kitty litter?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    Once a week for a full tray clean is best. This keeps the box smelling fresh so that it's a pleasant place for the cat to visit (and don't forget to spot clean daily).
  • Question
    My cat poops inside the box, but on the side. What can I do?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    This may be the size of the litter box. When the cat squats, its butt may be against the side. Look into getting a larger box so it has more room to squat down.
  • Question
    Can you flush cat litter?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    Sadly, no. It doesn't flush well and can build up in either the toilet pan or the draining sewers.
  • Question
    Can you clean a litter box while pregnant?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    There is a slim chance of acquiring Toxoplasmosis, which can cause birth defects in unborn children. While the risks are extremely low, current medical advice is that pregnant women should not empty litter trays.
  • Question
    How often do you need to clean kitty litter?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    There are two different types of cleaning required: daily spot cleaning and weekly box cleaning. Spot cleaning involves scooping out solids and obviously wet litter, while the full clean involves emptying the box and scrubbing it clean.
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