Everything You Need to Know About Feline Inappropriate Elimination

TLDRFeline inappropriate elimination (FIE) is a common problem among indoor cats, leading to relinquishment and shelter intake. FIE can be caused by medical issues, territorial marking, stress, or litter box aversion. Understanding the causes and addressing them, such as providing clean and accessible litter boxes, can help resolve FIE.

Key insights

💡FIE accounts for about 50% of all behavioral referrals to veterinarians.

🩺Medical issues, such as bladder inflammation or infections, can cause FIE.

🏠Stress, caused by changes in the household or the presence of other animals, can lead to FIE.

📦Litter box aversion, such as not liking the type of box, litter, or location, can also result in FIE.

🧼Regularly cleaning the litter box and using unscented clumping litter can help prevent FIE.

Q&A

Can FIE be a sign of a medical problem?

Yes, FIE can indicate underlying medical issues such as bladder inflammation or infections.

How can I help my cat if it is stressed?

Reducing stress by providing a calm and quiet environment and addressing any changes in the household can help alleviate FIE caused by stress.

Should I use scented litter?

No, most cats prefer unscented clumping litter, so it is best to avoid scented litter.

How often should I clean the litter box?

The litter box should be scooped daily and cleaned with mild soap regularly.

What can I do if my cat has a litter box aversion?

Try different types of litter boxes, litter, and locations to find what your cat prefers. Keeping the litter box clean and easily accessible can also help.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Feline inappropriate elimination (FIE) is a common problem among indoor cats.

04:12FIE can be caused by medical issues, territorial marking, stress, or litter box aversion.

06:44If your cat is exhibiting FIE, it is crucial to rule out any underlying medical problems.

09:19Reducing stress and providing a calm environment can help address FIE caused by stress.

11:58Cats prefer unscented clumping litter and clean litter boxes.