PITTSBURGH, PA / ACCESS Newswire / July 17, 2025 / For many cat owners, few behaviors are as frustrating and heartbreaking as a beloved feline suddenly refusing to use the litter box. The scent, the mess, and the anxiety of not knowing when or where the next incident will occur can quickly strain even the strongest bond between human and animal. But according to veterinarian Dr. Eugene Aversa, DVM, there's hope.

"Inappropriate urination or defecation outside the litter box can be one of the most distressing behavioral issues I see," says Dr. Eugene Aversa. "It can lead to tension in the home, damage to property, and in the worst cases, even cats losing their homes. But I've seen time and time again that this issue can be solved with patience, compassion, and a little detective work."

A graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Aversa has dedicated his career to compassionate, personalized care for animals. He offers insight drawn from 25 years of clinical experience and by working with his own cats at home. His approach to feline inappropriate soiling balances medical diagnostics, behavioral insight, and environmental adjustment.

Understanding the Problem: A Cry for Help, Not a Rebellion

Contrary to popular belief, cats don't urinate outside the litter box out of spite or revenge. In Dr. Aversa's view, such behavior is usually a cat's way of communicating that something is wrong either physically, emotionally, or environmentally.

"This is not a misbehaving animal," he explains. "This is a stressed, uncomfortable, or confused one. And it's our job to figure out what they're trying to tell us."

Inappropriate soiling can include urination or defecation on furniture, rugs, beds, and other household surfaces. It often begins subtly and escalates over time, particularly if the root cause is not addressed early.

"Unfortunately, the places cats choose to go can be deeply inconvenient and deeply unpleasant," he adds. "It's not like cleaning a litter box. Cleaning a mattress or wall is another matter entirely."

Top Causes of Inappropriate Soiling in Cats

Dr. Aversa encourages pet owners to approach this issue as a solvable mystery with several likely suspects. Here are key areas he investigates when addressing this behavior:

1. Litter Box Accessibility: Pan Height Matters

Older cats with arthritis or mobility issues may avoid high-sided litter boxes due to pain. Likewise, kittens may struggle to climb into tall pans.

"If it hurts to step in, they'll stop trying," says Dr. Aversa. "A low-sided litter box can make all the difference for senior cats or smaller breeds."

2. Litter Type: Texture and Scent Preferences

Cats can be surprisingly finicky about the litter itself. Chemical deodorants or clumping agents may irritate their senses or even their paws.

"Cats develop an intimate relationship with their litter," Dr. Aversa notes. "They walk in it, dig in it, and lick it off their paws. So it makes sense that they'd have preferences. I recommend trying more natural, unscented litters and observing their reaction."

3. Covered vs. Open Litter Pans

Some cats value privacy. Others feel trapped in a covered box and refuse to use it.

"It's trial and error," Dr. Aversa advises. "If your cat won't go in a covered pan, try an open one and vice versa. Their comfort and security in that space is everything."

4. Substrate: What's Under the Pan?

Surprisingly, the surface beneath the litter box can influence behavior. Carpet, plastic runners, bath mats, or tile floors all offer different textures.

"I've seen cases where simply removing a rug or changing the box location was the breakthrough," he says. "Some cats associate certain textures with the ‘right' place to go, especially if they've had a previous accident there."

5. Litter Box Location

Privacy is key for many cats. If the box is placed in a high-traffic or noisy area, they may refuse to use it.

"Some cats need solitude. I've had clients move the box to a closet or quiet room and suddenly, no more accidents."

6. Number of Litter Boxes

This is especially critical in multi-cat households. Dr. Aversa follows the general rule: one more litter box than the number of cats.

"One cat? Two litter boxes. Two cats? Three boxes. And when using multiple litter pans, it's vital to place them in different locations. This gives each cat options and reduces territorial tension.

The Power of Clean: Enzymatic Cleaners and Prevention

Once an area has been soiled, cats will often return to that spot unless it's properly cleaned and standard cleaning methods usually aren't enough.

"Cats have incredibly strong senses of smell," says Dr. Aversa. "If you don't use an enzymatic cleaner designed for cat urine or feces, they'll still detect the scent and go there again."

Dr. Aversa recommends products like Nature's Miracle, but notes that there are many effective options available. Enzymatic cleaners work by breaking down the biological components of urine and feces, removing the scent entirely rather than just masking it.

When It's Not Behavioral: Medical Conditions to Rule Out

Before assuming a behavioral issue, Dr. Aversa urges pet owners to work with their veterinarian to rule out medical causes. Urinary tract infections, kidney disease, diabetes, arthritis, and gastrointestinal disorders can all cause changes in litter box behavior.

"A basic diagnostic work-up is essential," he emphasizes. "We want to make sure we're not missing something treatable or serious. Once we're sure the cat is physically healthy, we can start making changes at home."

Special Case: Intact Male Cats and Marking

One specific scenario Dr. Aversa flags is marking behavior in intact male cats. This often includes spraying on vertical surfaces like walls or furniture legs.

"This is about territory, not toileting," he explains. "Neutering usually resolves it and again, enzymatic cleaners are critical afterward to prevent repeat offenses."

Compassion, Not Condemnation: A Veterinarian's Plea

Above all, Dr. Aversa urges cat owners to respond with empathy and patience, not punishment.

"I've seen families on the verge of giving up their cats over this issue and I understand the frustration," he says. "But this isn't an act of defiance. It's a plea for help. And together, we can solve it."

Whether it's changing litter type, repositioning boxes, increasing cleaning, or diagnosing a hidden illness, Dr. Eugene Aversa believes that every cat and every family deserves the chance to live harmoniously again.

"This is one of my favorite puzzles to solve," he says. "When a cat starts using the litter box again and the home regains its peace, it's a huge win for everyone."

Media Contact:
Eugene Aversa, DVM
email: eugene@eugeneaversa.com
Website: www.dreugeneaversa.com

SOURCE: Eugene Aversa DVM