http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Pointe/9352/behavior.html

I went to the Cornell website to try and find info on getting a behavior consult for Ginger and they recommended this link. There is an extensive section on litterbox troubles at the bottom of the page. There is also a link on displaced aggression and litterbox issues about mid-page. Didn't read it, but with Ginger pooping in the center of the room it makes me wonder if she is telling the older cats off. (look at me! I stink! I belong here - deal with it!)

Go ahead and try a covered litterbox in the basement, and see how Ginger takes to it before trying it anywhere else. While you are gone, I'd really recommend you keep her in an area where she won't have access to carpet. Its a week - give her lots of love when you get back, she'll survive.

Also, it might be a great time to try using Feliway for Ginger. It's synthtic feline happy phermones. You can find it in a plug in diffuser at Petsmart, or your vet may have it in stock. I've used it twice with litter box problems with good results. The first time was when 6 yr. old Romes and I moved to a new place where the previous tenant had a cat or dog who had soiled the carpet behind the door. Romeo thought he had to re-mark the spot to tell this stranger it was his place now. Last year, one of my cats was seriously ill - when she started to recover she beat the crap out of one of my older cats who pooped outside of the litterbox several times as a result. Feliway brought the whole aggressive level in the feline household down, ending the problem. But it does take some time to work.

It might help all 3 cats like one another if you use a toy to encourage them to play with one another. Then Monster might not feel like he has to be such a monster (great name, btw)

Keep us posted...

Purrs,
Elizabeth

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