Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My Bella, who is just over a year old, has taken to pooping IN or AROUND her WATER dish for the past couple of days. Today, trying to "solve" this little dilemma, I cleaned the area with Odoban and decided to move her water dish right next to the food bowl, so I'll see if this makes a difference.

The dishes I use are NOT plastic, and her water is changed twice daily. I'm flabbergasted! I'm trying to figure out what it is that's bothering her suddenly about the water or bowl - or could it be something else?

I DO have a 2-year old female that doesn't care for Bella much and stalks her every chance she gets. I DO spray this female with a water bottle when she does stalk Bella.

I'm at my wit's end here. Is there something wrong with Bella, or is there something wrong with Spot that just feels she HAS to chase her down? Both these girls are spayed, and I thought this stalking thing would change once Spot couldn't "smell" her any more - but it really hasn't and it really bothers me

Money's really tight right now (as if it isn't for everyone else) so I really can't afford a vet visit. If anyone else out there has any ideas, please let me know!

Hi There,

I hope this problem has resolved itself by now, but if it hasn't here is what I suggest.

I am not familiar with the product you mentioned called Odoban, but if it isn't an enzymatic cleaner, the odor is remaining and that is why the cat is pooping in the same spot. In this case, you would need to get something that contains enzymes to get rid of the odor. All pet stores carry these products.

If you only have one litterbox, you should get 2 more and keep them in different areas. Ideally, you should have one box per cat in the household, plus one extra, and these boxes must be kept very clean.

If your kitty is still pooping near or in the water bowl, try putting a litterbox in that spot. Sometimes this works. Also, it's best to use plain, unscented litters. Some cats will avoid using the litterbox if they don't like the scent of the litter. Most cats will also prefer uncovered boxes.

There is a chance that your kitty is trying to tell you that she doesn't feel well by not using the box, but it would take a vet exam and labwork to determine if this is the case. Any change in behavior or habit is a red flag, even if it seems to be positive, like if a cat has gotten more affectionate.

Regards,
PHKitkat