Many of us enjoy being with cats so much that we decide to adopt two (or three or four!) and then we think ‘can two cats share a litter box?!’ or ‘would it be sanitary for cats to share a cat litter box?!’
The answer might seem simple and it may not even be something you think is even important but when it comes to your cats it is very important.
Cats have complex behaviours which need to be met in order for them to stay content and happy. One of those behaviour needs is the ability to behaviour naturally when going to the toilet another is the ability to be clean.
Can 2 cats share a litter box?
We all know cats can be extremely when picking where to go to the toilet and they can even be picky about which kitty litter they toilet in.
Which is why one of the most common reasons for a cat toileting in inappropriate places or not using their litter trays is due to having to share a litter box. Very sadly, inappropriate toileting is also one of the main reasons cats are put up for rehoming as well.
Cats like to pee and poop in clean environments and definitely not somewhere another cat has recently been – even if it is their kitty pal. A dirty litter box is not somewhere a cat will want to use and it can even be quite distressing for them.
For these reasons it is strongly advised that cats do not share litter boxes.
How many litter boxes for 2 cats?
The cat experts over at ISFM strongly advise 1 litter tray for each cat plus one more. Therefore, if you have two cats you should have 3 litter boxes. This might seem extreme but it has been decided after years of research on cat behaviour.
If you do not have the space for 3 litter boxes, you will at least need to have two – one for each cat. You will most likely find each cat will stick to a certain tray as well. Ensure these litter trays are cleaned frequently.
Can I put two litter boxes next to each other?
No, the two litter boxes for your two cats cannot be next to each other, in fact, they need to be far away from each other.
Remember, cats need separate litter boxes to ensure it does not smell of another cat. If they are next to each other the smells will spread – even if you cannot smell it.
Cats are also private little creatures, the last thing they want is to be going to the toilet in the direct eye line of another cat (which is why some people opt to buy covered litter trays). Again, this kind of stress can cause inappropriate toileting or even cause serious health issues such as urinary tract infections and blockages.
A good idea is to place the litter boxes on different floors or different ends of your flat/house.
How many litter trays for 3 cats?
Following the same pattern, if you have 3 cats in your home the recommended guideline is 4 litter trays.
This is one litter tray each plus one extra.
Why does one cat need two litter boxes?
Again following behaviourist recommendations, one cat should have two litter boxes.
The rule: one for every cat plus one.
Generally the reasoning behind one cat two litter boxes is because many cats like to pee and poop in different places. Therefore, if you are not able to clean the tray as soon as they have used it, it may become a stressor for them.
Multi-cat litter box solutions
We understand, litter boxes are not pretty and therefore having multiple around the house is not ideal. But remember you are doing this for your cat’s health and wellbeing – it is important.
To get around unsightly trays, we use this covered litter tray which also doubles as a plant stand. From the outside it looks discreet enough to not be a litter box and it is provides privacy for the cat.
Or, if you really want to make the most of space these corner litter trays are the perfect solution for multiple cat households.
If you are concerned about the smell of having multiple litter trays you may want to buy a self-cleaning litter box. These are to be seen as more of an investment due to their cost, however, they are a great investment if you think about how often you will use it over the course of 15-20 years.
Try to avoid using ‘litter fresheners’ or room fresheners near or in your litter boxes, they might smell nice to us, but for cats it will not smell like them and therefore may put them off using that area.
Remember, when thinking about the positioning of your litter boxes for multiple cats, try not to place your trays next to noisy appliances such as the washing machine or a noisy rooms such as the kid’s bedroom. Cats like quiet and this is especially true when it comes to pooping.
If you have large breed cats, such as a Maine Coon or Norwegian Forest, remember to buy a large litter tray. Cats need to dig and have space to toilet, a big cat in a small tray will not work.
Do I need to put a litter box on every floor?
Not necessarily, the majority of cats are able to easily locate and reach their litter boxes when nature calls. Therefore you do not need to place a litter tray on every floor.
However, if you have a senior cat who may have arthritis or a cat with disabilities you may find they might not be as agile or quick at navigating multiple floors. Therefore, for these guys it will be kinder to place litter trays on every floor.
Also remember to not change the locations frequently, as it will potentially confuse them.
Two cats one litter box
Maybe you have two cats which are happily sharing one litter box. Lucky you, not all cats follow the status quo, so it can happen.
Remember to ensure the box is cleaned frequently to keep the harmony. Use a good quality litter/dirt which absorbs urinary smells well. We always use World’s Best Cat Litter as we have found it to be the best at absorbing smell and also clumps really well for easy cleaning.
Continue to monitor your cat’s behaviours frequently. Cats can change over time, especially between kitten to adulthood.
If you begin to start having behavioural problems or inappropriate toileting look at your litter box situation. There is a strong chance a solution will be found here.
Do outdoor cats need litter trays?
Many people query whether outdoor cats need indoor litter boxes and rightly so. If you have a cat who loves the outdoors and loves pooping in nature you will wonder why they need something indoors too.
Some outdoor loving cats will also refuse to use an indoor litter box.
But, it is also good to have at least one litter tray in the house. Your cat may not have access to the outdoors 24/7, therefore they need somewhere to relieve themselves indoors. It also prevents any accidents if they get caught short while indoors as well.
So, can cats share a litter box?
The gold standard, pro-cat owner answer is no.
Cat behaviourists and experts will always recommend the litter box rule of: one for every cat plus one.
Remember, our goal for all cats is happy, stress-free lives. We need to support their little quirks and behaviours in order to prevent both behaviour and health problems.
Therefore, cats should not share litter boxes.