Help! My Cat is Pooping on the Floor! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“Dear Dr. Paola,
Lindsey is 18 years old. She has always used the litter box for peeing and pooping, until the last year. She pees in her litter box but poos on the floor. Any solutions for this problem? Thank you. PS. She is diabetic. One unit twice a day.” – Inez
Quick Info about Lindsey
Hi Inez,
At 18, Lindsey is considered a longevous pet cat, and your love and care have clearly made a difference. Changes in litter box habits, especially in senior cats with underlying conditions like diabetes, often signal that something is making the experience uncomfortable or confusing for them. The fact that Lindsey is still using the box to pee but is pooping outside of it gives us a few clues.
When a cat uses the litter box for one purpose but not the other, it often suggests a behavioral or sensory aversion rather than a physical limitation. Some cats begin to associate the act of defecating in a particular spot with discomfort, such as straining due to constipation, or they may develop a preference for a certain surface or location. In senior cats, cognitive changes can also play a role, especially when chronic illnesses like diabetes are present. These changes might affect memory, spatial awareness, or routine behaviors. It’s a bit like how elderly humans might suddenly misplace familiar objects or lose track of regular routines.
For Lindsey, ruling out gastrointestinal discomfort or irregular stool quality would be the next step. If her stool is hard, or irregular, or if she seems restless before pooping, that could point to a source of discomfort worth exploring further with her veterinarian. Once her health is checked, an online vet consultation with one of our veterinarians at PangoVet could be a good support to discuss her behavior in more depth and determine the best way to reinforce her routines and gently guide her back to consistent habits, or provide her with any additional support needed for her aging mind.
Best Wishes!
Dr. Paola