Cat poo problems - in my own cats! Help please

[miaowmix]

Hello,
I have two cats, both rather elderly , one is 11 and one 16. Problem is one or both of them have taken to pooing in the garden but no longer burying it. They used to be fastidious, but now it seems they just don't care - will even go on the lawn and make no attempt to cover it up. I think it's probably the older one, haven't yet caught them in the act, but it is disgusting and unhygienic, and of course worrying. Does anyone know if this indicates a medical issue or is it simply a consequence of age?
Any tips gratefully received. Thanks!

[Lizcat]

Many many people will tell you that it is just old age. However, we now know these cats usually have elbow arthritis (very common in cats) and it hurts to dig a hole.

[miaowmix]

THanks for your help Liz, that is a worry, as I am concerned one of my cats is getting artritic (the other only has one back leg so it's difficult for him too!).
A trip to the vets it is.

[Floralnomad]

Do you have a litter tray . We found that our last cat would always come in to use his tray ,probably easier than digging. Then again he was a lazy animal

[Pascha]

I have a cat who has never yet buried a poo, whether in the litter tray, garden or kitchen floor. He's 11 now, I doubt it will change.

[miaowmix]

We don't have a litter tray as they have a cat flap to the garden, but am thinking it might be better to get one. THink it's a combination of age, laziness, and prob arthritis, so will get him checked at the vets. Thanks for help .

[cozietoesie]

Like Floralnomad, my only recent outdoor cats all came in to use their tray - pee or poo. I think they liked the fact that the 'tray fairy' (Hah!) cleaned it up after use and it was always dry and nice. Maybe they also liked the fact that it was inside, warm, safe and unobserved when they were having a vulnerable moment.

I'd get a litter tray or two and I think you may find they start using them. Having them checked at the vet (eg for arthritis) as you posted is also a good idea.

[miaowmix]

Thanks cozie, I know they will use the litter tray as we have had one in the past, I guess it probably is nicer for them (just not me!) .

[cozietoesie]

Ah - you get used to it. Better than having poo lying around on the grass!

[miaowmix]

I know - truly gross!