Litterbox refusal

[HecatesDinosaurs]

We got two kittens in November and one of them has never done a poo in a litter box. There are 6 boxes throughout the house, filled with three different types of litter (wood pellets, paper pellets and world's best). I don't know what else to do...

(Photo from when they where brand new at 10 wks old )

Do you know when she is going to poo? If so can you go and guard her. It is a very vulnerable time for a cat and she may be happier if you are there.

Could you get puppy training pads and put one into a litter tray without any litter inside? The pad would feel similar to a carpet and maybe that helps.

Thanks everyone for the suggestions, it's been really helpful to hear all your different ideas to think about. I've got feliway arriving today and I'll take her to the vets next week. 🤞 we can get to the bottom of it.

@Mia184

Could you get puppy training pads and put one into a litter tray without any litter inside? The pad would feel similar to a carpet and maybe that helps.

Yes - or even, if you have any old carpet off-cuts or an unwanted rug etc. you could line the tray with carpet - that might get her used to the idea of going into the tray to poo.

There are a couple of extra things not yet mentioned that are worth considering. One is that cats often prefer to eat alone, so feeding your cats in two different places away from each other could help her establish a part of the house as her own territory away from the other, more dominant cat. Also, where you place litter trays is important as well as how many. Avoid putting them in busy areas where people are often passing by, but also avoid cramped corners where there is only one way in or out. A cat needs privacy but also needs multiple escape routes in order to feel secure. It sounds like you've already made progress with her weeing in the trays now, so I'm sure you'll be able to resolve it one way or another.

I agree with the carpet idea above, as well. It could be worth a try as a transitional stage placed near where she's going at the moment.

Could you try newspaper on the floor under your bed? Then slowly transition to a tray?