Blind cat poops inside litter box but pees on the floor

by Tammy
(Nj)

My poor baby went blind at 15 years old. I took her to the vet and had a complete senior work up. Everything else is good, with the exception of her eyesight.

She has no problem getting to her litter box. I have not moved anything with her being blind. She poops inside, however refuses to pee inside the box. She's all over the floor in the basement by it.

I keep putting puppy pads down. She manages to go on the edge of the puppy pad so it's still on the floor or next to it.

I make sure the litter is clean, and give her plenty of love and affection. She has everything she needs.

My thoughts: I'm sorry to hear your cat has gone blind and that she's having problems with the litter box. I'm assuming your vet examined her with this problem in mind, and can't find a medical reason.

Beyond a possible yet undetected medical problem, I can think of a couple of possibilities:

1. Some cats develop a preference to pee in one box and poop in another, so I'd consider adding a second box and getting her used to it.

2. She's stressed due to her blindness. Time may help here, or you can try any of a number of products that are aimed at reducing stress in cats, such as Feliway, Rescue Remedy, or Jackson Galaxy's Safe Space for Cats. Your veterinarian might also suggest medication, but I'd try the non-drug solutions first.

Please keep us updated on her progress.
-Kurt