Cat in and out of litter tray before eventually peeing

by Anonymous

My 10-year-old female cat has started going in the litter tray, then coming back out without peeing. She is also going longer spells without peeing and not doing as many pees.

She's probably not doing as many pees because she is now not drinking much water. The cat's been checked by the vet, had a urine sample, x-rays, etc., but no obvious health problem found. The vet thinks it's stress related.

My thoughts: I'm sorry to hear your cat is having problems. Multiple trips to the litter box without success can often be a sign of a urinary tract or kidney problem, but it sounds like the vet did a thorough exam.

Still, I'm always suspicious of possible health problems. If she's drinking less water, she may be somewhat dehydrated, and that can lead to urinary tract problems.

The question is, why is she drinking less water than before? Let's assume the vet is right and it's stress. Did anything change in the household or her life just prior to her behavior change?

Are there other animals or new animals in the house that might be stressing her out? Have there been any changes in routine, schedules, jobs, diet, litter box, etc.?

To reduce stress, I would keep schedules and routines as steady as possible, increase her exercise levels, and add some additional enrichment such as:

More and varied cat toys and play sessions.

More scratching posts.

More and better use of vertical space.

On top of that, you can try Rescue Remedy or Feliway.

Please keep us updated on what works for her.
-Kurt