No one wants to talk about poop. No one wants to see or smell the litter box. However, waste production is the most natural behavior that is common to all living things. The fact is - we all poop.

A lot has been written about the ideal litter box by people much smarter than me. Here are some excellent information about the ideal litter box:

• Cat Friendly Homes explains the basics.

• Dr. Mikel Maria Delgado explains the reasons for a good litter box setup with research-based information.

• CatWise Litter Box Basics by Pam Johnson-Bennett has a wonderful infographic that explains the basics.

I encourage you to follow the advice in these links and set up the ideal litter box for your cats. You will be a hero to them and me! (Send me a picture of a perfect litter box setup, and it will make my day!). However, sometimes, we need to find a compromise that would work best for our cats, our living situation, and our lifestyle. If this is the case, it’s important to keep in mind that any compromise must ensure that the litter box is comfortable, safe, and clean for our cats. Some cats may be more tolerant than others, but even the most easy-going cat may seek other bathroom locations if their minimum needs are not met or if a sudden change turns the litter box into an unwelcoming location.

Comfortable

When you got to go, you got to go, and you don’t want to jump through hoops and climb over walls just to get to a restroom. Once there, you want to feel comfortable as you go. The same is true for our cats. Consider these questions:

• Is it easy for my cat to access the litter box? Consider the box's location and how it is set up to ensure it is as easy as possible for your cat to get in and out. This is especially important for older cats or cats with mobility difficulties.

• Is it easy for my cat to move around the litter box? Your cat may want to move around the box to find the perfect spot. The recommended size for a litter box is 1.5 times the length of your cat.

Safe

Your house panther’s behavior is affected by the ancestry of cats as both hunters and prey. While your cat eliminates, they may feel vulnerable. In nature, that will be a process that produces strong smells that could attract a predator. In a multi-pet home, this could be a time when another cat could pounce. Safety questions to consider are:

• Will my cat be able to see a “predator” coming? A cover or furniture that we think of as providing acceptable privacy could be considered a potential security risk for your cat.

• Are there any environmental activities that could startle my cat? Place the litter box in an area that doesn’t have too much foot traffic or sudden noises that could be scary.

Clean

Some cats are more tolerant than others, but no one likes a dirty bathroom. Do not compromise on cleaning! Depending on your situation, you may need to increase the frequency with which you scoop or increase the number of litter boxes. Some automatic litter boxes can also provide a solution. While you are away, your pet sitter will scoop the box at every visit, which should be reflected in the frequency of their visits.