Ep 2: Going Outside the Box — Why Do Cats Stop Using the Litter Box? Artwork

Cat Talk by Alice Cat Expert

Cat Talk by Alice Cat Expert is a cat behaviour podcast hosted by clinical animal behaviourist Alice Chau.

Each episode explores a common question about cat behaviour, helping you understand the science behind issues like stress, anxiety, aggression, litter box problems, etc, and how better understanding behaviour can help improve the human-cat bond.

If you live with cats and want reliable, thoughtful guidance based on real clinical experience without judgement, this podcast is for you.

Behaviour isn’t random — there’s always a reason.

All Episodes

Cat Talk by Alice Cat Expert

Ep 2: Going Outside the Box — Why Do Cats Stop Using the Litter Box?

February 03, 2026 • Alice Cat Expert

Episode 2: Going Outside the Box — Why Do Cats Stop Using the Litter Box?

Litter box problems are one of the most common, and most misunderstood, cat behaviour issues.

In this episode of Cat Talk by Alice Cat Expert, Alice explains why cats stop using the litter box, why it’s not about stubbornness or cleanliness, and why toileting changes should always be taken seriously.

This episode explores the difference between litter tray avoidance and marking, common medical contributors, emotional and environmental factors, and why litter tray setup matters more than many people realise. Alice also addresses common myths: such as assuming it’s always anxiety or territorial behaviour, and explains why random fixes often fail.

If you’re dealing with litter box problems, this episode will help you understand what’s really going on and how to approach the issue in a structured, welfare-focused way.

Behaviour isn’t random — there’s always a reason.

In this episode:

Why litter box problems happen
Medical vs behavioural considerations
Litter tray avoidance vs marking
The impact of stress and environment
Common myths and mistakes
What to do when problems start

Support the show

If you find this podcast helpful, please like, follow, or subscribe, and share it with other cat people who might benefit.

DO YOU NEED HELP?

You can send in questions to be answered on the podcast at podcast@alicecatexpert.com
You can also find out more about my work at https://linktr.ee/alicechaucat

DO YOU WANT TO SUPPORT THIS PODCAST?

You can buy me a cup of tea at https://ko-fi.com/alicecatexpert ☕