Why does the cat go to the toilet for a little need in the litter box, and for a big need next to it? - briefly
Cats often use their litter boxes for small needs due to the convenience and cleanliness they provide. For larger needs, cats may prefer going next to the litter box as it is familiar territory, making them feel secure while performing their business.
Why does the cat go to the toilet for a little need in the litter box, and for a big need next to it? - in detail
The behavior of cats using their litter box for small needs (urination) but preferring to defecate outside or near it is driven by several factors rooted in their natural instincts and evolutionary adaptations.
Firstly, cats are meticulously clean animals with a strong sense of territory and scent marking. When they urinate, they deposit small amounts of pheromones that serve as subtle territorial markers. By doing this in the litter box, they are effectively claiming it as part of their territory without leaving a strong odor that could attract predators or signal to other cats.
On the other hand, defecation involves the release of stronger and more pungent scents due to the presence of undigested food particles and bacteria. Cats instinctively avoid leaving these potent markers in their immediate sleeping or eating areas, which includes their litter box. By choosing to defecate near the litter box rather than inside it, cats are balancing the need to keep their primary territory clean with the urge to mark their broader domain.
Moreover, cats have a natural inclination to bury their waste as a means of hiding their scent from predators. The litter box provides an ideal environment for this behavior, making it suitable for urination where the act of covering the waste is less labor-intensive. However, when it comes to defecation, the task of burying larger and more numerous feces can be more challenging, leading cats to seek out a more convenient location near their litter box.
Additionally, the type of litter used in the box can influence a cat's preference for defecating outside of it. If the litter is too fine or clumps excessively, it may become difficult for the cat to bury its feces effectively, leading them to choose a location where they can do so more easily.
Understanding these behaviors requires recognizing that cats are inherently wild animals with instincts deeply ingrained in their evolutionary history. By providing a suitable litter box environment and accommodating their natural tendencies, cat owners can help ensure the comfort and well-being of their feline companions.