Why Does My Cat Scratch Outside the Litter Box?
By Becopets | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: Product Reviews
Discover why your cat scratches outside the litter box and how to fix it. From liner issues to behavioral causes, find practical solutions to stop the mess.
Quick Answer
Your cat may scratch outside the litter box due to discomfort with the liner, a too-small box, or a need to bury waste more thoroughly. Address the root cause by adjusting the liner fit, switching to a larger box, or adding more litter.
Why Liner Fit Matters
A loose or sliding liner can make your cat feel unstable while digging. If the liner bunches up, your cat may avoid stepping inside fully and scratch at the edges instead. This behavior is often mistaken for a litter box aversion when it's simply a liner problem.
Check whether your liner is secured tightly around the tray. Liners with drawstrings, like the Cat Litter Tray Liners from Becopets, can be cinched to stay in place, reducing the urge to scratch outside.
Litter Depth and Texture Preferences
Cats have individual preferences for litter depth and texture. If the box has too little litter or a texture your cat dislikes, they may scratch outside to find a better digging surface. Most cats prefer 2–3 inches of unscented, clumping litter.
Gradually adjust the litter depth and observe if the scratching changes. If your cat still scratches outside, consider a different litter type or a box with higher sides.
Medical or Behavioral Causes
Scratching outside the box can also signal discomfort or stress. Urinary tract infections, arthritis, or anxiety can make your cat associate the box with pain. In these cases, the scratching is not about the liner or litter but about the box itself.
If adjusting the liner and litter doesn't help, consult your veterinarian. They can rule out medical issues and suggest behavioral modifications or stress-reducing products.
Diagnosing the Problem
- Symptom: Your cat scratches at the floor or wall outside the litter box after using it, or while trying to cover waste.
- Likely Cause: Liner slipping or bunching, insufficient litter depth, or a box that's too small for comfortable digging. Check if the liner is secured and if the box is at least 1.5 times your cat's length.
- Corrective Action: 1. Tighten or replace the liner with a drawstring model. 2. Add 2–3 inches of unscented clumping litter. 3. If needed, switch to a larger or high-sided box.
- When to Stop or Choose Another Option: If the scratching persists after 2 weeks of adjustments, consult a veterinarian to rule out medical issues. For stress-related scratching, consider pheromone diffusers or additional boxes. Persistent scratching despite changes may require professional help.
Product That Helps
- Cat Litter Tray Liners: Extra thick cat litter liners with drawstrings, making clean up more hygienic and convenient. These tear resistant liners help prevent urine and its odours from sticking to the tray and in turn, extend the life of your tray. A secure liner with drawstrings stays in place, so your cat won't feel unstable and scratch outside the box. The tear resistance also means less mess and longer tray life.
Cat Litter Tray Liners
