More and more, people are keeping their cats safe by making them indoor-only cats. Precious kitty lives are saved from getting hit by cars, being attacked by other animals and becoming lost simply by keeping them inside. You’re also saving countless birds and other small animals when your cat’s prey is merely a wand toy.

But let’s face it, cleaning the litter box is no fun. And if your cat is “thinking outside the box,” it’s even worse. The No. 1 reason people surrender cats is because of litter box issues. The good news is, there’s help!

First, figure out why your cat isn’t using the litter box. There can be a variety of reasons:

• Medical problems. Your cat’s inappropriate urination may be their way of letting you know they aren’t feeling well. Urinary tract inflammation or infections are serious conditions that may result in death if not treated in a timely manner. The only way to find out if your cat has a medical issue is to take them to your veterinarian.

• A dirty litter box. Cats are like us; they like a clean bathroom. Their noses are far more sensitive than ours and they’re fastidious creatures. Most cats prefer clumping, unscented litter scooped twice a day. The golden rule is one litter box per cat plus one. If you’re using non-clumping litter, the box should be completely emptied at least every other day. Boxes should be washed with unscented soap every three to four weeks. Yes, this is the icky part of cat care but I promise it’ll go a long way toward solving litter box issues.

• The box is too small. Cats like large, spacious litter boxes that allow their tails to easily hang over the edge. They want to be able to dig a hole, turn around and cover their pee or poop without coming into contact with pee or poop, or the side of box.

• Response to stress. Inappropriate elimination is often a response to stress, which tends to be the result of some type of change in environment. A major change like a new addition to the family (human, feline or canine) or a new home can trigger litter box issues. But some sensitive kitties can also become stressed by things we think are insignificant, like a change in routine. Make sure your kitty feels safe and everyone in the household gives them lots of attention and affection.

If your cat is spraying, they might be marking their territory as a result of feeling threatened. They also may mark if they’re stressed or uncomfortable due to a medical issue. If they’re not neutered, they might be spraying to attract females.

If your cat is spraying, first rule out any medical issues by taking them to their veterinarian. Also, thoroughly clean every place the cat has urinated inappropriately to keep them from thinking these are new acceptable places to “go.” Look for cleansers that mention enzymes for pet stains on the label.

We know how frustrating it can be when cats think outside the box but don’t give up on your feline friend — litter box issues can be solved!

Marin Humane has cat behavior consultants who are happy to help with litter box issues or other kitty quandaries. Call 415-506-6284 or email marinhumane.org">catbehavior@marinhumane.org.

Lisa Bloch is the marketing and communications director for Marin Humane. which contributes Tails of Marin articles and welcomes questions and comments. Visit marinhumane.org, find us on social media @marinhumane, or email lbloch@marinhumane.org.