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Sparkle3887 · Jul 18, 2007, 10:18 AM

I am fostering three kittens for the local animal shelter. My overall goal is to socialize them, particularly the 2 girls who hide when you so much as look at them. Unfortunately they have another problem as well... They keep pooping in my room, including in a duffle bag full of my clothes, and on a bath towel. I yell at them and bring them to the litter box... they know where is is, I just think that they are too lazy and scared to go to it. I'm afraid of kicking them out of my room because that's where I am a lot, so I want them to get used to me, but I don't know what to do... I'm sick of the poop piles! Help!

tickle · Jul 18, 2007, 10:50 AM

Why don't you leave them in the bathroom with the litter box for a couple of days, (consider it an issue of tough love) so they can get used to the idea of using the litter box and less bonding with you at the moment. Cats usually have good instincts. I have never had a cat that hasn't wanted out to do its business, or just gone and used the litterbox in the basement.

They won't have a problem getting used to people once they are each alone with their new parents after you finish fostering them.

kanicky73 · Jul 18, 2007, 10:53 AM

Unfortunately it has been my understanding that cats are instictively drawn to a litter box and that is why its usually so easy to get them started in using them. I was told by a vet that if you have a cat that will not go in a litter box you will have a very very hard time ever getting them to use one. For whatever reason, either due to trama or a really bad situation their insticts are not coming into play.

tickle · Jul 18, 2007, 01:33 PM

I adopted a barn kitty three years ago, had her spayed, shots, etc. She was so small I couldn't leave her to waunder around the house (thats her in the pic under my name)at night so I put her in the bathroom with litterbox. This is a kit who never even saw a litter box before. No problem, lots of everything in it every morning.

You are going to have to confine them until they get the idea that that is where they are supposed to go. I have no idea what is wrong with them in this regard, and you are right, cleanliness is instinctual for cats from very young.

bushg · Jul 18, 2007, 02:34 PM

Your room needs to be very, very neat. Sometimes they will go on clothes, towels lying around even bed covers. I would have 2 littler boxes and scoop a couple of times a day. Also after I cleaned the boxes I would rinse out with vinegar water. Also where they have went pee or poo I would soak it with a 50/50 water vinegar solution. There is a product called urine gone that is very good for pee. I am not sure if it would take care poop odor left behind. To get them used to me I would give them treats, sit and pet them while they are eating also you could do this while they are eating their regular meals. They would not be free feed. So they would associate humans and food . I would also keep them away from cat nip, as this may over excite them. Btw you are very kind in fostering these kittens. Good luck

bushg · Jul 18, 2007, 04:33 PM

tickle , I have 3 foster kittys, that I think are going to be called mine. I can't stand the thoughts of parting with them. They are girls and my old tom has gotten used to them. :)

Sparkle3887 · Jul 18, 2007, 07:46 PM

Thanks so much to everyone for the responses... as for fostering it is such a great experience, it is so fun watching them grow... but bushg- yes, it is hard to let them go! This is my third bunch... and it doesn't get easier! They each have so many adorable and unique qualities :-)

JAMIET · Jul 20, 2007, 04:02 PM

There is a product out there called "Nature's Miracle" White bottle, w/ red writing. I couldn't believe how well it worked. Absolutely no smell left behind from poop or urine. If they can't smell it, they'll be much easier to direct to a litter box. Also make sure their food is not too close to the litter box. Cats don't like to eat too close to a litter box and vice-versa.