I’m really looking for some advice here because I’m at my wit’s end. I recently adopted a sweet little kitten named Oliver, and he’s been such a joy, but there’s this one weird, slightly gross thing he does that’s worrying me. He’s taken to eating the wet litter right after my older cat, Luna, finishes doing her business. I have no clue why he’s doing this or how to stop it. I've tried redirecting him with toys and moved the tray to a less accessible corner, but he still scurries over to snack on it whenever he can. I’m worried this might be harmful or a sign of some underlying issue. Has anyone else ever dealt with a similar problem or have any tips on how to curb this behavior? I'm really concerned and could use some guidance from fellow pet lovers!
Hello there! It’s great that you’re reaching out with this concern about your kitten. Eating wet litter, especially after your other cat uses the box, is definitely worth keeping an eye on. First, kittens are naturally curious and might explore things with their mouths, but this behavior could also indicate other issues.
One possibility is that your kitten is attracted to the smell of ammonia in urine, which can resemble the smell of some food tasks, particularly if your kitten is lacking certain nutrients. Another reason could be a mineral deficiency, where your kitten is trying to supplement its diet. Stress or boredom might also lead your kitten to engage in this behavior as a coping mechanism.
At home, you can gently steer your kitten away from the litter box right after your other cat has used it and ensure they have plenty of interactive toys to stay mentally engaged. Also, make sure your kitten is eating a high-quality kitten food that meets all their nutritional needs.
Keep an eye out for signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, or any signs of distress, as ingesting litter particles could potentially lead to blockages or digestive upset. If you notice any of these symptoms, or if the habit persists, it might be a good idea to schedule a video consult with a veterinarian on Dial A Vet. They can provide more personalized advice and reassurance. Take care!
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's
not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely.
For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our
content guidelines.