Hi Stacey,
I can certainly understand how frustrating this situation must be for you. Inappropriate elimination is a very common problem with our lovely indoor cat patients. It sounds like you have done a lot already to investigate this problem and try to find some solutions. You mentioned that Chrissy has had crystals in her urine before. Feline lower urinary tract disease is probably the most common reason I see cats present for urinating outside the litter box. Having a urine sample checked by your vet to see if these problems have recurred would be a good first step. In addition, you may want to consider blood work to ensure there are no other underlying health problems that could be contributing to her behavior.
Once medical problems are dealt with, you can focus more on the behavioral aspects. You mentioned that she may have done this in the past “out of spite.” It is important to recognize that cats don’t do these behaviors as revenge or because they are upset with you. It is more likely that they are painful (which is why it is important to rule out medical problems first), stressed, frightened, or not comfortable with their current litter box arrangements.
I like that you have provided multiple litter boxes. We generally recommend providing at least the number of boxes equal to the number of cats in your house plus one. Please continue to try different types of litter boxes and different types of litter. Ensure they are clean and comfortable. The addition of the kittens is certainly a big stressor, and keeping them separated but aware of one another is a smart decision at this time.
There are a variety of supplements, diets and prescriptions medications that may be helpful for Chrissy. Your veterinarian can work with you to determine if any of these may be appropriate for her. You may also want to consider consulting a veterinary behavior specialist, which will require a referral from your vet. I encourage you to check out our video on this topic, ‘How to Stop Cats Urinating Outside the Litter Box‘.
I hope this has given you some ideas for Chrissy. Good luck!
Dr. Kim Hester
