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Last updated on October 7, 2026
A cat that won’t cover poop in the litter box isn’t always a problem. Some cats never cover. What matters more is whether your cat used to cover and then stopped.
If your cat has never covered and otherwise uses the box normally, you may not need to change anything. If it suddenly stopped, check the box size, litter, cleanliness and location, plus any recent changes at home. If it also strains, cries, shows other changes while using the box, or its stool changes, talk to your vet.
When It Can Be Normal
Not every cat covers its waste, and some never build the habit. If your cat has never covered consistently and uses the box normally, that may simply be how it uses the box.
A Sudden Change Is the Signal
If your cat always covered and then stopped, look at what changed. Check the vet signs below first, then the setup.
Setup Things to Check
The box size. Check whether your cat can enter, turn and dig without crowding the walls. Our best extra large litter box guide covers sizing.
The litter level. Too little and there’s not much to push over the waste. Follow the litter maker’s fill directions, since the recommended depth varies by formula.
How clean it is. A box with waste building up gives your cat fewer clean spots. Scoop often.
The litter type. If covering stopped around the time you switched litters, the new litter is worth looking at. Check the new bag for switching directions, or offer your old litter in a separate box. Our guide on how to transition cat litter covers it.
The location. Check whether the box is in a busy area or beside a noisy appliance. AAHA recommends quiet, easily accessible litter box locations.
Other cats. In a multi-cat home, box location, access and competition around resources can affect how a cat uses the box. Our guide on how many litter boxes per cat explains how many to set up.
Changes at Home
Note recent changes such as new people or pets, a new routine, construction noise or rearranged furniture. Keep the box clean and easy to reach while things settle.
What Not to Do
Don’t scold your cat for leaving poop uncovered. Punishment can increase stress and isn’t recommended for litter box problems. Scoop the waste after your cat leaves instead.
When to Talk to a Vet
If your cat suddenly stops digging or covering and shows other changes while using the box, talk to your vet. Also call if your cat strains or cries, the stool changes markedly, or appetite or energy changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal for cats not to cover their poop?
For some cats, yes. It’s worth a closer look when a cat that used to cover suddenly stops.
Why did my cat suddenly stop covering?
Check the box size, litter, cleanliness and location, any recent changes at home, and the vet signs above.
How do I get my cat to cover its poop?
Start with the setup rather than trying to force the behavior. Make sure the box is roomy, reasonably clean, filled according to the litter maker’s directions and in a quiet, accessible location. Some cats still may not cover consistently.
Why does my cat scratch around the poop but not cover it?
Check the litter level and whether the litter is packed down. Our guide on cat scratching the side of the litter box covers this in more detail.
