How to Dog-proof a Litter Box

Most cat foods contain large amounts of protein because cats are naturally carnivorous and therefore require a high-protein diet. Dogs do not require as much protein, so dog food is lower in protein. This causes dogs to sometimes attempt to get into cat's litter boxes for the extra protein they crave. Depending on your dog, there are different ways to combat this problem. Read on to learn how to dog-proof a litter box.

Instructions

1. Use a baby gate to dog-proof the room where the litter box is located. The practicality of this solution will depend on your dog's ability to jump. Most cats can jump a gate 3 to 4 feet high, but test the jumping ability of both your cat and dog to see if the baby gate will work. Keep in mind a cat's ability to jump decreases with age and weight gain.

2. Purchase a dog-proof litter box. Many pet stores sell litter boxes which include a tray and a cover with a small opening either in the side or at the top.

3. Decide whether to get a litter box with a side or top entrance. A small opening on the side will keep medium and large dogs out, but may still allow dogs of all sizes to stick their heads in the litter box. An opening on the top will stop dogs from sticking their heads in the box and keep all dogs out except small dogs who are also good jumpers. However, some cats may be too lazy to use a top entrance or not physically capable of making the maneuver in and out of the litter box.

4. Make your own dog-proof litter box. Get a large rubber box with a lid and place a litter box tray inside. Cut a hole in either the lid or the side of the box for your cat and place the lid on the box. Placing a carpet sample on top of the box will help prevent your cat from tracking litter around the house.

5. Place your litter box inside a closet if you have a large dog or a cat which won't use a top-entrance box. Insert a hook on a chain into the door and an eye in the door frame. Make the chain just long enough so your cat can squeeze in but your dog cannot.

6. Consider a litter box containment system. This is the most expensive option, but it could also be the most effective. Litter box containment systems are dog-proof boxes, usually wooden, with two levels: one at the top where the cat enters and one at the bottom where a litter tray is contained. They are available at some pet stores and from specialty retailers online.

Tips & Warnings

• Before spending a lot of time or money to dog-proof a litter box, make sure your cat will use a litter box in a confined space. Test your cat by placing the litter box in a cardboard box to make sure she will use it.