The usual behavioral causes
Cleanliness has changed
A full drawer, lingering odor, or residue may make the box less appealing to some cats.
The cycle startled them
If the motor ran while they were nearby, some cats grow wary. Run it when they're away.
The litter changed
A new texture or scent can put a cat off. Transition gradually, not all at once.
Placement feels wrong
Too loud, too exposed, too cornered, or too far away — location matters more than owners expect.
Size or access
An older or larger cat may struggle with a small entry or high step-in.
How to troubleshoot
Offer a familiar backup
Temporarily provide a simple, accessible box so your cat always has a comfortable option.
Check the unit
Look for error messages, unexpected cycling, a full drawer, or another recent change that could make the box feel different.
Review the environment
Consider placement, litter texture, noise, access, and any recent household changes.
Empty and clean it
Remove waste and visible residue, and perform a deeper clean if the unit is due for one.
Change one thing at a time
Adjust litter, placement, or cycle timing separately so you can tell what helped.
Give it time
Cats adapt on their own timeline. Consistency beats pressure.
If odor or residue has returned, use our at-home cleaning guide to reset the unit. Cleaning cannot diagnose or resolve a medical or behavioral issue.