Your cat’s litter box can tell you more about their health than you might realise. From the colour of their urine to changes in how often they visit the box, these small details can reveal early signs of illness or discomfort.

By understanding what’s normal — and paying attention when something changes — you can help keep your cat happy, healthy, and comfortable.

Why paying attention matters

Cats are masters at hiding pain or sickness. Because of this, their litter box habits are often the first sign that something isn’t quite right.

Monitoring how often your cat uses the box, what their waste looks like, and whether there’s a change in smell or colour can help you catch issues like dehydration, urinary problems, or stress early on.

What healthy litter box habits look like

Every cat is different, but there are a few general signs of good health to look for:

• Using the litter box regularly, usually two to four times per day.

• Urine that is light yellow and mostly clear, with only a mild scent.

• Firm, well-formed stools that are easy to scoop.

• Calm behaviour in and around the litter box — no straining or avoidance.

If your cat’s litter habits match these, they’re likely feeling healthy and comfortable. For tips on keeping litter fresh and hygienic, see how often you should change cat litter.

Cat urine colour guide

Healthy cat urine should be pale yellow and mostly clear. It may vary slightly depending on your cat’s hydration and diet, but it should never have a strong smell or unusual colour.

If you notice a change, here’s what different colours might mean:

• Pale yellow: Normal; varies with hydration level.

• Red, pink, or red-brown: May indicate blood in the urine.

• Dark brown: Possible muscle breakdown or high blood content.

• Yellow-brown or orange: Could suggest dehydration or a liver problem.

• Clear: May signal excessive drinking or kidney issues.

• Cloudy: Might mean inflammation or infection.

If you ever notice sudden changes in colour, frequency, or odour, contact your vet. Early detection makes a big difference.

Other litter box changes to watch for

Clump size

Small clumps can indicate your cat isn’t drinking enough water. Very large clumps may suggest excessive urination, which can be linked to conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease.

Odour

A healthy litter box should have only a mild scent. Strong ammonia or persistent odours could point to infection, dehydration, or simply a box that needs more frequent cleaning. Learn more in our 4 tips for a stink-free litter box.

Stool consistency

Loose or watery stools can be caused by digestive upset or dietary changes. Very dry, hard stools can signal constipation or dehydration.
If either persists for more than a couple of days, speak with your vet.

Avoidance or overuse

If your cat starts avoiding the litter box or making frequent, unproductive trips, something may be wrong. Pain during urination or defecation often points to urinary tract infections or inflammation.

Make sure the box is clean, accessible, and placed in a quiet area. If the problem continues, check with your vet to rule out medical causes.

How to monitor your cat’s litter health

You don’t need to overthink it — a few consistent habits go a long way:

• Scoop daily so you can easily spot changes.

• Track frequency to know what’s normal for your cat.

• Keep the box clean for clearer visibility and better hygiene.

• Use light-coloured litter to make changes easier to notice.

Our plant-based litters is made from pea husk, cassava, and mille, those that naturally clump and absorb moisture, helping you observe any changes in colour or consistency at a glance.

If you’re thinking about switching to a new litter, read how to transition your cat to a new cat litter for a simple, stress-free method.

When to call your vet

It’s always better to act early. Contact your vet if you notice:

• Blood in the urine or stool

• Cloudy, dark, or orange urine

• Straining, crying, or avoiding the litter box

• Frequent visits with little or no output

• Persistent diarrhoea or constipation

These signs can point to treatable issues that should be addressed promptly to keep your cat healthy and comfortable.

The takeaway

Your cat’s litter box is more than part of your cleaning routine — it’s one of the best ways to monitor their health.

By scooping daily, observing changes, and using high-quality litter that helps you see differences clearly, you can catch small issues before they become serious.

If you suspect the problem might be related to their box setup, you’ll soon be able to read our upcoming guide on choosing the right litter box for your cat.

A little attention to detail helps your cat stay healthy and keeps your home cleaner and happier too.