When to let the new cat share the old cat's litter box?

[Mama Soltera]

Our older cat does not like this new cat (half grown). Right now, I have a separate, smaller litter box for the new one, but I'm wondering when I can go back to just one main litter box? I have had three cats sharing a litter box in the past, so I know it can be done with only two, but it's been so long, I just can't remember the "when." My older cat is hissing and growling at this younger one still (though not as bad as in the beginning), but has never attacked him (and I don't think that would ever happen). It has been a little over a week that we've had him.

[mattemma04]

I would keep an extra box for a few months. I have 2 plastic tote boxes for my 3 cats.Sometimes I might leave one if I am cleaning/washing the other box,and putting in new litter. Usually 2 boxes though.

They go a lot and cats hate it when another jumps in on them.With the seperate boxes you will hopefully lessen the chance of either voiding outside the boxes.If that starts up you will have serious issus on hand,because they start peeing all over and won't stop.

[stardogs]

In general it's actually recommended that you have a number of litterboxes equal to the number of cats plus 1, so for two cats you really should be prepared to have 3 boxes permanently. The extra boxes will avoid fights and intimidation which can lead to inappropriate elimination issues that are very hard to solve. Please reconsider getting rid of the second box!

[Ola_]

Originally Posted by stardogs

In general it's actually recommended that you have a number of litterboxes equal to the number of cats plus 1, so for two cats you really should be prepared to have 3 boxes permanently. The extra boxes will avoid fights and intimidation which can lead to inappropriate elimination issues that are very hard to solve. Please reconsider getting rid of the second box!

I second this! Sometimes you can get away with using fewer if there are no issues between the cats, but I think in your situation I would stick to two for a long time. It's much less hassle than cleaning up messes, or dealing with re-training a cat to use the litter box again once they've been frightened.

[Mama Soltera]

Well, it sounds like I'd better stick with it (and get the little one a real litter box, instead of plastic lined cardboard! ). Thanks for your comments.