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🐈 Why do cats quit using the litter box?

Wednesday 4/9 - Sponsored by <ad>: A cat and owner's post-fire reunion, cat of the day, and a cat saving India's wetlands

"A cat doesn't try to fix your bad day. They just sit with you until it feels better."

Happy Wednesday:

  • đŸ©· Weeks after wildfire, Aggie the cat comes home

  • 😾 Is your cat going outside the litter box?

  • đŸ’€ Meet today’s sleepy cat of the day

  • 🐆 A rare cat is saving India’s wetlands

  • đŸ˜ș Discover the healing power of plants

True or False?

Some cats only like drinking from certain directions of their water bowl.

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

Weeks After Wildfire, Aggie the Cat Comes Home

When Carolyn’s mom lost her cat in the California wildfires, it felt final. Aggie had vanished during the chaos, and weeks passed with no sign. Then, out of the blue, a shelter called. They’d found a cat—scorched but alive. And somehow, it was Aggie.

Aggie had stayed near the ruins of their home for nearly two months before someone picked her up. No one knows if it was a microchip, a collar, or fate that brought her back. But her family says she’s now safe, recovering, and finally home.

She’s under vet care and slowly gaining strength. Carolyn says Aggie already seems more like herself.

If you ever lose a pet in a disaster, a microchip is your best bet. It can’t fall off, and it could be the one thing that gets them back to you. Flyers, posts, and ID tags help too—but that chip might just change everything.

She may be thinner, slower, and still healing—but Aggie is home, curled up beside the person who never stopped hoping. After weeks of silence, soot, and survival, it’s clear: some bonds are stronger than fire.

Why Your Cat Won’t Use the Litter Box—and Picks the Rug Instead

Most cats naturally use a litter box, but if yours is going elsewhere, something about the setup might not be working. Here are three common reasons cats avoid the box—and what you can do about it.

  1. The box isn’t clean enough Cats are tidy by nature. If the box smells or hasn’t been scooped recently, they might look for a cleaner spot—like a rug or laundry pile. Scoop at least once a day, and give the box a full wash with mild soap and warm water at least once a month.

  2. The box is in the wrong spot Location matters. A litter box placed in a loud, busy, or hard-to-reach area may feel unsafe or uncomfortable to your cat. It should also be kept away from food and water bowls—cats generally don’t like to eliminate near where they eat or drink, and placing things too close together can make the whole area unappealing.

  3. They’re not a fan of the litter Some cats are picky about texture and scent. If the litter feels rough or smells strongly, they might avoid it. Many cats prefer soft, unscented, low-dust litter with a fine texture. If your cat is going outside the box, they could be signaling they’d rather have something softer or more natural.

Choosing the right litter can make a big difference. Go for something that’s gentle on paws, clumps for good waste removal, and skips the heavy perfumes. Unscented, fine-grain litters tend to be the safest bet. When in doubt, try a new option—your cat will definitely let you know which one they like.

Cats (and Humans) Love This New Litter

Most traditional cat litters are made from strip-mined clay or silica. Both end up in landfills when thrown away and are not biodegradable.

A new natural cat litter called Tailfeather is changing this with their eco-friendly, plant-based, clumping cat litter made from coconut and cassava.

Why coconut? The husk of the coconut absorbs liquid up to 9 times its weight! This makes for a soft, luxurious litter that cats love and is 70% lighter than traditional litter, but also doesn't track and bounce out of the box.

It's fully biodegradable and 100% plastic-free, including the packaging. Tailfeather is delivered conveniently to your door, and each package lasts for 8 weeks, double the amount of other litters.

For the next 24 hours, Daily Purr readers get a $15 credit on your first order with code Purr15.

Thank you to Tailfeather for sponsoring Daily Purr.

Cat of the Day

Daily Purr reader Deborah shares this peaceful moment with her cuddle-loving cat, who has mastered the art of nap time. With paws tucked, eyes closed, and belly up, this kitty looks completely content—and completely in charge of the lap.

Whether it’s a warm lap or a cozy blanket, this cat knows where to find the perfect snoozing spot. The vibe? 100% relaxed, with a side of “don’t you dare move.”

Thanks, Deborah, for sharing this picture-perfect snuggle! Want to see your cat featured as the Daily Purr Cat of the Day? Send in a photo and some fun facts about your kitty—they might be next!

Image courtesy of Daily Purr reader Deborah.

A Rare Cat Is Saving India’s Wetlands

There’s a wild cat in India that most people have never seen—and it turns out, saving it could help save entire ecosystems. It’s called the fishing cat, and it’s not your typical feline. With webbed feet, short legs, and a love for hunting in water, this rare cat lives in swamps, wetlands, and mangrove forests.

Despite its small size, the fishing cat is a bold predator. It’s been spotted catching snakes, raiding ponds, and even standing its ground against humans. Researchers used to think it only ate fish, but now we know it’s far more adaptable—and far more important.

That’s because fishing cats live in wetlands, which play a huge role in storing carbon and protecting communities from flooding. When the wetlands disappear, so do the cats—and vice versa. By tracking fishing cat populations, scientists are also learning how to protect these shrinking landscapes.

Local kids, conservationists, and even board games are part of the effort. The fishing cat might be elusive, but it’s quickly becoming a powerful symbol of how wildlife and people can thrive together.

Safe, Effective Pain Relief—Without the Side Effects

Chronic pain affects about 51 million Americans, with half of them under 45—leading active lives, managing demanding jobs, and raising young families. For them, pain often defines their future. Older individuals struggle with basic tasks like bathing and cooking. Opioids, steroids, and over-the-counter painkillers come with harmful side effects from long-term use.

Nápreva provides rapid, effective relief. Users sleep better and experience less stress and anxiety. Made from plant terpenes, clinical studies show Nápreva may be more effective than traditional pain medications—without the side effects.

Try NĂĄpreva risk-free with their money-back guarantee and discover the healing power of plants.

Thank you to NĂĄpreva for sponsoring Daily Purr.

Cat’s Corner

From record-breaking cats to head-sleeping habits, here’s what’s trending:

  • đŸ„Ł What did the world’s oldest cat eat every day? Find out now!

  • đŸ„„ Cats love this cat litter made from coconuts. Learn more here!

  • ❀ Boy’s emotional reunion with his lost cat is a must-see. Watch here!

  • đŸ›ïž Why does your cat sleep on your head? Here are 5 reasons. Find out now!

đŸ± Bite-Sized Treats

🧐 True or False: True! This may be related to whisker sensitivity or how they feel safest while drinking.

😾 COTD: Give your kitty the spotlight by submitting them for Cat of the Day. Reply to this email with your best photos of your cat, their name, and a short description for the chance to be featured in an upcoming newsletter!

💌 Reply for a surprise: If you are reading this reply with a time your cat was happy to see you for a surprise in your inbox!