Help! My cat won't use the litter box consistently - any tips?

Hey everyone, I'm at my wit's end with my 2-year-old tabby, Whiskers. I've been trying to leash train him for walks, but he just flops over and refuses to move. And now he's started peeing outside the litter box - usually on my favorite rug! I've tried different litters, cleaned it daily, even got a second box. Nothing works. Has anyone dealt with this? Is he stressed from the leash training maybe? Any advice would be amazing!

OMG I feel you!! My terrier mix was a nightmare to house train too. With cats though, I've heard they're super sensitive to change. Maybe the leash thing is stressing Whiskers out? My friend's cat started avoiding the box when they moved furniture around. Have you tried Feliway diffusers? They're like calming pheromones for cats. Also - is the litter box in a quiet spot? Cats hate busy areas!

First, rule out medical issues - a vet check is crucial. I've rescued senior cats with similar issues, and sometimes it's UTIs or arthritis making the box painful. For leash training: cats aren't dogs. Start indoors with just the harness, let him get used to it for days before adding the leash. Go at his pace. The inappropriate elimination might be his way of saying he's overwhelmed. Patience is key - my 15-year-old rescue took 3 months to accept a harness.

lol coming from reptiles this is wild to me - my snakes just go where they want! But my roommate's cat did this. Turns out she hated the covered litter box - felt trapped. Maybe try uncovered? Also the leash thing... cats are independent. Maybe try a catio or enclosed outdoor space instead? Less stress than dragging them around. Good luck!

Thanks everyone! Vet appointment booked for next week (good call AkitaAlice). Going to pause the leash training and try the Feliway diffuser. Also moving the litter box to a quieter corner - it's currently near the washing machine which might be too loud. PugPatty, I do have a covered box... gonna try removing the lid tonight. Will update you all!