Cathole



A cathole or cat hole or sometimes pighole is a pit for human feces. Catholes are frequently used for the purpose of disposing of bowel movements or waste water (such as the water from cleaning the kitchen dishes) by hikers and others engaging in outdoor recreation.

According to the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, catholes should be dug at least 200 ft from water sources, walking trails or campsites. Additionally, the same cathole should not be used twice. Catholes should be between 6 and 8 in deep and disguised after use to prevent access by animals, some of which are coprophagous. The digging of catholes is forbidden in some regions of high elevation where the climate can hinder the decomposition of waste.