How to Train a Cat or Kitten to Use a Litter Box
Teaching Cats and Kittens Where to 'Pee' and 'Poo'
Jan 26, 2009
Many people expect their cats to ‘go’ outside. But for those owners who keep their cats indoors all or part of the day, a litter tray is an essential piece of feline equipment. Even for the outdoor cat, it is a good idea if it learns to use a tray, as this may become necessary if the cat is ill or needs to be confined for some reason. Here are some recommendations when introducing the cat to its litter box.
Teaching a Kitten to Use a Litter Tray
Kittens will often have been shown how to use a litter box by their mothers, so the owner will not need to do anything except put the tray in a quiet corner. But if the litter tray is new to the kitten, it should be placed in a secluded part of the house, since cats, like people, usually don’t like to do their business in public. The owner should make sure there is enough litter for the kitten to scratch a hole and cover it over again when it has finished. Then the kitten should be placed in the tray to get used to the feel of it.
Although cats scratch and bury their excretions naturally, sometimes kittens do not know how to use the tray, and soil elsewhere. If this happens, the owner should never yell at the kitten or rub its nose in the mess, but should simply say ‘No’ firmly and place the kitten in the litter box. It is best to establish a routine of putting the kitten in the litter tray when it has finished eating, as this is when it is likely to move its bowels.
Training Adult Cats to Use a Litter Box
A fully grown cat who is not used to using a litter tray may take a little longer to train than a kitten, but the method is the same. Always show the cat where the tray is, and try to place it in the box whenever it scratches or otherwise appears ready to use it. And praise the cat when it uses the tray correctly.
Other Hints and Tips on Litter Tray Etiquette
- Never place the litter tray too near the cat’s food.
- Place the litter box on plenty of newspaper to collect the litter which spills out.
- Always keep the litter clean and fresh. Many cats will refuse to use a soiled or smelly tray.
- Some cats prefer a covered litter tray, and this may be nicer for the owner too, particularly if the tray needs to be kept in a visible location in the house.
- If the cat or kitten still refuses to cooperate, try a different location or different type of litter.
Source
101 Questions Your Cat Would Ask, by Honor Head, Eagle Editions Ltd 2005
Other Cat Care Articles by the Same Author:-
 |
