How to clean a cat litter box properly

A clean litter box keeps your cat using it and cuts down on smell. This guide covers scooping, full litter changes, washing the box and choosing a spot your cat likes. It suits new cat owners and anyone dealing with a cat that avoids the tray.

You're Cleaning Your Cat's Litter Box ALL WRONG 💩🙀, by The Purring Journal on YouTube. 10 min 31 s.

10 chapters. Tap a step to jump to it.Chapters from the creator
Video length
10 min 31 s
Time to do it
15 minutes
Difficulty
Easy
Steps
8

What you need

Steps

  1. Scoop the box at least once a day. Remove clumps and solid waste as soon as you notice them, and put the waste in a sealed bag.

  2. Top up the litter after scooping so the depth stays about 5 to 8 cm. Cats like enough litter to dig and cover.

  3. Do a full change every one to two weeks. Empty all the litter into a bag, then wipe the empty box with a damp paper towel.

  4. Wash the box with mild unscented soap and warm water. Rinse well and dry it fully before adding fresh litter.

  5. Skip strong cleaners, bleach and scented sprays. Leftover smells can put a cat off the box, so plain soap and water is enough.

  6. Put the box somewhere quiet and easy to reach, away from food and water bowls. Cats like a clear escape route.

  7. Keep one box per cat plus one extra. With two cats, that means three boxes in different spots.

  8. Watch for changes in use. If your cat stops using a clean box or strains, call your vet rather than just cleaning more.

Tips and common mistakes

Never use a covered box with strong-smelling litter if your cat avoids it, since smell builds up inside.

Wash your hands after handling litter, and wear gloves if you are pregnant or have a weakened immune system.

Don't move the box suddenly. Shift it a little at a time if you need a new spot.

Line the box only if your cat accepts it. Some cats dislike the feel of a liner.

Questions

How often should I fully change the litter?

Every one to two weeks for most cats. Scoop daily in between, and change sooner if the box smells even after scooping.

Can I use bleach to clean the litter box?

Avoid it. Bleach and scented cleaners leave fumes and residue that can bother your cat. Mild unscented soap and warm water work well.

Why is my cat going outside the box?

A dirty box, a covered box or a stressful spot are common causes. Rule those out first, and see a vet if the problem continues.

This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.

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