How to Train a Cat to Use the Litter Box – Step-by-Step Guide!, by Wildlife & Pets Universe on YouTube. 5 min 12 s.
- Video length
- 5 min 12 s
- Time to do it
- 20 minutes setup, then 1 to 2
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Pick a box big enough for your cat to turn around in. Kittens and older cats do better with a low-sided box they can step into easily.
Place the box in a quiet spot away from food, water and noisy appliances. Put one box per cat plus one extra around the home.
Fill the box with 5 to 8 cm of unscented clumping litter. Cats dislike strong scents and perfumed litter.
Put your cat or kitten in the box after meals, naps and play. Scratch their paw gently in the litter so they feel the texture.
Praise calmly when they use the box, then scoop the clumps out straight away. Never punish an accident.
Scoop at least once a day and top up the litter. Do a full litter change and wash the box with mild soap every 1 to 2 weeks.
Clean accidents outside the box with an enzyme cleaner so the smell does not draw the cat back to the same spot.
If your cat keeps avoiding the box, check for causes: a dirty box, a covered box, a new litter, stress or a health problem. See a vet if it continues.
Tips and common mistakes
Keep the litter type the same as what the breeder or shelter used, then change slowly if needed.
Avoid covered boxes and scented litter if your cat is refusing the box.
Never rub your cat's nose in an accident. It makes litter box avoidance worse.
Sudden accidents in a trained cat can signal a urinary problem, so call your vet.
Questions
How long does it take to litter train a kitten?
Most kittens pick it up within a few days to two weeks with a consistent routine. Keep showing them the box after meals and naps.
Why is my cat peeing outside the litter box?
Common causes are a dirty box, a box that is too small or covered, a litter change, stress or a medical issue. Rule out health problems with your vet first.
Should I use clumping or non-clumping litter?
Unscented clumping litter is easy to scoop and most cats accept it well. Avoid perfumed litters, especially for kittens.
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.
