How to litter train a kitten or adult cat

Set up a litter box your cat actually wants to use and build the habit with short, calm sessions after meals and naps. This suits new kitten owners and anyone rehoming an adult cat. All you need is a box, suitable litter and a quiet spot.

How to Litter Train Your Cat. #cat #catvideo #adoptstrays, by ayesha jyoti on YouTube. 2 min 1 s.

Video length
2 min 1 s
Time to do it
1 to 2 weeks of daily practice
Difficulty
Easy
Steps
8

What you need

Steps

  1. Pick a box big enough for your cat to turn around in. Kittens need a low side they can step over easily, and an open box feels less scary than a covered one.

  2. Fill it with 5 to 8 cm of fine, unscented litter. Most cats prefer soft grains under their paws, and a scent-free litter avoids putting them off.

  3. Place the box in a quiet spot away from food, water and noisy appliances. Cats like privacy and a clear escape route, so avoid dead corners.

  4. Put your cat in the box after meals and after naps, when they naturally need to go. Scratch the litter gently with your fingers so they see it is diggable.

  5. Let them sniff and dig, then step back. Do not hold them in the box or stare, since that can make them anxious about the spot.

  6. Praise calmly or give a small treat when they use the box. Keep the reward low key so it does not startle them mid-visit.

  7. Scoop the box every day and top up the litter. A clean surface is the main reason cats keep coming back to the same spot.

  8. If your cat toilets outside the box, move the mess into the box and clean the old spot with an enzyme cleaner. Never rub their nose in it or shout.

Tips and common mistakes

Have one box per cat plus one extra, as experts recommend, especially in a multi-cat home.

Wash the whole box with mild soap and warm water weekly, and avoid strong-smelling cleaners.

If your cat suddenly stops using the box, check with a vet, since pain or illness can be the cause.

Keep the box in the same place and avoid moving it once your cat has a routine.

Questions

How long does litter training take?

Most kittens and adult cats get the idea within a few days to two weeks. Daily scooping and calm repetition speed it up.

What if my cat keeps going outside the box?

Check the box size, litter type, cleanliness and location first. If nothing changes, see a vet to rule out a health problem.

Should I use a covered litter box?

An open box is easier to start with, especially for kittens. Covered boxes can trap smells and make some cats reluctant.

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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