Most older cats will instinctively go to an appropriate spot, like an automatic litter box, to pee or poop. However, new kittens might need help learning these essential things. When training your kitten, there are steps you can take to ensure success. From picking the right litter tray to understanding how to get them comfortable using it, the following guide covers everything.
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How to start litter training your kitten?
New kittens depend on their mothers for everything, including elimination. As they grow, you should introduce them to a litter tray around 4 weeks of age. This is when they start weaning and can begin learning to use a litter box. If you adopt an older cat, training should start as soon as you bring them home.
Essential Supplies
To train your cat successfully, you’ll need the right supplies:
- A small, kitten-friendly litter box
- Litter that’s safe for kittens
- A scooper and litter genie for cleanup
- A mat to catch stray litter
Steps To Train Your Kitten or Cat
1. Choose the Right Litter Box:
Your kitten may feel overwhelmed by a full-sized automatic box. Start with a smaller tray, and as your kitten grows, switch to a larger box. The ideal size should be about 1.5 times the cat’s length.
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2. Select the Right Litter:
Cats, especially kittens, prefer fine-grain litter. You might also want to consider robot-assisted litter systems that help keep the litter clean. It’s essential to test different types to find the one your kitten prefers.
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3. Litter Box Placement:
Place the box in a quiet area with enough light, and make sure it’s easy for your cat to reach. Avoid hiding the box in a corner, as this might discourage use.
4. Introduce Your Kitten to the Box:
Show your kitten the location of the litter tray and gently place them in it. They might start using it right away. If not, try placing them in the box after eating or waking up.
5. Positive Reinforcement:
Reward your kitten every time they use the litter box correctly. This helps build positive habits. If they miss the box, don’t punish them; instead, calmly clean up the mess.
6. Keep It Clean:
Regularly scoop and clean the litter box to ensure your kitten feels comfortable using it. An automatic litter box can be a helpful tool to make this easier.
Troubleshooting: When Your Kitten Won’t Use the Litter Box
If your kitten is peeing or pooping outside the box, you may need to evaluate the setup. Make sure the box is easy to access, in a quiet spot, and that no other cats are guarding it. Sometimes, simply changing the type of litter or the litter box itself can solve the issue. If the problem persists, consider using a pheromone diffuser to help your kitten feel more secure in their environment.
