Litter Training Your Kitten
Most kittens are fairly easy to litter train and will generally begin to use a litter tray soon after being introduced to one. You may even find that your new kitten already knows how to use a litter pan, as kittens often learn how to use them by watching their mothers. Cats tend to be very picky by nature, and can snub things for several reasons (even if we don’t know the reason!). That’s why its important to choose the right pan, and train your cat properly
Before you start litter training, its important to realize that cats normally desire to do their business outdoors. Unless they are marking territory, they prefer to go and then cover it up. Cats don’t instinctively like using a cat litter tray; be sure to choose one that is acceptable to her. To achieve success in litter box training, observe the following tips and recommendations:
1. Buy the same type of litter that your cat has been using with the previous owner, or breeder. This will make training easier.
2. You will want to pick a litter pan that easy for your kitten to get in and out of. Fill the pan according to the cat litter manufacturer’s directions. The litter box should be deep enough so that your cat doesn’t scatter litter all over the floor during use.
3. Be sure to put the litter tray somewhere that can be easily accessed by your cat. A traffic-free corner is best and be sure to keep it far from your kitten’s food and water. In some cases, it helps to provide your kitten with more than one litter box, to allow for greater access to a box in your home.
4. In multi-cat houses, you should purchase a separate litter box for each cat and place it in its own area. Most cats like to do their business in solitude, and are put off by having to share a litter box.
5. Introduce your kitten to her new litter box by placing her in there regularly, especially after meals. Remember to praise your kitten when she is in the tray, and praise even more when she does use it.
6. Regularly clean your litter box by removing any soiled litter when needed, and a more throrough cleaning at least once a week. Many household disinfectants are deadly to pets, therefore you should use a pet disinfectant to clean the litter pan. Some cleaners may also have a strong scent that your cat may dislike, and this could also prevent your cat from using her pan. Never change a litter tray when you are pregnant, as there is a risk of toxoplasmosis.
7. Because cats can develop a condition known as cystitis from not “going” regularly, never leave your kitten alone with a litter pan available.
It is important to be very patient during the litter training process, as cats will not respond to commands like dogs will. Immediately pick up your kitten and place her in the litter tray anytime you see her scratching our crouching. Most cats will begin to learn very quickly, however, sometimes it takes a bit more patience. If you’re running into trouble encouraging your cat to use her litter box, there are sprays available that are created to attract your cat to the litter and encourage them to use thir pan. If you find that your kitten has decided to use your sofa as a toilet, then you can also purchase a cat deterrent spray that will deter your kitten from furnishings. Hopefully, with a little encouragement, your kitten should soon begin to use its litter tray regularly without any further problems.
