How you can train a kitten to use the litter box

We've all been there you have your new addition to the family, very cure and very cuddly but unfortunately its not potty trained. As the new surrogate mother (or father) its your duty to clean up after them. Don't worry you wont have to do this forever, its quite easy to train a kitten.



Our plan consists of just 6 easy steps.



1. Always make sure your cat has its very own litter tray. If its only a kitten you should start out with a smaller tray so it can climb in and our easily.



2. You should always use high quality litter, scent free is best & you should fill the tray so it is around 3 inches deep.. Using the type of litter that doesn's stick together is the best kind, its around the same price as the other types + its easier to manage.



3. The litter tray should be in an area of the house that is quiet and out of the way. It should be in an easyily accessible place but not too close to the eating areas. Your cats litter tray is its bathroom and they like use like their privacy too.Also, keeping a mat underneath the litter is also a good idea because those busy little paws can sometimes create quite a mess.



4. Once your kitten has finished eating, gently carry him or her over to the littler box. Using your hand, scratch the litter a little bit to show your kitten what to do.



5. If you see your cat has used the litter tray reward them by stroking them or giving them tiny treats. If you notice your kitten preparing to pee somewhere else around the house quickly pick them up and put them in the litter tray. Never scold your kitten or throw it into the litter box if it goes anywhere else in your home, you will associate bad memories with the box, which will only set you both back in the end. Likewise, give your kitten excessive praise every time he or she does use the potty tray.



6. Keep your litter box clean and tidy, it'll be used more regularly if you do that. Scoop out the large bits daily and change the litter around once per week.



Some notes:



Unlike humans, cats cannot hold it in all night; if they have to go, they will. If they can't make it to their box then your furniture will serve as the next best thing. So keep your kitty out, or your door open in and everyone will be happy.



When you are litter training your cat remember to keep their tray in the same place all the time. Even small changes can confuse them placing your back a step.



If you'd like to train your cat how to use a real toilet check out our website Teach My Cat