Kitten Litter Training

By: Stanley P.

Kitten litter training is one of the things that should be in the front of your mind when getting a new kitten. Cats have an instinct to bury their poop after doing the deed. Cats usually get this from their mother. However, young kittens may need some pointers to help them properly train for the litter box. Thankfully, this is a generally easy task to do even for beginner cat owners. This article will outline how to train your kitty for the litter box!

Supplies Needed

Here are the required supplies needed for litter training:

• Litter Box:

It is a good rule of thumb to have one more litter box than the number of cats you have. This is so that in case anything happens, there is another litter box that can be used. Make sure the litter box is placed in a convenient and private location for the cat. If the litter box is too exposed cats may feel unsafe using the litter box. Make sure the box is also open-top and shallow, but also easy to spot. 

• Litter:

Litter is what is actually put into the litter box. Cats will use the litter to hide their feces. There are many different types of litter out there, but common ones you will see include sand and gravel. There are low-end litter and expensive litter. Some specialize in being eco-friendly, and some not so much. Litter shouldn’t matter but some cats can refuse to use a specific type of litter if they don’t like the texture or smell. As a starter, a standard unscented clumping litter is perfect (make sure it is also kitten safe!) You can experiment with other litter once your cat is fully litter box trained. 

• Scoop

Use the scoop to clean out dirty litter.

• Treats:

Whenever your kitty does something good, you may give them a treat for positive reinforcement. This lets them know that they are doing a good job and should keep up. However, don’t abuse treats too much as if you do, your kitty will always expect to get a reward every time.

• Toys:

Just like treats, you can use toys to play with your cat to have positive reinforcement. Play and praise your kitty to let them know they are doing the right thing. 

How to Litter Train Your Kitten                                                                  

Here are the actual steps to take to litter train your kitten.

1. Find a private and convenient place to put the litter box, then, of course, fill the litter box with an appropriate amount of litter. It is best to show your kitten the litter box as soon as possible so that it can be accustomed to it. Kittens won’t use litter boxes until at least 3 weeks of age, so don’t worry if your kitten doesn’t use the litter box until that age.
2. Once your kitten has become accustomed to the litter box, it will start using it by instinct. Every time your kitten uses the litter box properly, give them a treat or play with them to give positive reinforcement. This lets them know that they are doing the right thing, and will get a reward if they do. Don’t use treats too much or else your kitten will be expecting a treat all the time.
3. Every day, scoop out and replace litter if needed. Regularly clean the litter box as well since kittens will not use a litter box if it isn’t clean.
4. Keep this up for a bit, and your kitten will be fully trained for the litter box.

 

And that is how to litter train a kitten. It is a very straightforward and easy process. Good luck with raising your kitten!

 

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https://www.hillspet.ca/en-ca/cat-care/training/how-to-litter-box-train-a-kitten

http://www.kittenlady.org/litter

https://www.hillspet.com/cat-care/training/how-to-litter-box-train-a-kitten