Training your kitten to use a litterbox doesn't have
to be a chore. In fact, it is usually a relatively simple
process. Most kittens are born with the instinct and
will use a litterbox without training. To make the
process as quick and effective as possible for your kitten,
there are a few simple steps you can follow.
Litterbox Lowdown
The first step in litterbox training is selecting an
appropriate
litterbox and litter. Plastic litterboxes are the best choice
because
they are practical and easy to clean. The sides of the box should
be
low enough that your kitten can enter it easily, and the box should
be placed in a quiet area of your home where your kitten can enjoy
a bit of privacy. The box should be located a distance from where
your kitten eats or sleeps.
Most experts recommend that there should be one litterbox per cat
in the house, plus one. So, for a house with one cat, the
recommendation would be to have two litterboxes.
The type of litter that you use doesn't make a great
difference-unless your kitten doesn't like it. In that case,
it's a battle of wills and your cat will probably win. Your
best bet at first is an unscented clay or clumping litter.
First Days at Home
When you first bring your
kitten home, she may not go to the bathroom for a day or more. This
is because she is nervous or uncomfortable. Once your kitten
becomes familiar with her new surroundings, she will go. If the
delay lasts longer than a few days, you should check with your
veterinarian to see if there are other problems. Until she is fully
trained, it is a good idea to confine your kitten to a small room
with her litterbox when you cannot directly supervise her.
Remember, cats are particular about their litterbox and especially
about keeping it clean. Scooping soiled litter on a daily basis
will not only make your cat happier, it will help reduce litterbox
odor.
Trouble-Shooting
If your cat is healthy and
still not using her litterbox, or she has started going elsewhere
in your home, there are some things you should consider:
• Make sure the structure of the box is appropriate. Small
kittens often have trouble climbing over the side of a full-size
litterbox.
• If your home has more than one story, consider placing a
litterbox on every floor, at least until your kitten becomes an
adult. The journey to another floor can be intimidating for a young
animal.
• It may seem obvious, but make sure your kitten knows where
the litterboxes are.
• Your kitten may have an aversion to the type of litter
you've chosen.
• Your kitten may have been frightened by something in or
near her litterbox. Try moving it to another location for a few
days.
If there are still problems, consult with your veterinarian to make
sure there isn't a medical issue involved.
Creatures of Habit
Remember, cats are creatures of habit. Once you have found an
appropriate litterbox and litter type, and the box is in a location
your kitten feels comfortable with, try to keep the status quo. If
you want to make changes, such as moving the box to another
location in the house, leave her current box in the old location
until she is familiar with the location of the new one.
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