Kittens are incredibly intelligent creatures and can easily pick up new habits. While these furry felines are more independent than their canine counterparts, they still need training to ensure they adopt the right behaviour from an early age. You might find that your kitten has already learnt how to use the litter box from their mother – even those that don’t are fuelled by a strong instinct to use the box. However, there are still kittens who will need a little extra helping hand.
Teaching kittens to use the litter box is fairly straightforward, but it may still take some time depending on your new pet. With some patience and the right equipment, your feline friend will be using the box like it’s second nature.
Supplies for litter training kittens
Before you begin, it’s important to stock up on essential supplies:
- Litter boxes: it’s a good idea to have more than one litter box – especially if you have multiple cats. You should aim to have one more box than the number of cats. One cat should have two boxes, two cats should have three, and so on. Make sure to put your cat’s box in a private, but easy-to-access area.
- Kitten litter: there is a range of litter options, from inexpensive non-clumping clay to high-end options made from materials like recycling newspaper and cardboard. If you’re not sure where to start, go for a standard, unscented litter. From there, you can find out what litter your cat prefers.
If you are bringing home a cat for the first time, we recommend you ask the shelter or breeder what litter they are currently using. It's best to stick to the same litter when bringing them home and then gradually transitioning. - Treats: when training, you’ll need to reward your kitten. Use a cat treat or a piece of dry cat food to create positive associations with using the litter box.
Step-by-step guide on how to litter train a kitten
You should find that your kitten takes to their new litter box quickly and easily. However, if you need to help get them started, follow these simple steps to help with litter training a kitten:
- Show them the litter boxes as soon as they arrive. Pop them in the box and let them sniff. Do not move the box once you show your kitten where it is.
- After they eat or wake up from a nap, put your kitten into the cat box. If you notice other behaviours, like sniffing or crouching, then pick them up and pop them into the box.
- Reward them whenever they use it. Praise them and give them a treat or a toy.
Remember to never scold them if there is an accident. Negative reactions will only stress your feline friend out even more. Cats don’t associate punishment with their behaviour, so it will only make training more difficult.
Cleaning and maintaining the kitten litter tray
A key step to successful kitty litter training is keeping the boxes clean. Not only does this help prevent the dreaded “cat smell” from taking over your house, but it also means your kitten is less likely to eliminate outside of the box.
Remember to scoop the box daily and remove any mess. Replace the soiled litter as needed. You should also try to clean and disinfect the box when you change out the litter. Use mild soap and water or water and vinegar – don’t use bleach or commercial cleaners that could be harmful to your cat.
If you find that your cat does go outside of their litter box – don’t panic. Use an enzyme cleaner to help eliminate the smell. Make sure to clean up the mess straight away otherwise, your kitten may be encouraged to go there again.
Cat litter training is an easy habit to teach your kitten – if they don’t know it already! Just remember to keep on top of the tray cleaning and you and your feline friend won’t have any issues.
Toilet training a kitten FAQ
Why is my kitten urinating outside the litter box?
The first step is to figure out whether your cat is spraying. Spraying is territorial marking and different from eliminating outside the box. In this case, it’s best to talk to your vet about how you can stop this behaviour.
Reasons why your kitten might be eliminating outside the box include:
- Underlying medical issues.
- Their litter box isn’t being cleaned and maintained.
- Multiple pets.
What are the reasons why my kitten won't use the litter box?
If your kitten is refusing to use the litter box and prefers to eliminate outside, there could be a few explanations. The first is that they don’t like their box. They may prefer one without a cover, or feel threatened without privacy. Another issue could be the litter. If the box is clean and there is enough for each cat, then try swapping out the litter first.
How many litter boxes for 2 cats?
Each cat in your household should have their own box and then you should have a spare. So for two cats, you should have three litter boxes total.
