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Litter Basics and Litter-Training Cats

Litter training might not be your favourite thing about being a cat parent, butit can make a big difference to your feline friend’s quality of life – and yours. Understanding their litter preferences and training them helps keep your cat happy and healthy. 

Cats and their litter

Cats are naturally inclined to cover their waste, a behaviour that stems from their instincts to hide their presence from predators and prey. Providing them with the right litter and litter box setup is important for their well-being.

Picking the right litter

First things first, you need to choose the right litter for your kitty. Cats have delicate paws and prefer a soft, sand-like texture that makes it easier for them to dig and cover. You can buy several types of cat litter, including clumping, non-clumping, crystal, and even natural options like recycled paper and wood pellets. Lots of cats and their owners prefer clumping litter because it’s easier to clean. The choice should ultimately be based on what your pet prefers. 

Choosing your cats litter box

Your cat’s litter box should have enough space for them to comfortably turn around, dig, and cover their waste without needing to step out. Some cats prefer enclosed boxes for privacy, while others like open trays. Observing your cat’s behaviour can help you figure out which one they like best. 

Where to set up their litter box

Put the litter box somewhere quiet in your home that doesn’t have too many people walking past.Ideally, the litter box should be in a spot where your cat often goes, but away from where they eat so they don’t get put off their food. If you’ve got more than one cat, try having multiple litter boxes dotted around your home. Cats can be quite territorial about these things, and this helps avoid disputes.

Litter training your cat

Most cats instinctively use a litter tray without much training, but kittens or cats new to your home might need a bit of a helping hand.

Introducing your cat to the litter

The first step in litter training a cat is to get them used to the litter. Gently place your feline friend in the litter box after meals and naps to encourage them to get accustomed to its texture and smell. Cats learn by observation and will probably start using it by themselves after a few introductions.

Rewarding good results

Positive reinforcement works wonders. Praise your cat or offer a treat whenever they use the litter box correctly. This association of rewards with the litter box encourages them to use it.

Avoid punishing mistakes

Anyone lucky enough to share a home with a cat knows they are independent little beings, and don’t respond well to punishment. If an accident occurs, clean it up without showing them any anger. If they associate the litter box with bad experiences, they could start avoiding it altogether.

How long does training take?

You will find that the time it takes to get a cat litter trained depends on the cat. Kittens might catch on in just a few weeks. Older cats getting introduced to litter for the very first time or who have been moved to a new environment could take a bit longer. 

Troubleshooting litter problems

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, things don’t go according to plan. If your cat suddenly stops using the litter box or seems to be struggling with it, there are a few things that could be to blame. They might not like the litter or the location, or perhaps you are using a covered tray, and they don’t like the smell. If you have tried changing all these factors with no success, it may be the case that your cat is unwell and should be checked by a vet. For example, senior cats can get UTIs and their behaviour may change. 

Make sure you are scooping often

Cats are clean creatures and don’t like using a dirty litter box. They might stop using the litter box altogether if it isn’t being cleaned regularly. Scoop it out at least once a day and replace the litter weekly so it stays fresh and inviting.

Understanding and catering to your cat's litter preferences play a vital role in their health and happiness. With patience, observation, and care, litter-training your cat can be hassle free for you and your furry companion. For more information on how to best care for your cat, check out our blog. 

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