Easy Steps to Cat Litterbox Training

A home with a pet is a home filled with happiness. Whether it’s a cat or a dog, having them around brings joy to your life. However, it’s not always positive. You need to exert effort to maintain a clean and fresh house.

That’s why toilet training is essential. If you have a kitten and need to potty train it, here are some steps to help your cat use the litterbox:

Choose the Right Litterbox

Choosing the right litterbox is essential to successfully potty training your cat. Purchase a box that is wide enough so your cat can move comfortably. You should also consider the depth since some cats want their waste fully covered.

The box's design should also depend on your cat’s size, breed, and personality. The covered ones are not ideal because they hold off smell. Plus, they mimic a box, which is odd since boxes are for playtimes.

Choose the Right Litter

Cats have specific preferences for litter, so it's best to buy different types and experiment with what appeals to your cat. Based on user reviews, clumping litter is the most preferred type.

Odor control, anti-dust properties, and environmental impacts are other factors you must consider when buying the best litter for your cat. Additionally, cats prefer at least two to three inches of litter so they can have some more to cover up that crime.

Find the Perfect Location

Place the litterbox in a quiet location of the house. Whether under the furniture or at the side, make sure it’s accessible. Cats prefer privacy, so avoid placing the litterbox in pathways or feeding areas.

You can simply carry your kitten and place your cat beside it when introducing the litterbox. Allow your cat to explore, inspect, sniff, and check. If your cat shows no interest, place it back and pet it to help it relax. Repeat the process until your cat has been familiarized with it.

Encourage Litterbox Use

After you familiarize your cat with the litterbox, you can start encouraging it to use it. Firstly, observe your cat’s potty time and bring it to the litterbox when the time comes. You can gently scratch the litter with your finger to simulate digging.

To provide positive reinforcement, offer a reward such as a treat or a toy when your cat successfully does its business in the litterbox.

Clean Accidents Immediately

Never punish your cat if it has an accident outside the litterbox. Instead, clean the area immediately to remove the odor that will give your cat the idea that the area is its poop area. A combination of soap and water can remove the odor altogether.

You can spray vinegar with pepper to discourage your cat from relieving it in the accident area.

Provide Clean and Fresh Litterbox

Since cats don’t like dirty areas, ensure the litterbox is cleaned regularly to prevent your cat from staying away. Additionally, you should make scooping a regular activity to promote a clean environment and prevent parasites from thriving.

You can also buy a smart litterbox deodorizer to maintain the freshness of your cat’s litterbox.

Add More Litterboxes

You can add one or two litterboxes in your house to expand your cat’s area and reduce accidents. You can also add some to your lawns so your cat won’t relieve itself in plant boxes and on the patio. 

Be Patient and Consistent

Patience and consistency are the key. By strictly following the guide in this article, you can successfully train your cat to use the litterbox. Remember, always rely on positive reinforcement rather than punishment during training. 

When you successfully potty-trained your cat, you provided a good habit and maintained a healthy and clean environment.