How to Train Your Kitten to Use the Litter Box

For most kittens, using a litter box comes rather naturally. Other kittens require slightly more to keep your kitten from turning your bed into a litter box. But never fear! A few small steps can be taken by owners to ensure their kitten will understand how to regularly use its litter box in no time.

Preparation

Kittens that aren’t housebroken require smaller litter boxes so that they can easily climb in and out. You’ll want to make sure to place the litter box in a quiet corner of your house so that they feel safe and relaxed. Show your kitten the litter box so that they know where to find it. Consider using unscented, clumping litter, as scents may be irritating to your pet. If you have a multiple story house, you may consider placing a litter box on each floor so that they have easy access to them. While kittens may seem to have a never-ending supply of energy, they may choose the convenience of the new duvet in your room over the litter box downstairs.

Training

When your new kitten scratches or sniffs at the floor, be sure to place them in their litter box immediately. As they prepare to relieve themselves in the litter box, speak in soothing tones. Give them a reward, such as a small treat, after they’ve successfully finished. Positive rather than negative reinforcement is key in training your cat—especially when it comes to litter box training. If your kitten has an accident around the house, your best bet is to repeat the steps above, making sure your cat feels safe in the area where your litter box stays. Cats may have a favorite place in the house where they seemed to think their litter box should be. Try placing her food there in an effort to associate the corner with something else positive for them. Your kitten should have no problem adjusting to using the litter box regularly; however, future accidents could be attributed to several factors. These include a litter box that is too small, a litter box that is not cleaned regularly or even a health issue. Be sure to check with your vet if the litter box abuse continues.

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