How do I get my kitten litter trained?

Litter TrainingThe process of litter training is very simple! Most kittens instinctively want to bury their waste and a litter box is an ideal location. We’ll outline several do’s and don’ts here, so the process runs as smoothly as possible.

Do’s

  1. Make the litter box accessible. Regardless of inconvenience and your own personal wishes, the litter box must start in a location the kitten frequents. Move it by increments to the location you prefer. Take your time with the move, ten feet every 3-4 days is safe. To hasten the change, put a second litter box where you want it to ultimately remain and move the primary litter more aggressively once the kitten has used the back up box.
  2. Start with some soiled litter from the breeder or the pet store. By initially mixing a small amount of "used" litter into your first fresh box at home, you will help facilitate the transition.
  3. Use the same style of litter the kitten was started on. If you have a litter of kittens, do not start with a scented litter, as some kittens will avoid them. Unless they are used to something else, a simple clay litter with some baking soda is ideal.
  4. Keep the box clean, but for the first month leave a small amount of soiled litter in with the fresh.

Don'ts

  1. Don’t start with a litter box whose sides are too high for the kitten to get into.
  2. Don’t start with an enclosed litter box, especially one with a door, unless the kitten is used to one. If you ultimately want a box of this type, introduce it a month after the conventional litter box and make it exclusive only after the kitten starts to use it regularly.
  3. Don’t put the litter box in a location where there may be tempting alternatives on the floor, such as a laundry room, where strewn clothes may offer a foldable convenience.
  4. Don’t use harsh bleach cleaners too often, as many kittens are offended by the odour. I advise my clients to not use bleach until the training process is established and to rinse the box thoroughly when you do use it. Cleaning with a mild soap and water is generally adequate.

Dr. James Zarowny, D.V.M.