The majority of cats are easy to litter pan train. Most will begin to use the tray shortly after being acquainted with it. Many cats actually learn litter tray training from their mothers. You may notice that your kitten already knows how to use a litter tray. Keep in mind that cats can be very finicky. They can be easily put off by something for lots of reasons – some of which we may never understand!. That’s why its important to choose the right pan, and train your cat properly

Kittens prefer to go outside to relieve themselves, and you should keep this in mind before you start litter training. Using a cat litter tray actually goes against a cat’s natural instincts, and that is why it is important to provide a litter tray that is acceptable to your cat. To achieve success in litter box training, observe the following tips and recommendations:

1. Your kitten will litter train easier if she uses the same type of litter she’s been used to. Find out what she’s been using, and purchase the same brand and type.

2. Your litter pan should be easy for your cat to use – not too deep, but not shallow enough to end up with litter all over the floor when used. Fill the litter tray to the depth recommended by the litter manufacturer.

3. Be sure to put the litter tray somewhere that can be easily accessed by your cat. A traffic-free corner is best and be sure to keep it far from your kitten’s food and water. You may even need to consider using more than one litter pan to provide your kitten with greater access to a tray.

4. If you have more than one cat, you will need to ensure that each cat has its own litter box in a different area. Cats generally prefer to do their business in peace, and are often not keen to use a tray that has been used by another cat.

5. Introduce your kitten to her new litter box by placing her in there regularly, especially after meals. Remember to praise your kitten when she is in the tray, and praise even more when she does use it.

6. Keep your cat’s litter pan clean by removing any soiled litter regularly. Give the pan a throrough cleaning at least one every week. It is best to use a pet disinfectant for cleaning the tray, as some household disinfectants can be toxic to cats. Some cleaners may also have a strong scent that your cat may dislike, and this could also prevent your cat from using her pan. It is also worth remembering that if you are pregnant you should not change cat litter boxes due to the risk of toxoplasmosis.

7. You should never leave your kitten alone without a litter pan, as cats can develop cystitis if they fail to go to the toilet for a long time.

Its important to be patient while going through the litter training process; cats don’t react to commands the way dogs do and therefore require more patience. Immediately pick up your kitten and place her in the litter pan anytime you see her scratching our crouching. Most cats will begin to learn very quickly, however, sometimes it takes a bit more patience. If you find that your kitten still doesn’t get the message, then you could try using a spray that is specially formulated to attract cats to their litter boxes. Cat Repellent sprays may be purchased for the cat that decides to use your couch (or other furnishings) as a litter pan. Hopefully, with a little encouragement, your kitten should soon begin to use its litter tray regularly without any further problems.

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