Kittens tend to take to litter boxes fairly easily. Once shown the litter pan a few times, most will begin using it shortly after. You may even find that your new kitten already knows how to use a litter tray, as kittens often learn how to use them by watching their mothers. However, cats are very particular creatures by nature and can easily be put off to using something for a variety of different reasons. That’s why its important to choose the right box, and train your kitten properly

Before you start litter training, its important to realize that cats normally desire to do their business outdoors. Unless they are marking territory, they prefer to go and then cover it up. Picking a cat litter box that your cat likes and will actually use is important, as using a litter box goes against her natural instincts. To achieve success in litter box training, observe the following tips and recommendations:

1. Find out what type of litter your kitten has been used to and then go out and buy the same brand of litter.

2. Choose a litter tray that is easy for your kitten to use, and then fill the tray with litter to the depth recommended by the cat litter manufacturer – the tray should be deep enough to prevent the litter from been scattered over the floor whilst being used.

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. If necessary, provide more than one litter box for your kitten to use, to allow her easy access to a tray throughout your home.

4. In multi-cat houses, you should purchase a separate litter box for each cat and place it in its own area. Many cats will reject a common litter pan used by other cats in the household, as they generally like to relieve themselves in peace.

5. The best way to start introducing your kitten to its tray is to place it in there regularly, particularly after meals. Remember to praise your kitten when she is in the tray, and praise even more when she does use it.

6. Remove any soiled litter regularly and give the tray a thorough clean at least once a week. It is best to use a pet disinfectant for cleaning the box, as some household disinfectants can be toxic to cats. Because some cleaners may have a strong chemical smell, you should avoid anything with a heavy scent that your cat may dislike. It will deter him from using the litter tray. It is also worth remembering that if you are pregnant you should not change cat litter pans due to the risk of toxoplasmosis.

7. Because cats can develop a condition known as cystitis from not “going” regularly, never leave your kitten alone with a litter box available.

It is important to be very patient during the litter training process, as cats will not respond to commands like dogs will. If you see your kitten scratching or squatting, pick her up right away and place her in the litter box. After doing this several times he/she should gradually begin to get the message, but sometimes the process may take a little longer. 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. For the stubborn cat that decides to use furniture or another undesired area for relieving herself, there are cat repellent sprays available to keep this from happening. If all goes well, your kitten will soon begin to use her litter pan herself without any further intervention from you.