Training Your Cat: Litter Pan Basics

Cats can be fussy about their bathroom habits, so it's important to keep their litter box up to their standards. While instinct will generally kick in, you need to provide an acceptable and accessible litter box and show your cat where it is. Here are some tips on how to get your cat to use its litter box.

Choose the right type of litter box

The type of litter box you choose for your cat is important. The wrong litter box can lead to a variety of issues, from stress to fighting between cats and even house soiling.

Size

Many experts recommend getting as large a litter box as possible. Cats need enough room to turn around in circles as they prepare the site and "sniff for a clean place to go". A good rule of thumb is that the length of the litter box should be about 1.5 times the length of your cat, not including their tail. The box should also be wide enough for your cat to turn easily. A box should be at least 13-15 inches wide, depending on the size and age of your cat. Senior cats or those with mobility issues may need a lower entrance to the litter box, no more than 2 inches off the ground.

Covered or Uncovered

Size, cleanliness, and location are more important to a cat's litter box preference than whether it is covered or not. A covered box can help to contain bad smells, but cats are sensitive to smells and may not like this. Covered boxes can also make it harder for you to see what's happening in the box, which can be an issue if your cat has health problems. Cats are also prey animals in the wild and are vulnerable when eliminating, so they like to have open sightlines to see if anything is coming. If you do opt for a covered box, make sure it has plenty of ventilation.

Self-Cleaning or Not

Self-cleaning litter boxes can be a problem for cats as they are small and covered, and the moving parts can startle your cat. They are also very small, even if the unit itself is large, and they are generally enclosed. Self-cleaning boxes also mean you are less hands-on with what is coming out of your cat, which can be an issue if your cat has health problems.

Litter Type

Cats in the wild would generally choose a fine-grain substrate like dirt or sand to pee and poo in. It is soft, good for digging, and can bury and mask smells well. Pellets are not a natural choice and can be harder for your cat to balance on, especially if they are senior or declawed.

Other Considerations

If you have a high-peeing cat, you may need a box with high sides to keep the pee in the box. If you have a dog or toddler, you may need a covered box to keep them out of the litter. If you have respiratory issues, a covered box can help to control litter dust.

Place the litter box in the right location

When it comes to placing your cat's litter box in the right location, there are several factors and considerations to keep in mind. Here are some detailed guidelines to help you choose the perfect spot:

Privacy and Quiet

Cats value their privacy and prefer a quiet environment when using the litter box. Choose a location that offers seclusion and is away from high-traffic areas in your home. A quiet and calm space will make your cat feel more secure and comfortable during vulnerable moments.

Accessibility

Place the litter box in an area that is easily accessible to your cat. This is especially important for senior cats or those with limited mobility. Ensure there are no obstacles or interruptions, such as laundry or shoes, that might block their access. Keep the surrounding area clear and unobstructed.

Lighting

Cats prefer to have sufficient lighting when using the litter box. A well-lit space adds to their comfort level and allows them to see clearly. If the desired location has low lighting, consider adding a night light to brighten up the area. Avoid placing the litter box in dark corners or closets.

Proximity to Food and Water

It is best to keep the litter box away from your cat's food and water bowls. Cats, just like humans, do not typically want to eat and eliminate in the same vicinity. Maintain separate areas for their feeding and litter box needs.

Number of Litter Boxes

If you have multiple cats, it is recommended to have one litter box per cat, plus an extra one. For example, if you have two cats, provide three litter boxes in different locations. This helps prevent issues with territory and privacy among your feline friends.

Gradual Transitions

Cats can be sensitive to sudden changes in their environment. If you need to move the litter box to a new location, do it gradually. Move the box a few inches each day until it reaches its final destination. This gives your cat time to adjust and find the new spot without causing confusion or stress.

Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes

If you have limited space or multiple cats, consider investing in a self-cleaning litter box. These boxes clean up automatically after each use, saving you time and effort. They also provide a clean and fresh space for your cat, reducing the chances of litter box aversion.

Multi-Level Homes

If you live in a multi-level home, it is advisable to keep at least one litter box on each level, especially on the level where you and your cat spend the most time. Cats are more likely to use a litter box that is easily accessible and convenient for them.

Appliances and Noisy Areas

Avoid placing the litter box next to loud appliances such as washing machines, dryers, or furnaces. The noise from these appliances may spook your cat and deter them from using the litter box. Opt for a quiet area where your cat feels secure and undisturbed.

Discreet Locations

While you want the litter box to be accessible, you may also want to consider discreet locations. Using hidden litter box furniture or enclosures can provide privacy for your cat while keeping the box out of sight. This can be especially useful in smaller spaces or areas with limited options.

Remember, the key to choosing the right location is understanding your cat's preferences and behaviour. Monitor their feedback and be willing to make adjustments if needed. By providing a litter box in a convenient and comfortable spot, you'll encourage good litter box habits and create a harmonious living environment for both you and your feline companion.

Keep the litter box clean

Cats are very particular about their litter boxes, and keeping the litter box clean is essential to ensure your cat continues to use it. Here are some tips for keeping the litter box clean:

• Scoop out solid waste at least once a day. Use a scooper with a grated bottom to separate the solid waste from the surrounding litter.
• Scoop out urine clumps daily. If you use clumping litter, your cat's urine should form solid clumps that can be easily scooped out. If you don't use clumping litter, sprinkle a layer of baking soda at the bottom of the litter box to absorb odours.
• Replace any lost litter. Topping off your cat's litter every few days can help keep the box clean and appealing to your cat.
• Empty out the old litter at least once a week. Some cat owners may need to clean the litter box 2 or more times a week if they have multiple cats using the same litter box.
• Scrub the empty litter box. Use warm water and a mild detergent, like dish soap, that won't leave any harsh chemical smells or residue behind. You can also use baking soda and warm water to scrub the inside surfaces of the litter box.
• Dry the litter box thoroughly before adding new litter. The litter will stick to wet surfaces, so it's important to ensure the box is completely dry. You can air-dry the box or use paper towels to wipe it dry.
• Consider adding baking soda. Sprinkling a thin layer of baking soda at the bottom of the box can help absorb smells and urine (if you're not using clumping litter).
• Choose the right litter. Cats generally prefer clumping litter, as it's made of finer-grained material and is easier for your cat to bury their waste in. However, some cats do prefer traditional, non-clumping clay litter. Take note of what your cat seems to prefer and try to cater to their choice.
• Don't use too much or too little litter. Most cats only need about 2 inches (5.1 cm) of litter. Don't pour more than 4 inches (10 cm) of litter, or your cat may not use the box. Be consistent with the amount of litter you use, as your cat may become stressed or confused if you suddenly change the amount.

Use the right type of litter

Cats can be particular about their litter, and it's important to find one that your cat likes and will use. There are several factors to consider when choosing the right type of litter for your cat.

Texture

Cats are sensitive to the feel of litter on their paws, so texture is an important consideration. Most cats prefer fine-textured litters with smaller particles, similar to the soft soil or sand that cats would use in the wild. Fine particle, clumping clay litters are a popular choice and tend to be favoured by cats. Pellet and crystal-type litters usually have larger particles that may not be as comfortable for your cat's paws.

Scent

Cats have a highly developed sense of smell, with about 200 million scent sensors compared to humans' 5 million. Scented litters, especially those with strong fragrances, can irritate your cat's sense of smell. Unscented or odour-free litters are generally preferred by cats. If you want to add a scent, it's better to use something like baking soda or activated charcoal around the litter box rather than a scented litter.

Clumping vs. Non-Clumping

Clumping litter is made of clay and forms clumps when it comes into contact with liquids, making it easy to scoop and dispose of waste. It's a popular choice for pet parents because it's easy to use and doesn't require frequent complete litter changes. However, clumping litter should be avoided for kittens or cats that ingest feces or litter, as it can cause intestinal blockages if ingested.

Non-clumping litter, also made of clay, doesn't form clumps and needs to be completely replaced at least once a week to prevent urine puddles. It's more affordable and does a good job of absorbing urine and odours. The larger granules of non-clumping litter are less likely to cling to your cat's paws, resulting in less tracking around the house.

Natural Materials

There are several natural alternatives to traditional clay litter, including paper, pine, wheat, nutshells, and corn. These options are often lightweight, biodegradable, and have excellent odour-neutralizing properties. Natural litters made with walnut, for example, usually come in pellet form, while corn kernel litters can be clumping, reducing dust in the air and litter tracking. However, if you or your cat have food allergies or intolerances, carefully read the ingredient labels to ensure the litter is safe.

In summary, when choosing the right type of litter for your cat, consider texture, scent, clumping vs. non-clumping properties, and natural alternatives. The ideal litter will be one that your cat likes and will use consistently, while also being easy for you to maintain and keep odour-free.

Be consistent

Consistency is key when it comes to litter training your cat. Cats, especially older cats, can be sensitive to changes in their environment and routines. Here are some tips to maintain consistency:

Keep the Litter Box in the Same Spot

Make sure to place the litter box in a permanent location that is easily accessible to your cat. Avoid moving it around, as this can confuse your cat and cause stress. If you must relocate the litter box, do so gradually by moving it a few feet each day until it reaches the desired spot. This will give your cat time to adjust to the new location.

Maintain a Consistent Routine

Cats thrive on routine, so try to keep your cat's daily activities as consistent as possible. Feed them, play with them, and provide cuddles at the same time each day. This sense of routine will help reduce stress and encourage your cat to use the litter box consistently.

Cats can develop preferences for certain types of litter and litter boxes. If you need to switch litters or litter boxes, do so gradually to avoid upsetting your cat's routine. For example, if you want to introduce a new brand of litter, slowly mix it with the old litter, gradually adding more of the new litter with each litter box cleaning. This will help your cat adjust to the change without causing too much disruption.

Be Patient and Persistent

Litter training takes time and consistency. Be patient with your cat, especially if they are older or dealing with medical issues. Consistently use the same command phrase when encouraging your cat to use the litter box, and always praise them when they succeed. If accidents happen, don't punish your cat. Simply clean up the mess and continue with the training process.

Frequently asked questions