Litterbox Training

One of the many joys of owning cats is the relative ease of litterbox training. Young kittens develop the instinct to bury their urine and feces at about 4 weeks of age. The type of litter and box to use depends on your personal preference and lifestyle.

Some cats have their own likings, so provide them with a selection at first to determine which they will use consistently.

Be sure your pet can comfortably climb into the box and has room to stand and turn around. Place the box within easy access for your new companion. Keep it in a quiet, calm place away from feeding and sleeping areas.
When you first bring your cat or kitten home, place it in the box several times. Even if it jumps out, continue to show your cat the box. When kitten eliminates in it, praise kitten for a job well done.

The litterbox can never be too clean. Scoop solid matter daily, and the entire box should be emptied and washed weekly. Be sure to have the appropriate number of boxes, there should be a box for each cat, plus one.

If your well-trained feline begins having accidents outside the box, it may be a sign of illness. Urinary tract infections make it uncomfortable to urinate, and cats often associate the discomfort with the box itself. They urinate elsewhere, trying to avoid the pain. If your cat begins having accidents, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.

Bring a fresh urine specimen to the appointment (only a teaspoon is needed) so that a urinary tract infection, diabetes or a kidney problem can be ruled out.