Litter tray training

Cats are very clean animals and learn how to use a litter tray quickly, normally by copying their mother. On the other hand, your kitten may not know what the tray is for and will need some help. In that case, you need to get him used to it as early as possible.

Point him in the right direction.

Watch your kitten's behaviour closely. He may be a little nervous of the litter try or need help remembering where it is. So, if he’s looking uncomfortable, take him there.

You can also help by placing your kitten in his tray early in the morning, last thing at night and after every meal. Do this several times and he will soon make the right association between going to the toilet and using the tray, as well as remembering exactly where to go.

Out of sight but not out of reach.

Where you put the litter box is very important. It must be in a private place but always accessible. Otherwise he will look for a more ‘suitable’ spot elsewhere in the house. Make sure his tray is always kept clean because your kitten will refuse to use one that’s dirty or smelly.

If there’s a sudden breakdown in his toilet training, it’s probably because you have disinfected his litter box with something too strong-smelling or moved his tray away from the usual spot.

Reward success.

When your kitten does use his tray, make sure he receives plenty of praise in the form of attention and small treats. That way, the litter box will soon have good associations, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly your kitten will adjust to using it. All it takes is a little patience and lots of encouragement and accidents will be a thing of the past.