Litter box lessons.

Cats are very clean animals and usually learn how to use a litter tray quickly. To avoid accidents in the house, you should start getting your kitten used to his litter box as early as possible.

Many kittens learn to use a litter tray by copying their mothers. However, if your kitten doesn't know what the tray is for, he will need a bit of help.

Point him in the right direction.

Watch your kitten's behaviour closely. He may be a little nervous of the litter box or need help remembering where it is. If you think that he's becoming uncomfortable, take him to the litter box.

Another way you can help is by placing your kitten in his litter tray early in the morning, last thing at night and after every meal. If you do this several times, he will get used to finding the right place and learn to associate the litter tray with toilet functions very quickly.

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'll look for a more suitable (to his) spot elsewhere in the house. Make sure it is always kept clean because your kitten will not use a litter box if it is dirty or smells.

Sometimes, there seems to be a sudden breakdown in his toilet training: a common reason for this is that you've disinfected his litter box with something that smells too strong for him. Or it may simply be because you moved his tray away from the usual spot.

Reward him successes.

Make sure you praise your kitten when he does use his box, by giving him attention and small treats. That way, the litter box will soon have good associations for him.

You'll be amazed at how quickly your kitten will adjust to using his litter box. And with a bit of patience and encouragement, accidents will be a thing of the past.