The majority of cats are easy to litter box train. Most will begin to use the tray shortly after being acquainted with it. Your new cat may already know how to use a litter box, since many kittens learn to use it from watching their mothers. Cats tend to be very picky by nature, and can snub things for several reasons (even if we don’t know the reason!). That’s why its important to choose the right pan, and train your cat properly

Kittens prefer to go outside to relieve themselves, and you should keep this in mind before you start litter training. Cats don’t instinctively like using a cat litter pan; be sure to choose one that is acceptable to her. Keep the following things in mind as you go about litter training your new cat:

1. Ask the previous owner, or breeder, what kind of cat litter your kitten has been using. Make sure you use the same brand and type of litter.

2. Choose a litter box 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. Place your litter box in an easily accessible and traffic-free corner of the room – keeping it well away from your kitten’s food and water dishes. In some cases, it helps to provide your kitten with more than one litter box, to allow for greater access to a tray in your home.

4. If you have other cats, you will want to make sure that each of your cats has its own litter pan. If possible, place them in different areas. Many cats will reject a common litter tray 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. Always give your kitten praise when she gets in the litter box, even more when she finally uses it.

6. Keep your cat’s litter tray clean by removing any soiled litter regularly. Give the pan a throrough cleaning at least one every week. Many household disinfectants are deadly to pets, therefore you should use a pet disinfectant to clean the litter box. 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 pan. It is also worth remembering that if you are pregnant you should not change cat litter pans due to the risk of toxoplasmosis.

7. Never leave your kitten alone without access to a litter tray. Cats can develop cystitis if they are unable to relieve themselves for long periods of time.

Its important to be patient while going through the litter training process; cats don’t react to commands the way dogs do and therefore require more patience. If you see your kitten scratching or squatting, pick her up right away and place her in the litter tray. Most cats will begin to learn very quickly, however, sometimes it takes a bit more patience. 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. Cat Deterrent sprays may be purchased for the cat that decides to use your couch (or other furnishings) as a litter pan. If all goes well, your kitten will soon begin to use her litter pan herself without any further intervention from you.