How to Litter Train a Kitten

Good news for new kitten owners: cats have a natural instinct to dig and bury their waste, so litter training is usually much easier than house training a puppy. Many kittens already know the basics from watching their mother. Your job is to set things up so using the box is easy and appealing.

Choose the Right Box and Litter

• Box size: pick a box with low sides so a small kitten can climb in easily. You can upgrade to a larger box as they grow.
• Open or covered: many kittens prefer an open box at first. If you choose a covered box, make sure your kitten is comfortable going inside.
• Litter type: an unscented litter is a good start, since strong scents can put cats off. For very young kittens, many people prefer a non-clumping litter in case the kitten eats some while exploring.

Fill the box with a couple of inches of litter, enough for digging but not so deep that it becomes a struggle.

Put the Box in the Right Place

Location matters a great deal. Place the box in a quiet, easy-to-reach spot where your kitten won’t be startled, away from noisy appliances and busy doorways. Keep it well away from food and water bowls, since cats don’t like to eliminate near where they eat.

A common guideline is to have one box per cat plus one extra. In a larger home, put a box on each floor so your kitten never has to travel far.

Teach the Routine

1. When your kitten first arrives, gently place them in the box so they can sniff and explore the litter.
2. Place them in the box after meals, after naps and after play sessions, the times when they’re most likely to need to go.
3. If your kitten starts to sniff, circle or crouch somewhere else, calmly lift them into the box.
4. Praise softly or offer a small treat after they use the box.
5. Let them explore and dig without hovering; some kittens prefer privacy.

Keep It Clean

Cats are fastidious, and a dirty box is one of the main reasons they look for other places to go. Scoop solid waste and clumps at least once a day. Replace the litter completely and wash the box with mild, unscented soap and warm water on a regular basis. Avoid strong-smelling cleaners, which can deter your kitten.

Handling Accidents

• Never scold or punish your kitten, or rub their nose in a mess. It creates fear and can make the problem worse.
• Clean accidents thoroughly with an enzyme-based cleaner to remove odors that might attract them back.
• Place a small amount of soiled litter in the box to signal where to go.
• Consider whether the box location, litter type or cleanliness needs changing.

If your kitten keeps going outside the box, strains, cries while going or has diarrhea, contact your vet. These can be signs of a medical issue that needs attention.