Litter train a cat of any age with these easy tips!
One of the practical aspects of taking care of your new pet cat is dealing with its toilet. Cats are generally sanitary animals, grooming themselves and keeping themselves tidy. The litter box is one of the best inventions for dealing with your pet’s waste, mimicking the soft sand that they would use for the bathroom in the wild. Follow these easy tips on how to litter train a cat, no matter its age!
Setting up the Litter Box
The first step is to set up the litter box. You will need to gather your tools:
- A litter box: It should be accessible to your cat, especially if your cat has mobility issues. Top online sources recommend an open-top box, but some cats might prefer an enclosed litter box.
- A scoop: You will need to check the litter box for clumped litter and/or stool to remove daily.
- Litter: Unscented litter is a safe choice, as fragrances could bother some cats. If you need a recommendation, your local vet should be able to help. Two to three inches of litter should be sufficient.
- A litter box mat: This optional addition can help prevent litter from getting onto the floor.
You want to find a quiet, private area with little traffic to place the litter box. Putting it in a noisy, high-traffic area could stress out your cat. Ideally, you also want to keep it in a completely different space than the cat’s feeding bowls.
Getting Your Cat Used to the Litter Box
You can litter train a cat by gently placing it into the litter box, showing it that this is where it can do its business. Patience and consistency are key. If your cat has accidents outside the litter box, promptly clean them up and do not scold your cat.
Knowing What Your Cat Prefers
Does your cat not like that particular kind of litter? Does it feel uncomfortable doing its business in this spot? Be watchful if your cat is showing an aversion to some aspect of the setup. Be sensitive to what your cat prefers to help it stay comfortable and happy.
Cleaning the Litter Box
Besides removing stool and clumped litter daily, you should also replace the litter and wash the litter box once a week to keep it sanitary and clean-smelling. Water and dish detergent or a white vinegar and baking soda mix are enough to achieve this goal.
Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With three Maryland locations in Baltimore, Pasadena, and Cross Keys, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131, 410-793-7670, or 443-470-6790! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!