If you acquired your new kitten from a breeder or pet store, they should already be trained on how to use the litter box. Mothers teach their kittens how to use a little box, and breeders are able to replicate that training.

If your new kitten has come from where they have not been trained to use a litter box, such as an outside environment, then you will have to teach your kitten how to use one if you do not want a lifetime of urination throughout your house. If you have cat pee problems, try cat urine removal products

Choosing the right litter tray and kitty litter

While there are many kitty litter trays available, you don’t need to get too sophisticated. When your kitten is young, avoid any kind of automatic litter box as it may scare your kitten from using the litter box. Choose a litter tray that has a lot of space for your cat to roam around in. Make sure its walls are low enough for your kitten to be able to walk into inside.

Kitty litter can take some experimentation. Try different kinds if you see your kitten does not like a certain type. Avoid any scented litters because most cats actually don’t like the smell. Do not buy cat litter that clumps into clay. If your kitten swallows it, they can be in a lot of trouble as it may cause intestinal blockage.

Teaching your kitten to use the litter box

When you begin potty training your kitten, you have to keep a close eye on them. You will want to keep your doors around the house closed so they have less room for roaming around. In addition, block off any areas where the kitten can get out of sight.

The natural instinct for cats is to bury their urine and poop. If your kitten begins scratching the floor, it’s a sign that they are about to go. Gently pick your kitten up and move them to the litter box. Once inside, demonstrate the surface of the litter by scratching it with your finger. The kitten should understand that they can dig too, and they should be able to pick it up from there.

Other signs of being ready to go include crouching in a corner, or in a hidden place. If you’re playing with your kitten and it suddenly takes off, it could be a sign that they’re ready to go.

If it takes a few tries, never raise your voice with the kitten. You do not want to associate anything bad with the litter box. If your kitten has peed or pooped outside of the litter box, bring it into the litter box. By bringing the scent to the litter box, they should associate it with going over time.

Developing a routine with your kitten

A kitten’s natural tendency is to pee or poop after eating. When they finish eating, bring the kitten to the litter box and scratch it with your finger. Do the same after they are done with a long nap.

Where to put the litter box

Cats like their privacy! Put the litter box in a low traffic area of the house. Corners are preferable. You may need additional litter boxes if you have more than one kitten, or if your house is very large and you are letting your kitten roam free.

Litter box maintenance

Keep your litter box clean! Cats, in general, are very tidy. They may avoid using a litter box if it gets too dirty and soiled. Change the litter daily, and remove the hard bits every chance you get. Wash the litter box at least once a week.