subject: Toilet Train Cat or Clean up the Mess [print this page] I felt pretty good about going to the shelter to rescue a kitten that I had promised my three year old for her birthday.However, when my daughter led me to her room one day and pointed out a "present" left by kitty, she exclaimed as only a three year old can, "toilet train cat," while giving me her sternest look. While I had already purchased and set up a litter box I realized that I had no idea how to litter train a kitten, so I called the vet for some much needed instructions. What I found out was cat toilet training measures that new cat owners can take that solves the problem quickly. Are you looking for some good information for litter training your own cat?Then read the following tips that helped me resolve the problem fast.
Unscented litter
The advice I was given was to purchase a litter box that was deep, and that I should be using fine grade litter. It seems that cats prefer the finer clumping sand as opposed to the coarse clay types. When buying the fine grade litter you'll not want to buy the scented variety because cats and kittens do not like the artificial scents. The placement of the litter box should be located in an area that is somewhat secluded, and away from the cat's food and water source. By placing the kitty litter box away from the food and water source you avoid the chance that litter will contaminate it from the kick back of litter. To avoid the mess that is kicked out of the litter box; consider a plastic tray that extends out from under the box 6 inches. Additionally, if you place a scratch mat at the front of the kitty litter box the cats will clean their paws before leaving.
Toilet training
The good news is that most cats and kittens will want to use a litter box. After you have decided where to put the litter box, show the kitten where it is at. If you are lucky the kitten will immediately begin using the kitty litter box. Although you will probably have to work with kitty until they accept the litter box. Regular trips to the litter box, especially after meals and when they begin to show signs that they need to use the potty, will get the kitten used to the litter box. The best method of training comes from praise that is given when the kitten successfully uses the kitty litter box.
Cleaning up "presents"
A sure sign that kitty needs to go is when you see them scratching in remote corners. Immediately take the cat to the kitty litter box and wait till their done. Sometime the litter box becomes to full for the cat to use, so you need to keep the litter box cleaned with fresh litter on a regular basis. All areas that have to be cleaned up after an accident will have to be cleaned well and a deodorizer will have to be used.
