Litter training a kitten: a simple guide

Good news: cats naturally like to dig and bury their waste, so most kittens learn to use a litter box very quickly, often within a few days. Your job is mostly to make the box easy and pleasant to use.

Choosing the box

• Size: big enough for your kitten to turn around comfortably. Kittens grow fast, so plan for a bigger box later.
• Low sides: young kittens need to climb in easily.
• Open or covered: start with open. Some cats dislike covered boxes, which can trap smells.
• How many: one per cat, plus one extra.

Choosing the litter

Many kittens prefer fine, soft, unscented litter. Clumping clay, silica, wood pellets and tofu litter are all common in India. For very young kittens, some vets suggest avoiding clumping litter in case they eat it; ask your vet.

Pick one and stick with it. Sudden switches can put kittens off.

Where to put it

• A quiet, private spot, away from the washing machine and busy corridors
• Away from food and water bowls. Cats don't like eating near their toilet.
• Easy to reach, especially for a small kitten. In a big home, put a box on each floor.

How to teach your kitten

1. Show them the box as soon as they arrive. Gently place them in it and let them sniff.
2. Place them in the box after meals, after naps and after play.
3. Let them dig. You can gently scratch the litter with a finger to show them.
4. Praise quietly when they use it. Cats don't need big celebrations; calm praise works.
5. Leave them alone while they go.

Keep it clean

• Scoop daily, or twice daily.
• Change the litter fully and wash the box with mild soap and water on a regular schedule.
• Avoid strongly scented cleaners; cats may refuse a box that smells strongly.

If accidents happen

• Don't punish. It creates fear and more accidents.
• Clean the spot with an enzyme cleaner to remove the smell.
• Check the box: is it clean, easy to reach, in a calm spot? Is the litter one they like?
• Put a box where the accident happened, temporarily.

When to call the vet

Straining, crying in the box, going often in small amounts, blood in the urine or sudden accidents after being reliable can all be signs of a medical problem. In male cats especially, straining to pee can be an emergency.

A clean kitten

Kittens sometimes step in or sit in the box while learning. A damp cloth handles most messes; if a proper wash is needed, use a gentle formula like Puppy & Kitten Shampoo and follow our cat bathing guide. See also your kitten's first week at home.