How to Train a Cat to Use the Litter Box

One of the best aspects of raising a cat is how quickly they adapt to housetraining. Long before most puppies master the concept of where they should go potty, kittens are reliably heading to their litter boxes, making life easier for everyone at home.

It is widely believed that mother cats teach their kittens to use a litter box, but this is not always the case. Whether you have recently adopted a kitten or welcomed home a cat of any age, a certain amount of litter box training will be necessary. It is widely believed that mother cats teach their kittens to use a litter box, but this is not always the case. Whether you have recently adopted a kitten or welcomed home a cat of any age, a certain amount of litter box training will be necessary. But don’t worry—this simple 4-step process will help you litter train your cat stress-free! 

 

Key Takeaways 

• Before learning how to train a cat to use the litter box, gather the proper supplies: litter box, cat litter, cat pads, and a litter scoop. 
  Choose a litter box based on your cat’s breed, age, and weight.
• Clumping litter is the most popular variety, which bonds together when wet for easy scooping. 
• Cats need enough litter to cover their mess—aim to fill the box with 2 inches of litter.
• Most cats prefer their litter box in a quiet spot away from their food and water.
• If you aren’t finding success, try moving the litter box to another spot or choosing a different litter. 

Before You Start: Gather Supplies

Prior to learning how to litter train a cat, you will need to purchase a few supplies: 

• Litter box – From classic open trays to covered boxes that help maximize privacy, litter boxes come in a variety of styles. Choose a litter box at least one and a half times the length of your cat so they have ample space to dig and turn around.  
• Cat litter – The most popular and convenient variety of litter is clumping litter, which binds when wet (hence creating a clump). 
• Cat pads – Wee-Wee® Cat Pads provide extra support for any litter box setup. Featuring an ultra-plush design that’s comfortable on your cat’s paws, Cat Pads go under the litter box to prevent messes. If you have a litter box system, Wee-Wee Litter Box System Cat Pads easily fit inside for advanced odor control and easy cleanup. 
• Litter scoop – A sifting litter scoop is a convenient tool because it allows you to lift away the mess rather than completely change the litter each day.  

4 Steps to Litter Box Training

Step #1: Choose a Litter Box Spot 

The first step to litter box training is finding a cat-safe spot in your home to place the box. Most cats prefer a quiet, private space. It is also wise to choose a spot that is far from your pet’s food and water, as cats usually prefer not to use the bathroom in the same area where they eat. Set it in a low-traffic, easily accessible area away from loud appliances or any other litter boxes.  

Step #2: Add the Cat Litter 

If you’re using a standard litter box, you’ll also want to place your cat pad underneath the box before starting to fill it. Next, cover the bottom of the box with about 2 inches of litter. After using the litter box, cats like to cover their mess, so you must give your pet enough litter to complete this task. Once you find a litter that works for your cat, stick with it! Cats often pee outside the litter box when there are sudden changes in their routine—even something as small as changing their litter type.  

Step #3: Gently Set Your Cat Inside the Box 

Once the box is ready, set your cat inside so that they can get used to the smell and feel of the litter. Don’t worry if they don’t eliminate right away, though. Some kitties may need a few minutes to “go.” 

Continue to place your cat in the box several times a day. The most important times of the day will be directly after your pet has eaten. In fact, kittens will need to go almost immediately after meals. If you catch your cat peeing or pooping elsewhere, interrupt them and take them to their box. 

Step #4: Reward Your Cat 

Encouraging positive interaction is one of the most important steps while litter box training! You don’t want to force your kitty into any uncomfortable situation. Instead, be patient and praise or reward your kitty with their favorite treats when they go potty in the box. 

If you’re not finding success while learning how to litter train a cat, you may need to move the box to a different location or change the type of litter you are using.  

🐾 Related → Cat Care 101: 8 Tips for a Happy and Healthy Kitty 

How to Clean the Litter Box 

Whenever you notice that your cat has used the litter box, use your scooper to lift away the mess. When you are finished, you may need to add a bit more litter to ensure that your pet has enough material to dig a hole and then cover it.  

A thorough weekly litter box cleaning will help keep it looking and smelling fresh. Simply empty the litter into the trash before cleaning the box with a pet-safe cleaner and refilling it with clean litter. Add a new cat pad underneath to complete your fresh station reset!  

Purr-fect Job! 

A little bit of training can go a long way. Take the time to learn the schedule of when your cat likes to “go.” Consistency is key! Your feline will be frequenting their litter box on their own in no time.