How do you get your cat to utilize the litter box, or how do you get them to start using it again? Some cats pick up on their owners’ cues quickly and easily, while others have a hard time comprehending what it is that they are supposed to do. If a mother cat is not available to instruct her young kittens in the proper use of the litter box, then it is your responsibility to do so. Despite this, there are times when a kitten simply won’t comprehend what it is that you want her to do.
Let Their Natural Instinct Kick in
Kittens start digging in the dirt and other dry, loose material when they are only a few weeks old, even though they have never seen their mothers engage in this behavior. This innate drive is also utilized in the process of teaching kittens how to use a litter box properly. Because cats are very particular about how they do their business in the litter box, it is essential that you have a good understanding of what your new kitten will require to get the hang of things.
Indoor or Outdoor Litter Trays
The majority of cats that live outdoors will have no problem sticking their rear ends into flowerbeds and other areas of the garden. If, on the other hand, your cat uses an indoor litter tray, the placement of the tray is critical to ensuring that your cat is able to relieve itself whenever nature calls. Some young cats and kittens find it more comfortable if the litter box is hidden from view or if it is covered while they use it so they can have some privacy.
There are a variety of different types of litter trays and litter boxes currently available on the market. Some of these litter trays and boxes are fully enclosed, while others, only have a partial cover. When you finally figure out which kind of litter box is most suitable for your cat, she will be able to do her business in a manner that is much less stressful for both of you. This may take some time.
They Are Not Good at Sharing
Because cats are not particularly good at sharing toilets, it is likely that if you have more than one cat, you will require more than one litter tray or box. Make an effort to determine which places of the house each cat finds most appealing (they may even have their territories), and position the litter boxes in accordance with those preferences.
Your cat may experience anxiety as a result of being confined, as cats do not always enjoy being in enclosed spaces. If you find that your cat is not using the encased toilet, you should first remove the cover and position it so that it is leaning against the base of the tray. If you still find that your cat isn’t using the encased toilet, you should repeat the steps above.
As long as your cat is content, gradually move the cover further and further forward over the course of a period of four to seven days. Carry on working in this manner up until the tray has been completely covered. When the litter box is totally covered, but your cat still refuses to use it, it is likely an indication that your cat would never use the litter box, and you will need to learn to accept this possibility.
Concerning the Issue of Cat Litter
You can use a wide range of different kinds of litter in the litter box that you provide for your cat, including silica gel, clumping clay (also known as bentonite), environmentally friendly recycled paper, pine, corn, and a variety of other options. Regrettably, until you try both of them out, you can’t be sure which one your cat likes better. You and your particular cat will need to go through an elimination process (excuse the pun!) in order to choose the best option.
It is of the utmost importance to clean the litter tray consistently, and this is especially true if you own a cat that is reluctant to use it. However, try not to clean it an excessive amount. When there is still a trace of the previous resident’s scent in the litter box, some cats are more comfortable. At the very least once per week, give the litter tray a thorough cleaning.
Be wary of the disinfectant product you choose to use, and think carefully about whether or not it is suitable for use in such a delicate setting. The F10 SCXD veterinary antimicrobial agent is a special disinfectant product that can be used on all of your pet’s accessories without causing any harm to them in any way. It is safe to use on all of your pet’s accessories.
The Time Has Come to Get Down to Business
After you have finished feeding your kitten, you should carry her to her litter box and put her in the tray there. Scratch your kitten’s paws softly while she is standing in the litter box to reassure her that she is in the correct location. After your young cat has demonstrated that she is capable of using the litter box, praise her with lots of love and some fun playtime.
Do not reprimand your cat if it has committed an accident. Bring her to the messes so she can smell them, then bring your kitten to the litter box so it can smell it as well, and then continue the process by having her scratch her paws in the litter.
Because cats are picky about how they prefer things to be done, this is the most effective method for litter training your kitten. Cats have very specific preferences. Consider the position of the litter tray, the type of litter itself, and the type of litter tray you use, and make sure you clean it on a regular basis. Most importantly, have some patience, as your new kitten is just a baby right now.