Pet owners know the struggle of training the pets; you need time and patience to teach them. Every pet has its training requirement because of its unique behavioral differences. If you plan to get a kitten, then make sure it completes its neonatal period with its mother. An eight to ten-month-old kitten is ready to socialize and learn new skills; this is where you introduce new talents and commands.
You need to pay lots of attention to your kitten, focus on healthy food, and familiarize them with playing objects. Litter training is one of the most crucial parts; newborns need stimulation to pass stool; litter box usage is best after four weeks.
Here is a list of things you can do when it comes to where and how to set up the litter box:
1. Pick The Right Cat Litter
Cleanliness requirements of cats are relatively low; they can keep themselves clean by licking themselves now and then. Before you decide about the litter’s placement, look for the most suitable waste box in the market. Some of the litter types include sand, crystal litter, pine litter, and clay litter. Each one has pros and cons; for maximum efficiency, cleanliness, and less litter change, choose non tracking cat litter that ensures a mess-free littering area.
Non-clumping waste is easy to remove, and only half a bag is enough to take care of your cat’s litter demands. Cats like to jump in and out of the litter box; if you use a non-tracking litter, it reduces the chances of a messy house. When the quality of non-clumping litter goes terrible, it will change color, which means it’s time to change the box. Also, try to get a litter box that is biodegradable and chemical-free; a chemical-free litter box ensures your pet’s safety.
2. Get The Perfect Litter Tray Size
If you have a kitten, keep a small litter box, and as they grow, you can change the size accordingly. The number of litter boxes and their size depends directly on how many cats you have.
3. The Right Quantity of Litter In The Tray
The right setup for your cat is essential; two to three centimeters of litter is an ideal quantity to fill the tray. In case your cat is sick, increase the amount of litter material, and consult your vet at the earliest. Always replenish the litter to maintain an even depth.
4. Where To Place The Litter Tray
Cats like privacy; it is better to locate the litter tray in a private section. If you have space issues and want to conceal the litter tray simultaneously, then use cardboard to make a topping for the litter box. Laundry rooms are also a good option, but if you are using the washing machines, then temporarily relocate the box. A quiet and calm area is best; this is a time when cats want some relief.
People who find it challenging to train their cats and kittens can hire a professional trainer to litter train your cat. Keep the litter box away from doors and any other harmful objects. Place the Litter box away from all kinds of distractions, like a TV area or loud music. Place the containers at two different locations; when the access to one gets blocked for some reason, they can access the other litter box.
It is also essential to place the litter box away from foot traffic; with so many people walking and kids running around the litter box area, cats find it hard to do their business.
5. Get More Than One Litter Tray
If you have one cat, keep an extra tray, and if you have two, keep the third one. Multiple boxes are beneficial for your cats if they suffer from stomach issues; a painful bout of constipation is one of the common problems they face. Cats like to claim their territory, and multiple trays can eliminate the chances of a catfight. Catfights create fear in them, and the weak cat feels afraid to do their business on time.
6. How To Clean The Litter Box
Categorize your cleaning schedule. The litter box needs cleaning on a daily and weekly basis. Scoop the clumps every next day and dispose of right away. Suppose you have a biodegradable litter, then dig a hole and dump it in. For weekly cleaning, wash the litter tray and scoop properly. Avoid using a chemical; the odor of chemicals irritates the cats.
Fill the litter box with fresh litter; cats love it when the waste is dry and odor-free. Keep the tray away from the wind, moisture, water, and food; all these elements maximize the litter’s absorption level.
The Final Word
Owning a pet brings so many responsibilities; cat parents like to groom their cats and kittens. It all depends on their training; training a kitten is much easier than training a cat. Kitten is a curious being who learns fast. They respond well to commands and want constant attention from their cat parents regarding litter training. The placement of the litter tray is of equal importance.
If your cat behaves unusually and refuses to use the litter box, consult your vet. It is a common thing in cats, and it happens when they have health issues. When you introduce your cats to a litter box with some patience, kittens need time to learn and practice new things.