Litter Training Your Cat

Cats and their litter habits can be one of the main annoyances of having a cat; it can often seem like they go to the bathroom in places other than their litter box just to get back at you, or annoy or get revenge on their owner somehow.

First of all, it is a myth that cats must be litter trained. Cats are instinctively able to use the bathroom in the litter box, but this makes other sand-like areas prone to defecation as well, and that includes rock gardens, house plants, vegetable gardens, or anything else of that nature.

Another one of the common litter-related problems that many people experience with their cats is that they tend to spray to mark their territory, and this is especially true with male cats. In order to get your cat to be as gentlemanly as possible when it comes to their litter habits, there are a few things you can keep in mind that might help your case.

1. Location, Location, Location

Where you put your litter box has a great deal to do with how willing your cat will be to use it, versus other areas in the house. Wouldn't you rather use the bathroom in a warm comfortable area than a cold, dank one? For this reason, basements, laundry rooms and other areas are not such a great place to put the litter box.

Understandably, you probably want to put your litter box in a remote area where people can't see it and odors are less offensive, but if you want them to use the box and not your couch cushion, you should think twice about your location.

2. Consider the Litter

The litter that you use in your cat's litter box is another thing that must be taken into consideration. Cat litter with large granules or a certain smell or texture that your cat does not like or is not used to is a good way to discourage them from using the box at all. It may cost a bit more, but the better the litter, the more money you spend on buying a quality litter for your cat box, the more inclined they will be to use that litter box.

3. Keep it Clean

Cleaning your litter box as often as possible is the best way to get your feline to use the litter box more consistently. Think about it; do you want to use a nasty toilet? Cats are just as finicky as you when it comes to where toileting is done, and perhaps even more so.

If your cat is using other places than the litter box that is a good indication that you aren't keeping it as clean as they would like. Consider self cleaning litter boxes that scoop waste out of the bin shortly after it is deposited.