Litter box training
Cats, by nature, are clean animals, so litter box training is usually less of a problem than with other household pets. Mother cat who are litter-trained frequently train their kittens. Plastic or baked enamel pans are recommended for use as litter pans. The pan should measure at least 20x14x4 inches. A minimum of 2-3 inches of commercial cat litter will help to keep offensive odors down. There should be one more litter pan than the number of cats in the household. (i.e., with 2 cats, have 3 litter boxes.)
Keep the litter pan in a bathroom, secluded area, or in the basement. Begin by placing the kitten in the litter after meals, after playtime, long naps, first thing in the morning and last thing at night. Be consistent in taking the kitten to the litter pan during the training period.
If you can catch the kitten making a mistake, firmly, but gently, place the kitten in the litter pan. Kittens do not respond well to the punishment. Do not scold the kitten after the mistake has been made. The kitten will not associate the scolding with the act. Wash and deodorize the soiled area so the kitten will not return to it. Do not allow the kitten freedom of the house until you are certain he is using his litter pan regularly.
Make certain you keep the litter pan clean as most cats will not use soiled litter. A sieve or a scoop designed for cleaning litter pans should be used to remove droppings from the pan at least once each day depending upon the number of cats and the type of diet fed, you can usually use the litter for about one week before changing it. When you change the litter, wash the pan with soap and hot water. Do not use strong disinfectants or agents which are not specifically designed for use around cats. For sanitary purposes, wash your hands thoroughly after cleaning the litter pan.
Keep the litter pan in a bathroom, secluded area, or in the basement. Begin by placing the kitten in the litter after meals, after playtime, long naps, first thing in the morning and last thing at night. Be consistent in taking the kitten to the litter pan during the training period.
If you can catch the kitten making a mistake, firmly, but gently, place the kitten in the litter pan. Kittens do not respond well to the punishment. Do not scold the kitten after the mistake has been made. The kitten will not associate the scolding with the act. Wash and deodorize the soiled area so the kitten will not return to it. Do not allow the kitten freedom of the house until you are certain he is using his litter pan regularly.
Make certain you keep the litter pan clean as most cats will not use soiled litter. A sieve or a scoop designed for cleaning litter pans should be used to remove droppings from the pan at least once each day depending upon the number of cats and the type of diet fed, you can usually use the litter for about one week before changing it. When you change the litter, wash the pan with soap and hot water. Do not use strong disinfectants or agents which are not specifically designed for use around cats. For sanitary purposes, wash your hands thoroughly after cleaning the litter pan.