Litter training
Whilst a litter tray is a permanent fixture in the life of house cats, outdoor cats can be gradually trained to start going to the toilet outside.
Whether you're introducing a new kitten to the litter tray or helping an adult cat adapt to a new environment, litter training is an essential life skill for cats.
Litter training may take time and finding what works for your cat can involve some trial and error. Be patient and persistent in reinforcing positive toilet habits.
Even if your cat goes to the toilet outside, it’s a good idea to keep a litter tray in case something stops them going outdoors. This comes in handy if they feel threatened by other cats in the area or if they need to spend time indoors recovering from injury or illness. Some cats just prefer not to venture out in cold or rainy weather!
In this section:
Introducing your kitten to the litter tray
Common problems with litter training
Cleaning the litter tray
Cats are more likely to use a clean litter tray so it’s important that it’s cleaned regularly. Scoop the litter tray daily to remove clumps and waste. Lifting faeces immediately will prevent other pets from mistaking them for a snack!
When the tray is soiled, completely empty the litter and clean the litter tray and replace the litter to keep it fresh. Wash the tray using hot water and a pet-friendly, mild detergent. Avoid using highly scented cleaners as this can be off-putting for cats. The frequency will depend on how often your cat uses their tray and the type of litter.
Although some litter is labelled flushable, we would recommend bagging and binning used litter. Refill the tray with 3-4cm of litter. The litter needs to be deep enough for your cat to display their normal digging and burying behaviours.
Many kittens and cats will use the litter tray instinctively but there are lots of things you can do to encourage use.
Choosing the right tray
Firstly, it’s important to select a litter tray that is the right size and depth for your cat. It should be large enough for them to comfortably turn around and dig in. If the tray is too deep, kittens or older cats may find it difficult to get in the tray. Some cats prefer hooded or covered litter boxes for privacy, while others prefer open ones. If you have more than one cat, provide one litter tray each plus an additional tray to prevent territorial issues.
Choosing the right litter
Cats have different preferences when it comes to particular types of litter such as clumping or non-clumping, paper or wood-based, scented or unscented. Breeders and rehoming centres will be able to advise which type of litter your cat is used to so we’d recommended sticking with the same type.
Swapping your cat to a different type of litter can be stressful. If you need to change the type of litter, try mixing some of the new litter in with the old, gradually increasing the ratio over time.
Kittens should never use clumping litter.
Finding the right location
Place the litter tray in a quiet, calm area where your cat can have some privacy, such as a corner. Ensure it is kept away from your cat's food and water bowls. You may wish to have multiple trays in different rooms in your house.
Introducing your kitten to the litter tray
Place your kitten in the litter tray after meals, allowing them to sniff and scratch around to get used to the scent and feel. If you see signs of needing the toilet, such as sniffing around or crouching, lift them into the tray.
Give praise
Praise and reward your cat with treats or gentle petting when they use the litter tray successfully.
Where possible, anyone who is pregnant or has a weakened immune system should avoid changing cat litter. If no one else can do it, wear gloves and always wash hands thoroughly afterwards.
Common problems with litter training
If your cat is having difficulties with their toilet training, there could be a number of reasons.
My cat is not using the litter tray
If your cat is not using the litter tray they might be feeling unwell or worried about something so contact your vet in the first instance. If there is not medical reason for them not using the tray, try experimenting with different types of trays, litter and locations. Cats are more likely to use a clean tray so ensure you’re cleaning the litter out regularly.
My cat is having accidents outside of the tray
Cleaning the are thoroughly to remove the scent. Use an enzyme-based cleaner to eliminate odours and discourage repeat incidents. Remember never to punish your cat for doing the toilet outside of their litter trays.
My cat is going to the toilet in a particular spot in the house
Moving the litter tray to the location they are using can help redirect their habits.
My cat is not making it to the litter tray in time
Try providing multiple trays in different areas. If you notice your cat sniffing around or crouching, direct them towards the litter tray. Remember to reward them for using the tray successfully.
My cat is vocalising or straining whilst using the litter tray
If your cat is making a lot of noise when using their litter tray, or they seem to be struggling to pass urine or faeces, contact your vet immediately.
My cat goes outside but still wants to use the litter tray too
Some cats prefer to continue using the litter tray as well, particularly when it’s cold outside. To encourage them to go to the toilet outside, try providing a suitable outdoor loo for them in a sheltered area of your garden. Dig an area at least the size of their tray and fill it with a material that’s easy to dig, such as soil or fine sand.
