:two_hearts: :two_hearts: :two_hearts: :two_hearts: :two_hearts: Introduction :two_hearts: :two_hearts: :two_hearts: :two_hearts: :two_hearts:

Kittens are easy to house train. Most kittens learn from their mothers at a very young age to use a litter box. An older domesticated cat should also know as well. In either case, all you need to do is show them where the litter box is, and you're done.

However, there are some cases where the cat will not know how to use the little box.

This occurs in:

:heavy_check_mark: Recently-adopted stray cats.

:heavy_check_mark: Feral cats.

:heavy_check_mark: Sometimes even a well-trained cat may seem to "forget" and start relieving himself elsewhere. (This occurs if there is something medically wrong, or if your cat simply does not like the litter or the box has not been cleaned.)

:two_hearts: :two_hearts: :two_hearts: :two_hearts: :two_hearts: The Basics :two_hearts: :two_hearts: :two_hearts: :two_hearts: :two_hearts:

Which litter box should I get?

:heavy_check_mark: Having a large litter box would be best. That way your cat has enough room to feel comfortable. This will also ensure that they will use it more often.

:heavy_check_mark: If your cat is elderly or short, be sure to get a box that they can easily enter. Otherwise they will not use it.

:heavy_check_mark: After choosing an appropriate size, you will need to decide if you want a covered or uncovered litter box.

Covered litter boxes:

:white_check_mark: Offers a variety openings for your cat to get in.

:white_check_mark: Offers privacy

:white_check_mark: Keeps other pets from tormenting the cat as the cat does his business.

:white_check_mark: Also keeps your dog (if you have one) from eating what's left behind.

:white_check_mark: Keeps litter in

:heavy_multiplication_x: It traps odor inside, which might make your cat not want to use it.

:heavy_multiplication_x: If your cat is very large, they will not have as much freedom to move around.

Uncovered litter boxes:

:white_check_mark: Easy access for cleaning

:white_check_mark: Freedom for your cat to move around.

:white_check_mark: Less expensive

:white_check_mark: Litter bags can be put on for easy removal.

:heavy_multiplication_x: Litter can be kicked out on to your floor.

:heavy_multiplication_x: The odor is harder to control.

What litter should I use?

:heavy_check_mark: Sand

:heavy_check_mark: Shredded newspapers

:heavy_check_mark: Wood shavings

:heavy_check_mark: The most highly recommended cat litter is commercially prepared litter made with soft, round clay pebbles or other materials. These are the most sanitary and will keep your cat healthy.

Commercial grade litter categories:

There are two main categories for commercial litter-clumping and nonclumping.

:heavy_check_mark: Clumping makes for easy removal of soiled litter.

:heavy_check_mark: While nonclumping will only dehydrate the stools for easy scooping.

There are several varieties of commercial grade litter:

:heavy_check_mark: Pine Granules, Cobble, or Pellets

:heavy_check_mark: Corn-based

:heavy_check_mark: Wheat-based

:heavy_check_mark: Walnut shell-based

:heavy_check_mark: Grass-based

:heavy_check_mark: Recycled Paper Pellets

:heavy_check_mark: Silica Gel Crystals

:heavy_check_mark: Clay

How high should I fill the container?

The recommended amount for most litters is two inches (about 5cm) from the bottom. Any more than that and your cat may kick it out, creating access litter on the floor.  The maximum amount of litter you should put in is 4 inches (about 10cm).

Where should I keep the litter pan?

:heavy_check_mark: Keep it in a place that easily accessible by you and your cat.

:heavy_check_mark: Do not place it near your cat's food or water-they will not use the bathroom near where they eat.

:heavy_check_mark: If you can and are able to, it would be beneficial to place two litter pans in your home so the cat will have another one to go to if one cannot be accessed.

How often should I clean it?

Strive to clean their litter box every day, or at least every other day. This will make it easier for both you and your cat in the long run.

How often should I replace the litter completely?

It should be replaced completely once a month to ensure your cat will not get sick from old, soiled litter.

Wait....there's litter pan accessories?

Yes, this includes a variety of items such as:

:heavy_check_mark: The litter mat

:heavy_check_mark: Odor blockers

:heavy_check_mark: Additives

:two_hearts: :two_hearts: :two_hearts: :two_hearts: :two_hearts: Training :two_hearts: :two_hearts: :two_hearts: :two_hearts: :two_hearts:

First, learn your cat's schedule. Generally, cats will need to use the bathroom after eating, naps, or playing. By knowing their schedule, you can direct them to go into the litter box.

Second, start playing with your cat near the litter box. If playing causes them to use the bathroom, then do so near the litter box so you can direct them to the box when the time comes.

Third, if your cat have never learned how to use a litter box. You will need to show them how it is done. No, I am not asking you to desecrate their box. When your cat needs to use the bathroom, place them in their box. If they do not cover it up after they are done, use your  hand to push some litter over it. Do not use their paws, or else you may scare them.

If they don't use the litter box at all:

:heavy_multiplication_x: Do not yell at your cat. That will only make him scared of you.

:white_check_mark: Put the waste where it belongs.

:white_check_mark: Disinfect the area.

:white_check_mark: If the problem persists, either close the door to the problem area or place their food in the problem area.

If all else fails, this is your last option:

Temporarily confine your cat to one room, with food and water at one end and their litter box at the other end. Repeat the steps above in the one confined space till your cat understands.

Be cautious of the rooms temperature, do not leave them in an overly hot or cold room.