Training Talk with Eileen: Litterbox Success

Cats will usually take to using a litterbox without much formal training. They gravitate toward a toilet area that fits their needs and often will continue to use it throughout their life. The most important thing to remember is that if your cat stops using the box, a veterinary appointment is urgently needed.  

Don't Think Outside the Box

How do you know what litterbox setup fits your cat’s needs?  A study of cats’ preferences shows that uncovered boxes measuring 1.5 times the length of the cat is preferable. Additionally, the study finds unscented clumping litter is a big hit for most cats. The depth of litter in the box is important too, both for their comfort and the cleanliness of your space. The ideal depth is about 2 inches in most cases.      

Placement of litterboxes in the home is an important factor. We recommend having a box for each cat in the home plus an additional box, meaning a home with two cats would have three litterboxes. Spread them throughout the house to the best of your ability and one will never be too far away. Keep an eye on the environment near the box, as well. For example, a washing machine suddenly starting a noisy spin cycle or dogs and children playing too close-by, could scare a cat and cause them to avoid using that box.  

Scoop the boxes twice daily, replace the litter weekly, and wash the box monthly. It’s also a good idea to replace the box once a year as scratches in plastic can harbor germs. 

As your cat ages or if you have a small kitten, ensure the box sides aren’t too high for them to enter comfortably. There are many configurations of litter boxes, and you can find one with a lower entry point as needed.  

These are all ways to set your cat or kitten up for success, but if your cat is not hitting the mark and has gotten a clean bill of health from your vet, our Behavior Helpline is here to coach you through and find a solution.