T here really is no such thing as litter box training. At least not in the same way you would housetrain a dog. What successful litter training boils down to is this – determining your cat’s preferences and sticking to them.

Successful litter box usage depends on several factors. Location, number of boxes, type of litter, lid (or no lid), liner (or no liner), depth of litter, and cleanliness are all factors. Your individual cat may also have some of his own ideas about what makes for a desirable litter box.

See “My cat won’t use the litter box” for some tips on getting it right for your cat.

Location
Keep in mind that your small kitten or older may not be able to get up or down a flight of stairs to reach her litter box on time. So placing the box in the basement so that you do not have to see or smell it may not be the best option for your cat.
Your cat will also most likely desire a certain level of privacy as well as unobstructed access. So while the bathroom may offer an out-of-the-way place, you need to consider what your cat will do when the door is closed for human use. Locations that are cold, hot, loud or drafty may also be undesirable. While we’ve just ruled out just about any place in your home, remember, it’s all up to your individual cat or cats.

Number of boxes
There is a general rule of having one more box than you have cats. Two cats equals three boxes. Having several boxes also gives your cat options. If you live in a multi-level house you should have at least one box on each floor.

Type of litter
There are many types of litter available. Visit your pet supply store to find out about your options. Typically, though, cats prefer a fine grain and less dust. If you suspect that your cat may have been outdoors only, you may even want to consider potting soil. You can always begin mixing it with another litter and slowly decreasing the ratio of potting soil until you are left with a litter your cat likes.

Lids
Covered cat boxes are great. They contain the odors and hide unsightly messes. However, some cats do not appreciate this. They feel too confined, they can’t see as well, they find the odor overwhelming and they don’t like the extra effort of climbing through that little door. Again, give your cat options. Place a covered box next to an uncovered box to see which your cat prefers.

Liners
Liners make clean up easy. However, some cats do not like the slickness, smell or another component of the plastic liner. Again, by placing a lined box next to an unlined box, you will find out quickly if your cat has a preference.

Depth of litter
Less is not necessarily more when it comes to the depth of litter in a box. In fact, some cats prefer to be able to scrape the smooth plastic bottom of a litter box. Two inches is usually the ideal amount. No matter the depth of the litter, you will still need to scoop and/or clean the box regularly.

Cleanliness
If you use a clumping litter, you should scoop the box daily. If you do not use a clumping litter, feces should still be removed each day. You will be avoiding accidents by keeping the box odor free. You should empty and wash your box according to the type of litter you use, the number of boxes you keep and the number of cats you have. Your nose knows. If the smell of urine or feces is evident, it’s time to clean the box. Empty it completely and use a soap and water to wash it. Avoid using strong chemicals as they can deter your cat from using the box.

If problems develop
See “My cat won’t sue the litter box” for more information.