Tips for Getting Your Kitten Comfortable with the Litter Tray
Getting a new kitten is very exciting, but looking after a four-legged family member can come with a few learning curves. There are lots of things your kitten will need to get used to at home, including using a litter tray. While cats are very clean animals and most kittens will adapt fairly quickly, creating a comfortable and stress-free environment can make the process of litter training smoother, encouraging good habits right from the start.
If your kitten doesn’t want to use their litter tray, there are a few simple things you can do to help them. Here are some of our key tips for getting your new kitten comfortable with their litter area.
Choose a Quiet and Safe Location
Ideally, the litter tray should be placed somewhere quiet and away from food and water bowls. Having more than one litter area can be beneficial as well. Many cats prefer privacy when going to the toilet, so having a designated spot away from busy spaces can reduce anxiety and encourage them to use the tray. Always make sure it is easy to access too and not near any doorways with lots of foot traffic.
Buy the Right Type of Litter
Many don’t realise, but a big part of successful litter training is choosing the right type of litter. There are lots of different litter types on the market, but some are more popular than others. For example, non-clumping litter is often the first choice for pet owners as it absorbs urine quickly, but doesn’t form hard lumps that can be uncomfortable on paws.
Products like Felight Cat Litter also feature antibacterial technology that helps neutralise unpleasant odours, which can encourage your kitten to continue using the litter box. A fresh and hygienic litter area will be more pleasant for everyone in the household too. Favour Eco Max Cat Litter is another great choice because it is environmentally friendly and dust-free, making it ideal for kittens or cats with respiratory issues. The 100% natural formula is completely safe and will provide a comfortable experience.
Keep the Litter Tray Fresh and Clean
It’s important to keep your kitten’s litter tray clean as they won’t go to the toilet in a dirty tray. Make sure you check the litter area regularly, remove any solid waste and replace the litter if needed. It can be beneficial to completely empty the litter box and wash it out once a week to ensure it’s as clean as possible.
To help keep odours under control between tray changes, you can use a litter freshener. These products are designed to neutralise smells and create a more pleasant environment for your kitten. The Felight Cat Litter Freshener or Bob Martin Cat Litter Freshener can be easily applied and will leave the litter area smelling fresher. With different scents available, you can find a solution that won’t overwhelm your kitten’s sensitive nose.
Gradually Introduce the Tray
When you bring your kitten home, show them the litter tray and gently place them in it throughout the day. They’re most likely to need the toilet after naps and eating or drinking, so encourage them to go to the litter area at these times. It’s important to be patient and consistent, as this will help your kitten learn what they need to do. You can praise them when they use the litter box correctly with a treat, but never punish them if they have an accident. This can make your kitten stressed and even result in them becoming scared of the litter tray.
Getting Your Kitten Comfortable with the Litter Tray
Ultimately, with a bit of patience and the right products, your kitten will be comfortable with the litter tray in no time. Getting them used to going to the toilet in the correct place doesn’t need to be difficult. By creating a safe environment, choosing the right litter and keeping the area clean, you can make the whole experience easier and more pleasant for your new four-legged family member. Don’t forget, a sprinkle of litter freshener can be beneficial for everyone too.
If you're looking for tried and tested cat litter options, be sure to explore the range we have available at Favour. We stock a variety of cat accessories and can supply you with everything you need to support your kitten’s healthy habits from day one. With decades of experience and a focus on quality, you can purchase from us in confidence knowing you won’t be disappointed with the products you receive. Our knowledgeable team will be happy to help you find the right solutions for your kitten too, so don’t hesitate to get in touch today.