For pet owners one of the hardest parts of taking care of a pet is the potty training. Fortunately, for those with cats it tends to be really easy. It is in a cat’s nature to dig. So having a box filled with digging material makes it almost natural to use the bathroom there.
There are lots of different choices in boxes to use, but it is recommended that you get an extra-large box with one lower side so that a kitten can get in and out easily. Place the box where you cat is less likely to be disturbed as cats are finicky about their privacy. At about four weeks you should be able to start teaching your kitten to use the litter box.
Start by putting them in the box after they wake up, or eat since these tend to be the most likely times they will go. If they succeed in using the box then pet them, praise them, and give them love so they can recognize that you approve.
Photo by Tracie Hall
If your kitten has an accident do not treat them as you would a dog. Rubbing their nose in the mess, or showing it to them as you fuss at them will do nothing other than have them looking for a more secret place to do it. Instead, try simply picking them up and putting them in the litter box. This works best if they just had the accident. Make sure not to fuss as you do this or they could associate the box with the fussing.
Within a week, probably less, you will have a litter-trained kitten, and you should have no fear of leaving them home alone for any length of time! Be sure to scoop your litter daily, and clean your box weekly. Your cat (and your nose) will thank you!