How to Train a Cat to Use the Litter Box

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By Lisa Smith
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Train a cat to use the litter box with a few simple steps.

Whether you have a kitten or a full grown cat, you will likely need to train them to use a litter box if you plan to keep them indoors. There are some simple steps you can take to make it easier for them to learn.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Litter box
Litter

Step 1

If your cat has previously urinated on anything in the house, you either need to completely remove it (like a small rug) or clean it with a special urine remover. Otherwise, the cat will continue to urinate in the same spot.
Step 2

Put a litter box full of clean litter in an area that your cat frequents, allows some privacy and is easily accessible. You may need to place a second litter box in another location if you have more than one cat or if you have a large house.
Step 3

If cat doesn't go to the litter box on his/her own, place the cat in the litter box at regular intervals. Upon waking and after eating are typical times that a cat would need to use the box.
Step 4

If your cat starts to urinate or defecate outside of the litter box, immediately pick him/her up and place him/her into the litter box. If it continues happening, you may need to confine your cat to one area until litter box training becomes more successful.
Step 5

Do not punish your cat for accidents - it will have a negative effect on the training process. Instead, provide lots of praise when your cat is successful.