Cat Sandbox Training
House cats generally become accustomed to using sand boxes, or litter boxes, at a young age. Because most house cats tend to instinctively use them, sand box training is usually a relatively easy task. Some cats, however, are more resistant to using their sand boxes. Elimination problems are one of the most common reasons for cats to be given up to shelters by their owners. For this reason, it is important to know how to properly train cats to use their sand boxes before any problems arise.
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Instructions
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Place your cat's sand box in a quiet location of your home, in an area away from the cat's food. You should have one sand box per cat, plus one more. If your home has multiple levels, place one sand box per cat on each level.
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Keep fresh litter in the sand box at all times. Many times, cats do not use their boxes simply because they have not been cleaned. Scoop the box daily, and replace the litter once every week. Wash the box in the sink with soap and water each time you change the litter.
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Bring your cat to the sand box several times throughout the day to encourage the cat to use the box. Gently push your cat's paws into the litter to encourage the cat to explore and scratch at the litter. This increases a cat's desire to use the box because such behavior is often observed in cats before they relieve themselves.
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Allow your cat privacy when using the sand box. Cats often feel insecure and exposed when using their boxes. They tend to feel much more comfortable when left alone.
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Present your cat with a treat and offer praise every time it has successfully used the sand box. This type of praise teaches cats that using their box is a good thing, and encourages them to continue using their box.
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Tips & Warnings
Some of the best times of the day to bring your cat to the sand box are first thing in the morning, after playing, after napping and after meals. These are the times that your cat is most likely to feel the urge to use the box.
Use an enzyme cleaner to clean up any accidents your cat has on the floor. This type of cleaner removes all traces of the cat's scent, discouraging the cat from going in the same spot again.
If your cat suddenly stops using the sand box, you should consider taking the cat to a veterinarian to rule out any health conditions that may have caused the problem. Some medical problems that may cause cats to suddenly start having accidents include urinary tract infections and intestinal parasites.
Xmission.com offers some helpful advice on choosing the best litter for your cat's box.
Because of the risk of toxoplasmosis, which is a parasitic infection that causes flu-like symptoms, pregnant women should never clean out cat litter boxes.
