How to Litter Train a Kitten Step-by-Step

A new kitten brings a whirlwind of changes into your home. Your young feline friend is learning, adapting, and growing in their new environment, not to mention getting in tune with their natural instincts. Many cat owners find that kittens take quickly to using a litter box due to these instincts, but it's also perfectly normal if your pet needs some extra help along the way. Whether you are a new or seasoned cat owner, learning how to litter train a kitten properly may come in handy. Read on for tips and what to expect from your new best friend.

When should you start training a kitten to use a litter box?

Kittens are learning about their new home, discovering new items, and busy being adorable kittens! But this is also a crucial time in their development, when they'll learn what is and isn't expected of them in the household. Make sure you're setting them up for success by kitten-proofing your home and interacting with your growing feline. This should begin the moment you welcome your kitten into the family — it's never too early to start with bonding and training.

According to Dr. Caroline Wilde, DVM, establishing an early bond between you and your new cat may help with training success.

"Litter training should begin as soon as you bring your kitten home,” says Wilde. " Naturally, it might take some time for your kitten to understand the process."

How to litter train a kitten in 4 steps

Litter training your new kitten may take time. Wilde breaks down exactly how to litter train a kitten for a seamless experience:

1. Take your kitten to the litter box as soon as you bring them home. Give your pet time to walk around and sniff it. Try placing them inside it (but don't expect them to use it just yet — they may not need to go). Try not to change the location of the litter box once you have established with your cat where it is.
2. Make sure you have enough litter boxes. The number of litter boxes in the house should ideally equal the number of cats plus one. If you have one kitten, there should be two litter boxes to give them some variety and help prevent accidents.
3. Place your kitten in the litter box after a meal or whenever they show signs of needing to go. Not sure if your kitten needs the bathroom? Signs include sniffing, scratching at the floor, or posturing as if they are about to go.
4. Always use positive reinforcement rather than negative reinforcement. Try rewards for going in the correct place with praise and treats, but never punish them for accidents.

Litter box training tips

Training a kitten takes time and patience. It’s helpful to have systems in place while also remaining flexible. Be sure to scoop the litter box daily and try out different locations for litter boxes.

"Try different shapes, sizes, and covered vs. uncovered litter boxes," suggests Wilde.

When it comes to marking behavior, spaying and/or neutering your kitten might have an impact on your cat’s behavior later on.

What if my kitten won’t use the litter box?

Accidents may happen with a new kitten in your home. Without a doubt, learning how to litter train a kitten is a step-by-step process that takes time. Because of this, it is important to notate any behaviors your new feline friend is exhibiting. Wilde breaks down some key factors to consider when you are litter training.

“If your kitten isn’t using the litter box, I would first try different litters or litter boxes, because cats of any age can be finicky regarding their restroom. Also, I would recommend trying different locations. Sometimes they have preferences as to the physical location, and sometimes they prefer a location with more privacy. In addition, if a kitten is repeatedly going in the same place, perhaps move the litter box to that location. Further, if there’s a sudden change in litter box habits, consult your veterinarian as that can be an indication of a serious medical issue.”

If you have any concerns about how to litter train a kitten, seek the medical expertise of your veterinarian. They can recommend the best course of action and advise a treatment plan personalized to your furry friend’s needs.

If you haven't already done so, kittenhood is also the best time to protect your pet with cat insurance!

Be patient with your new kitten

The ins and outs of litter training a kitten may be a different experience with each cat you bring home. Expect your kitten to adapt to litter training at their own pace, regardless of breed, size, or age. Never react with anger to any accidents outside of the box — if you catch your cat posturing somewhere they shouldn't, simply pick them up gently and put them in the box. With time and patience, your kitty will learn the way.

Litter box training is just one aspect of helping your kitten thrive though. Make sure you have everything you need for your new pet with this kitten supplies checklist.