Before you start
- A litter tray (1.5 times your cat’s length is ideal)
- Unscented clumping litter
- A litter scoop and bags
- An enzyme cleaner for accidents
Method 1 Choose the right setup
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Step 1: Pick the tray
Choose a large tray, ideally about 1.5 times your cat’s body length. Kittens and older cats need low sides that are easy to step over.
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Step 2: Choose litter
Most cats prefer fine, unscented, clumping litter. Fill to about 3–5 cm deep. If you change litter type, mix it gradually over a week.
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Step 3: Covered or open?
Many cats prefer open trays, as covered ones can trap smells. If you use a covered tray, keep it very clean.
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Step 4: How many trays
Have one tray per cat plus one extra, in different locations, especially in multi-cat homes.
Method 2 Put the tray in the right place
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Step 1: Quiet and private
Choose a quiet spot away from busy doorways, noisy washing machines and other pets.
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Step 2: Away from food and water
Cats don’t like to toilet near where they eat.
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Step 3: Easy to reach
Make sure your cat can reach a tray easily, including on each floor of a multi-level home. Don’t move trays once your cat is using them.
Method 3 Teach your cat to use it
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Step 1: Show them the tray
When your cat or kitten arrives, gently place them in the tray so they can sniff and scratch the litter.
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Step 2: Use good timing
Place kittens in the tray after waking, eating and playing, and whenever they sniff and circle.
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Step 3: Keep them close at first
Keep a new kitten in one room with the tray for the first few days, then gradually give access to the rest of the house.
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Step 4: Reward quietly
Praise gently when they use the tray. Never punish accidents or rub their nose in it; it makes them fear toileting in front of you.
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Step 5: Clean accidents properly
Use an enzyme cleaner, not ammonia-based cleaners, which smell like urine and attract cats back.
Method 4 Keep it clean
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Step 1: Scoop daily
Remove clumps and poo at least once a day, ideally twice.
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Step 2: Change the litter
Empty all litter, wash the tray with warm water and mild unscented soap, and refill every 1–2 weeks, or as the litter brand recommends.
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Step 3: Avoid strong smells
Don’t use scented litter, air fresheners near the tray, or strong disinfectants.
Troubleshooting
My cat stopped using the litter tray
See a vet first to rule out urinary problems, constipation or pain. Then check for stress, a dirty tray, a changed litter, a new location, or conflict with other cats.
My cat pees just outside the tray
The tray may be too small, the sides too high, or the litter too shallow. Try a bigger, lower tray.
My cat poos next to the tray
Some cats prefer separate trays for urine and faeces. Add another tray nearby.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to litter train a kitten?
Often just a few days, as mother cats teach kittens the basics. Older rescue cats may need a little longer.
Can I put the litter tray in the bathroom?
Yes, if it’s quiet and always accessible, and the door can’t close your cat out.
Is clay or natural litter better?
Both work. Natural litters (wood, paper, corn) are lighter and biodegradable; choose what your cat prefers.
Summary
Provide one large, uncovered tray per cat plus one, with unscented clumping litter, in quiet places away from food. Show your cat the tray, place kittens in it at key times, scoop daily and never punish accidents. If your cat stops using it or strains to urinate, see a vet.
