Most people considering adopting a kitten are nervous about the prospect of potty training it. Anyone who has owned a dog knows how difficult potty training can be, and unfortunately these people mistakenly assume that potty training a kitten is just as hard. Unlike dogs, kittens are naturally inclined to use the bathroom in a litter box if they cannot go outside. Though accidents do sometimes occur, learning the best way to potty train a kitten will reduce the number of messes you have to deal with during the litter-box training stage.
Invest in Multiple Boxes
If you have more than one kitten, or are planning to let your kitten have the run of the house right away, invest in multiple boxes. One of the primary reasons new kittens have accidents is that they simply can't find the litter box in time. Having two or three litter-boxes in easy to access locations will ensure that your kitten always has a box close when they need to use the bathroom. Remember; once you have placed these litter boxes in your home don't move them. Your kitten or kittens will get confused if they go to a place associated with a litter-box only to find an empty space.
Don't Use Scents
New cat owners are often attracted to scented kitty litter. What better way to deal with a box than mask the smell right? However, even if you think scented kitty litter is the best way to deal with multiple boxes your kittens won't agree. Strong fragrances will actually repel a kitten and make them avoid the litter box. When they smell an odor that they don't associate with "bathroom" they will assume the litter box is for something else now, and will start using the bathroom in other parts of the house.
Clean the Litter Boxes
When you are trying to potty train a kitten, you must keep the litter boxes extremely clean. While older cats may tolerate a box that is less than fresh, a kitten will not be so forgiving. Your kitten does not want to stand, or walk, in their own urine or feces. If you let the litter-box get dirty, the kitten will not use it. If you want to avoid accidents, and bad odors, keep the boxes in your home spotless. Even though you might not like cleaning the boxes, chances are you will like scrubbing kitten urine out of your carpet even less.
Owning a kitten is a fun experience that your entire family will enjoy. However, potty training your kitten is an important responsibility and you must do your part to make sure your kitten has a clean, safe, place to use the bathroom.
