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.

Things You'll Need

  • Cat sand box
  • Fresh litter
  • Litter scoop
  • Liquid soap
  • Sink with faucet
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Instructions

    • 1

      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.

    • 2

      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.

    • 3

      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.

    • 4

      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.

    • 5

      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.