How to Use a Litter Box

Cats have a natural instinct to eliminate on dirt or sand, but you may have to experiment with different boxes and litter material to find the best match for your cat.

Things You'll Need

  • Scat Mats
  • Cat Litters
  • Cat Toys
  • Liners
  • Litter Boxes
  • Litter Scoop
  • Newspaper
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Instructions

    • 1

      Provide a litter box large enough for an adult cat to stand and turn around in.

    • 2

      Get a box that is low enough for an aging cat or tiny kitten to climb into, such as a shallow rectangular baking pan.

    • 3

      Try both covered and uncovered litter boxes. Some cats don't like covered boxes.

    • 4

      Place litter boxes in quiet areas.

    • 5

      Provide a litter box for each cat in your household and place them in different areas. Be sure to keep the litter box away from food and water.

    • 6

      Use fine litter that clumps, or try litter material such as wood shavings or newspaper until you find a material your cat likes.

    • 7

      Avoid changing the type of litter material if your cat likes it. If you must make a change, set out a new box containing the new litter material in addition to the old, or gradually mix the new litter in with the old.

    • 8

      Remove waste from litter boxes daily, and remove and replenish litter material weekly.

    • 9

      Have extra litter boxes available for your cat's use if you're unable to change litter material regularly.

    • 10

      Reduce trapped odors by keeping covered boxes extra clean.