Ahh, cats. Those sweet and delicate creatures that bless us with their furry cuteness and affection. Yeah, right. Cats are one of the most beloved pets in society today, but it certainly is not for their overt sense of affection. Rather, it is because, for the most part, cats are very self-sufficient. And it is this ability to look after themselves that makes them so desirable. Typically, their self-reliance training also includes the basics of cat potty training.



As a general rule, the majority of cat potty training is taken care of by the mother cat before the kittens are even weaned. However, once in a while we find ourselves faced with a sweet little creature that hasn't got a clue where to go. Literally. In these cases, it is necessary to teach cat potty training by oneself. This isn't a difficult process, and can generally be accomplished in just a few days.

Step One - The Box

If you have to start cat potty training on your own, the first thing you will have to do is to choose the right box. For kittens, a box with a low lip is preferred. This is so that the kittens have an easier time getting in and out. Buy a box with too high a lip, and you may find that your new friend goes on the floor just out of sheer frustration.

Older cat potty training will not require you to get such a low-lipped box. In fact, many older cats prefer a higher-lipped box, so that they can get a sense of privacy. Older cats may also prefer litter boxes that are enclosed. These enclosed boxes are relatively easy to find, and their covers snap on and off for easy cleaning.

Step Two - The Sand

The type of sand you purchase for cat potty training is entirely up to you. There are only two types to choose from - clumping and original. Both work fine, but the clumping style of litter is much easier to clean.

Once you have filled your cat's litter box about a third of the way full with sand, you will need to show him or her what to do. Not literally, of course, but by placing your kitten or older cat into the litter box immediately after they have finished eating. This is typically when kittens will need to eliminate, and so is the best time to place them in the box.

Cat potty training is a relatively simple process. Once you have shown your new friend a time or two where he or she is supposed to toilet, you will generally find they are quite willing to continue without any additional instruction. If your older cat continues to eliminate elsewhere, you may want to take them to see a vet, as it could be a sign of something more serious.