The Top Five Steps to Toilet Train Your Cat
Most cats are easily litter trained, providing that you train them from as early an age as possible. They quickly learn to relieve themselves in the same place whenever they need to. This makes your life a whole lot easier, as you do not always have to rush to let them out.
Then again, with litter trained cats comes a dirty litter box that stinks up your house. Wouldn't it be nice if your cat could use the toilet? Well, did you know there is a way for you to train your feline friend to use the toilet? Sound hard? Well, it's not. Here are the 5 simple steps to toilet training your cat.
1. Litter train with Newspaper
Before you can toilet train your cat, they first need to be litter trained. Ideally you should provide them with a solid box and newspaper to cover up their business. You should not use actual kitty litter as this will not flush down the toilet when it comes time to toilet train the cat. So using newspaper is the best idea.
2. Gradually Move the Litter Tray
It is impossible to jump straight from the litter tray to the toilet. Your cat likes routine and they will go to the toilet in the same place as they always do. If the litter tray is moved too much then they could refuse to use it. They have to feel comfortable and so this means you have to move the litter tray closer to the bathroom in stages. Moving it a little each day will slowly help your cat to get used to going in a slightly different area.
3. Lower the Litter Tray Sides
There is quite a difference between the toilet and the litter tray and your cat will definitely be able to tell the difference! So you need to start trimming down the sides of the litter tray. If you are using a strong cardboard box then this shouldn't be too difficult. However you should obviously be careful if you are using a plastic tray!
Lower the sides of the litter tray down as you move the box. That way once again the cat will be getting used to the new routine gradually.
4. Place the Tray in the Toilet
Now that you have done all the past three steps and the box has gradually made it's way to the toilet. You are now ready to put the box into the toilet. You will do this by tying the box inside of the toilet. Make sure when you tie the box inside the toilet that it is tied tight. If it were to fall in while your cat was using it, it will scare them and they may never come to use it again. Now it's time for a little patience. Leave the box in the toilet until you notice your cat has become completely comfortable with the new situation. When your cat has adjusted then, move on to step five.
5. Cut a Hole in the Tray
The last step is simple. Just cut a hole in the bottom of the box. This is so kitty gets use to the water at the bottom of the toilet, and whatever kitty does will fall into the toilet. After kitty adjusts to this you can remove the box all together, and your cat will be toilet trained, and you a happy cat owner.
Have a cat behavior problem that needs solving? If so, visit http://www.secretsofcats.com today to get expert information on how to train your cat and eliminate cat problems fast.
Published July 28th, 2008
Filed in Home
