Read time: 1.5 mins
Cats are some of the tidiest, cleanest housemates you’ll ever have. They have a strong instinct to tidy up after themselves in the toilet, flinging those little rocks around like there’s no tomorrow, so toilet training shouldn’t prove too tricky. But is it trickier if your cat is already used to the outdoors and doing their business in the big wide world? Circumstances can change and you might suddenly need to keep your cat indoors, whether that’s down to a house move or an operation or illness, can you train your outdoor cat to use the litter tray?
The short answer is yes, and here’s how!
Find them a safe space:
- Start by placing the litter tray in a safe spot, somewhere secluded where your cat can pee in private. If your cat is accustomed to the outdoors, maybe start big with more of a sandpit-style set-up to get your cat used to the idea of going indoors.
Pick the right litter:
- Choose your litter wisely. Scented litter is appealing to us humans to cover up lingering pongs, but these scents can be a little overwhelming for the felines. Opt for an unscented, more natural style of litter that will make the new toilet as close to the outdoor option as possible. Finding the right fit for them could be a case of trial and error, even down to their preferred depth!
Patience:
- Patience is key, so try not to get frustrated if your outdoor adventurer gets it wrong. Remember it’s all new to them and goes against their natural instincts, so take your time and use plenty of positive reinforcement when they get it right. Cuddles and treats are the way to go, and they’ll soon put two and two together for their number two’s!
Don’t clean it straight away:
- Although cats adore a clean tray, whilst you’re getting them used to their new space leaving their ‘drop offs’ in the tray when they get it right at first will help them to remember where they need to go next time! Once they connect the dots and make a return visit, then go right ahead and scoop after plenty of praise.
… But clean up accidents:
- Keep litter trays well away from where your pampered puss eats and drinks and be sure to clean up any accidents with pet-specific cleaners to really get rid of the scent. Cats can be prone to re-offend in the same spots, so this will help to destroy any old odours and encourage them back to the box.
It won’t be a walk in the park but persevere and your cat will soon make the connection that using the box rocks, there’s no need to get their paws cold for any future toilet trips!
