How to teach a kitten to the tray?

If the kitten was taken from the nursery, then it will not be difficult to accustom him to the tray: this skill has already been instilled in him by his mother. It will be enough to ask the breeder for some filler from the tray that the kitten went to in the cattery in order to use it in a new place. Then the animal will quickly understand what is required of it. The situation is much more complicated with kittens that were picked up on the street or taken away from their mother early. 

When to potty train a kitten?

The individuality of the animal and its basic skills are formed in the period from two to seven weeks after birth. This time the owner should use with maximum benefit.

How to train a kitten to go to the tray?

Individual animals understand everything at once, and then no special efforts on the part of the owner are required. But in most cases, it’s not that easy. It is worth preparing in advance for the fact that it will take some time for the kitten to consolidate new good habits.

The first problem that the owner must eliminate is the stress that the pet experiences from moving. Therefore, it is reasonable at first to place it in a small room and put the tray there.

After the kitten has eaten, it must be taken to the tray, after gently massaging the stomach. Over time, the pet will understand what he should do in this place, especially in cats, the urge to relieve themselves is usually observed after eating.

What should be avoided?

If the kitten does his business in the wrong place, do not scold him, because he will conclude that he was punished not for the wrong place, but for the action itself. If this happens, he may begin to defecate secretly, for example, hiding behind a closet. It will be much more effective to just talk to him in a stern voice, but in no case should you beat him and poke him in a puddle with your nose.

What is the right place for the tray?

It is best if it is a secluded corner where no one will disturb the cat. By observing the pet, you can see which places he likes the most. Perhaps one of them is just right for the tray. When the kitten gets used to walking in it, you can begin to gradually move the toilet in the right direction.

If he has chosen a place that does not suit the owner, then you need to thoroughly clean it, eliminate all odors and put a bowl of food and water there. Due to its cleanliness, the cat will not be able to relieve itself next to its own “dining room”.

To draw the attention of the animal to the tray, you can experiment with fillers. After sending the pet to the tray after eating, try to rustle the filler – this may interest the kitten.

But, even if you see rapid progress, do not forget that habits in cats are finally formed only by six months. Therefore, do not be deceived by the good behavior of the pet and do not give him complete freedom in the house.

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11 2017 June

Updated: 7 May 2020