Cat CareMay 31, 2026
Litter Box Training Guide
Most cats arrive already litter trained. Here's how to set them up for success and troubleshoot accidents.
The golden rules
Most cats use a litter box instinctively. Accidents are almost always a setup problem, not a behavior problem.
Setup
- One box per cat, plus one extra. Two cats = three boxes.
- Use unscented, clumping litter (most cats prefer it)
- Keep the box in a quiet, low-traffic spot — never next to the food bowl
- Scoop daily, deep-clean weekly
Box style
- Large enough that your cat can fully turn around
- Low-sided for kittens and seniors
- Avoid covered boxes if your cat is new or shy — they trap odors
Accidents?
- Rule out medical issues first (UTIs are common)
- Add another box
- Try a different litter texture
- Clean accidents with an enzyme cleaner so the smell is fully gone
