How Many Litterboxes Do I Need?

Multiple cats need multiple boxes in multiple locations

Your new kitty is home, getting along (or at least tolerating) the dog or other cats, and things seem to be going smoothly. However, you may notice some litterbox aversion when introducing a change as big as a new pet. There are several ways to help remedy this, and the first question we ask is "How many litterboxes do you have?"
Take the number of cats you have. Add 1 to that number, and that is your magic litterbox number. Those litterboxes should not all be in one spot; they should be spread all throughout your house. The kitties in the above picture are members of a 3-cat household, and there are 4 litterboxes in the house - in the hallway, in the den, and 2 separate spots in the kitchen.
It seems like so many litterboxes! A lot of people don't want so many because they believe it will make their house stink. Well, litterboxes must be scooped EVERY DAY. No exceptions, no excuses, it's hands-down the healthiest thing for your cats. If you do it every day, they won't smell. Also, as soon as it smells, scoop - even if you already scooped today. If your cats will go in one, you can buy a litterbox disguised as a cabinet, a washroom bench, or a planter to name a few.
The type of litter you use is part of personal preference. Some cats prefer some litters over others. Probably the best way to find out is to purchase a few different types of litter, and try one in each box, and see which one your cats prefer. Flushable, biodegradable litter may be something for which we as owners strive, but if your cats won't use it, and go outside the box instead, is it really worth it? Ask yourself "Which one does my cat prefer?" and stick with that choice. It will bring the most harmony to the litterbox situation.

Toilet Training your Cat Takes Patience

If you have a cat, chances are you've heard that it's possible to train them to eliminate waste in the toilet. It's certainly every cat owner's dream, isn't it? Ahh, to be free of the weights of the litter scoop and bag, and only have to remember to flush more frequently. Keep in mind:

• It will take time and patience, because standard cat behavior is to be upset when there is a change.
• If you have a second bathroom, it is best to devote that one bathroom to training the cat until the task is done.
• Kittens are messy. Be extra patient with them.
• It IS POSSIBLE to train a cat!

Step 1. Move the litterbox toward and into the bathroom. If you are introducing either an older cat or a kitten to going in the bathroom, you should start off with litter of some kind. The litterbox starts outside the bathroom, and every 3 days, move it 4 inches closer to the toilet. Once it is against the base of the toilet, you can move on.
Step 2. Raise the litterbox. Place some newspapers, a telephone book or a very low cardboard box under the litterbox, raising it about 2 inches. Three days later, raise it another 2 inches. Keep doing this until the litterbox is level with the toilet. Once it is at that height, leave it for a few days and move on.
Step 3. Shift the box from the raised support to on top of the toilet seat. Just as you moved the box into the bathroom very slowly, move it over to the top of the lid very slowly.
Support it the best way you can, with boxes or other things placed next to it to steady it, or you can even use duct tape to secure it. Just make sure it does not shift, or Kitty will feel insecure and won't go in the raised box.
Step 4. Get a special litter pan specifically for toilet training cats. Some of the most notable training pans are CitiKitty and Litter Kwitter. They employ special plastic rings that hold litter, and eventually the rings get smaller, training the cat to balance on the toilet seat. Litter Kwitter even has a system for training MULTIPLE cats (which is definitely something I would need in my house).
If you and your cat are having a hard time, go back a step or two. The cat will be more likely to absorb its training if you move slowly. Also, make sure other cats are not bothering them when they go to the bathroom, because that can be a major factor when we see inappropriate urination. Give us a call if you need anything!