Litter box basics for cats

Cats are naturally clean and like to bury their waste, so most will use a comfortable, clean litter box with almost no training. When there's a problem, the box itself or where it stands is usually the cause.

How many boxes?

• The usual rule: one box per cat, plus one. Two cats, three boxes.
• If your home has two floors, put a box on each.

Size and type

• About one and a half times your cat's length, so it can turn around easily.
• Many cats prefer an open box to a covered one, which traps smells inside. Try both and see.
• Kittens and older cats need a low edge to step over.

Where to put it

• Somewhere quiet that your cat can always reach.
• Away from food and water.
• Not next to the washing machine or anything that makes sudden loud noises.
• Don't move it often. If you must, move it a little at a time.

Which litter?

• Clumping clay forms clumps that are easy to scoop. The most common choice.
• Silica crystals absorb well and cut smells.
• Natural litters (wood, tofu) are lighter and kinder to the environment.
• Many cats prefer unscented litter. Fill it about 5 cm deep.
• To change type, mix the new litter into the old gradually.

Cleaning

• Scoop every day, ideally twice.
• Empty it, wash it with water and mild soap and refill it every week or two.
• Avoid strong-smelling cleaners, which can put your cat off the box.

If your cat goes outside the box

Ask yourself first:

• Is the box clean enough?
• Did you change the litter, the box or its place?
• Is something new at home: guests, a new pet, a move, loud noise?
• Is another cat bothering it at the box?

Go back to what worked, and clean accidents with an enzyme cleaner so the smell doesn't draw your cat back. Never punish: it adds stress and makes things worse.