How to Litter Train a Stubborn Cat in 5 Simple Steps

Litter training a cat is one of those things people say is “easy,” but then you try it and wonder if you’re doing something wrong.

Some cats get it right away, others not so much. And if you’ve got a stubborn one? Well, brace yourself. But don’t worry, it’s totally doable with a little patience and some trial and error.

Let’s break down how to litter train your stubborn cat in five steps. Trust me, you’ll both get there eventually. You can also watch the video below!

Step 1: Choose the Right Litter Box

Okay, before we even talk about teaching your cat anything, let’s talk about the litter box itself. Cats are like little bathroom critics. They’ll reject the wrong box faster than you can say “litter.”

You need a box that’s the right size and style. Too small, and they’ll feel cramped. Too big, and they might be too lazy to hop in.

Make sure it’s easy for them to get in and out. If you’ve got a kitten, a low-sided box works better for easy access. As they grow, switch to a bigger one that gives them space to move around. And where you place it is crucial.

Don’t shove it in a corner where they’ll feel trapped. Pick a quiet, private spot. Cats like peace when they’re doing their business.

Step 2: Pick the Right Litter

Now, let’s talk about litter. This is where cats are especially picky. They can be drama queens when it comes to their bathroom preferences. Scented litter? Forget it.

They don’t want a floral-scented experience while they’re doing their thing. Stick with unscented, clumping litter. Most cats like that.

If your cat’s still not interested, try experimenting with different types: clumping, non-clumping, or even something made of recycled paper or wood. The trick is to find what your cat likes—so be prepared for a bit of trial and error.

Step 3: Introduce Your Cat to the Litter Box

So now you’ve got the perfect litter box and the right litter. Time to introduce your cat to it. This step is like showing them their new bathroom. Some cats will immediately take to it, while others will act like they’ve been insulted.

Place your cat in the box and let them sniff around. Gently scratch the litter with your fingers to show them what it’s for (yes, you’ll look silly, but it works). Do this multiple times a day, especially after meals or naps when they’re most likely to need to go. The key is to be consistent.

If they don’t seem interested right away, don’t freak out. Give them time. It’s like teaching them a new habit. Some cats need a few tries to understand it.

Step 4: Keep It Clean

This one is huge. Cats are clean freaks. If the litter box isn’t spotless, you can forget about them using it. It doesn’t matter if you have the fanciest box with the best litter—if it smells bad, they won’t use it. So, scoop the box every day. Yes, every day.

A full clean-out once a week is a must, too. Wash the box with mild soap and water. Avoid bleach or strong-smelling cleaners—cats aren’t fans. Keep it fresh, and your cat will be way more likely to use it.

Step 5: Address Accidents Calmly

Accidents happen, especially with stubborn cats. It’s not the end of the world. But how you deal with them matters. If your cat pees outside the box, don’t get mad. That won’t help anyone.

Cats can’t connect the dots between their accident and your anger. Instead, clean it up with an enzymatic cleaner that removes the smell completely. Otherwise, they might just keep going back to the same spot.

If your cat keeps having accidents, they might be stressed, or there could be a health issue. A vet visit is a good idea to rule out any problems. But usually, it’s just about going back to the basics—reintroducing them to the litter box and making sure it’s a clean, comfortable space.

FAQ: Litter Training a Stubborn Cat

1. How long will it take to litter train my cat?

Some cats catch on right away, while others need a little more time. It could take a couple of days, a week, or maybe even longer. Patience is key here. Don’t rush it, and they’ll eventually get it.

2. What if my cat refuses to use the litter box?

If your cat’s stubbornly refusing, check the basics: the box size, litter type, and cleanliness. Also, check where it’s placed. Cats won’t use a box if it feels too cramped or too exposed.

3. What if I have multiple cats?

With multiple cats, you need multiple litter boxes. One box per cat, plus one extra. Cats can be territorial and won’t want to share their bathroom with other cats. Spread the boxes out, too, so they have options.

4. Can I use a covered litter box?

You can, but not all cats like them. Start with an uncovered box and see if your cat’s comfortable with it. If not, try a covered one, but make sure there’s enough space for them to feel comfortable.

5. What if my cat keeps peeing outside the box?

If your cat’s peeing outside the box, you might want to check for health issues like urinary tract infections. Stress, a dirty box, or too many changes in the environment can also be factors. Check everything, and if the problem continues, consult your vet.

6. How do I stop my cat from using inappropriate spots?

Make sure to clean any accident spots thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner. If they keep going back to the same spot, try putting the litter box there temporarily, or use a deterrent like double-sided tape.

7. How can I encourage my cat to keep using the box?

Keep the litter box clean, in a quiet spot, and filled with litter they like. Praise them when they use it—and yes, treats work. If they get positive reinforcement, they’ll be more likely to use it.

Final Thoughts

Litter training a stubborn cat isn’t an impossible task, but it does take time and patience. It’s all about finding what works for your cat—the right box, the right litter, and the right environment. Stay calm and consistent, and soon enough, your cat will be happily using the litter box without a second thought.

And if accidents happen, don’t panic. It’s all part of the learning process. Remember, your cat is trying—sometimes, they just need a little nudge in the right direction. Stick with it, and soon you’ll have a litter-trained kitty that’s proud of their bathroom habits. 😊