| New Zealand's Nature & Science Discovery Centre |
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| Firstly, make sure the litter box is always clean - a 'used' litter box is quite abhorrent to many cats! Wash the whole box out thorougly on a regular basis even when liners are used. For multi cat households and apartments, use a layer of newspaper underneath and a sprinkle of cat litter on top - this is easier for frequent changes. Multiple cats often means that more than one litterbox will be necessary. Try a different type of litter - many cats don't like bark litter for example and prefer pumice based litters. Don't move the litter tray about - it should always be in the same space. Try a hooded litter tray - more privacy for your cat and less odours for you. Shut your cat in the room with the litter tray after meal times for 30 minutes or so. Place aluminium foil in the area the cat is using - this is a good cat deterrant for bench tops too. Never rub the cats nose in the mess - this is a 'wives tale' and is not only cruel - it doesn't work! Similarly any form of punishement after the event will have absolutely no effect. If you catch the cat 'in the act' then the use of a water pistol is the only effective way of punishing your cat. Cats must never have objects thrown at them or be struck - this will cause internal injuries not to mention a huge vets bill! Praise your cat when it uses the litter tray and reward it with a treat - contrary to popular opinion, cats can be trained. Spraying or marking in the house is a separate issue and usually relates to a need to mark out territory, often as a result of a change in the cat's environment. This can be anything from a new baby, new cat or even a neighbours cat hanging around. |
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