Toilet training cats might seem like a difficult task, but it may be easier than you think. Teaching your cat to eliminate waste in the toilet rather than in the litter box will cut down on the cost of litter, erase the task of cleaning and changing the litter, and eliminate offensive smells associated with cat waste. And after you have trained your cat to use the toilet, all you need to do is remember to flush the toilet regularly.
There are quite a few techniques that can be used to toilet train your cat, as well as products available that can help you in the process. Below is more information on toilet training cats.
Personality and Toilet Training
Your cat's personality will have an effect on his ability to be toilet trained successfully. A sociable cat that enjoys being praised will be easier to train than a shy or reserved cat. Even so, almost any cat can be taught to use the toilet. Depending on the cat's personality, training can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 4 months. Some cats are more willing to learn something new than others, as well.
Steps to Toilet Training Your Cat
Training your cat will take certain steps and procedures. Below are the steps involved in toilet training.
- Gradually begin moving the cat's litter box closer to the toilet. Eventually, the litter box should be next to the toilet. Make sure the cat knows where his litter box is at all times and is comfortable with it.
- Slowly begin raising the litter box, using something non-slippery like cardboard. The litter box should be elevated about 5cm a day, depending on the cat's reaction to the change. Eventually the litter box should be lifted to the level of the toilet. Make sure the lid of the toilet is open and the seat is down, at all times.
- Place the litter box on top of the open toilet seat, until the cat is at ease about the new positioning.
- Purchase a metal tray that will fit inside the toilet bowl, preferably one with draining holes. Stock the bowl with flushable litter, and remove the litter box completely.
- Take note of where your cat positions his paws when he uses the metal tray in the toilet. Ideally, he will use all four paws and squat on the toilet seat. Reward your cat when he is properly using the toilet in the correct position.
- Gradually use less litter in the toilet, and be sure to clean the bowl every time it is used. If you don't, it can get smelly which will make the cat uncomfortable with using it. Flushable litter is very easy to clean and makes the process easier.
- When you don't use any litter in the bowl anymore, slowly begin filling the toilet with water. The water will help with the smell, making the cat more at ease with using it. If your cat stops using the toilet during this time, you may need to move back a few steps, as you are probably moving too fast.
- When the level of the water has reached 4cm and your cat seems to be relaxed with using the toilet, remove the tray from the toilet. Your cat is now toilet trained, and should be using the toilet for all of his eliminations.