Congratulations! You’ve adopted a kitten, and she’s the cutest thing you’ve ever seen. But now comes the hard part: teaching her how to use her litterbox, how to use a scratching post and how to avoid the curtains. Don’t worry, though, with a little bit of patience, a positive attitude and some helpful tips, you’ll have your furbaby behaving like a model citizen in no time.
Litterbox success
Litterbox training is a crucial step in ensuring that your kitten understands some ‘bathroom etiquette’. Here are some tips:
- Choose the right litterbox Kittens are small, so make sure the litterbox you choose is small enough for her to climb in and out of easily. You can always upgrade to a bigger litterbox later on.
- Location, location, location Choose the right location in a quiet, low-traffic area that is easily accessible to your kitten and away from her food and water.
- Choose the right litter Kittens can be picky about litter. Experiment with different types of litter until you find one your kitten likes. Avoid scented litter with large granules. Remember to remove the poop daily and replace the litter weekly. Also remember that each cat should have her own litterbox, plus there should be one extra.
- Show and tell To encourage your kitten to use the litterbox, gently place her in it and let her explore. When your kitten successfully uses the litterbox, praise and reward her with a treat. If your kitten has an accident, gently guide her back to the litterbox without scolding her.
Avoid curtain-climbing catastrophes
Kittens are notorious for their love of mischief and their need to explore, and one of their favourite activities is climbing up the curtains. Here are some tips on how you can train your kitten to refrain from turning your curtains into a climbing wall.
- Provide alternatives Give your kitten a suitable outlet for her energy, like a cat tree or scratching post near the curtains. Reward her with treats or toys when she uses them.
- Use deterrents There are many cat deterrents available in pet stores that can help you with the curtain-climbing challenge. Some examples include putting double-sided tape or tin foil on the curtains or spraying a cat-safe repellent on them. These methods will make your kitten associate the curtains with an unpleasant experience and deter her from climbing them.
- Be consistent Consistency is key when it comes to training your kitten. Be patient and persistent with your training methods, and make sure everyone in the household is on the same page.
How to get her to use her scratching post
Scratching is a natural behaviour for cats, but it can be frustrating when your kitten chooses to scratch your furniture. The goal is to teach your kitten to use her scratching post instead. Here are some tips:
- The right scratching post Choose a scratching post that is tall enough for your kitten to stretch out fully and sturdy enough to support her weight. The post should also be covered in a material that your kitten enjoys scratching, like rope or corrugated cardboard.
- Accessible and visible Place the scratching post in a visible and accessible area, preferably near your kitten’s favourite lounging spot. Make sure it’s not hidden away in a corner where she might not notice it.
- Entice Encourage your kitten to use the scratching post by rubbing some catnip on it, or by placing some of her favourite toys on or around it. You can also gently guide your kitten’s paws onto the scratching post and reward her when she starts to scratch.
- Praise and reward Positive reinforcement is the key to any successful training. When your kitten uses her scratching post, give her plenty of praise and maybe even a treat or two. If she scratches the wrong thing, gently guide her to the scratching post.
Your kitten might not take to the scratching post immediately but, with time and encouragement, she will learn to use it.
Bringing a kitten into your home can be an exciting and rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can ensure that your kitten feels comfortable, safe and loved in her new environment. Remember to be patient and consistent, and always provide positive reinforcement. If you put in enough time and effort, your kitten will grow into a happy, well-adjusted cat who brings you joy and companionship for years to come.
