So, you’ve got a new kitty. Congratulations! A key part of ensuring your cat has a happy, healthy life is providing them with a litter box and keeping it clean.
There are some basic do’s and don’ts when it comes to litter boxes that all cat owners should know. In this post, we’ll outline the most important ones so you can keep your cat’s litter box area clean and sanitary
Why It's Important To Maintain Your Cats Litter Box
It's important to maintain your cat's litter box not just because it's their designated bathroom, but also because it can help keep them healthy.
Here are just a few of the many reasons why it's important to keep your cats litter box clean:
- A clean litter box is less likely to cause your cat to become sick.
- A dirty litter box can cause unpleasant smells that may make your cat reluctant to use it.
- An unclean litter box can become a breeding ground for bacteria and parasites.
Clumping cat litter makes it easy to remove solid waste, preventing it from sticking to the sides of the box and making clean-up quick and easy.
Do’s
Keep The Litter Tray Clean
The litter box should be scooped at least once a day, and more often if there are more than one cat using the box.
Urine and feces can cause smells and attract pests, so it's important to keep the litter box clean. Not only is it unhygienic for your cat, but it can also be dangerous if left unchecked.
Choose The Right Cat Litter
When it comes to cat litter, there are a few things to consider. The most important factor is to choose a litter that is absorbent and controls odours.
Second, you'll want to think about the type of litter box you're using and whether it's big enough for your cat. If you have a large cat, be sure to get a litter box that is big enough for them to fit in comfortably.
Finally, you'll want to choose a litter that is affordable and easy to maintain. Minx Litter is both absorbent and controls odours, making it the perfect choice for cat owners.
Find The Right Place For Your Litter Box
One of the most important things to keep in mind when setting up your litter box is finding the right place for it. You'll want to make sure it's in a spot where your cat feels comfortable and can easily get to it.
If you have a particularly private cat, try placing the litter box in a corner or behind a piece of furniture. If your cat is more open, you can place it in an open area. Just make sure to avoid putting it near the kitchen or bathroom, as these are two places where your cat is likely to smell bad smells and get turned off from using the litter box.
Respond To Problems Quickly
If you're having problems with your cat litter, it's important to address them as quickly as possible. This means checking the litter on a daily basis and responding to any issues right away.
If you're using clumping cat litter and it's not clumping properly, it could be because the litter is too wet. In this case, add more of the litter to your box to help soak up the moisture. If it's still not clumping properly, you may need to switch to a different type of litter.
If your cat is peeing outside of the litter box, it's likely because the litter box isn't clean enough. In this case, thoroughly clean the box using hot water and soap and make sure to dry it completely before putting fresh litter in. You may also need to replace the litter altogether if it's been soiled for an extended period of time.
Reward Good Behaviour
Cats are typically very clean animals, and will instinctively try to bury their waste in order to keep their living space clean. This is why it's so important to have a litter box for your cat to use - it makes things easier for them and helps keep your home smelling fresh.
One way to encourage your cat to use the litter box is to reward them for good behaviour. You can do this by providing them with a comfortable, spacious litterbox and filling it with high-quality litter like Minx Corn Litter.
Don't
Change Cat Litters Brands Frequently
Many cat owners are guilty of constantly switching up their cat's litter box routine. However, this can be detrimental to your cat's health and wellbeing. In fact, it's one of the top reasons why cats develop litter box aversion.
A good rule of thumb is to stick to the same litter for at least 2-3 months. This will give your cat's digestive system time to adjust and get used to the new litter. After a few months, you can start slowly mixing in a new litter brand to see if your cat prefers that one.
Don't Admonish your Cat
It’s key when dealing with a cat litter box, not to admonish your cat for any issues they may have. This can oftentimes lead to more problems and make them anxious about using the litter box in the future.
If you're having trouble with your cat using the litter box, try to remain calm and consult a veterinarian or animal behaviour specialist for help. Cleaning the litter box regularly and keeping it in a quiet, comfortable place is essential for your cat's wellbeing.