Adult cats can be trained to use the litter box. We know it’s much easier if it’s a normal litter box. But what about an automatic litter box? 

In this blog post, we are going to walk you through ways about how to litter train an adult cat through 3 steps: picking the right place, using a transition method, and keeping it clean. 

Understanding your cat’s behavior

Before your furry friend can use the litter box, especially if it is an automatic litter box, you have to understand your cat’s behavior. 

Cat’s are independent so don’t try to force them to use the automatic litter box, it won’t work.

So, what can you do? For starters, you can watch your cat when they are around the litter box. They may walk beside it or sniff the litter. In this step, don’t ever pick your cat and put it in the self cleaning litter box. It won’t work.

Instead, leave your cat until it enters the litter box by itself. Use positive reinforcement by giving treats to your feline friend for going inside the automatic litter box.

Self cleaning litter box placement

Placement of an automatic litter box matters a lot so you can get your cat to use it easily.

3 placement criteria

• Quiet place: It’s best to place the litter box away from noises so that your pet doesn't feel startled.
• Ease of access: Make sure that the litter box is put in an area without obstacles to make it easier for your cat to use it.
• Not too hidden: Place the litter box in a place that your cat can see it so your furry friend knows where it is.

Other tips include avoid putting in a new place because your furry friend might get confused. Instead, leave it in the place that your cat is familiar with which will make it easy for your pet to use without getting confused.

Related article: The Best Cat Litter Automatic Cleaner

How to Litter Train An Adult Cat Step by Step

Step 1: Placement

The first step on how to train an adult cat is to place the automatic litter box next to the old litter box. Don’t activate the self cleaning litter box for at least one week.

Just work on getting the cat to check out the auto litter box so your pet can get used to it without feeling afraid.

Don’t remove the old litter box yet because your cat may be taking a longer time to use the new cat litter box.

Slowly, your furry friend will start to sniff and go inside the self cleaning litter box for a short time.

Step 2: Transition

You can ease the transition by getting some of the litter from the old litter box and putting it in the auto litter box.

This way your feline friend will know that this is his scent and feel comfortable to adjust to the new cat litter box.

Gradually, when your cat gets familiar with the new cat litter box, you can reduce the amount of litter from the old litter box.

Step 3: Cleanliness 

Always keep the self cleaning litter box clean by checking when the waste in the drawer needs to be removed. Don’t forget to wipe the inside of the litter box weekly.

By cleaning regularly, your furry friend will go inside the litter box and accidents won’t happen on your house’s floor. This is a very important step in how to litter train an adult cat.

Conclusion

Any cat can be litter trained , including adult cats. All you need is to stay patient and don’t startle your pet by rushing through the training process.

You can also use positive reinforcement after every action your cat takes to get used to the litter box; it can be catnip or even a favorite treat.