Training an outdoor cat to use a litter box can seem daunting, but with patience and consistency, it is possible. Outdoor cats are often not accustomed to eliminating in one spot indoors, so litter box training requires helping them establish a new routine. With the right techniques and commitment, an outdoor cat can learn to successfully use a litter box.
Why Litter Box Train an Outdoor Cat
There are several good reasons to litter box train even a primarily outdoor cat:
- It allows the cat to eliminate inside on days when going outside isn’t possible, such as during bad weather or when you need to confine them indoors for a period of time. This prevents “accidents” around the house.
- It provides an indoor bathroom area for elderly or sick cats who can no longer comfortably go outside.
- It keeps unwanted cat urine and feces off your property and out of neighbor’s yards.
- Indoor elimination helps monitor your cat’s health by allowing you to check urine and stool.
- Litter box use makes it easier to transition a former outdoor-only cat to being mostly an indoor pet.
With patience and persistence, you can train even the most stubborn outdoor cat to use the litter box.
Choosing the Right Litter Box
Picking the perfect litter box for your outdoor cat is an important first step in training. Consider the following factors:
Location
- Place it in a spot that’s easily accessed by your cat but out of high traffic areas. Some good places are a laundry room, spare bathroom, or corner of the garage.
- Don’t place it near the food and water bowls, as cats don’t like to eliminate close to where they eat.
- Make sure your outdoor cat can access it without having to go near dogs or small children that might startle them.
Box Type
- Use an uncovered box without a hood or flaps. Outdoor cats are accustomed to open spaces and may resist going in a covered box.
- Get a large box – bigger than you think you need. Outdoor cats are used to eliminating in open areas.
- Try a plastic storage container or cement mixing tray rather than a traditional small litter box.
Litter Preferences
- Use plain, unscented clumping litter. Avoid scented litters, as this may deter outdoor cats who are used to natural scents.
- Try different litters if your cat doesn’t take to clay. Soil, sand, or pine pellets can mimic natural surfaces.
- Put 2-3 inches of litter in the box. Outdoor cats like to dig and bury.
Beginning Litter Box Introduction
Once you have the perfect litter box set up, begin introducing your outdoor cat to it:
- Confine your cat in a small room with food, water, bed, toys and the litter box. Spend time in the room with praise and treats when they use the box.
- Place their regular “bathroom area” outdoors off-limits by covering with chicken wire or a lawn ornament. This encourages using the indoor box.
- If accidents occur, clean with an enzymatic cleaner to remove odors that might draw them back to that spot. Don’t punish them.
- Try putting a little bit of soil or leaves from their outdoor bathroom area in the litter to help them make the connection.
- Be patient! It can take weeks or months for an outdoor cat to develop this new habit. Consistency is key.
Troubleshooting Outdoor Cat Litter Box Problems
If your outdoor cat just doesn’t want to use the litter box, try these troubleshooting tips:
Cat won’t use covered litter box:
- Take the hood off and let them use an open box instead.
Cat urinates right outside box:
- Try putting a bigger litter box in that spot or use two boxes side-by-side.
Cat has accidents in other spots:
- Thoroughly clean those areas with enzymatic cleaner and restrict access if possible. Never punish them!
Cat goes when confined, but not otherwise:
- Increase confinement time gradually so they get used to using the indoor box.
Cat goes outdoors but not in litter box:
- Experiment with different litters and box types. Try mixing in soil from their outdoor bathroom area.
Cat stopped using litter box suddenly:
- Take them to the vet for a checkup to rule out health issues.
With time, patience and tracking their bathroom habits, you should be able to identify triggers and find the right training approach to get even stubborn outdoor cats using the litter box.
Maintaining Litter Box Habits
Once your outdoor cat is successfully using the litter box:
- Scoop it at least once a day to keep it clean. Outdoor cats won’t use a dirty box.
- Empty litter and wash box weekly. Use soap and hot water.
- Don’t move the litter box unless absolutely necessary. Consistency with location is important.
- If you need to move it, place the cat in the new location repeatedly for short periods until they re-learn.
- Make sure small children give them privacy and don’t crowd them while using it.
- Keep the type of litter consistent. Only introduce new litters gradually.
- Monitor their bathroom habits and watch for changes that could indicate health issues.
Proper maintenance and monitoring will help keep your outdoor cat happily using their litter box for years to come!
Outdoor Cat Litter Box Training FAQs
Still have questions about training outdoor cats on the litter box? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How long does it take to litter box train an outdoor cat?
It usually takes between 2 weeks and 2 months for an outdoor cat to develop consistent litter box habits. Have patience and stay consistent.
What if my outdoor cat stops using the litter box?
If they were previously consistent then suddenly stop, get them checked for a urinary tract infection or other health issues. Also ensure the box is kept clean.
Should I punish my cat for accidents?
No, punishment will just make them fearful. Instead, thoroughly clean accident spots and confine them more until consistent habits develop.
How often should I scoop the litter box?
For an outdoor cat used to eliminating in open spaces, scoop solids at least once per day and change all litter weekly.
Can I train an older outdoor cat to use a litter box?
Yes, you can litter box train cats at any age. Since they are creatures of habit, the older they are the longer it may take. But hang in there!
What if my cat goes right next to the litter box?
Try a bigger litter box or place a second box side-by-side. Outdoor cats like a large, open elimination area. Keep it clean.
Why does my cat sit in the litter box without going?
Sitting but not going, especially straining, could indicate a urinary blockage or infection. Get them checked by your vet promptly.
Conclusion
While it takes time and persistence, litter box training for outdoor cats is absolutely achievable. The key is picking the right location and litter box type for their preferences. Give your cat plenty of time to form the new habit while preventing access to their old bathroom spots outdoors. Be patient and consistent, try different troubleshooting tips if they are resistant, and maintain cleanliness once they are successfully going in the box. With the right training techniques, even the most stubborn outdoor cat can transition to appropriate indoor litter box use. The effort is well worth it for the benefits to their health and your home.