7 Simple Steps for Cat Toilet Training

raining a cat to use the toilet may sound out of the box, but it is possible! Cat toilet training not only helps keep your home cleaner, but it also eliminates the need for frequent litter changes. With patience and consistency, you can teach your feline friend to use the toilet, saving time and effort in the long run. In this blog, we will explore the simple cat toilet training steps to successfully toilet train your cat, making life easier for both of you! 

Step 1: Prepare Your Cat    

Before you start cat toilet training, it is important to ensure your cat is comfortable with its current cat litter box. Make sure it is located in a quiet area where your cat feels safe and secure. This will help build trust and prepare them for the upcoming transition. For this training to work smoothly, your cat should already be fully trained to use a cat litter box.

During this phase, it is also helpful to reward your cat with cat treats when they use the litter box correctly. Positive reinforcement will encourage them to follow the routine you're setting for them.

Step 2: Gradually Move the Litter Box Closer to the Toilet

Once your cat is comfortable using the cat litter box regularly, begin moving the box closer to the bathroom. Do this slowly over a few days or even a week, depending on how comfortable your cat is with the change. The key is to ensure that your cat does not feel rushed or anxious about the new location.

Eventually, place the litter box right next to the toilet. Keep rewarding your cat with cat treats when they successfully use the litter box in its new spot. Patience is crucial during this stage, as sudden changes can stress your cat.  

Step 3: Raise the Litter Box

Once your cat is accustomed to the litter box being in the bathroom, start gradually raising it off the floor. You can use books, sturdy boxes, or anything stable to lift the litter box a few inches each day. This step helps your cat adjust to the height of the toilet without feeling overwhelmed.

Continue rewarding your cat during this phase, offering them cat treats as encouragement when they successfully use the raised litter box. The transition must happen slowly so your cat does not feel uncertain about climbing to reach the box.

Step 4: Place the Litter Box on the Toilet Seat 

Once the cat litter box is raised to the height of the toilet, the next step is placing it directly on top of the toilet seat. Make sure it is secure and stable to avoid any accidents that could scare your cat away from using it. This step is crucial for familiarising your cat with the idea of being on the toilet. 

Keep the litter box on the toilet seat for several days, until your cat is comfortable jumping onto the toilet to use it. Continue rewarding your cat with cat treats for successful use.

Step 5: Switch to a Training Seat

Now that your cat is used to jumping onto the toilet, it is time to replace the litter box with a cat toilet training seat. These training seats are designed to fit inside the toilet bowl and have a small opening in the centre. 

Allow your cat to use this training seat for a few days to a week. The key to this step is ensuring your cat is comfortable with the training seat before proceeding.

Step 6: Gradually Increase the Size of the Opening

Most cat toilet training seats allow you to gradually increase the size of the opening in the centre. Start by removing a small portion of the litter and enlarging the hole in the seat, so your cat begins to use the actual toilet water rather than the litter. 

Increase the size of the hole incrementally over a few weeks. With each success, continue offering positive reinforcement in the form of cat treats or praise. It is important to go at your cat’s pace and avoid rushing this step. 

Step 7: Remove the Training Seat

Once your cat is comfortable using the toilet with a large opening, you can remove the training seat altogether. Your cat should now be fully trained to use the toilet on its own, without needing the cat litter box. Make sure to reward your cat for successfully using the toilet, and be prepared to clean the toilet regularly to maintain a hygienic environment for both you and your pet.

Conclusion

Cat toilet training requires time, patience, and consistency, but the results can be incredibly rewarding. By following these 7 simple steps, you can successfully transition your cat from using a cat litter box to using the toilet. This method not only saves you the hassle of cleaning up after your pet, but it also provides a cleaner and more convenient bathroom experience for both you and your feline friend. With the right approach, your cat will be toilet trained in no time!

If you want to buy some new cat food to reward them, you can visit your nearest Heads Up For Tails store!