How do I get the kits to use the litter box?

These babies are not as easy as all the ones I've had before! They are so cute though!! They are 4 weeks now and I had put a litter box of a pie tin in with them and momma hoping they would use it- no such luck. Instead, I've found the kittens trying to eat the stuff!! Not that I can get them to eat anything else, but that's another story. Afraid they would get sick, I took the litter box out of their closet. But here is the mystery. They have been confined in my coat closet, and no poop or pee anywhere. So I guess Sasha is cleaning them up?? By this age other kittens I had were making messes if they weren't using a box. BYW, I was using scoopable litter. Any ideas?

First of all ... don't use scooopable litter with kittens ... if they eat it, it can become hard and cause blockages in their bellies.

I'm sure momma is still helping them potty ... or at least cleaning up after them. Just go ahead and keep a small box of gravel litter in their bed and eventually you will see tiny poops and pee pees! Don't stress, it will happen!

Good luck!
Kim

I think some scoopable litters are ok aren't they? If the litter has clay taht is what can cause problems. But stuff like World's Best are just made of corn anyway so should be kitten safe since its digestable.

Originally Posted by SolarityBengals

I think some scoopable litters are ok aren't they? If the litter has clay taht is what can cause problems. But stuff like World's Best are just made of corn anyway so should be kitten safe since its digestable.

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It's whatever makes the clumps ... not sure what exactly that is.

I stopped using the clay litter for the reason that I had heard it could gather in their system and absorb moisture and possibly cause death. Also when Bijou started sneezing from the dust I was concerned the dust would get in his little lungs and do the same thing and cause damage. I then changed immediately to World's Best because it was made with corn and he stopped sneezing.

Thanks for the tip on the litter. There is a vet within 30 miles who carries World's Best. I do most of my shopping in that town anyway and that is where my vet is. If I am satisfied, I can let him know I am having to go to the other vet to get stuff.

At 4 weeks, they should start using the litter? I was actually wondering about that. My kitten turned a month yesterday... He has no mommy to clean him up so we try to do the best we can. He doesn't seem to have much bladder control yet but it would be nice to start litter training him!

Every time you see them go to squat, put them in the tray and after they have gone (provided they stay in the tray!) then use their front paws to scrap the litter and cover it over.

Never yell at a kitty for not going in the box either - They are like all babies and often have accidents! They don't have the ability to have a nappy!

Also any poo they do outside the box, put this in the tray so they get the idea that thats where poo should go from the smell!!

Good luck! I have a 7 week old kitten who I've hand raised and she now uses the litterbox! They do get the idea quick enough!