[onscreen action] Woman in a bathroom setting down two separate cat litter boxes. [narrator] The key to successful litter box training is to make sure your cat finds his potty area appealing so he'll use it. [onscreen action] Montage of cats in litter boxes. [narrator] It's very important you set up the litter box with your cat's preferences in mind, not just your own. Litter boxes fall into two major categories, open pan and covered. Let's take a look at each. [onscreen action] Panning shot of an open pan litter box. Cat using an open pan litter box. [narrator] Open pans are preferred by many cats since they don't trap odors inside, and they allow your cat to escape if confronted by another pet. [onscreen action] Woman scooping out an open pan litter box into a small garbage can. [narrator] They're also inexpensive and make it easy to know when cleaning and scooping are necessary. The other type of litter box is covered. [onscreen action] Still shot of a covered litter box. [narrator] These enclosed boxes conceal the litter and help contain odor inside. [onscreen action] Uncomfortable looking cat sitting next to covered litter box with a thought bubble that reads, “This is too stinky.” [narrator] While this may sound appealing to you, cats are sensitive to smell and may not prefer this type of box. [onscreen action] Can using a covered litter box. [narrator] One benefit of covered litter boxes is they provide your cat with privacy, which some cats prefer. Choosing the right type of litter is very important to your cat. [onscreen action] Cats walking around. [narrator] There are two things I would recommend you look for when making your decision. [onscreen action] Woman filling an open litter box with cat litter. [narrator] First, start with a clumping, scoopable litter. These are the most popular, reduce odors, and make it easy to keep your cat's box clean. [onscreen action] Cat using an open litter box with thought bubble that reads, “I dig this box.” [narrator] Second, many brands offer different types of deodorizers, or scents, some stronger than others. [onscreen action] Cat using an open litter box [onscreen text] Trainer’s tip: Cats may not use litter that’s scented. [narrator] While cats prefer unscented litter, pet parents often choose the types with fragrance. So it's important to find a balance that works for both of you. [onscreen action] Woman narrating. [onscreen text] Signs your cat is unhappy with his litter: * Scratches outside of box * Stands on edge of box * Goes to bathroom next to box [narrator] Again, if your cat doesn't like the litter you've chosen, he may not use his box. Here are some signs your cat may be unhappy with your choice of litter. He makes scratches outside of the box after pottying, he may completely stand on the edge of the box, or only put two paws in, or he may go to the bathroom right next to the box. [onscreen action] Cat using an open litter box. [narrator] If your cat displays any of these behaviors, try another type of litter. [onscreen action] Man carrying an open litter box up stairs. He places it in a closet. [narrator] The next step is finding a location that works for both you and your cat. You'll want the collection area that's easily accessible, yet provides plenty of privacy, and don't put the litter box next to an appliance. [onscreen action] Man emptying a clothes dryer. [narrator] Appliances like washing machines and refrigerators that start and stop abruptly may startle your cat. Also keep the litter box away from your cat's food, water bowl, and bed. [onscreen action] Cat eating from a cat dish. [narrator] Ideally if you have multiple cats, you should have one box per cat plus one extra. [onscreen action] Man placing litter boxes on floor. [onscreen text] Trainer’s tip: Multiple cat homes should have 1 box per cat + 1 extra. [narrator] But don't line them up next to each other because your cats will perceive them as a single litter box. [onscreen action] Woman narrating. [narrator] A dirty litter box can keep your cat from using his tray. [onscreen action] Woman scooping out an open pan litter box into a small garbage can. [narrator] Make sure to scoop at least once a day. If you use standard clay litter, thoroughly clean the box with soap and hot water at least once a week. [onscreen action] Woman outside scrubbing out a litter box with soap. [narrator] You can do so less frequently if you use the clumping litter. As we mentioned before, cats have a keen sense of smell. [onscreen action] Woman placing litter box on floor of bathroom. [narrator] So avoid strong cleaners. Also, be aware of any cleaning products that contain ingredients that are toxic to cats. Finally, litter boxes will eventually retain an odor even with regular cleaning, so change them out from time to time. [onscreen action] Cat using litter box. Cats gets out and walks away.