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How-to guide
Most kittens learn to use a litter tray quickly. The right box, litter and placement, a simple routine, and what to do about accidents.
Updated October 2026 · 6 min read · By the Hushku editorial team · 1 sources
Short answer
Kittens usually start using litter at about 3 to 4 weeks old, often by copying their mother. If your kitten came from a shelter or breeder, it may already know what to do; it just needs to learn where the boxes are in its new home.
Most problems come from the set-up rather than the kitten: a box that's too high, too far away, dirty, scented or in a busy place.
A low-sided litter box
Kittens and older cats need to step in easily. An uncovered box suits most cats.
Unscented, fine clumping litter
Most cats prefer it. Some vets suggest non-clumping litter for very young kittens that may eat litter.
A scoop and enzyme cleaner
For daily scooping and for cleaning accidents.
Put the box in a quiet, easy-to-reach place away from food and water. For a new kitten, start with a smaller area (one room) so the box is always close by.
Place your kitten in the box when it arrives and let it sniff and dig. Don't move its paws for it.
Gently put your kitten in the box after waking, after eating and after play. Praise or give a treat when it goes.
Scoop at least once or twice a day and refresh litter regularly. Cats avoid dirty boxes.
As your kitten gets the run of the house, provide one box per cat plus one, on each floor if possible.
Why it backfires: Many cats dislike strong smells and the feel of liners.
Do this instead: Use unscented litter and no liner.
Why it backfires: It makes the kitten afraid and more likely to hide when it goes.
Do this instead: Clean with an enzyme cleaner and make the box more appealing.
Why it backfires: Cats don't like to toilet where they eat, or where they might be disturbed.
Do this instead: Choose a quiet, private place away from bowls.
We check guides against veterinary sources and update them when guidance changes. How we write and review.
Many kittens use the box from day one; most are reliable within a few days to a couple of weeks.
Check the box is clean and easy to reach, that nothing has changed (litter, location, a new pet), and see your vet to rule out diarrhoea, constipation or a urinary problem.
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