How to Train a Kitten

Learning how to train a kitten isn’t hard when you realize that consistency, kindness, patience and the right training methods are key!

In this post, we’ll discuss:

• • How to train a kitten to use the litter box
  • How to train a kitten not to bite
  • How to train a kitten not to scratch
  • How to train a kitten to be cuddly!

I’ll also provide links to tons more help on taking excellent care of your new kitten!

How to Train a Kitten to Use a Litter Box

Training a kitten to use the litter box is like teaching a toddler where the bathroom is. It’s the first big step in cat-parenting.

Cats instinctively want a clean spot to do their business, but you’ve got to guide them on where that spot is.

Picking out the right litter box is more crucial than you might think. Aim for something that’s easy for your kitten to climb into.

Placing the litter box in a quiet, low-traffic area away from food and water bowls is key. Nobody wants to do their business in a high-stress zone, right?  And animals in general don’t want to go potty near where they eat.

Introducing your kitten to the litter box takes some patience. Gently place your kitten in the litter box after meals and naps—times when they naturally need to go. If they catch on, great! If not, remember that patience really is a virtue here.

I’ve taken care of two litters of kittens in the past.  Each time, I started with a pie plate filled with litter.  Keep in mind these were tiny babies…lol.  I’d place each kitten into the litter again and again, all throughout the day.

At first, they’ll just sit there, or they’ll play in the litter.  Be prepared for Stinky Kitty for a little while, because they’ll pee or poop then play in it!  Sometimes they’ll even fall asleep in the litter! But don’t worry; they’ll catch on.

Keep putting them in there, and don’t get mad if they have an accident.  It takes time for them to learn how to return to the litter each time they have to go potty.

Accidents are part of the learning process. If your kitten has a mishap, don’t scold them. Instead, move them to the litter box and give them a chance to get the idea. Having a consistent routine really helps them figure this out.

If your kitten does have an accident,  I recommend a product called, Nature’s Miracle to clean the spot and eliminate the odor.

Give them lots of praise and maybe a treat or a little extra affection when they use the box correctly.

Positive reinforcement is your best friend here and helps the kitten associate the box with good things.

For more help on training your kitten to use the litter box, read my post, How to Get Your Cat to Use the Litter Box (includes video!)  That post talks about reasons why cats won’t use the litter box – a terrific guide for what not to do!

How to Train a Kitten Not to Bite

Kittens are naturally playful, which sometimes involves a bit of nibbling. It’s all fun and games until it isn’t, right?

Understanding why your kitten is a biting machine can help you address it.

They’re not being mean; it’s just how they explore the world and their companions.

Also keep in mind that kittens learn from their litter-mates about the difference between gentle, playful biting and biting that hurts.

So if you have a kitten who was taken from their mother and litter mates too early, you may need to be more patient to teach them not to bite.

I had a kitten named Miss Abigail who was exactly that.  That’s her in the picture with my older cat.

When I adopted her, I was told #1 that she was a boy!  And #2 that she was 6 weeks old.  Neither were true!

I had an adult cat at the time, and Miss Abigail would attack her constantly.  Luckily, the adult cat was kind and patient.  But it did take a long time for Miss Abigail to learn how to interact without biting!

To steer kittens away from using those sharp little teeth, consider kitten toys and interactive play as your go-to strategy. Options like plush toys, feathers on a string, or even lasers can help focus that playful energy away from your fingers and toes, making everyone a little happier.

Every cat I’ve owned has loved the laser toys!  It’s a great way to wear them out.  Just like with dogs, remember “a tired cat is a good cat!”  A lot of times a kitten’s misbehavior can be controlled by just making sure they get enough exercise.

Now, when it comes to teach your kitten not to bite, consistency is a game-changer. Every time they start nibbling on you, gently redirect them towards a toy. It might take a few attempts, but they’ll get the hint eventually.

It’s also helpful to make a soft noise, like ‘ouch,’ when they bite, so they start connecting the dots that their actions aren’t pleasant.  Always stop petting or playing if they bite.  And don’t resume until they’re not biting.

Remember, it’s all about keeping playtime fun, yet educational. Turn it into a bonding session with your kitten!

For more help teaching your kitten not to bite, read my post, Why Do Cats Bite Their Owners?

How to Train a Kitten Not to Scratch

Scratching is in a kitten’s DNA—it’s how they keep their claws sharp, mark territory, and stretch those little muscles. But your sofa doesn’t have to be the victim.

Understanding why kittens scratch can help you guide this behavior in a more furniture-friendly direction.

Also remember that kittens generally don’t have any claw control!  When they’re young, it’s like their claws just stick out all the time and it takes time for them to learn how to control it.

Invest in a couple of good scratching posts. Place these in spots where your kitten loves to scratch or hang out. A post near their napping area is a solid choice since cats love a good post-nap stretch and scratch.

You might also place a scratching post next to, say, the couch, if that’s where they tend to get into trouble!  Also, putting cat nip on the scratching post is a great way to get them interested!

That’s my boy, Whiskers, in the picture with his scratching post.  Luckily for me and my furniture, he loves his scratching post!

Positive reinforcement is your buddy here too. Whenever you catch your kitten using the post instead of your couch, give them a treat or some love. Make it a jackpot experience!

Seriously.  Praise them like crazy when they use their scratching post.  And the litter box too!  These are crucial things for cat-owner-happiness!

It’s not just about the scratching post though. Regular nail trims help reduce damage if they do decide to go rogue now and then. Less sharp claws mean less destruction.

Your veterinarian’s office will gladly trim your kitten’s nails, usually whenever you want for a small fee (or sometimes free).  But you can easily do it yourself.

For help on this, read my post, How to Cut a Cat’s Nails at Home Without Hurting Your Cat (includes video!)  Starting this when they’re young is your best bet to get them to allow it for their entire lifetime.

If you catch your kitten scratching where they shouldn’t, redirect them promptly to their scratching post. Over time, they’ll learn the post is the better option for their scratch fix!

For more help to teach your kitten to stop scratching, read my post, How to Stop a Cat from Scratching Furniture (includes video!)

How to Train a Kitten to Be Cuddly!

Kittens have their own personalities, just like people. While some are naturally affectionate, others might be more reserved.

But don’t worry!  There are ways to gently encourage your little furball to be more cuddly.

The trick is creating a welcoming environment where your kitten feels safe and relaxed. A cozy little bed or a warm spot on the couch can work wonders.

When they associate a spot with comfort and safety, they’re more likely to seek it out—and you with it.

Pay attention to your kitten’s body language. If they lean in or cozy up next to you, it’s a good sign they’re in the mood for some quality cuddle time. But if they’re flicking their tail or their ears are back, it’s best to give them a bit of space.

Consistent, gentle handling helps too. Keep your interactions calm and loving, and they’ll start clinging to these good feelings and associate them with being held and petted.

I’ve personally hugged and kissed the crap out of every kitten I’ve had starting when they’re very young lol!  That’s me snuggling Whiskers in the picture.

Be gentle, but keep picking them up often, petting them often, gently hugging them and smooching them on the forehead.

When you pick them up, make them stay in your arms for just a second or two longer than they want.  It’ll teach them to tolerate the cuddling.

If it’s not the cat’s personality to be affectionate, you might not get as much cuddling from them as you want, but working with them on it when they’re young will certainly help.

Here’s another important point about handling your kitten often:  For their entire life, you NEED to be able to handle them.

To trim their nails, for example.  To take something out of their mouth that’s dangerous if they swallow it.  To help if they’re wounded in some way.

And they’ll be WAY better behaved and more relaxed each and every time they go to the vet if you’ve taken the time to get them used to being handled.  It’s worth it!

If affection remains a challenge, don’t hesitate to consult with a vet or animal behaviorist. It might be that there’s something else going on that needs addressing.  Pay attention to make sure your kitten isn’t frightened, stressed out, injured or in pain.

Kitten Training Programs

I can give you two recommendations for effective kitten training programs if you feel like you’d like more help with training your kitten:

The Complete Cat Training Guide

Karen Pryor’s Clicker Training

Taking Care of a Kitten

For lots more help caring for your new kitten, check out these posts!

How to Take Care of a Kitten Step-by-Step (includes video!)

Tips for Introducing a New Kitten Into Your Home

How to Keep Your Kitten Happy and Healthy for Life

What Does a New Kitten Need?  New Kitten Checklist (includes video!)

I Donate to Animal Charities

Thank you for visiting my website!  I hope this post gave you all the information and help you need to not only train your kitten, but to take excellent care of your kitten!

You should know I earn a small commission on some of the products I recommend on my website.  It’s how I do PeopleLovingAnimals.com as my full-time job.

I donate 10% of my earnings to the animal charities listed here.  If you found this post helpful, please share my website with other cat lovers!  Thanks so much.  Debra

Check Out More of My Posts About Cat Training Here