1.  Choose your least frequented bathroom, and move the cat box next to the toilet.

2.  Order a Litter Kwitter.  This step is not required – there is information out there about how to do this using mixing bowls and other household items.  There are also other brands of these toilet training devices, but this one is by far the best.  It is sturdy enough for the burliest of cats, a quality product, and easy to use.  I wouldn’t toilet train my cat without one.

3.  Use the Litter Kwitter (or whatever method you choose) to create a cat box (with litter) in your toilet bowl.  As the cat gets more comfortable using the cat box toilet you can graduate to either the next size ring with a hole in the center or you can begin the process of reducing the litter and eventually replacing it with water.  You have to use flushable litter for this process so that you don’t clog your toilet.

TIP:  If your cat is especially attracted to the smell of traditional kitty litter (like mine was), it may be worth sprinkling a tiny amount in with the new litter to trigger your cat’s association with the cat box.

4.  Give your cat treats to reinforce good behavior.  Try not to strangle the cat when he misses the hole or makes a mess – as long as he’s on the toilet, you’re on the right track.

5.  Don’t train the cat to flush!  He’ll learn, but you’ll regret it when you are in the shower.

If you do order a Litter Kwitter, it comes with very clear, easy directions including amusing commentary by the Australian lady who invented it.  Please feel free to share your own tips or advice on this strange but rewarding process in the comments section below.

Anti Cat Boxes?  Us Too

Is Your Cat a Good Candidate For Toilet Training?

Some cats adjust very quickly to using the toilet.  Other cats, not so much.  I researched this topic while deciding whether to train my cat.  I found that the general sentiment (among those who don’t consider cat training to be an oxymoron) is that it’s individual to each cat and you just have to try it and see.  While I agree that each cat is different, my own experience has led me to the conclusion that there a few major factors that can be taken into account when determining whether your cat is likely to take to the process.

Good sign: Your cat is loyal to the cat box.  If you have a moody cat who sometimes goes to the bathroom in locations other than her cat box (like your down comforter), do not attempt this training unless you have some reason to think that she will like the toilet better.  You can’t make a cat do something it doesn’t want to do – it will just pee on everything you own.  If, on the other hand, your cat only uses the cat box and continues to use it if you move it, you have a good sign that training can be successful without sacrificing all of your linens, carpets, and dignity.

Bad sign: Your cat is too big or clumsy to balance on the toilet seat.  Most cats don’t have a problem with this because hey are naturally agile.  Still, some cats just can’t get the hang of this.  They have to be able to stand on the seat with all four feet and hang their backside over the bowl.  If your cat is bottom heavy, clumsy, or only has three legs, toilet training is not for him.

Good sign: You have more than one toilet.  This process takes from one to six months.  If you have to share a toilet with your cat during this time, your misery will know no bounds.  In order to train your cat you’ll need some sort of apparatus in your toilet which will have to be removed every time you want to use it.  Also, there is kitty litter involved in the training process and your cat is likely to make a mess.  So, it’s possible but a major inconvenience to do this with only one toilet, especially if you ever plan to have guests.  If you have more than one toilet your cat can have his own space, you can keep your sanity, and you will still have friends.

Anti Cat Boxes?  Us Too

How To Toilet Train Your Cat

Who doesn’t hate cat boxes?  No one.  I dare anyone who enjoys the daily kitty roca delivery to come forward now.

“But we shouldn’t worry about things we can’t control!” your sensible side says, “we can’t let our profound hatred of cat boxes control us.”  In fact, you can control the loathsome cat box situation.  You can train your cat to use the toilet.

I know, it sounds weird and impossible, and for some cats it is.  Fortunately, I have experience in this area.  If you are interested in becoming a member of the International Anti-Cat Box League, read this important information on how to tell if your cat is a good candidate for toilet training and how to toilet train your cat.

Is Your Cat A Good Candidate For Toilet Training?

How To Toilet Train Your Cat

Living with anxiety is kind of like sharing a bed with my cat. Every night he stakes out a nest down near my feet where he is least likely to interfere. Then, as soon as I am asleep he starts to take over. Stretching his back and legs, then strategically rolling about, he slowly muscles his way into my sleeping space (photo: Paul Bradbury, Getty Images). In the haze of sleep I am apparently much more generous and within a few hours I find myself sleeping in a scrunched up fetal position with my knees firmly planted in my husband’s back.

if you’re spending a lot of time worrying about whether you have an anxiety disorder I’d say that’s a dead giveaway

According to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America, over 18% of Americans are affected by some form of an anxiety disorder. The most common forms are Generalized Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive, Panic, Post Traumatic Stress, Social Anxiety, and specific phobias. Typically, treatments for such disorders are focused on a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, relaxation, and medication.

CBT focuses on identifying, understanding, and modifying thinking and behavior patterns. When a person changes thinking and behavior, emotional changes usually follow.” – www.adaa.org

So, if you think that you may have an anxiety issue remember that medication is not the only solution. For some people, pharmaceuticals are an important part of treatment. For others, a little research and self therapy may go a long way. And remember – never, ever let your pet bully you out of bed space. It’s just not right.

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Posted via web from Mind and Body Health Myths that You Still Believe