Expert: Jessica - 7/19/2010

Question
hi jessica,

 so the kittens are exactly 3 weeks old now today. i found that the mommy cat is having some trouble to keep them stable when she tries to help them eliminate the waste since they are so strong and active now. i'm wondering if it is about the time to get the little ones a litter box so the mommy cat can teach them.

Answer
Yes, the little ones should have a litter box nearby.  It should be a shallow one with just about an inch or two of litter in it at first.  For kittens this age, you should avoid using any clay or clay clumping litter.  I recommend that you use a corn or wheat litter, if possible, because kittens this age tend to lick everything they come in contact with as part of learning about their surroundings.  Clay clumping litter contains an industrial sealant that can cause real problems in their stomachs.  But if you use a corn or wheat litter, those are digestible. I like Swheat Scoop.  World’s Best is a corn litter that you could use, too.

In the beginning, you can leave a little bit of waste in the litter box to help the kittens understand that’s where they’re supposed to go.  So if possible, leave one bowel movement in the box as a reminder until the kittens get the hang of it.  The babies probably won’t start moving their bowels on their own for about another week, but it will be good to have the box situated and ready in case they start exploring early.  If you find any solid waste in their bedding, move it to the litter box you have set up for them, and then put each of them in the box so they can examine it and start to build an association.