Kitten Care Guide

One of the most important items you will need to purchase before you bring your new kitten home is a litter box. Litter boxes are not only an important part of kitten care, they are a necessity! Just like kittens….litter boxes come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and price ranges.  You may choose an expensive, automated litter box, such as the Litter Robot (which we will discuss later) or a simple, inexpensive plastic box that can be found in just about any pet supply store. No matter what type of box you choose, know that it will become an important part of your kitten’s life….second only to food!

The Covered Litter Box

For obvious reasons, most people prefer the covered or hooded litter box. Hoods tend to reduce the amount of litter that ends up on the outside of the box (less clean-up for you!). They also help to hold in foul odors (no offense, Mr. Kitty!). Cats are very private animals; therefore, they tend to be fans of covered boxes for privacy reasons alone. There are a few down-sides to the covered litter box. For example, large cats tend to have problems turning around after going to the bathroom. If they can’t turn around, they won’t cover their poop…which could lead to odor problems. Also, if your cat is too large for a covered box and can’t use it properly…he might just give up and eliminate outside of the box. Not a good scenario. A Maine Coon is an example of a large cat that might not like the small, confined space of a covered litter box. Covered litter boxes cost (on average) anywhere from $10 to $25.

Automated Litter Boxes

Nothing sounds better than a litter box that cleans itself! Though automated litter boxes can make your life much easier…you will pay for the convenience! Not only are automated litter boxes expensive, most require the use of premium clumping litter and special supplies.  The Litter-Robot, for example, is one of the latest and greatest automated litter boxes on the market today. It comes in black, gray and beige and will cost you $329.00. I must admit that the sleek, futuristic design of the litter robot is quite appealing…plus, it works with any clay clumping litter (not just premium brands) which is an added bonus! It also comes with a 90 day money-back guarantee…so if Fluffy is not happy with her Litter-Robot…you can send it back. Other examples of self cleaning litter boxes include The Scoop Free (cost: $139.95), LitterMaid (basic box starts at $109.00), and the Cat Genie - Self Flushing Cat Toilet (starts at $297.00). Before purchasing an automated litter box, it is a good idea to do your homework! Each automated box on the market offers different bells and whistles, some of which you may not find necessary, therefore, don’t wish to pay for.

So as you can see, the litter box you choose for your beloved kitten will play a major role in his or her life. Keep a close eye on your kitten and their bathroom behaviors as litter box troubles are a clear indication that something is not right.  Litter box avoidance can mean several things. One, they don’t like the litter you are buying, two, their box is too dirty, or three they are having a medical issue. Caring for your kitten is easy…especially when you purchase a litter box that both you and your feline are happy with! Now go scoop the poop!

Filed under: Cat & Kitten Litter Boxes, Kitten Care Products, Kitten Medical Conditions on March 27th, 2009