I finally brought home my new rescue, a seven-week-old girl I named Bella. I'm so nervous because I lost my other Bella to kidney failure recently, and this one is just a baby. I've been reading about house training but I'm confused about the basics. What are the essential steps for a kitten this young? I want to make sure I'm doing right by her.
Keep it simple. At seven weeks, they are barely potty trained. I used to just put my cats in the box after they woke up. If you are transitioning from newspaper, check out transitioning from newspaper to litter box. It worked for my Mittens when she was young. Don't overcomplicate it with too many boxes.
Location is huge! I had to move my Bella's box three times before she stopped ignoring it. I found best spot for the litter box really helpful. Is your new Bella used to a specific texture? Mine is very picky about that. Also, is she eating well? My Charlie is a 2-year-old mixed breed who is very healthy, but he is a big eater, so I wonder if that affects things?
Texture is the number one complaint I see. I switched my Nala to a finer grain and she stopped peeing on the carpet. You might want to look at why does my cat hate the new litter texture?. Also, make sure the litter isn't scented. I learned that the hard way with my Bo. scented vs unscented litter for sensitive noses explains why unscented is better for young noses.
I am so sorry for your loss, kelly82. It is very hard to bring a new cat home when you have just lost one. I have a 12-year-old ragdoll, Mabel, who is in kidney stage 1, so I understand the worry. Did you mention her history in your previous post? I want to make sure I am not confusing her with your old Bella. bella's kidney failure update was very moving. Take your time with this new kitten. She is only seven weeks old.
Thank you, Joan. I didn't realize you had a Mabel too. It is hard to keep the names straight when I am this emotional. I am just trying to do everything right for this little one. I will look into the texture and scent advice. I just want her to be healthy and happy, unlike my other Bella. I am still learning the ropes here, so any advice is welcome.
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