Answer: The litter tray’s minimum dimensions should be 12 inches by 8 inches and 2 ½ to 3 inches deep (30cm * 20cm*6.5cm), though a litter shallower for kittens. Those made of plastic are best for routine use, though disposable litter trays of cardboard are available for temporary use. Metal trays which will neither rust (like those made of ferrous metals), nor chip (like enamel dishes), are also suitable. Some types are fitted with a cover about 8 inches or so high, with an opening in one side through which the cat can enter. This completely encloses the litter tray and enables the cat to perform in privacy. It is also avoids the scattering of litter and prevents other pets such as dogs from interfering with the tray.
The scattering of litter can be problem. It can, however, be reduced by standing the tray on the easily cleaned floor, e.g. vinyl or ceramic tails and not on a carpet, and by placing newspaper under the around the tray to minimize the sweeping up. A container with deeper sides (e.g. large plastic washing –up bowl) could be used for adult cats.
Suitable materials for use the litter include sand or sandy soil (through this can become muddy and messy), peat or processed tree bark, torn-up newspaper or kitchen towels, wood chipping or shavings or commercial litters which consists of graduals of dried clay (fuller’s earth).Commercial litters are very useful, but some contain deodorizers which may discourage some cats from using them, or dyes which may stain the fur of white cats. Sawdust is not recommended as it may be eaten by kittens, it clings to the paws and hair coat causing long hair to matt up and is also spread throughout the house. Peat may also cause long hair to matt up. Some people feel that the use of newspaper may encourage the cat urinate on newspapers elsewhere in the house.
Changing the litter is made easier by spreading it to a depth of at least one inch (2.5 cm) on sheets of newspaper laid at the bottom of the tray. Sprinkling the litter with garden soil may simplify re-training the kitten to use the garden at a later date.
