Thinking about changing your cat’s litter but worried it might cause a full-blown litter box rebellion? You’re not alone. When switching to another type of litter, you have to be careful. Doing it the wrong way can lead to messy accidents and a very unhappy kitty. But no worries. I got you. Below is a step-by-step process to transition your cat to a new litter without the stress. This method works for any litter change and any cat.
How to Transition Your Cat to a New Litter
Why Switch Your Litter
First, let’s talk about why you’d even consider changing your cat’s litter. The best reason? To get a litter with better benefits for you and your cat.
For example, my favorite cat litter is pine litter, and it has a lot going for it:
- It’s low tracking, so it doesn’t get all over your floors.
- It’s fragrance-free, which is better for your cat’s sensitive nose.
- And it’s eco-friendly and often more affordable long term.
If you’re currently using a scented litter, I promise your cat will thank you for switching. All those fake floral smells we think are great? Cats hate them.
How to Transition to a New Cat Litter (The Right Way)
Spoiler: you do NOT just dump new litter in the box and call it a day. That’s a one-way ticket to finding poop behind the couch. Instead, here’s the step-by-step transition process that works:
Step 1: Go Slow
Start by adding a tiny bit of the new litter to your cat’s current litter. Just enough to introduce the smell and feel. Let it sit for 2 days and watch how your cat reacts.
Step 2: Use the 25/50/75 Rule
Once your cat seems cool with the new litter, start the gradual transition:
- Week 1: 25% new litter, 75% old litter
- Week 2: 50/50 mix
- Week 3: 75% new, 25% old
- Week 4: 100% new litter
This slow build helps your cat adjust without stress or rebellion.
What If Your Cat Stops Using the Box?
Watch your cat like a hawk. If they start avoiding the box or going outside of it, slow down. Maybe even go back to the last ratio that worked and hold it there for a few extra days before trying again.
Use Multiple Litter Boxes
During the switch, keep at least one litter box with the old litter
Pro tip: Start the transition in the most popular litter box. This will give you the best insight into what your cats really think.
Once you have fully transitioned one litter box, start on the next one. Remember to keep at least one box with the old litter until every cat is fully adjusted.
Keep It Clean
Another golden rule? Clean the boxes daily. Especially the one you’re experimenting with. Nobody (including your cat) wants to use a dirty bathroom.
And don’t move the boxes around during the switch! Changing location and litter at the same time is a recipe for disaster. Cats are creatures of habit—respect that.
How to Transition Your Cat to a New Litter
Final Thoughts
Go slow, be patient, and keep it clean. Trust me, your cat will appreciate the effort.
If this post helped you, leave a comment and tell me how your litter transition is going.
