It’s great to know that for some cats, the transition to the new automatic lifestyle is just a step into a new litter box. However, be reassured that sometimes, it takes cats extra time to change their litter box habits. You may recall how long your cat took to settle into your home, and it will probably be a similar experience with the new litter box arrangement, as it is quite a change for them.
LITTER DITHER
As the Litter-Robot requires clumping litter in order to sieve for you, you do need to have your cat using clumping litter. Clay is the best option of the available litters, as the Unit needs reasonable weight which rice hull, paper or wood litters don’t provide. If you are not already using clumping litter in your cat’s tray, you will need to have your cat change litter, as well as change tray, and it would be best to do this in a manner that will be suitable for your cat to ensure successful change to the new lifestyle.
There are a couple of ways you can consider :
- Start with the current non-clumping litter in the Litter-Robot, leaving it off until your cat is using it. (turning it on and off again will sift out some of the clumps/solids while you are doing this introduction). When your cat is comfortable and using the Litter-Robot consistently (ie you have been able to take away the old litter tray), start to add a little of the new litter very slowly over a week or two.
- Start introducing the new clay clumping litter into your existing litter tray as not more than 50/50 initially, increasing the amount to 100% over a week or two, checking how your cat is coping. You can also set up the Litter-Robot with the new litter in it and just leave it off, in case your cat is happy to change on its own. When your cat is using the old tray with new litter well, as per its normal use, you can start to transition your cat to the Litter-Robot. Do allow your cats plenty of time to adjust to each stage of change, as each cat adapts differently.
There are some tips and tricks that may help you transition your cat/s (all cats, like people, are different ;o). Please don’t introduce too many of the suggestions too quickly, as it does tend to be confusing and overwhelming. A slow introduction should give you a smoother transition to the Automatic Lifestyle.
MAKING THE SWITCH
While most cats adjust to the Litter-Robot without much coaxing, others might need a little help making the switch. Use these tried-and-true methods to overcome common barriers and facilitate the transition.
Leave It Off
Avoid startling your cat while it is adjusting to the new litter box. Leave the Litter-Robot switched off until you notice your cat has used the Litter-Robot. Wait about 7 minutes for the waste to clump, then turn it on. The Litter-Robot will automatically perform a cleaning cycle (lasting about 2 ½ minutes), then switch it off again. Continue this "semi-automatic" mode until your cat is comfortable and using it regularly.
Treats or Catnip
This is a good trick if your cat has expressed some fear about entering the Litter-Robot. Place treats or catnip on the step and inside the globe. It may take several repetitions to get results, so be patient and consistent. Create a positive experience by offering praise and reassurance. We find this method is especially effective for those cats who are food-motivated.
Bait & Switch
If your cat seems stuck in his ways, we don't advise the "cold turkey" litter box switch. When you suddenly switch out the Litter-Robot for the old litter box, you're likely to have protest puddles and an unhappy cat. Instead, gradually make the old litter box less desirable by letting waste accumulate. Cats prefer a clean place to go, so this should motivate your cat to try the Litter-Robot. This works well in combination with the treats and catnip method mentioned above.
Leverage What They Know
The old litter box looks and smells familiar, so use that knowledge to teach your cat about the Litter-Robot. Gradually move the old litter box closer to the Litter-Robot (if you've placed them in different locations). Then, pour a scoop of the old litter on the new litter in the Litter-Robot, which will smell familiar to your cat. We recommend the bait-and-switch approach mentioned above, eventually removing the old litter box when it is soiled.
The Good Ol' Cardboard Box Approach
Cats love empty cardboard boxes! Try covering the Litter-Robot with the original cardboard box. Carefully cut an opening in the side of the box for the entryway and a notch in the bottom to access to the drawer. Leave the Litter-Robot unplugged while covered with the box. Don't worry, you won't have to scoop! Once you notice your cat has used the Litter-Robot, wait about 7 minutes for the waste to clump, then plug it in. The Litter-Robot will automatically perform a cleaning cycle (lasting about 2 ½ minutes), then unplug it again.
And as mentioned, a video from one of our recent clients who introduced his kittens to the new system:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FOW7Cf8ZzVY&t=109s
WE HAVE YOU COVERED
Do let us know how you go – all cats are different, and the majority of cats need a gradual introduction and some encouragement.
Don’t worry, you are covered by the 90 day money back guarantee, so you have a good amount of time to introduce the new lifestyle at the pace your cat prefers. If your cats can’t make the change, you can let us know anytime over the guarantee period if you are not satisfied with the Litter-Robot and need to return the unit.
We are also happy to help if we can – email to sales@catevolution.com.au or call for a chat on 1300 350 635.