Why Toilet Train Your Cat?

With patience, positive reinforcement, and the right system in place, most healthy indoor cats can learn to use the toilet. This guide walks you through the process step by step, explains what to expect during training, and shows how The Cat Throne helps make the transition safer and more comfortable.

Toilet training your cat can make everyday life cleaner, simpler, and more enjoyable. Once training is complete, there's no litter box to scoop, no litter tracked through the house, and far fewer lingering odors. Many cat owners also appreciate spending less on litter while creating a cleaner bathroom environment.

When done gradually and humanely, toilet training becomes a natural progression rather than a stressful experience. The key is allowing your cat to build confidence one step at a time.

START YOUR TRAINING JOURNEY

Is Your Cat a Good Candidate?

Before you begin, make sure your cat is a good fit for toilet training.

✓ Healthy adult or kitten over 3 months

✓ Comfortable using a litter box

✓ Indoor cat

✓ Curious and confident personality

✓ No existing urinary or mobility problems

Every cat learns at a different pace. Some finish training in a few weeks, while others need a few months. Success comes from patience—not speed.

  • Designed Humanely

    Many toilet training kits expect cats to balance on flimsy plastic rings above the toilet. That unstable footing can leave cats feeling anxious or insecure, especially during an unfamiliar experience. Successful toilet training starts with trust, and trust begins with stability. The Cat Throne's wide, non-slip seat was thoughtfully engineered to give cats a secure, comfortable place to stand throughout training and beyond.

  • Built for Your Cat's Comfort

    Every detail of The Cat Throne was engineered with your cat's comfort in mind. The wide, textured seat securely attaches to a premium Bemis toilet seat, creating a stable, supportive platform that feels natural under your cat's paws. Without needing to balance on a narrow ring, cats can train with greater confidence and continue to enjoy the added support long after they're fully toilet trained.

  • Built to Last a Lifetime

    Unlike temporary training kits that are removed once training is complete, The Cat Throne is designed to remain part of your cat's daily routine for years to come.

    • Wide, non-slip surface
    • Patented clip-in design
    • Premium Bemis toilet seat
    • Three progressive training trays
    • Designed for long-term use
    • Comfortable for senior cats

Step-by-step Guide On How To Train Cat To Use Toilet

1

Move the Litter Box Into the Bathroom

Allow your cat to become comfortable using the cat box next for about a week. TIP Start mixing in flushable litter into their current litter. Place a step stool next to the toilet.

2

Install The Cat Throne

Install the included Bemis toilet seat and clip the Cat Throne securely into place.

3

Start With the Solid Training Tray

Fill halfway with flushable tofu litter. Mix a small amount of your cat's old litter into the tray to create a familiar scent. Reward every success.

4

Introduce the Small-Hole Tray

Once your cat consistently uses the first tray without hesitation, replace it with the tray with the small opening. The goal isn't speed. The goal is confidence.

5

Move to the Large-Hole Tray

Continue reducing litter while increasing your cat's confidence.

6

Remove Training Trays

Once your cat is consistently using the toilet, remove the final tray.

7

Remove Cat Throne Seat or Leave On

Many owners continue leaving The Cat Throne attached because cats appreciate the additional support. You can easily unclip the seat and put it back on later in life.

What the Seven Steps Look Like Week by Week

Every cat learns at their own pace. While many cats complete The Cat Throne training process in about six to twelve weeks, this timeline is only a guide—not a schedule your cat needs to follow. (Some cats train in mere days, but plan for a more gradual training process)

The most important rule: never move to the next stage until your cat is completely comfortable and consistently using the current one. Some cats move quickly; others need a little more time. Both are perfectly normal.

Before Training

Before Training — Steps 1 & 2: Prepare Your Cat

Gradually move your cat’s litter box into the bathroom where The Cat Throne will be used. At the same time, slowly transition from their current litter to flushable tofu litter by mixing in a little more each day.

Wait until your cat is completely comfortable with both changes before beginning toilet training.

Weeks 1–3

Weeks 1–3 — Step 3: Solid Tray

Install The Cat Throne and begin with the solid training tray. Your cat still has the familiar feel of litter beneath their paws while getting comfortable climbing onto the toilet and using the wide, stable Cat Throne platform.

This stage is all about building confidence. Don’t rush it.

Weeks 3–6

Weeks 3–6 — Step 4: Small Opening

Once your cat is consistently and confidently using the solid tray, move to the tray with the small opening. This introduces the toilet water below while still providing familiar litter and plenty of secure footing.

Continue using positive reinforcement, praise, and treats, and stay at this stage until your cat seems completely comfortable.

Weeks 6–9+

Weeks 6–9+ — Step 5: Large Opening

Next, introduce the large-opening tray. Your cat now learns to position their paws comfortably on The Cat Throne’s wide, non-slip surface while using the toilet below.

This can be one of the biggest transitions in training, so give your cat as much time as they need. If they become hesitant or have accidents, simply return to the previous tray for a while and try again later.

Week 9+

Week 9 and Beyond — Steps 6 & 7: Going Tray-Free

Once your cat is consistently and confidently using the large-opening tray, remove the training tray completely. Your cat can now use the toilet while standing securely on The Cat Throne seat.

The Cat Throne seat can remain installed permanently, providing the same wide, stable surface your cat learned to trust throughout training.

Signs Your Cat Is Ready to Move Forward

  • They get on and off The Cat Throne comfortably and confidently.
  • They consistently use the current tray for both pee and poop.
  • They use The Cat Throne without needing you nearby.
  • They show no hesitation or stress when approaching the toilet.
  • They return to their normal bathroom routine after the tray has been removed and cleaned.

When in doubt, wait. An extra few days at a comfortable stage is far better than moving too quickly and having to rebuild your cat’s confidence.

Heather's Favorite Training Tips

💛 Keep the toilet lid open at all times.

💛 Leave a small step stool next to the toilet.

💛 Never rush your cat.

💛 Celebrate every success with praise or treats.

💛 Use flushable tofu litter during training.

💛 If your cat struggles, simply go back one step.

TRY THE CAT THRONE

If Your Cat Gets Stuck During Training

A little hesitation or a temporary setback doesn’t mean toilet training isn’t working. Every cat learns differently, and some stages may take longer than others. If your cat seems unsure, the best approach is usually simple: slow down, go back a step if needed, and rebuild their confidence.

Your cat stops using the tray

Go back to the previous tray your cat was using comfortably and stay there for a while. Once they’re consistently using it again, you can try moving forward. There’s no penalty for going backward—The Cat Throne’s three-tray system was designed specifically so you can adjust the pace to your cat.

Your cat pees in the toilet but won’t poop

This is not unusual. Pooping requires your cat to hold a different position for longer, so some cats need more time to feel secure.

Stay at the current stage, keep the tray clean, and make sure your cat has plenty of comfortable footing. A step stool can also provide additional support and make it easier to get into position. Don’t move forward until your cat is comfortably using the current tray for both pee and poop.

Your cat goes on the floor next to the toilet

First, check the simple things. Make sure the bathroom door is always open, the toilet lid is up, The Cat Throne is clean and securely clipped into place, and nothing about the setup has unexpectedly changed.

If everything looks right, return to the last tray your cat was using successfully and give them more time.

If accidents continue or you notice changes such as straining, frequent urination, discomfort, or unusual bathroom behavior, pause training and talk with your veterinarian before continuing.

Your cat doesn’t want to get onto the toilet

Make access easier rather than asking your cat to make a big jump. Place a sturdy step stool next to the toilet so they can step up and down comfortably.

A step stool can be especially helpful for kittens, smaller cats, older cats, and cats using taller comfort-height toilets—and you can leave it in place even after training is complete.

Litter keeps falling through the opening

Use less litter as you progress through the trays. The openings become larger at each stage, so your cat will naturally need less litter as training progresses.

Training stalls after something changes at home

Cats can be sensitive to changes in their environment. Moving, traveling, introducing a new pet, having houseguests, or even changing your daily routine can temporarily interrupt training.

Go back to the last stage, when your cat was completely comfortable, and give them time to settle into their new routine. Once their confidence returns, resume progress.

Remember: Your Cat Sets the Pace

The goal isn’t to get through the trays as quickly as possible. The goal is for your cat to feel safe, comfortable, and confident at every stage. A few extra days—or even weeks—are worth it if they lead to a successful, lasting transition away from the litter box.

Still stuck? Email us at meow@thecatthrone.com to let us know which tray you’re using and what your cat is doing. We’ll be happy to help you troubleshoot the next step.

Why Choose The Cat Throne

At The Cat Throne, we’re passionate about elevating the lives of cats and their humans. Our products, including the best cat training kit, are designed with both functionality and feline psychology in mind. Here’s why pet owners love us:

Designed for Training. Built for Life.

Designed for Training. Built for Life.

The Cat Throne isn't just another temporary training kit—it's a permanent solution that continues supporting cats long after they've mastered the toilet. I honestly think that's one of the strongest brand messages we've come up with together.

Premium Quality That Lasts

Premium Quality That Lasts

From our innovative Cat Throne seat to our progressive training trays, every component is designed for durability, comfort, and everyday use. At the heart of the system is a premium Bemis toilet seat—crafted by one of America's most trusted toilet seat manufacturers.

U.S.-Based Customer Support

U.S.-Based Customer Support

Toilet training is a journey, and we're with you every step of the way. Our U.S.-based team is here to answer your questions, share expert tips, troubleshoot challenges, and provide the guidance and encouragement you need for a successful training experience.

Common Questions About Toilet Training Cats

How Long Does Toilet Training Take?

Every cat learns at their own pace, so there's no one-size-fits-all timeline. Most cats complete toilet training in 6 to 12 weeks, although some may learn more quickly while others need additional time and patience. The most important thing isn't how fast your cat progresses—it's how confidently they move through each stage. Rushing to the next training tray before your cat is ready can create setbacks and slow the overall process. The Cat Throne's three progressive training trays are designed to help you move at your cat's pace, building confidence step by step. Celebrate each success, use positive reinforcement, and remember that consistency always wins over speed. Our advice: Let your cat decide when it's time to advance. A confident cat is far more likely to become a successful toilet-trained cat.

Can Older Cats Learn?

Absolutely. Healthy senior cats can learn to use the toilet, and many older cats do very well with gradual, patient training. In fact, The Cat Throne was inspired by a senior cat named Xanadu, who could no longer comfortably balance on a standard toilet seat. That experience led us to design a wider, more stable platform that provides the support older cats need. If your senior cat has arthritis, mobility issues, or any medical concerns, we recommend speaking with your veterinarian before beginning training. Adding a step stool beside the toilet also makes it much easier for older cats to step up comfortably without jumping. Age alone doesn't determine success—good health, patience, and confidence do.

Can Kittens Learn?

Yes! Kittens are often excellent candidates for toilet training because they're naturally curious and adapt quickly to new routines. We generally recommend waiting until your kitten is around 3-4 months old and consistently using a litter box before beginning training. At this stage, they're physically coordinated enough to navigate the toilet safely while still being flexible learners. A sturdy step stool is especially helpful for kittens, giving them an easy way to climb onto the toilet without needing to jump. As with cats of any age, keep training positive, reward successes, and let your kitten progress at a comfortable pace.

Will My Cat Fall In?

This is one of the most common questions we hear, and it's completely understandable. The Cat Throne was specifically designed to reduce that risk by providing a wide, textured, non-slip platform that gives cats plenty of room to stand, turn around, and position themselves naturally. Unlike narrow training rings that require careful balancing, The Cat Throne offers a much more stable surface throughout training. As with any new skill, occasional slips can happen, which is why gradual progression is so important. Never move to the next training stage until your cat is completely comfortable with the current one. Building confidence—not rushing—is the key to successful toilet training.

Can Humans Still Use the Toilet?

Yes! The Cat Throne is designed for everyday family life. The Cat Throne seat securely clips onto the included Bemis toilet seat and can be lifted off in seconds whenever someone needs to use the toilet. The training trays also come off easily for cleaning or to transition between stages. There's no plumbing to modify, no permanent installation, and no complicated setup. Once you're finished, simply place the Cat Throne back onto the toilet and continue your cat's training. It's a system designed to be convenient for both cats and humans.

Can I Keep The Cat Throne Installed Forever?

Absolutely—and many families do. Unlike most toilet training kits that are meant to be discarded after training, The Cat Throne is designed to remain on your toilet as a permanent support platform. Many cats appreciate having the additional standing room, textured surface, and secure footing, especially as they grow older. Continuing to use The Cat Throne can help provide extra confidence and stability throughout your cat's life. That's one of the biggest differences between The Cat Throne and traditional toilet training kits: it's designed not only for successful training, but for your cat's long-term comfort.

What If I Have Two Cats?

Many households successfully toilet train multiple cats, although it often requires a little extra patience. If both cats already share a litter box and have similar personalities, they may naturally learn together by watching one another. Some cats even gain confidence by observing a companion use the toilet. If one cat is hesitant, it's perfectly fine to let the more confident cat lead the way. The second cat often follows once they realize the toilet is a safe and familiar place to go. As with single-cat households, don't rush the process. Move to the next training stage only when both cats are consistently comfortable with the current one. For households with three or more cats—or cats with very different personalities—you may find that each progresses at a different pace, and that's perfectly normal.

Is Toilet Training Humane?

We believe toilet training should never force a cat to do something unnatural or uncomfortable. That's why The Cat Throne was designed around stability, confidence, and gradual progression. Every cat is different, and toilet training isn't the right choice for every household. The goal isn't speed—it's creating a positive experience that allows your cat to learn at their own pace. If a cat is healthy, comfortable, and enjoys using the system, toilet training can be a safe and rewarding alternative to a traditional litter box.

Toilet Training a Kitten

Kittens are often curious, adaptable, and open to new routines, which can make this a great time to introduce toilet training. But there’s no reason to rush. Before beginning, make sure your kitten is physically ready and already has good, consistent litter box habits.

When Is a Kitten Ready?

Rather than focusing on a specific age, pay attention to your kitten’s size, coordination, confidence, and bathroom habits.

Your kitten may be ready to begin when they:

  • Consistently use their litter box without accidents.
  • Are coordinated and confident moving around their environment.
  • Can comfortably get on and off The Cat Throne, either independently or with the help of a step stool.
  • Are large enough to stand comfortably and securely on The Cat Throne’s wide platform.

For smaller kittens, we strongly recommend using a step stool beside the toilet. It creates an easier approach to walking up and reduces the need for a big jump onto or off the toilet.

Is Training a Kitten Different From Training an Adult Cat?

The basic Cat Throne training process is the same, but kittens may respond differently. Because they’re still developing habits, some kittens adapt to a new bathroom routine surprisingly quickly.

That doesn’t mean you should move through the trays faster.

Even if your kitten seems to understand a new stage right away, give them enough time to use it consistently for both pee and poop before progressing. Confidence and consistency matter more than speed.

If your kitten has an accident or becomes hesitant, simply return to the previous tray and give them more time.

If You Already Have a Toilet-Trained Cat

A toilet-trained cat can be a wonderful teacher. Kittens naturally observe other cats and may become curious about The Cat Throne after watching another cat use it.

Let your kitten observe without forcing the interaction. Seeing another cat confidently use the toilet can help make The Cat Throne feel like a normal part of their environment and daily routine.

A Note About Very Young Kittens

Very young, tiny, or unsteady kittens should continue using a litter box until they have the coordination and confidence to use The Cat Throne safely.

Once they’re ready, The Cat Throne’s wide, stable, non-slip platform gives them significantly more room for secure footing than asking a small kitten to perch on the narrow edge of a standard toilet seat.

And remember: there’s no prize for starting early or finishing fast. The best time to begin is when your kitten is ready.

Ready to Toilet Train Your Cat?

Now that you know how to toilet train a cat, you're ready to begin with a system designed for long-term success. The Cat Throne includes everything you need to guide your cat through each stage of training—from their first steps to confidently using the toilet.

Explore our premium cat toilet training system and discover a cleaner, more hygienic alternative to the traditional litter box.