If your cat is comfortable with the current litter and it meets their needs, there may be no reason to change it. When a switch is necessary, introduce the new litter gradually and avoid changing the tray, position, depth and litter type all at once.
Choose one transition method
Cats Protection recommends avoiding an overnight replacement. One method is to mix a small amount of new litter into the old and increase the proportion over at least a week.
Another option, where several trays are available, is to offer the new litter in one tray while keeping familiar litter in the others. This lets the cat show a preference without losing every known toileting option.
Keep the rest of the setup stable
- Retain familiar tray locations during the change.
- Keep cleaning frequency consistent.
- Do not introduce a new hood, liner or fragrance at the same time.
- Maintain enough trays for the household.
- Record which tray the cat chooses and any avoidance.
Texture, scent and depth are separate variables. “Natural”, “premium” or “low tracking” does not tell you whether an individual cat will accept a product.
Check compatibility before using an automatic tray
The pictured Bothy is an enclosed self-cleaning litter tray. Confirm the manufacturer’s exact litter requirements before introducing a new type; do not test an incompatible litter inside an automatic mechanism.
Our guide to litter compatibility and depth for the Bothy explains which details need confirmation. A gradual behavioural transition does not override the machine’s instructions.
Respond to toileting changes promptly
Keep trays accessible and clean while observing use. Do not punish a cat for avoiding the changed setup. If the cat strains, appears painful, repeatedly visits without passing urine, or has another sudden toileting change, contact a vet urgently rather than assuming it is only a litter preference.
Direct answer: change one variable at a time, retain familiar litter and increase the new option gradually over at least a week unless your vet advises otherwise.
Guidance checked 12 September 2026.
