Please help! My cat won’t use her litter tray!

[NorthernGirl1991]

When I first got my cat as a kitten she managed to use her litter tray perfectly...for a couple of days. Ever since she’ll sometimes go in it but most often next to it. I’ve put down mats so that she won’t ruin the carpet but she’ll just go on these. I’ve tried different types of cat litter to no avail. She seems to prefer puppy pads.
She’s a year old now and I’d really like to get this problem sorted. Has anyone got any advice?
She has regular vet check ups and is perfectly healthy. She’s a house cat if that makes any difference.
Thank you x

[ScrabbleFiend]

I would try changing the type of tray and the location. Also you should have at least 2 trays. Maybe try the enclosed ones? Also make sure it's nowhere near her food. You could try puppy pads in the trays instead of litter to start with if she likes these. If she's anxious try feliway plug ins. Sometimes even the smell of a cat outside can cause anxiety. And make sure you property clean any areas where she has urinated to completely eliminate the scent.

[NoSquirrels]

Yes, try the puppy pads in a tray. Does she not like being enclosed, or the feel of litter on her paws? It's quite unusual as cats really like to bury their waste, so there must be something perhaps about the litter that upsets her.

Have you tried all different kinds - paper, wood etc?

[NoSquirrels]

Sorry - see you said you'd tried different sorts.

[NorthernGirl1991]

Thank you!
I’ve tried enclosed ones, she didn’t want to go in them!
I’m using puppy pads at the moment and they seem to be what works best but it’s still pretty hit and miss.
I must have spent so much money on different ‘solutions’ and cleaning products. I live really remotely and there aren’t any other cats nearby that I’ve ever seen.
Will keep trying! X

[NoSquirrels]

www.petfinder.com/cats/cat-behavior-and-training/cat-litterbox-training/

Might be useful? There's a section about "imprinting" on the texture of surfaces - puppy pads in your case. I think you'll have to go really slowly and take your time.