Litter training is usually carried out by the kitten's mother but in her absence it is possible for the owner to litter train the kitten. Kittens instinctively look for an area to eliminate when they start to explore, typically from three weeks of age. Choose a small, shallow litter tray to begin with using a decent litter. Place the litter tray away from the kitten's sleeping and eating areas. Introduce the kitten to the tray when it arrives at its new home by gently holding its paw and rubbing the litter using a scratching movement. Thirty minutes after a meal or playing, place the kitten in its tray. Should the kitten soil away from the litter tray, do not shout at it; simply place the mess and the kitten in the tray. Remove mess from the tray immediately. Change the litter and clean the tray at least twice a week.