If you have more than one cat, you need more than one litter box. Cats are very particular and won't eliminate in a "used" litter box. The general rule of thumb is to have one litter box per cat.

Location, location, location; sudden noises, or lack of privacy can scare a cat from using a litter box. Try moving it to a different spot.

Never punish your cat for having an accident. She won't make connection unless you catch her in act. Even then, punishment only creates fear of you, not a desire to change behavior. Use an enzyme-based cleaner to remove smell of accident. This will help prevent future soiling in that spot as smell of urine will make cat think its OK to go there.

If you notice that accidents happen in same place over and over, try putting a litter box there. Perhaps your cat prefers this spot for reasons you'll never understand. If accidents tend to happen when your cat has free run of house or while you are away, keep her confined to one room until you can watch her. Be sure to provide food, water, and that all-important litter box in whatever room you place her in. If your cat uses litter box successfully for several years, then begins to have accidents, have your veterinarian examine her for a possible urinary tract or kidney infection.

The best way to carry a kitten or cat is to place one hand or arm under its front legs, and support its hind legs with other hand or arm. This gives cat a secure feeling. Teach your children not to carry cat from one place to another. Explain that for cat's safety, they should always sit when they want to hold cat, and should have their friends do same.

Cats often have a mind of their own. Your child might feel like snuggling quietly at a time when your cat wants to play pounce. Impress on your children that if cat ever struggles to get away, they should respect her wishes and let her go. A cornered cat will scratch and bite.

Encourage your children to exercise cat by playing with appropriate toys. It is always tempting to play "catch my hand" with a kitten, because it is so amusing how fascinated they are with fingers. You should ensure that your children know difference between playing and teasing your cat. If you teach a kitten that it is acceptable to swat and bite fingers, you'll wind up with an adult cat that regularly attacks you. Not exactly kind of cuddly cat parents want for their children.