Last updated Jan 22, 2026
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
No cat owner wants to spend more time thinking about litter boxes than they have to, which is why it’s crucial to make the right choice the first time around. Choosing the best litter box for your cat comes down to personal preference as well as practical factors like build quality, size, accessibility, odor control, and ease of cleaning.
To help you find the best cat litter box for your feline family, we’ve assembled a list of our top recommendations in over a dozen different categories. Keep reading to see our picks for the best litter boxes for cats of all breeds and ages.
At a Glance: Best Litter Boxes to Buy
Want a quick look at the products reviewed in this article? In the comparison table below, we’ve highlighted some of the most important features of each product. You’ll find more detailed information about each product later in the article.
Litter-Robot 5 Pro by Whisker
- Upgraded smart features and dual cameras
- Automatically separates waste from clean litter
- Reliable performance and strong odor control
Litter-Robot 4 by Whisker
- Strong history of reliable performance and customer satisfaction
- Compatible with any clumping cat litter
- Pairs with the Whisker app to deliver health insights
Petmate Litter Pan
- Available in four sizes, small through jumbo
- Economically priced under $15
- Made from lightweight but sturdy materials
iPrimio Stainless Steel Enclosed Litter Box
- Sturdy stainless-steel construction
- Generously sized with high sides (with enclosure)
- Nonstick coating reduces odor and residue buildup
Frisco Multi-Function Covered Cat Litter Box
- Generously sized with plenty of head room
- Flip-top lid makes it easy to scoop
- Several ways to use, depending on cat preferences
IRIS Large Cat Litter Box with Scatter Shield
- Moderately priced, high-sided litter box
- Removable scatter shield helps contain litter box mess
- Sturdy design helps improve durability
Modkat XL Litter Box
- Modular configuration with top and/or front entry
- Reusable liner enables quick cleanup
- Simple but sturdy design made from durable materials
Nature’s Miracle Hooded Corner Litter Box
- Generously sized with a space-saving design
- Sturdy base with a non-stick coating to reduce odor
- Hooded design helps contain litter box mess
Tuft & Paw Cubby Litter Box
- Modestly sized with high walls to help contain mess
- Stylish design fits well with most home decor
- Base made from sturdy, odor-resistant materials
Lucky Champ Cat Litter Pan
- Low entry is easy for kittens and small cats to use
- Spacious pan with plenty of room to dig
- Molded rim improves stability and durability
Booda Dome Cleanstep Litter Box
- Textured ramp is easy for senior cats to navigate
- Spacious interior with plenty of head room
- Removable lid contains odor and litter box mess
Frisco High Sided Cat Litter Box, Extra Large
- Generously sized to accommodate larger cats
- Economically priced with a sturdy build
- High walls help contain litter scatter and urine spray
Tidy Cats Breeze Litter Box System
- Innovative design featuring reusable zeolite pellets
- Absorbent pee pad makes refreshing the litter box easy
- Can be used with other pelletized cat litters
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Over the past few years, our team has tested more than 100 litter boxes with our cats (including over a dozen automatic models). Drawing on my personal experience as a cat owner of 15+ years, combined with countless hours of market research and consultation with feline behavior experts, I compiled my top 13 picks for in-home testing.
While testing these litter boxes, I made note of details like durability, ease of cleaning, and cat-friendliness. I also kept an eye on how well each litter box reduced odor, tracking, and litter sticking. My two cats, Munchkin and Biscuit, made their preferences clear, which I compared to the experiences of other cats while reading hundreds of customer reviews.
Top Picks Explained
We’ve tested hundreds of different litter boxes and litter box accessories over the years and, while our current recommendations might not match the ones in this video, they’re still strong choices worth considering.
The Best Cat Litter Boxes: Our Top 13 Recommendations
One of the latest entries in the world of smart pet technology, the Litter-Robot 5 from Whisker is our top recommendation for the best litter box. It’s packed with convenient features and designed for reliable, scoop-free performance. As an automatic, self-cleaning model, however, it comes with a hefty price tag and might not be the ideal choice for every household.
To help you find the perfect fit for your feline family, we’ve rounded up a list of our most highly recommended litter boxes in different sizes, made from versatile materials, and with various modes of entry. Browse the list according to your cat’s established preferences or peruse them all to find a potential new favorite.
#1 Overall Best: Litter-Robot 5 Pro by Whisker
- Litter Box Type: Automatic
- Dimensions: 22” x 27” x 30”
- Key Features: Dual cameras, AI-powered technology
- Ideal For: Multi-cat households and tech-savvy cat owners
- Price: $899
With upgraded technology like dual built-in cameras, AI-powered multi-cat identification, and the reliable scoop-free performance Litter-Robot users have come to know and love, the Litter-Robot 5 Pro is our all-around top pick. If you’re already a Litter-Robot user, you’ll find the design familiar and the app still easy to navigate but may appreciate the integration of new smart features that make the Litter-Robot 5 Pro Whisker’s most advanced model yet.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
The Litter-Robot 5 Pro is an automatic litter box that cleans itself automatically each time your cat uses it. A built-in scale combined with AI-powered facial recognition identifies your cat as they approach the box, tracks their activity, and compiles useful data in the updated Whisker app. Over time, the app learns your cat’s habits and will eventually be able to notify you of changes that could potentially indicate a health problem.
Not only does the LR5 Pro save you the hassle of scooping, but it offers exceptional odor control. During each cleaning cycle, the globe rotates and sifts the litter, depositing clumps and waste in a discreet drawer in the base of the unit. You’ll get a notification through the app when the waste drawer is full and when it’s time to refill the litter bed.
The Litter-Robot 5 Pro has a similar footprint as a large litter pan, though it requires more vertical space and close proximity to a power outlet. A large full-color LCD screen on top of the unit displays useful information like your cat’s weight, the duration of their visit, and the time to the next cleaning cycle. And if the $899 price tag is a little too hefty, you can always go with the standard Litter-Robot 5 for $100 less (though it lacks cameras and some smart features).
What We Liked:
- Upgraded smart features and dual cameras
- Automatically separates waste from clean litter
- Reliable performance and strong odor control
- Pairs with the updated Whisker app
What We Didn’t Like:
- Expensive, costs over $800
- Some smart features require a Whisker+ subscription
#2 Runner Up: Litter-Robot 4 by Whisker
- Litter Box Type: Automatic
- Dimensions: 22” x 27” x 29.5”
- Key Features: WiFi-enabled, strong odor control
- Ideal For: People seeking a balance of price and performance
- Price: $699
If you like the idea of an automatic litter box but aren’t eager to spend nearly $900 on the Litter-Robot 5 Pro, the tried-and-true Litter-Robot 4 is still a great buy (and costs over 20% less). It offers the same reliable performance, strong odor control, and scoop-free convenience of other Litter-Robots but it has the benefit of several years on the market, which means there’s been plenty of time to work out the kinks.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
When it was released, the Litter-Robot 4 was strikingly different from previous iterations. Instead of the narrower, vertical opening of the Litter-Robot 3, it boasts a wide, circular opening. It’s pretty spacious inside and the waste drawer is still conveniently located in the base of the unit. Most importantly, however, the LR4 has an upgraded suite of sensors to provide enhanced safety and improved health tracking.
Not only is the Litter-Robot 4 more modestly priced than the LR5 and LR5 Pro, but Whisker offers a full array of accessories for it. You can upgrade your device with the LitterHopper automatic litter refill device or mount a webcam to monitor usage. If you’re placing it on carpet, you may also need to purchase the Carpet Tray to ensure accuracy with the device’s built-in SmartScale.
What We Liked:
- Strong history of reliable performance and customer satisfaction
- Compatible with any clumping cat litter
- Pairs with the Whisker app to deliver health insights
- Several available accessories to upgrade your device
What We Didn’t Like:
- Still fairly expensive, priced over $600
- May require a special tray to function properly on carpet
#3 Budget Pick: Petmate Litter Pan
- Litter Box Type: Standard litter pan
- Dimensions: Various (up to 22” x 16.5” x 5.5”)
- Key Features: Lightweight but sturdy design
- Ideal For: Cat owners on a budget, cats who prefer open litter pans
- Price: $4.99–$10.99
For those seeking a plain and simple litter box that gets the job done without stretching your budget, you can’t go wrong with the Petmate Litter Pan. It’s available in four sizes, all priced under $15, with the largest measuring 22 inches long and 16.5 inches wide.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
The Petmate Litter Pan offers an ideal combination of strength and stability. It’s made from lightweight plastic but features a sturdy rim that makes it easy to grip and carry. The open-top design makes it easy for cats to enter from any side, which also makes it simple to scoop and clean. This litter box can be used with any type of cat litter.
Customers frequently comment on the quality and convenience of this litter box. Many find it easy to wipe or rinse clean, and the sizes are generous without being overwhelming. One thing to keep in mind is that the larger sizes have taller sides, which could affect accessibility for senior cats or those with mobility issues.
What We Liked:
- Available in four sizes, small through jumbo
- Economically priced under $15
- Made from lightweight but sturdy materials
What We Didn’t Like:
- Larger sizes have taller sides which some cats may have trouble stepping over
#4 Best Stainless Steel: iPrimio Stainless Steel Enclosed Litter Box
- Litter Box Type: High-sided, open-top
- Dimensions: 23.5” x 15.5” x 6”
- Key Features: Reduces odor and residue buildup
- Ideal For: Cat owners willing to pay more for a durable design
- Price: $99.99
When it comes to long-lasting durability and odor control, stainless steel litter boxes are the way to go. This iPrimio stainless-steel litter box is made from premium rust-resistant materials and features a non-stick coating to keep dirty litter from clinging to the sides and corners. Not only does this help reduce odor accumulation, but it makes cleaning the litter box quick and easy.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
The iPrimio stainless-steel litter box comes in two sizes, with or without a removable enclosure. The enclosure snaps onto the top of the litter box, raising the height of the walls by 6 inches on three sides. If you’ve been struggling to contain litter or urine spray with your current litter box setup, this litter box combo could be the solution.
With over 10,000 ratings, this litter box has a strong history of customer satisfaction. Some users find it a little tricky to clean litter out of the corners, but it may just depend on the type of litter you use. The manufacturer also recommends using a plastic or silicone scoop (instead of metal) to avoid scratching the nonstick coating.
What We Liked:
- Sturdy stainless-steel construction
- Generously sized with high sides (with enclosure)
- Nonstick coating reduces odor and residue buildup
What We Didn’t Like:
- Metal scoops may damage the nonstick coating
- Some users report litter sticking in the corners
#5 Best Covered: Frisco Multi-Function Covered Cat Litter Box
- Litter Box Type: Enclosed
- Dimensions: 29.73” x 17.5” x 17.64”
- Key Features: Spacious interior, contains litter box mess
- Ideal For: Cats who spray when they pee
- Price: $.69.99
Some cats like the privacy covered litter boxes have to offer but many options are too cramped for comfort. The Frisco Multi-Function Covered Cat Litter Box is a sizable choice and there are several ways to use it, according to your cat’s unique habits and preferences.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Straining and hard stool may indicate constipation, a blockage, or bowel irritation. Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Similar in appearance to a large plastic tub, this Frisco covered litter box features a removable lid and a large, low-profile entrance on the front. The interior is spacious, measuring nearly 30 inches long and 17.5 inches wide. For large cats, you can simply fill the whole box with litter or, for smaller cats, you can place a smaller litter tray inside.
Made from lightweight plastic with cut-out handles on either side, this covered litter box is easy to carry and clean. You can simply flip up the lid to scoop it (it even comes with a matching scoop and holder). This litter box does a great job of containing urine spray and litter box odor, though litter can still be scattered out of the front opening.
What We Liked:
- Generously sized with plenty of head room
- Flip-top lid makes it easy to scoop
- Several ways to use, depending on cat preferences
What We Didn’t Like:
- Takes up a significant amount of floor space
- Plastic materials may scratch and stain over time
#6 Best High-Sided: IRIS Large Cat Litter Box with Scatter Shield
- Litter Box Type: High-sided, open-top
- Dimensions: 19” x 15” x 11.75”
- Key Features: Removable high-sided litter shield
- Ideal For: Cats who kick litter out of the box
- Price: $18.99
A little bit of litter scatter is inevitable, but if your cat tends to kick litter out of the litter box every time they go, it might be worth investing in a high-sided litter box. This IRIS litter box comes with a removable scatter shield designed specifically for keeping mess in the box where it belongs.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Though available in several sizes, the large IRIS Cat Litter Box with Scatter Shield offers a good balance of size and affordability. It’s made from sturdy BPA-free plastic with molded rims for added strength and feet to help keep the litter box in place. The removable scatter shield increases the height of the walls to nearly 12 inches.
Not only does this litter box reduce litter scatter, but the polished interior helps keep litter from sticking to the sides. As some customers have noted, however, there’s a slightly raised edge in the bottom of the box that wet litter may stick to.
What We Liked:
- Moderately priced, high-sided litter box
- Removable scatter shield helps contain litter box mess
- Sturdy design helps improve durability
What We Didn’t Like:
- Bottom isn’t completely flat (center is slightly raised)
- Some users find the holes in the included scoop too large
#7 Best Top-Entry: Modkat XL Litter Box
- Litter Box Type: Top-entry, modular
- Dimensions: 21” x 16.5” x 17”
- Key Features: Reusable liner for easy cleaning
- Ideal For: Cat owners concerned about litter scatter
- Price: $189.99
Another option for cats who tend to kick litter out of the box or spray urine down the sides is a top-entry model. A type of enclosed litter box, top-entry models like the Modkat XL feature an opening on the top of the box. What makes this particular model unique is that you can configure it to provide a second entry in the front.
Mallory Crusta / Cats.com
Mallory Crusta / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Not only do top-entry litter boxes like the Modkat XL contain litter scatter and urine spray with their enclosed design, but they help reduce tracking. When your cat jumps up to exit the box, the litter clinging to their paws is more likely to fall off. The Modkat XL helps further reduce tracking with the perforated, litter mat-style lid that enables loose litter to fall back into the box.
Another feature that makes the Modkat XL a popular pick is the inclusion of a sturdy, reusable liner. The liner hangs on hooks inside the box. When it’s time to clean the litter box, you can flip up the lid and scoop or remove the liner (along with the litter inside it) and carry it to a more convenient location without having to move the box.
What We Liked:
- Modular configuration with top and/or front entry
- Reusable liner enables quick cleanup
- Simple but sturdy design made from durable materials
What We Didn’t Like:
- Fairly expensive, priced over $150
#8 Best Corner Litter Box: Nature’s Miracle Hooded Corner Litter Box
- Litter Box Type: Enclosed, corner
- Dimensions: 23” x 26” x 20”
- Key Features: Space-saving corner design
- Ideal For: Homes with limited floor space
- Price: $61.69
Whether you have limited space to work with or just want to maximize the room you have, the Nature’s Miracle Hooded Corner Litter Box might be the perfect fit. It has a space-saving design but is still generously sized, measuring 23 inches across with 26-inch sides.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
As a hooded litter box, this model is designed to help contain litter box mess—including odor. The plastic materials are treated to inhibit odor caused by bacteria, mold, or mildew, and the removable hood features a charcoal filter. This litter box also has a non-stick coating on the base to help keep litter from sticking and odor from accumulating.
As with all corner-style litter boxes, the size of the litter bed is somewhat limited by the shape of the box. This model from Nature’s Miracle is one of the larger options on the market but very large cats may still find it a bit cramped. If urine spray or litter scatter is a concern, however, the high sides and hooded design should help.
What We Liked:
- Generously sized with a space-saving design
- Sturdy base with a non-stick coating to reduce odor
- Hooded design helps contain litter box mess
What We Didn’t Like:
- Very large cats may find corner litter boxes too cramped
- Somewhat pricey, costs over $50
#9 Best for Small Spaces: Tuft & Paw Cubby Litter Box
- Litter Box Type: High-sided, open-top
- Dimensions: 21.2” x 15.2” x 14”
- Key Features: Anti-stick and odor-resistant base
- Ideal For: Smaller cats and homes with limited floor space
- Price: $69.00
When space is at a premium, the Cubby Litter Box from Tuft & Paw offers a stylish solution. This open-top litter box features a removable enclosure and a sturdy, floor-friendly base, so the litter box (as well as its contents) stays where it belongs.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
The Cubby litter box is a little pricier than other options but it’s designed for durability and is easy to clean. Measuring 21.2 inches long and 15.2 inches wide, it provides plenty of space for your cat without taking up a lot of room in your house. And the modern styling means it won’t stick out like a sore thumb if you have to place it somewhere visible.
Suitable for use with all types of cat litter, the Cubby litter box is made with anti-stick, odor-resistant materials. The enclosure is semi-transparent, so it won’t impact your cat’s visibility, and both the base and the enclosure are easy to wipe clean. The one downside some users note is that the corner placement of the entry sometimes allows litter to scatter out of the box.
What We Liked:
- Modestly sized with high walls to help contain mess
- Stylish design fits well with most home decor
- Base made from sturdy, odor-resistant materials
What We Didn’t Like:
- Wide corner entry may allow for some litter scatter
- Somewhat pricey, costs over $50
#10 Best for Kittens: KittyGoHere Senior Cat Litter Box
- Litter Box Type: Low-entry, open-top
- Dimensions: 24” x 20” x 5”
- Key Features: Low entry for easy accessibility
- Ideal For: Young kittens or mobility-limited senior cats
- Price: $39.95
While your kitten is still learning to use the litter box, it’s crucial to maintain easy accessibility. Featuring low sides and an even lower entry, the KittyGoHere litter box is suitable for kittens as well as senior cats. Cats can easily step into and out of the litter box from all sides and there’s plenty of room inside for them to dig around.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
The KittyGoHere litter box comes in two sizes and three colors. The smaller size looks like a standard litter pan, measuring 15 inches wide and 20 inches deep with 5-inch walls. The larger size is wide rather than long, measuring 24 inches across and 20 inches deep with the same 5-inch walls. Both models have a 3-inch entry.
Designed for durability as well as accessibility, this litter box is very sturdy. It has molded rims to give you something to grab onto if you need to move it, and the bottom is smooth for easy scooping. The main downside is that the low walls may not offer much protection against litter scatter and urine spray.
What We Liked:
- Low entry is easy for kittens and small cats to use
- Spacious pan with plenty of room to dig
- Molded rim improves stability and durability
What We Didn’t Like:
- Low walls offer limited protection against scatter and spray
#11 Best for Senior Cats: Booda Dome Cleanstep Litter Box
- Litter Box Type: Enclosed
- Dimensions: 22.5” x 22.5” x 19”
- Key Features: Sloping ramp leading into the litter bed
- Ideal For: Senior cats and cats with mobility issues
- Price: $64.99
Another option that works well for senior cats and kittens alike, the Booda Dome Cleanstep Litter Box features a unique design. It’s shaped like an igloo with a spacious litter bed and a sloping ramp leading up to it. It’s only available in one size but comes in three colors.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Straining and hard stool may indicate constipation, a blockage, or bowel irritation.Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
The Booda Dome is particularly well suited to senior cats who have trouble stepping over high walls, though they’ll still need to step into and out of the litter bed inside. You can adjust the depth of the litter bed according to your cat’s individual comfort level. A deeper litter bed may be easier to step into and out of for cats with arthritis or other mobility issues.
Not only is the Booda Dome easily accessible, but it offers strong odor control thanks to a combination of its enclosed design and a carbon filter insert in the top. The domed lid fits snugly into the base, and there’s a handle on top for convenience.
What We Liked:
- Textured ramp is easy for senior cats to navigate
- Spacious interior with plenty of head room
- Removable lid contains odor and litter box mess
What We Didn’t Like:
- Some users find the lid doesn’t lock securely into the base
- Somewhat pricey, costs over $50
#12 Best for Large Cats: Frisco High Sided Cat Litter Box, Extra Large
- Litter Box Type: High-sided, open-top
- Dimensions: 24” x 18” x 10”
- Key Features: Sturdy build with high walls to contain mess
- Ideal For: Large cats and cat owners concerned about litter scatter
- Price: $22.99
Finding a litter box big enough for a large cat to use comfortably can be a challenge, especially if you don’t want to pay an arm and a leg for it. The Frisco High-Sided Cat Litter Box is an economical option that seems to work well for bigger cats.
Shannon Perry / Cats.com
Shannon Perry / Cats.com
Shannon Perry / Cats.com
Measuring 24 inches deep and 18 inches across, this litter box offers a spacious interior. The walls are 10 inches high which helps contain litter box mess, but they’re not so tall that a large cat won’t be able to poke their head out for a little extra breathing room. And the entry is 5.6 inches off the ground, so it’s still easily accessible.
This high-sided litter box is sturdily constructed from BPA-free materials with a smooth interior that helps keep wet litter from sticking to the sides. It also has a molded rim for enhanced stability and to give you something to hold onto when you need to move it. While many customers appreciate the durable design, some find it heavy to lift when it’s full of litter.
What We Liked:
- Generously sized to accommodate larger cats
- Economically priced with a sturdy build
- High walls help contain litter scatter and urine spray
What We Didn’t Like:
- Litter may still scatter out of the low entry
- Can be heavy to lift when full of litter
#13 Best for Pelletized Litter: Tidy Cats Breeze Litter Box System
- Litter Box Type: Sifting litter box system
- Dimensions: 29.25” x 19.15” x 15.25”
- Key Features: Absorbent pee pad and reusable zeolite pellets
- Ideal For: Cat owners who prefer pelletized litter
- Price: $61.99
Whether you’re hoping to reduce tracking or you prefer non-clay alternatives, switching to pelletized litter could be a smart move but not all litter boxes are designed to accommodate it. One that works particularly well is the Tidy Cats Breeze Litter Box System, available in two sizes with or without a privacy hood.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
The Tidy Cats Breeze Litter Box System utilizes a combination of absorbent pee pads, a slotted base, and reusable zeolite pellets. The zeolite pellets catch and dehydrate solid waste while liquids pass through the slotted base to be soaked up by the absorbent pad below. Though designed for use with Breeze pellets, customers report that the system can also be used with pelletized litter like pine.
A common complaint about the Tidy Cats Breeze system is the size—some users find it too small for their cats’ comfort. If you have a large cat, they might find the XL size more comfortable. This size has the added benefit of taller sides which may help to contain litter scatter and urine spray as well.
What We Liked:
- Innovative design featuring reusable zeolite pellets
- Absorbent pee pad makes refreshing the litter box easy
- Can be used with other pelletized cat litters
What We Didn’t Like:
- Standard size may be too small for some cats
- Included scoop is very small
Things to Consider When Shopping for Cat Litter Boxes
The modern cat owner has countless litter boxes to choose from, but all litter boxes are not created equal. Whether you’re looking for something simple to suit a limited budget or you’re prepared to shell out for smart technology, there’s a litter box to meet every need and preference. Here are some factors to consider as you start narrowing down the options:
External Dimensions
Where you plan to put your cat’s litter box might create some limitations but experts recommend choosing the biggest litter box you can reasonably accommodate. Large litter boxes give your cat space to move around in and find a clean spot to do their business. At a minimum, the litter box should be twice as wide as your cat is long (measured from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail).
Interior Space
When it comes to litter boxes, a large footprint doesn’t always equate to a spacious interior—especially with automatic, self-cleaning litter boxes. Check the product specifications to determine the size of the litter bed and make sure it’s big enough to comfortably accommodate your cat.
Wall Height
If you want to keep litter in the box where it belongs, wall height is an important factor to consider. High-sided litter boxes help contain litter scatter and urine spray, as do top-entry litter boxes and covered models. Keep in mind that some cats find enclosed litter boxes too confining, and others might not like jumping in and out of a top-entry model.
Accessibility
Whether you have a growing kitten, an active adult, or a senior cat, make sure the litter box you choose is easy for them to access. With high-sided models and enclosed litter boxes, this typically involves a lowered entry point. Placement is key for top-entry litter boxes and some self-cleaning models, especially if jumping or navigating steps is uncomfortable for your cat.
Ease of Cleaning
Open litter pans (including high-sided models) are generally the easiest to clean, since you can reach right in to scoop them. Cleaning a covered litter box may require the additional step of removing the top for cleaning, though some models have built-in sifters to minimize hassle. Automatic litter boxes do most of the cleaning for you, though they tend to be pretty pricey.
Special Features
There’s nothing wrong with a plain-and-simple litter pan. In fact, many cats prefer them! But if you have some wiggle room in your budget, it’s worth considering bonus features like integrated filters for enhanced odor control, litter-catching elements to reduce tracking, or the smart features that have come to define the automatic litter box category.
Learn more about the best types of cat litter boxes in our in-depth video review on the Cats.com YouTube channel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best cat litter box for odor control?
If your cat’s litter box has an odor problem, look at yourself first. Ensure that you’ve been cleaning out the box at least once a day. If a diligent cleaning routine leaves the litter box still smelling foul, choosing a new litter box could help.
Some litter boxes have non-stick and antimicrobial coatings that help to minimize the amount of waste that sticks to their inside surfaces. These coatings also help to minimize the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Others feature carbon filters that capture odors before they can enter the room.
Do cats prefer open or closed litter boxes?
Every cat has their own unique preferences in terms of litter boxes, but there are some benefits to choosing an enclosed versus an open litter box.
Enclosed litter boxes provide a higher degree of privacy, with the added benefit of containing odor and litter scatter better than an open box. The downside is some cats may find an enclosed box too cramped. Large breeds in particular may be more comfortable in an open litter box.
Though there are pros and cons for each option, limited research suggests most cats don’t really have a preference when it comes to open or closed litter boxes. Researchers at the Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine completed a study in 2012 that revealed that 70% of cats showed no preference for one kind of litter box over the other.
What’s the best litter box for multiple cats?
In a multiple cat home, the litter box has to handle increased box activity while also facilitating healthy relationships.
The standard recommendation is that you install as many litter boxes as you have cats, plus one. One cat needs two litter boxes and twelve cats need thirteen. In addition to accommodating your multiple cats with numerous litter boxes, choose sizable boxes that can handle heavy use. A big cat family creates plenty of waste, and it takes large litter boxes to handle that.
Remember that multiple cat households have a uniquely feline social hierarchy. As a central part of daily life, the litter box can get involved in territorial spats and social dominance games. A dominant cat may block a submissive family member inside of the litter box, forcing them to stand in their own waste. This is a frightening and humiliating experience and can send the conflict on a downward spiral.
For this reason, avoid placing your litter box in a corner and don’t use covered boxes in a multiple cat home.
What’s the best cat litter box to keep dogs out?
Some dogs love eating smelly little cat treats from the litter box.
This is at once disgusting to watch, unsanitary, and potentially dangerous. Choosing the right box can prevent your dog from invading the litter box. Several designs can help to keep your dog out of the litter box. One is a top entry box, which keeps small dogs from accessing the waste area. Other boxes have both an inner and outer entry, preventing larger dogs from probing into the box.
If you don’t want to give your cat a covered litter box, there are other options for keeping your dog out. If your cat is agile and comfortable jumping, take advantage of their vertical mobility and put the litter box on a counter or large shelf that your dog can’t access.
What’s the best cat litter box for small apartments?
Having a small home doesn’t mean you need to cut back on litter box space. Instead of saving space by choosing a small box, choose one that can multitask.
Litter box furniture enclosures double as storage areas and shelving, allowing you to maximize your space. Because these pieces make functional decorative accents, they have more placement options than the average litter box.
While it’s usually a good idea to place your litter box in the bathroom, laundry room, or other discreet area, multifunctional boxes can go almost anywhere. Regardless of how limited your space is, try to place the litter box in a low-traffic area where your cat will have a stress-free elimination experience.
