Best Litter Box Review Guide For 2023-2024

Best Litter Box Review Guide For 2023-2024 – Using the right type of litter box for your feline can end up making life easier for both of you. But the type of litter box you use can depend on their litter habits, the type of cat you have, their age, how much space you have to work with, and your budget. The best cat litter box will be low maintenance, easy to clean, durable, and tough enough to not flip over the moment your cat sets a paw inside it. Finding a litter box that checks all the boxes can be difficult, especially if you’re dealing with a particularly picky cat.

I’ve reviewed many of the best-selling litter boxes, rated by cat people and based on criteria that includes price, durability, maintenance needs and more, so you’re sure to find a model that checks all of the boxes, in my
Best Litter Box Review Guide For 2023-2024.

Best Litter Box Buyers Guide For 2023-2024

Finding a litter box may sound easy initially, but once you realize just how picky your new cat is, you’ll find that choosing the right model is often based on several factors. Even the biggest cat person doesn’t want to spend a lot of time maintaining a litter box and scooping poop. While most cats have the natural instinct to cover their urine and poop with litter, others could care less and will leave their feces in plain view. That’s where purchasing a hooded litter box or an automatic model will come in handy. You also have to consider the size of the box, how durable it is, and what type of litter it will work the best with. This guide will cover all the features you need to look for, how to determine if a box is right for your cat and why it’s so important to use a litter box as opposed to allowing your cat to have access to the outdoors.

Cat Litter Box Benefits:

Many new cat owners may cringe at the idea of using a litter box in the home, but the fact is, there are many benefits that come along with training your cat to use a litter box as opposed to going in the front or backyard.

There are many pros and cons that come with allowing your cat to do their business outdoors. The biggest by far is safety. A cat that is kept indoors at all times will have a significantly longer lifespan, will not wander off, and is not exposed to dangers that include theft, getting hit by a car, or being attacked by a larger animal.

When you use an automated litter box, you won’t have to worry about your cat kicking out litter or leaving their poop exposed for all of the house to smell. Since it’s cleaned automatically, right after your cat has used the box, it’s also more hygienic, since your cat will not step in their own urine or feces and track it all over the home.

An aging cat will be less prone to want to head outside to do their business and may begin to inappropriately eliminate indoors. This is because older cats are more sensitive to hotter or colder outdoor temperatures, so they may be unwilling to make that freezing journey out to the backyard. They are also more vulnerable to wild animals, younger cats, and dogs. If a cat senses any threats in the yard, they will refuse to leave the house and may have an accident indoors. Cats are also notorious for going indoors in the event of inclement weather including high wind conditions, snow, sleet, and rain. Basically, teaching your cat to use the litter box can significantly cut down on messes in the home and will make your cat feel safe and more secure.

Other Features to Look for:

When you’re shopping for a new litter box for your cat, there are many factors to consider, before you buy. First, you need to choose a model that’s the right size for your cat. You don’t want to pick a box that’s too large for your kitten or one that has walls that are too high, which can make it difficult for aging cats to get in and out of. You also want to consider how much privacy a model offers. Some cats will prefer to go in total privacy since it will make them feel more secure and less likely to be surprised by one of the kids or the family dog when they’re trying to do their business. If your cat likes to go in total privacy, then you’ll want to consider purchasing a model that comes with a hood.

Types of Cat Litter Boxes:

These days, there are many types and styles of boxes to choose from, including self-cleaning automatic litter boxes, traditional, and hooded. Each type will come with its own advantages and disadvantages. In the end, it will be a matter of your cat’s preferences and how much you’re willing to spend on a litter box.

Automatic Boxes:

These models are popular for a number of reasons. An automatic model will scoop the litter, removing clumps and feces as soon as your cat leaves. Not only will buying one of these mean that you don’t have to constantly scoop the box several times a day, but it also helps to significantly cut down on the bad smells that litter boxes are known for. But there are a couple of drawbacks that come with this type of box. First, they’re by far the most expensive. But if you’re looking for a low maintenance box, then an automatic model is your best bet. Next, some cats absolutely hate them. Some will find the noise the machine makes when scooping the litter very unsettling and because of this, they may avoid using it. This means you’ve spent two or three hundred dollars on a litter box your pet won’t even use.

Traditional:

These are basically deep square boxes made out of a durable plastic material. These models are high maintenance and require you to scoop them out several times a day to cut down on odors and encourage your cat to continue to use the box. Some cats will refuse to use a dirty litter box, so it’s important that you stay on top of regular cleaning. One of the biggest drawbacks aside from high maintenance needs is the fact that cats tend to kick litter out of these boxes, so you’ll have to sweep up scattered litter often, to cut down on mess. Some types of material can also be prone to holding onto odors, so the boxes will also need to be bleached regularly to get rid of that urine smell.

Hooded:

Boxes that come with a hood are basically like traditional litter boxes, they just come equipped with a top that snaps over the litter box. These hoods will not only prevent litter from getting everywhere, but they can provide much-needed privacy for cats who crave it. However, some cats will be fearful of hooded boxes and will not enter one, so you’ll have to remove the hood and lose all of the benefits that come with this great feature.

Variety:

If you have more than one cat in the home, then you should have a litter box for each cat, plus one extra one. This usually works for those picky cats that refuse to use a box another cat has used, or they refuse to use a dirty box in general. Once you determine how many boxes you need to buy, then you can check out other important features such as sizing, material, and more.

Size:

You’ll find that these boxes are available in a variety of sizes. If you have a kitten, keep in mind that they tend to grow rapidly, but using an expensive, larger litter box can be very challenging for them since they may have a hard time climbing over the walls to get inside or out of the box.

If you purchase a box that’s too small for your larger cat, they may accidentally defecate over the side of the box, or, in some cases, the cat is so heavy they end up flipping the box over. This can make them fearful of using the box in the future.

To avoid any accidents or possible safety issues, make sure you choose a model that’s approximately one and a half times longer than your cat, with a design that’s as wide as the length. This will provide them with more than enough space.

Entryways:

Some models will have an entryway on the top of the box, which helps to cut down on litter spilling out of the box or being tracked through the house. The drawback here is that it can be challenging for kittens and elderly cats to use.

Height:

The height of the walls can also be important since cats that are older have trouble getting around and may have difficulty stepping over the walls. It can also be an issue for kittens. These higher walls are designed to cut down on the amount of litter being kicked out during use, but they can be a bad choice if you have a cat with limited mobility or a younger kitten.

Space Needs:

A box should be located in a quiet area of the home, one that will give your cat the privacy they need while also preventing your home from smelling like cat urine or feces. Measure the amount of space you have available for a litter box, whether it’s a space in your bathroom or a small space in your laundry room, then pay attention to the dimensions of the box to ensure the model you choose will be the right fit.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What Type of Litter Box Should I Get?

New cat owners often have trouble choosing the right type of litter box since there are so many types and styles available. First, consider the size of litter box you need. Larger models will usually be a better option, but they may not work for smaller cats or kittens. If you have a younger cat or kitten, you can purchase a traditional box and upgrade to a covered or automatic litter box once your cat has grown. Most cats tend to do well with hooded boxes, but if you notice that they refuse to use it, you can simply take the hood off, instantly turning it into a traditional box.

Where Should I Place a Litter Box?

Some cats aren’t very picky where their box is located, while others will need a box set up in a totally quiet room in the home, one that offers more privacy. If you’re not sure where to place a new litter box, try experimenting. If you notice that your cat is refusing to go into the laundry room to use their litter box, due to the sound of the washing machine, then search for a quieter spot in the home.

Why Won’t My Cat Use Their Litter Box?

A cat that won’t use their litter box may avoid it because it’s dirty, they don’t like the type of litter you’re using, or the box is located in a place that’s too out in the open and loud. If you’ve changed the location of the box, the type of litter you use, and you stay on top of scooping it, then it may be time to visit the vet since inappropriate elimination can also be a sign of an underlying illness such as kidney stones or a bladder infection.

Pet Mate Arm & Hammer Large Sifting Litter Pan

If you’re looking for a basic box that still offers easy cleaning at a reasonable price, then the Pet Mate 42036 Arm & Hammer Large Sifting Litter Pan is a great choice. Its simple design, durable plastic construction, and stackable sifting trays make it a nice addition to any pet household. The high sides help keep some litter contained, but are still low enough for older or very young cats to get in and out of the box. The box is easy to scoop daily simply by lifting the sifter portion, dumping waste, and placing it under the next.

This box is very low-maintenance without any extras such as a hooded lid or mechanisms that need cleaning. That said, waste material may get stuck to the sifters, requiring additional scrubbing to remove debris. The lack of a cover may also be a problem for cats that like to scratch or kick up a mess as litter may go over the sides or be tracked outside of the box. For the price, ease of use, and neutral design, this box is still an excellent choice for someone who doesn’t mind daily scooping, but doesn’t want to spend hours with a tiny scoop cleaning it manually.

Product Details:

• Sifting Litter Box: This sifting kitty litter box includes two regular pans & a sifting pan to provide an efficient way to clean your cat’s litter box, no scooping required! Helps keep clean litter fresher for longer.
• Large Cat Litter Box: Simply lift the sifter pan in order to separate soiled & clean litter. The reinforced bottom holds up to lifting heavier amounts. The antimicrobial protection helps prevent odor-causing bacteria & stains.
• Pet Clean Up: Swiftly clean up after your dog or cat while at home or on walks with a variety of waste management products. From waste bags, rakes, pans, trainings pads to poop scoopers, litter boxes & litter, we’ve got you & your pet covered.
• Petmate: For over 50 years, we at Petmate are passionate about our dogs, cats & furry friends in general. Starting with the very first dog kennel, we’ve produced plenty of eco-friendly products that pets will love.
• Just For Pets: Petmate makes a variety of pet products for dogs, cats, chickens & other small furry friends! Check out our brands such as Aspen Pet, Arm & Hammer, Booda, Chuckit!, Jackson Galaxy & more!

Compilation of customer opinions:

The Pet Mate 42036 Arm & Hammer Large Sifting Litter Pan has rave reviews from owners. This box is highly recommended by owners in multiple cat households as it makes owning and cleaning multiple boxes a breeze. The box can also use any litter type, which owners agree is perfect for picky felines. Some found the box a bit on the small side, so owners of larger cats may find their cat has trouble using the box or miss the box entirely when using it.

Even if litter does get trapped in the sifter, many owners have found it is easy to scrape right off into the garbage and continue using without much hassle. Owners of kittens and senior cats also found the lower front entrance a bonus for getting in and out of.

Key feature:

Simple design, no frills or strange mechanisms
Built-in sifter for easy cleaning
Low side entrance
Durable plastic
All-in-one system

Pros:

• Easy to scoop daily just by sifting pans
• Neutral colors make it a good fit for any home decor
• High sides keep litter in place, but still make it easy for older cats to get in and out

Cons:

• May not contain odors easily as enclosed boxes
• Minimal odor and mess mitigation
• Waste matter may get stuck to sifter, reducing its ability to clean

Van Ness Odor Control Extra Giant Enclosed Cat Pan with Odor Door

Looking to contain your cat’s mess? Look no further than the Van Ness Odor Control Extra Giant Enclosed Cat Pan with Odor Door. This basic box is made deluxe with its odor-trapping door, replaceable odor control air filter, and large size. Great for bigger cats, the low entrance allows older cats or more timid ones to still get in and out easily, while the door and hood keep messes contained. The lid also easily detaches from the base, making regular scooping and cleaning more convenient.

The blue color may not fit every household, so this box may be a better fit for a bathroom or garage where it is kept out of sight. The door flap may also be off-putting to some cats or scary for kittens that aren’t sure how to use it. The included sifter may also need to be replaced for a more robust one, and the lid locks need to be carefully handled to avoid snapping off. However, the box maintains an incredibly low price while still offering a variety of convenience and odor-control features, making it an attractive budget option.

Product Details:

• Provides class leading odor control by enclosing litter and providing the added benefits of an odor door & replaceable Zeolite air filter
• Eliminates litter scatter
• Ideal for multiple cat households or households with large cats
• High polished finish that is odor & stain resistant & easy to clean,#CP7; 21.5″ x 17.5″ x 18″.
• The top and bottom are secured with a plastic tie. All the customer needs to do is cut the plastic tie off and undue the four clips on the sides of the pan and the bottom will fall out
• Floor to Bottom of Door Opening is 8.5
• NOTE: The bottom is inverted and placed up into the top for shipping purposes

Compilation of customer opinions:

Those who purchased the Van Ness Odor Control Extra Giant Enclosed Cat Pan with Odor Door love the size, especially owners of larger breeds such as Maine Coon cats. They also found the box was less scary for timid cats if the door was first removed and then replaced once the cat was comfortable using it.

Some owners found the box a bit flimsy when picked up by the handle, but found that sliding the box into place instead of lifting it reduces the chances of a spill. The filters are also a bit pricey for some buyers, but are not necessary for the box to be used and cheaper alternatives are available. Most cats easily picked up on how to use the box and owners in multiple-cat households and rescues found purchasing multiple boxes made cleanup and use a breeze without reducing their functionality. Overall, most owners of this box enjoyed the combination of durability, size, and price to be worth any drawbacks.

Key feature:

• Replaceable air filter reduces odor
• Ties keep top secured to litter tray
• Door and hood reduce litter tracking
• Large size for multiple or large cats

Pros:

• Easy to take apart for cleaning
• Door and lid contain messes and reduce odor
• Large size and low entrance great for older cats
• Convenient pricing

Cons:

• Blue color may not be everyone’s choice in design
• Some cats may be intimidated by using door
• Need to buy replacement filters for continued odor control

IRIS Top Entry Cat Litter Box with Cat Litter Scoop

If you’re looking for a modern, stylish cat box, the IRIS Top Entry Cat Litter Box is a great choice. Available in a variety of colors to fit any design choice, its rounded design sets it apart from other boxes while still easily containing messes out of sight. The top-entry design along with a textured lid makes it easier for litter to stay put and wipes your cat’s paws when they exit the box so litter isn’t tracked in the home. The top entry also makes this a great box if you have other pets that may try to eat litter or waste.

Included is a scoop that is designed to fit the box’s size and shape perfectly so you can easily clean all corners. While it comes in a lot of convenient colors, its odd shape and bulky size may make it hard to find a spot for it in a smaller home or apartment. Cats with arthritis or that have trouble jumping may also dislike the top entrance. Overall, this box is reasonably priced for both its size and design, and is our top choice for price, ease of use, and design.

Product Details:

• Top entry kitty litter box is the perfect way to prevent litter scatter and contain spraying
• Large top entryway on the deep cat litter pan for easy entry and exit; Includes non-skid rubber feet
• Rounded shape and included litter scoop makes cleaning the covered cat litter pan easy
• Entire Dimensions: 20.47″L x 16.14″W x 14.56″H
• Inside Dimensions: (widest point) 20.0″L x 16.0″W x 14.0″H (bottom narrowest point) 17.5″L x 13.5″W
• Grooved lid on the large cat litter box helps to remove litter particles from the cat’s paws

Compilation of customer opinions:

Owners of the IRIS Top Entry Cat Litter Box are also raving about this box. Top reviews say their cats easily adapted to the top entry, and that almost any litter type, including pine and paper litters, work great inside. The transition from a conventional litter box is easy, and since the box itself is so light, it is easy to move for cleaning or to another room in the house. Some owners do state that the box does still track litter even with the textured lid, and some cats don’t like to use it due to having to hop into where they just went to the bathroom. The plastic may also crack easily if not properly cared for.

However, the convenient size and shape, and the ability to keep most litter contained within the box no matter how much scratching your cat does is a big perk for most people who purchased this box. With daily cleaning, even owners of larger cats found the box was easy to keep clean and their cat had plenty of room to move around and get in and out.

Key feature:

• Rounded design
• Top entry
• Textured cover
• Scoop included
• Modern looking

Pros:

• Less mess
• Easy to clean
• Many color options
• Contains odors

Cons:

• Odd shape may be hard to place it in home
• May be hard for cats with arthritis to use
• Bulky

Good Pet Stuff Plant Hidden Litter Box

Looking for a completely unique take on litter boxes? The Good Pet Stuff Plant Hidden Litter Box is a master of camouflage. The heavy-duty plastic design mimics a clay planter, and the included fake plant makes this litter box perfect for hiding in plain sight. The large opening and enclosed sides make it easy for your cat to get in and out while still keeping litter and odors enclosed within. This box is also convenient for smaller apartments or studios where owners may not be able to hide a box in a room out of sight.

However, the large size and design can make it a bit difficult when it comes to cleaning, as it needs to be taken apart to scrub, and litter may get stuck inside and stain/corrode the interior without a liner in place. With a litter liner and litter types such as pine, tracking and odor are reduced while making cleaning much easier. While the price is a bit higher than most basic litter boxes, the attractive look sets it apart, earning it a high rating overall.

Product Details:

• Large-capacity cat litter box looks like a real clay pot. The plants and the parts are nested between the top and bottom section of the litter box.
• Made of durable polypropylene
• Filtered vented system works to control dust and odor
• Designed for large cats and multi-cat households
• Measures 42 inches high with included plant; 1-year limited warranty

Compilation of customer opinions:

Owners of the Good Pet Stuff Plant Hidden Litter Box absolutely love it in their smaller apartments and studios. Many have found their guests don’t even notice a litter box is present in the room! The large size is also great for larger cats while the opening is wide enough for older cats to get in and out with ease. The plastic is also easily paintable, so it can be customized to fit different room decor and colors without reducing durability.

Some owners were worried about the decorative plant and straw provided, especially those with young kittens and cats that like to chew on objects. Replacing it with cat-safe plants or making sure your cat can’t access the top can reduce the chances of ingestion. Other owners found the box hard to clean, but the addition of a litter liner and clumping or pine litter can reduce how often the box needs to be scooped and keep the inside stain and mess-free. Overall, the box is an attractive choice for owners looking for a balance of convenience, price, and attractiveness.

Key feature:

• Unique hidden box design
• Large size
• Durable
• Odor resistant
• Natural design makes it easy to hide in shared rooms

Pros:

• Enclosed sides help reduce litter tracking and odor
• Great for small apartments or studios where a box needs to be hidden
• Beautiful to look at

Cons:

• Litter may get stuck to sides and stain without a liner
• Has to be taken apart in order to clean thoroughly
• May be hard to move easily

PetSafe ScoopFree Ultra Automatic Self Cleaning Hooded Cat Litter Box

If convenience is what you’re after, then look no further than the PetSafe ScoopFree Ultra Automatic Self Cleaning Hooded Cat Litter Box. This automatic box makes it easy to keep your cat’s litter clean with its blend of odor-reducing crystal litter and automatic cleaning rake. When your cat uses the box, the timer automatically rakes the litter into the easy to empty tray below. Each litter tray lasts up to 30 days, so cleaning is as simple as replacing the tray. The high sides and optional top or side entrance keeps litter in place to reduce tracking.

While the box itself is convenient, the need to purchase a specific litter type and tray may put off some buyers. The loud noise may also scare more timid cats when the rake is activated, however gradual introduction to the box can reduce fear. Even with the extra cost of buying proprietary litter, and the initial high cost of the box itself, the unit pays for itself with reduced need to replace litter weekly and the ease of use and simple “plug it in and forget it” cleaning routine.

Product Details:

• Automatically removes waste: No scooping, cleaning or refilling your cat’s litter box for weeks
• Unbeatable odor control: Crystal litter removes smell by absorbing urine and dehydrating solid waste
• No more messy floors: Low-tracking crystals are 99% dust free and don’t stick to your cat’s paws; A hooded cover helps keep kitty litter inside the box
• Leak protection: Disposable trays have plastic lining to help protect against leaking and keep your floors clean
• Easy cleanup: Simply remove the tray and throw it away; Each tray includes a lid for quick disposal
• Monitor your cat’s health: The health counter and motion sensors keep track of how many times your furry feline uses the box
• U.S based customer care: Let our pet product experts help

Compilation of customer opinions:

Owners of the PetSafe ScoopFree Ultra Automatic Self Cleaning Hooded Cat Litter Box love how easy it is to use. There are also some alternative litters and trays that owners have found are interchangeable with this box that may reduce upkeep costs. The automatic scooping is a bonus for owners who both hate litter smells and have pets that may try to eat litter or waste left behind. For more timid cats, a week-long introduction period helped them to get used to it and start using it regularly.

However, some owners have noted that the box stops working after a few months of use due to waste matter getting stuck in the gear mechanism. With proper cleaning and maintenance during litter changes, this can likely be mitigated. Other owners found there was some leaking and loud noise during use, so keeping a litter mat and inspecting the unit regularly is a must. Overall, the benefits of automatic cleaning, reduced odor, and simple design make this box a top choice if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of scooping litter daily.

Key feature:

• Automatically scoops litter for you after each use
• Crystal litter reduces odor
• Disposable tray for easy cleaning
• Available in top or side entry
• One tray lasts up to 30 days

Pros:

• Convenient, less cleaning means more free time
• High sides reduce litter mess and tracking
• Easy to plug in, set, and forget

Cons:

• Stops working if there is no power source

Conclusion:

The best cat litter box will help to cut down on odors and regular cleanup. It should be affordable, so you can purchase more than one, if you have multiple cats in the home, and it should also work with your lifestyle, meaning if you’re too busy to scoop out a litter box or sweep up litter, then go for an automatic model or one with a cover. I’m confident that you’ll find the right model for you and your cat in my top lineup. Now that you know more about the benefits of litter box training your pet and the features to look for, you should have no trouble finding the perfect box, one that will meet your cat’s specific needs, and a model that won’t break the bank. We hope you found our Best Litter Box Review Guide For 2023-2024 helpful.