Finding the best cat litter box for your cat’s needs is easier said than done. With so many to choose from, it is like looking for a needle in a haystack. But because we recently had to replace Joey and Oscar’s litter trays, we thought we would make the most of the situation, and review the best litter boxes we came across in our search.
The Top 7 Cat Litter Boxes
Overall winner: The Best Litter Box Ever
We realize that it is quite a title to go to the very straight-forward Van Ness High Sides Cat Litter Pan when there are others with really fancy features. But we have also realized that there is no point to a litter box – no matter how much it self-cleans – if your cat refuses to use it.
Unlike many of the litter boxes we looked at, this was one of the few Joey and Oscar had no problem using. It is made from recycled plastic (20%) that is both odor and stain-resistant. What we particularly like about the box is its high sides. The back of the litter box measures 9″ tall, which is perfect for cats that like to aim high, spray, or dig. While the front is slightly lower, measuring 6″. This is for easier access for your kitty.
There isn’t much else to say about the pan. It is a simple design, and it is affordable. Our only criticism is the color options. You can choose from light blue, green, or bronze, which is somewhat limited. But it isn’t too much of a concern for us as we place our litter boxes where there is very little foot traffic.
What we like:
- Budget-friendly
- Large with high sides
- Stain and odor-resistant
- Easy to clean
- Our cats loved it
What we don't like:
- Limited color options
The Best Top Entry Litter Tray for Cats
If you are considering a top-entry litter box, you will want to look at the Petmate Top Entry Litter Pan. Cat owners like this specific design because it keeps the litter inside and stops curious canines poking their nose in your cat’s business.
Cats like it because it gives them the privacy they need, and there is plenty of space inside for them to turn around. The opening is wide, making it easy for cats to jump in and out, and best of all, the textured, non-slip lid traps any excess litter. This means no more litter box aftermath for you to clean up. By the way, most kitty litter types work with the Petmate litter pan, so you don’t have to worry about stocking up on a particular brand.
In terms of design, there is an attached lid for easy cleaning, and there are built-in handles that make moving the litter tray a breeze. We like the added convenience of the hook where you can hang the scoop. Eco-warriors appreciate that the pan is made from 95% recyclable materials. In our opinion, the only downside is that a top-entry litter box isn’t suited to very big or older cats.
What we like:
- Dog-proof and provides your cat with the privacy they need
- Built-in handles make it easier to carry
- Removable lid makes it easy to clean
- Convenient hook for litter scoop
- Affordable option
What we don't like:
- Not suitable for large or older cats
Best All-In-One Litter Box System
If you’re looking for an all-in-one solution, you need the Tidy Cats Breeze XL All-In-One Cat Litter Box System. It includes a sifter, base, as well as a slide-out tray and Tidy Breeze cat box litter pellets. We like that you can choose between the covered litter box or the original open design, depending on how your cat likes to ‘go.’ Something else we appreciated was how easy it was to assemble.
It is definitely worth mentioning the pee pad and litter pellets. They were so effective in absorbing liquid and dehydrating solid waste, we never noticed any odors. And because the litter box was so easy to clean, there was no need for the usual rock-paper-scissors-you’re-it challenges. Another handy feature is the scoop that’s included. Although it’s smaller than other scoops we’ve seen, it was the perfect size for the litter box. And there’s a hook so you can hang the scoop for convenient storage.
The XL Tidy Cats Breeze Litter Box system is perfect for larger cats, multi-cat households, and kitties that have kidney problems. It’s worth noting that it costs more than some of the other cat litter boxes we’ve reviewed.
What we like:
- No odors and no tracking of pellets
- The pee pads are super absorbent, while the pellets take care of any solid waste
- Very easy to clean
- Great design
- Suitable for large cats
What we don't like:
- Some cats don't like the feel of the pellets
- More expensive than other products reviewed here
The Best Kitty Litter Box with Microban
If you ever needed proof that simple is best, look no further than the Petmate Giant Litter Pan with Microban. This cat litter box has no bells or whistles, but it’s made from sturdy plastic, and the litter tray is made with Microban. This anti-microbial material ensures there’s no mildew or moss on the tray, making it safe for your cat and the rest of your family. It also reduces odors, which is always a huge plus.
The walls are high enough to prevent (litter) fall-out, and there is storage space for cleaning accessories, including scoops, deodorants, and any other items you like to keep on hand. The litter box is a good size for multi-cat households, or if your feline is on the larger side.
On the downside, it is big, so if space is limited in your home, this might not be the best option for you. Also, it weighs a lot. Before adding litter, the tray weighs approximately five pounds. And if aesthetics are important to you, there is a good chance you might not like the design. It reminded us of a dish-drainer. Having said that, Joey and Oscar were more than happy to use it, so function beats form this time.
What we like:
- It is a good size
- Made using antibacterial Microban
- Excellent odor control
- Good quality and affordable
- High walls keep the litter inside
- Storage compartment for litter tray accessories
What we don't like:
- If space is limited, it might be too big
- Not aesthetically pleasing
Best Automatic Litter Box for Cats
Who doesn’t like the idea of a self-cleaning litter box? We certainly do, which is why we thought we would give the ScoopFree Top-Entry Ultra Automatic Cat Litter Box a try. It is a top-entry box, which means there is very little chance of litter escaping out the box, and the litter crystals absorb pee and dehydrate solid waste. When your kitty’s done, a rake automatically sweeps through the litter, pushing any mess out of the way.
Even though the litter is track-free, the grated surface on the hood captures any excess. Rather than landing up on your floor, it falls back into the tray.
Another feature we really like is the health counter. This lets you know how often your cat’s using the litter box, giving you a good idea of his health.
Although it’s a more expensive option, the fact that you don’t need to scoop, clean or refill it for weeks at a time could mean it’s money well-spent for a lot of busy cat parents.
What we like:
- It is self-cleaning
- Includes a health counter to track your cat's health
- Litter crystals are 99% track-free and absorb liquid and also dehydrate solid waste
- Top-entry litter box so cats have their privacy and reduces mess outside the box
What we don't like:
- Not suitable for older cats because of the top-entry
- Some cats don't like the litter crystals
- It is more expensive than other litter boxes
Best Disposable Cat Box
It is easy to see why Nature’s Miracle Disposable Cat Litter Box is one of the most popular products available at the moment. The disposable litter box can be used as-is, or if you prefer, as a litter tray liner. It’s especially good for protecting plastic litter boxes from cats that like to claw and scratch.
The litter box is made using 100% recycled paper and is completely biodegradable. But that’s not all. It is also water and leak-proof, and it has baking powder to eliminate unpleasant odors. Nature’s Miracle litter boxes last for up to four weeks at a time (per cat), after which you simply throw it away. Cat owners love that there is no more scooping, refilling or cleaning.
The product is available in three sizes and works with all kinds of litter, from crystals and pine to paper pellets and non-clumping litter. Although our boys don’t use these at home everyday, we have stocked our cupboards with Nature’s Miracle Disposable Litter Boxes for when we travel.They are perfect for when you don’t want the inconvenience and hassle that goes with a standard litter tray.
What we like:
- Made from 100% recyclable paper, and is biodegradable
- The trays are waterproof, leak-proof and have baking soda for maximum odor control
- The disposable litter box lasts up to four weeks
- Great for travel
- Works with different types of cat litter
- Can be used on its own or as a liner
What we don't like:
- Costs more in the long run if you're using them regularly
Best Cat Box (when you don’t want a cat box)
When space or aesthetics are priorities for you, then it is worth taking a look at the Good Pet Stuff Hidden Cat Litter Planter. This covered cat box is cleverly disguised to look like a planter and fits well with any decor. Although some reviews mentioned the plant was flimsy inside the pot, we didn’t find it to be the case with ours. Of course, if it’s really bugging you, you could always replace it with something that looks more appealing.
This is one of the best cat litter boxes in terms of its size, easy access, and privacy. The hooded litter box has a filtered vent system that effectively eliminates odors and dust.And it is also really easy to clean. We love this kitty litter box, and so do our boys.
What we like:
- Great choice when space is at a premium, and you don't want an unsightly litter box in the way
- Good size for larger cats
- Hooded litter box gives cats the privacy they need
- Filtered vent system gets rid of unpleasant odors
What we don't like:
- It seems some kitties liked eating the plant
The Different Types of Cat Litter Boxes
When it comes to choosing a litter box, the first thing you will notice is the wide range that is available. While this makes finding one easy, it can also be somewhat overwhelming. To help you decide, we have put together a list of the different types of cat litter boxes you are likely to encounter.
Open litter box
Although the most basic, the open litter box is still a popular choice for cats and their owners. It is affordable, and you can use all types of litter. To stop litter overspill, you can choose an open litter box with raised sides.
Hooded litter box
The hooded or covered litter box has a similar shape to the open model, but it has a hood. This provides cats with the privacy they need and helps cut down on unpleasant odors.
Self-cleaning litter box
A self-cleaning litter box costs more than the other products we have mentioned, but it is worth the price if you are wanting to save time on cleaning—no more poop-scooping, odors, or mess.
Sifting litter box
Sifting litter boxes are designed with a sifting tray and a box that sits underneath it, allowing you to sift and separate clumps of waste from the rest of the litter.
Hidden litter box
These litter boxes are the answer to small spaces and style gurus. Designed to look like anything other than a litter box, these are available as planters and other types of furniture you find in the home.
Litter Box for Cat Buying Guide
Before you rush out to buy a litter box for your pet, there are a few key things to consider. Yes, the style is important, but there’s much more to deciding on the best litterbox.
How much space do you have inside your home?
The amount of space you have in your home will determine what kind of litter box you choose. Smaller spaces will need smaller litter trays, which means you might need more than one. A single-story house won’t necessarily need more than one box (depending on how many cats you have, of course), whereas a double-story will need a litter box per floor. Also, smaller homes will want a product with odor control.
Where do you plan on putting the litter box?
Think about where you plan on putting the litter box or boxes. Depending on where it will be located will play a role in choosing the best litter box for your needs.
How many cats will be using the litter box?
It is worth considering how many cats will be using the litter box. You will need a product that can handle more than one cat, and each pet should have their own. It’s also essential that you have a spare box as well. Depending on the type of litter box you choose, and how many you need, this can prove quite a costly exercise.
Do you have a multi-pet household?
For example, if you have dogs, you might want to consider a covered litter box to keep them from dipping their noses into the tray’s contents. Top-entry models are especially useful in these situations.
Is the litter box easy to clean?
Something else to think about is how easy it will be to clean the litter box you choose. Litter boxes need to be cleaned regularly, so you want one that is easy to access and to clean. Sifting models are a good option, as are top-entry and high-sided boxes. Even better, if your budget allows, you could choose a self-cleaning litter box.
How important is the price?
Litter boxes vary in price. Some cost a few dollars, and others will set you back a few hundred. How much you are able to spend will determine which litter box you choose.
What cat litter box is best?
Unfortunately, it is hard to say which litter box is best. As you know, cats can be particularly purr-nickety, and what is great for one cat won’t necessarily be as popular with another. It might be a case of trial and error to see which type your pet prefers. Rather than going for the best litter box on the market, you will want to choose the best litter box for your cat.
Tips for Cleaning Your Cat’s Litter Box
To keep your cat healthy and prevent very unpleasant odors in your home, litter boxes need to be cleaned regularly. Strong smells will send your kitty scurrying off to find a cleaner spot where he can do his business, so removing clumps of waste every day is essential, as well as scooping out wet or soiled litter. In some cases, you might only need to do this every second day.
A deep clean is recommended every time you replace the litter. But don’t use strong-smelling products, like bleach, as this will have your cat ‘tinkling outside the box’. We suggest using hot water and mild soap. Vinegar also works well.
Step 1 –
Grab rubber gloves, a sponge or washing rag, as well as a tub filled with hot water and mild soap or vinegar.
Step 2 –
Remove the used litter and dispose of it correctly. Give the litter box a good scrub with the cleaning solution. Make sure you wash in the corners and on the sides to get rid of dried cat litter or poo.
Step 3 –
When the litter box is clean, you will need to rinse it out with hot water. Make sure the box doesn’t smell of cleaning products, as this could stop your cat using it. If you can still smell unpleasant cat odors after washing it, pour vinegar in and let it sit for half an hour. You could also use baking soda to absorb smells.
Step 4 –
Air dry or dry the litter box with paper towels or a clean cloth.
Step 5 –
Once the box is dry, refill it with fresh litter and place it back in its spot.
Of course, if you have a disposable litter box, you don’t need to worry about these steps at all. Simply dispose of the used box and replace it with a new one.
As you can see, there are some excellent cat litter boxes to choose from. You can go old-school with an open litter pan, or if you prefer, you can select one of the many self-cleaning models that are available. The most important thing to remember is that your cat needs to like it, so that he actually uses it.
Let us know if you found this article? Did you see your kitty’s favorite litter box in our reviews? If not, why not tell us which one it is (and why) in the comments below.
