We’ve done the research and have come to the conclusion that the Catit Jumbo Hooded Cat Litter Box is the best cat litter box for multiple cats.
Did you know that over 3 million cats end up in shelters every year? Frightening, isn’t it? But even more horrifying are the reasons why. All too often cats and kittens are surrendered to shelters around the country because of behavioral problems. And these behavioral problems usually include aggression or a cat not using its litter box, which can be common in a multi-cat home.
Both of these issues are usually because a cat is hugely territorial and needs its space, especially when it comes to using the litter box. Simply understanding this basic feline trait, and implementing a few changes, could save both you and your cats a lot of unnecessary stress and heartache.
Our Top Picks For The Best Litter Boxes For Multiple Cats
Preventing a Cat’ astrophe
According to the ASPCA, going to the loo isn’t as simple for a cat as it is for lesser intelligent types, including us humans. Litter box problems could develop as a result of it not being clean enough, or because too many cats use it. It could also be because of its location or the type of cat litter used.
Less obvious reasons could be a negative association cats develop with the litter box, stressors around the home, conflict with another cat, or even underlying medical issues. More often than not, however, it comes down to the litter box.
The Best Litter Box for Multiple Cats Buying Guide
Because each cat has its own personality as well as likes and dislikes, one will want absolute privacy when going to the loo, while another will be happy to share his litter box. So what happens when you have both of these in your home?
Finding the holy grail is sometimes easier than finding the best multi cat litter box. Definitely not for the faint-hearted, it’s going to take some grit and steely determination on your part, but once you’ve found it, it’ll be like hitting the jackpot.
If you’re on the lookout for the best litter box for a couple of cats, then take a look at the buying guide below. From the size and shape to ease of cleaning, the type, and even the color, knowing what to look for will definitely save you some time.
The size
Whether it’s a litter box for one or for multiple cats, most people agree that bigger is better. Ideally, it should be about one and a half times the size of the cat’s body. This gives them the space they need to dig and turn around without touching the sides of the box. For you, the bigger the litter box, the less chance there is of forgetting to clean it regularly.
The accessibility
You can choose between a cat litter box that has a traditional front entry as well as one with top entry. The most obvious benefit of this type is that there’s very little chance of litter spilling all over the place, but as you can imagine, some cats will love this, while others will simply loathe the idea.
The functionality
Yup, you read it correctly. Nowadays there are litter boxes that can be cleaned manually (as in you and the poop with a scoop) or automatically. These usually have a removable or disposable container where the waste is deposited. All you need to do is empty it out or replace it when it’s full.
Or, if you’re really feeling flush (oh yes, I went there), and money isn’t an issue, you can get a self-cleaning, self-flushing cat box.
The color
Some people prefer a litter box in a color that suits the decor of their home. Cats, on the other hand, are less predictable. A skitty kitty (aka skittish cat) might prefer a clear box so they can see any oncoming ‘danger,’ while another one wouldn’t dream of using a see-through toilet.
The type
This is where things start getting a little more interesting. There are different types of litter boxes for multiple cats, and choosing the right one will come down to the personal preference of the cat.
Open top cat litter box
This is the typical litter box most people know, and it’s a popular choice because it’s easy to use (for the cat) and easy enough to clean (for you). They are available with high or low sides, and both have their pros and cons.
High sides will keep the waste inside the box, but less agile cats and smaller kittens might find it difficult getting in and out. Low sides allow for easy access, but there’s definitely going to be a lot of spilling.
Covered cat litter box
While some behaviorists argue that it goes against a cat’s nature to poop in a cave, there are those who like their privacy, especially in a house where there are multiple cats. A covered box provides the protection and privacy the cat’s after.
A litter box with a lid also helps with odor control too.
Self-cleaning litter box
Self-cleaning litter boxes cost a little more, but they bring with them the convenience of you not having to clean them regularly. This is a real bonus when you have two or more around the house. The only thing is some cats don’t like the noise of the engine and may need time to get used to it.
Hidden cat litter box
Some great litter boxes double up as a piece of furniture or accessory. There are washroom benches, nightstands, end tables, and even pot plans.
Corner litter boxes
When space really is an issue, it might be worth getting a corner litter box. This clever design ensures your cat has the space he needs but doesn’t sacrifice the little you have.
Eco-friendly litter box
Eco-friendly litter boxes are excellent for the , and because they’re protected with baking soda, you don’t have to worry about the smell. They’re made from recycled paper and are 100% disposable.
The Best Multi Cat Litter Box Reviews
- Catit Jumbo Hooded Cat Litter Pan
- Nature’s Miracle Oval Hooded Flip Top Litter Box with Odor Control
- IRIS Top Entry Cat Litter Box with Cat Litter Scoop
- IRIS Jumbo Litter Box with Litter Scoop
- SiftEase Litter Box Cleaner Litter Sifter
Catit Jumbo Hooded Cat Litter Pan
Best Overall
The Catit Jumbo Hooded Cat Litter Pan is perfect for homes with multiple cats thanks to its jumbo size. And I mean jumbo. I managed to get into comfortably, although Ross almost had a heart attack when he walked into the lounge and saw my head sticking out the front.
The clear lid is ideal for scaredy cats who want to be able to see what’s going on around them, while the opaque back and sides allow complete privacy for those that prefer it that way. Also, there’s very little chance of spillage or tracking litter around the house.
But the absolute piece de resistance is the built-in carbon filter. This smart feature absorbs the odors and keeps your home smelling clean and fresh, regardless of the number of cats you have. The only downside is that you have to remember to replace the filters, but as anyone who has one of these will tell you, it’s well worth the effort and the cost.
Pros.
- The jumbo size is more than generous
- The lid lifts quickly for cleaning
- It’s purrfect for cats that like their privacy and there is very little chance of litter falling out
- The built in carbon filter eliminates unpleasant odors
- It’s excellent value for money
Cons.
- The jumbo size might pose a bit of a challenge for homes with limited space
- It's not self-cleaning
- The filters need to be replaced
Nature's Miracle Oval Hooded Flip Top Litter Box with Odor Control
Best Odor Control
There’s a lot to like about Nature’s Miracle Oval Hooded Flip Top Litter Box with Odor Control, from the affordable price, the good size, the filter that keeps your home smelling fresh and its non-stick surface.
And you cats will like it too. It’s made using an advanced plastic technology that keeps odors away, and it has a built-in charcoal filter that only needs to be replaced every three months or so. The litter box lid closes tightly so there’s very little chance of any liquid spilling out onto the floor or carpet and the hood can be removed when it’s time to clean it out.
Speaking of cleaning, the non-stick surface means there’s no waste build up. While the Miracle Hooded Flap Box is sturdy and won’t collapse or fall over, the snap latches release easily and allow for quick and convenient assembly.
Pros.
- The advanced plastic technology and charcoal filter fights odors really well
- The non-stick surface means there is very little waste build up
- It’s the ideal size for a multi cat home
- The cover stops any litter falling out
- Easy to assemble and take apart
Cons.
- The shape limits it to being used in corners
- The size might be a problem for smaller homes
IRIS Top Entry Cat Litter Box with Cat Litter Scoop
Best Top Entry Box
If yours is a multi cat home with a dog or two as well, then the IRIS Top Entry Cat Litter Box with Cat Litter Scoop is an excellent choice. The open top access design allows your cats to do what they need to, without the family dog sticking his nose in. However, so that your cats don’t feel trapped, there isn’t a lid. If you don’t mind that it’s an open-top cat litter box, then this is a good buy.
Something that I particularly like is the small holes on the top where you cat stands to jump out. This simple, yet brilliant feature acts as a mat, allowing any tracked litter to fall back into the pan. It comes with a scoop that clips conveniently on the inside of the litter box, and the smooth surface allows for easy cleaning.
The IRIS Top Entry Litter Box has a sleek design and doesn’t even look like a litter tray, but remember accessing it from the top might not suit all cats, especially older ones, or ones that are battling with joint pain.
Pros.
- The top entry access gives your cats the privacy they need
- It comes with a scoop that clips on the inside
- The holes on the mat allow for litter to fall through back into the box
- The smooth surface is easy to clean and prevents bacteria building up
- It’s well priced
Cons.
- It’s not the best design for small cats or older ones
- Not all cats like that access is through the top
IRIS Jumbo Litter Box with Litter Scoop
Best Top Entry Box
If your cat’s a purr-fectionist and you’re a neat freak, then you’re going to like the IRIS Jumbo Litter Box with Litter Scoop, a lot. It’s a good size, hence the name, it’s covered so there’s no spilling or escaping odors, and it has a handle for easy carrying.
The litter box has curved sides that make it a breeze to clean, and it has a scoop that packs away neatly on the inside. What’s really nice about this litter box is that the lid clips onto the base of the box to cover it, but if your cat changes his mind, it can be taken off and voila, you have an open litter tray.
The high walls stop any spraying or cat litter being tossed around, and for the price, it meets the needs of most cats, regardless of their likes and dislikes.
Pros.
- This is an affordable litter box that can be used with or without the lid
- The handle makes it easy to carry around
- It's a good size for multiple cats to use comfortably
- The high walls give cats the privacy they want
Cons.
- There is a ridge that can occasionally trap liquid
- There are several comments about the sides not being high enough
SiftEase Litter Box Cleaner Litter Sifter
Really Easy Cleaning
No, it’s not a litter box, but it’s one of the best cleaning accessories for homes with more than one cat. No matter how much you love your cats, there is no way you like getting up and close personal with their poop, which is why SiftEase Litter Box Cleaner Litter Sifter is easily one of the best gadgets around.
Unlike normal scoopers that leave smaller pieces of waste in the litter, the SiftEase successfuly separates it all. No matter how many litter trays you empty into the sifter, it’s only the clean litter that drops through into the basket underneath.
All that’s left for you to do is tip the used litter into the waste bin. No more scooping, no more back-breaking cleaning and no more smells. There is no getting around the fact that the sifter costs a little more, but it’s worth every penny.
Pros.
- The SiftEase separates the clean litter from the waste, no matter how small the pieces
- It gets rid of bad smells and can be used with pretty much any cat litter
Cons.
- It’s one of the more expensive multi cat litter box solutions but worth every cent
Helpful Litter Box Ideas for Multiple Cats
Even if you’ve done all the research and have bought the best multi cat litter box solutions, none of it matters if your cats refuse to use them.
Knowing how many boxes are needed, how often they need to be cleaned and where they should (and shouldn’t) be placed will allow for a more natural transition and save you and your cats a lot of unnecessary stress.
Here are a few essential things to keep in mind, but remember that it’s all about trial and error, so don’t give up too quickly.
1. Multiple Cats Need Multiple Litter Boxes
The general rule of thumb is to have a spare litter box for every cat you have. So if you have one cat, you need two litter boxes; two cats, three litter boxes; three cats, four litter boxes and so on.
Don’t set yourself, and your cats, up for failure by not having enough litter trays around the house.
2. Old Cats and New Litter Boxes
Cats are creatures of habit, and if they’ve been using a particular litter box for some time, the chances of them just taking to a new one is very small. It’s best to introduce the new box slowly by placing it in front of the old one. This way, your cat can get used to it.
After a few days, stop changing the litter in the old box. Cats, as you know, are suckers for clean toilets, so when they see (and smell) the dirty one, they should start using the new box. You’ll notice I said ‘should,’ not ‘will.’ If your cat starts doing his business around the house, simply take the new box away, clean the old one out and refill it. Start again in a week or so.
In time, they’ll start using their new litter box.
3. Using New Cat Litter
If your cats have been using their litter boxes without any problems, and they suddenly stop, put your cat hat on and ask yourself, “what can they smell?” A cat’s nose is extremely sensitive, and a new litter that contains a scent or even a neutralizer could be irritating him.
If you can smell it, then your cat can smell it too, and then some.
4. Cleaning Out the Litter Box
There’s a saying, dogs have owners, cats have slaves. And it couldn’t be truer than when it comes to cleaning out litter boxes. Clean them out daily and replace the litter every two to three weeks. Of course, if you’re using the SiftEase sifter then it can be every four to six weeks.
The cleaner the litter, the more chance of it being used.
5. Washing the Litter Box
When you replace the litter, give the box a quick rinse. Make sure it’s completely dry before you refill it. Generally speaking, you should wash litter boxes with soap every two to three months and replace the entire unit once a year.
Make sure you rinse the soap off entirely and don’t use bleach. Your cat will be put off by the smell.
6. The Best Places for Litter Boxes
If cats had vocations, they would be real estate agents, because it’s all about location for them when it comes to litter boxes.
Consider the following:
Access
When you’ve got multiple cats in the house, you need multiple ways for them to get into the litter box. Sometimes the dominant cat might be preventing another one from using it or even stopping it from going into the room where the litter boxes are.
Also, unless you’ve got litter boxes with lids, you don’t want to put them where your cat feels exposed. But you also don’t want them in a room that never gets used, because guess what? The box will never get used either.
Space matters
Humans and cats see things differently. For example, when there are five boxes lined up in a row, you see five separate boxes. A cat only sees one toilet area, and it’s one he doesn’t want to use.
Don’t clump them up all together and keep a space between the wall and the box so that your cat can circle it.
Far from food
You don’t poop where you eat or take your dinner into the toilet, do you? So why do you expect your finicky feline to? Putting litter boxes near their food or water bowls is one way to make your cats don’t use them.
Use a light
This might seem odd considering cats regularly prowl around at night, but it’s best to have a nightlight of some kind around the litter box. This is because they can’t see that well in complete darkness and when they don’t know what’s around them, they’ll be too nervous about going to the loo.
Have You Considered Which Are the Best Rooms to Place Litter Boxes for Multiple Cats?
One way to find the perfect spot for multiple litter boxes is by looking at each room in your home.
Your Bedroom
A bedroom is the perfect place for a litter box, especially if it’s where you are, and your cat can see you. But while it might suit your cats’ needs, you’ve got to be sure it’s going to suit your lifestyle.
Ask yourself:
- Are you around, or do you have enough time to clean it regularly?
- If not, does your budget allow for a self-cleaning litter box?
- Have you got a litter box with sides that are high enough to keep the litter in so that the area around it stays clean?
If the answers to these questions are yes, then the bedroom is a good spot for the litter box.
The Bathroom
The bathroom is actually a great place to put the litter box for a number of reasons. After all, you’re comfortable doing your business there, so it makes sense your cat will enjoy the environment too.
First of all, you see it a few times throughout the day, so you won’t forget to clean it. Also, because bathrooms more often than not have tiles instead of carpets, cleaning up any tracking or unintentional spills will be easy enough.
But, for your sake and your cats’, check that:
- There is enough ventilation so that the air stays fresh
- It’s not too damp; otherwise, the cat litter will clump together
- The door is open more than it’s closed. In a busy home, with lots of people in and out of the bathroom, the door might be closed a lot of the time. Remember, your cats want to be able to come and go, so to speak, as they wish, and a door that’s continuously closed will have them doing their business elsewhere.
The Hallway
Depending on the design of your home, the hallway could be the best, or worst possible place to put the litter box.
If there are a lot of people in the house, with a lot of traffic up and down the hallway, your cat will be reluctant to use the litter box there. But you can’t beat this spot in terms of easy access.
If you’re thinking about putting a litter box here, think about:
- The noise. Your cat won’t want to go if there are too many people walking past and making a lot of noise.
- The type of litter box. High sides will give your cat the privacy he needs and keep litter from spilling out onto the carpet.
- Top entry access will keep the family dog from snooping around.
The Laundry Room
The laundry room makes perfect sense for your cats’ litter boxes, but there are a few things that could make it less than ideal.
- How noisy are the washing machine and tumble dryer? Remember, cats don’t like loud or unexpected noises.
- Is there a door? Is it open for your cat to get to the box and leave when he wants? If you can, maybe think about removing taking it off its hinges or using a door stop to ensure it stays open.
The Basement
Is the basement is a cozy spot that people use all the time? Or is it an area in the house no one goes near? If you’re not using it, chances are your cat won’t use a litter box that’s in it.
Also, think about:
- The ventilation and air vents will affect how much your cat likes the location of this litter box.
- Is the room too dark? Your cat can’t see well in the dark and will rather avoid going, than going where he doesn’t know or what’s around him.
Hopefully you now have a good idea of what the best litter boxes are for multiple cats, how to get your cats used to them, and using them and even which rooms to consider. If you’ve got any questions or want to add something, leave a comment below and I’ll get back to you.
Oh, and before you go, remember June is Adopt a Cat month, so if you’ve been thinking about adopting another cat or two, it’s the purr-fect time to do it.
