Cat Litter Boxes: How to Choose One

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What to check before you buy

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Size it to your cat, then add room

Your cat should be able to step in, turn around and dig comfortably. A bigger box is often easier on a cat than a standard one, especially a large cat.

Low entry for kittens and seniors

A tall side is a hurdle for a kitten or a stiff older cat. Look for a low entry, or a box with a cut-out front.

Covered or open?

Covers hold in some smell and scatter, but some cats dislike the closed space and the trapped odor. If you are not sure, start with an open box and see how your cat reacts.

Self-cleaning needs a reality check

A self-cleaning box can save time, but it needs power, regular emptying and a cat that is not scared of the motor. Check what happens with the noise and what you do if it jams.

How easy is it to clean?

Smooth corners and a wide opening make scooping and washing easier. If it is a pain to clean, it will not get cleaned.

Put it in a quiet, easy spot

Away from the food bowl, away from loud machines, and not in a place your cat has to squeeze to reach. A common rule of thumb is one box per cat, plus one extra.

Which one is for you?

You have a big catLook for the largest box that fits your space, with a roomy interior.
You have a kitten or a senior catA low entry matters most.
You live in a small apartmentA covered box can help, but give your cat a chance to get used to it first.
You travel oftenA self-cleaning box helps only if it is reliable, so read the manual and do not rely on it for a long trip.

Our shortlist

Shortlist coming soon

Products land here once we check them

We are putting together a shortlist of litter boxes. We will add products here once we have checked their details, and we will say clearly which ones we have not used.

Quick answers

How many litter boxes do I need?

A common rule of thumb is one per cat plus one extra. Put them in different places if you can.

Why is my cat suddenly avoiding the litter box?

It can be the box, the litter, the location or stress, but it can also be a health problem. If it lasts more than a day or two, talk to your vet.

Is a covered litter box better?

Not always. Some cats like the privacy and some hate it. Watch your cat and switch if needed.

Does PetBea get paid when I click?

Not yet. No link on this site earns us money today. If that changes, we will say so next to every store button, and it will not change what we write.

How we pick and what "tested" means

How to choose a cat litter box your cat will actually use

The short answer