In this post we are going to look at the best litter box for cats, a 2020 review and buyers guide. Any cat owner will know how much awareness you must have when it comes to their toileting habits.
There are a number of crucial factors you must take into consideration when it comes to a cat litter box to prevent them from using your floor and furniture as a toilet. This includes size, shape, and even location of the litter box.
If your cat is eliminating elsewhere in the house then this is usually their way of communicating that something is not quite right with their litter box. First we will cover our best litter box for cats in various different categories based on a number of factors such as size, shape, and number of reviews.
After this we will give you some crucial information that you will need such as what to look for in a litter box, how to get your cat used to a litter box, how many litter boxes you will need, and frequently asked questions.
Best Overall Cat Litter Box
Catit Jumbo Hooded Cat Litter Pan
KEY FEATURES:
- Provides your cat with privacy
- Large hood lifts up
- Carbon filter works to remove odors
- Made of BPA-free materials
The Catit Jumbo Hooded Cat Litter Pan is the winner of our best litter box for cats as it has the whole package. Not only is it budget-friendly, durable, and very spacious for your cat, it also has a whopping 16,000+ reviews on Amazon! A lot of reviews also report that this litter box contains their cats waste very well.
The large design makes it ideal for cats of all sizes. It's perfect for large cats and even smaller cats who appreciate the extra space will love it. The cleaning process is very important when it comes to a litter box. The hood on this design lifts off which allows easy access for cleaning.
It also features a built-in bag anchor which helps to keep the litter bags open. This is a great feature because it means you have both hands free to scoop the waste. The carbon filter also helps to remove odors.
Cats are very picky about what they like. Some cats prefer the privacy of a closed litter box, others don't like feeling trapped so they prefer open ones. The Catit Jumbo allows you to remove both the hood and the attached door if your cat prefers it this way.
Dimensions: 22.4"L x 18.3"H x 17"W
Best Runner Up Cat Litter Box
Good Pet Stuff Plant Hidden Litter Box
KEY FEATURES:
- Very spacious interior
- Acts as both a litter box and home decor
- Allows you to hide your cat’s litter box in plain sight
- Unique filtration system that keeps out odors and dust
The runner up for our best litter box for cats is the Good Pet Stuff Plant Hidden Litter Box. Not only is it a great litter box but it's also the best design on our list that will look fantastic in any home decor.
Anybody who comes into your home wouldn't actually think that this was a litter box. It looks more like a clay pot with a plant than somewhere that your cat goes to relieve themselves. Surprisingly, it is also very spacious inside. The plant just sits on top of the litter box, it doesn't actually go into the inside.
It's made of polypropylene which is very durable and measures 20" wide which means it's perfectly fine for large cats to use. The actual box itself is filtered which prevents odors and also stops dust from leaking out of the box. This means you won't have to worry about your carpet getting dirty.
There are also a lot of reports of how good the design is at keeping litter inside. You could also use a Litter Matt just to be extra cautious. (more on litter mats later in this post).
Dimensions Without Plant: 20" wide x 19 3/4" high
Dimensions With Plant: 20" wide x 55" high
Best Budget Cat Litter Box
Van Ness Giant High Sides Cat Litter Pan
KEY FEATURES:
- Ideal for multiple cats
- High polished finish
- Easy to clean
According to the manufacturer, the Van Ness pan is made from 20 percent recycled plastic that is high polish and both stain and odor resistant. There is nothing special about this litter box and it's not the best looking one, but it made our list because it is so budget friendly and affordable for anybody.
It's always a great idea to have multiple litter boxes around your house. The way you could do this is to purchase higher-end litter box as the main one, then have a couple of these as backup in different rooms.
The best feature of the Van Ness Pan is the high wall sides which reduces litter scatter. The back wall measure 9" and slopes down to 6 inches at the front for easy access. This may not be the best litter box for older cats as the walls are too high. The large open top means it's easy to both scoop and clean.
Dimensions: 21-1/4-inch by 17-5/8-inch by 9-inch
Best Disposable Cat Litter Box
Kitty’s Wonderbox Disposable Litter Box
KEY FEATURES:
- Will not leak, tear, or shred
- Disposable
- Made from 100% biodegradeable, recycled paper
- Suited for use with all litter types
- Lasts up to 4 weeks
If you the kind of person that prefers disposable options then the Kitty's Wonderbox Disposable Litter Box is for you. It is 100% leak proof, very durable, and can be used for up to 1 month. The Wonderbox has dense recycled paper fibers which help to keep litter more dry.
It also features a unique air filtration system which help remove odor. The best advantage of disposable litter boxes is the cleanup and maintenance process. Just scoop the waste a couple of times a day. Add a little litter to refill. After the weeks are up, just simply throw the whole contents away and pull out a fresh litter box.
You could even put these inside of a large litter box which would help with the cleaning process. They are also designed to be claw proof to prevent your cat from tearing it and causing leaks. The material is also 100% non-toxic biodegradable recycled paper.
Dimensions: 13.5 x 17 x 3.5 inches
Best Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box
PetSafe ScoopFree Ultra Automatic Self Cleaning Hooded Cat Litter Box
KEY FEATURES:
- 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
- Leak protection
If you are looking for an automatic option then the PetSafe ScoopFree Ultra Automatic Self Cleaning Hooded Cat Litter Box is a great choice. The great advantage of a self-cleaning litter box is that you can go weeks without having to clean the litter box.
The motor of the self-cleaning mechanism is actually very quiet. This means no noise for you and it's also not going to scare your cat. It features plastic tray lining that is durable and provides extra protection. When you first purchase one of these, the startup process is a breeze. Just simply pour in your litter and plug it in.
The only real downside is you cannot use ordinary litter with it. You will have to use the companies own litter which is crystal. This is actually good litter as it doesn't stick to your cats paws as much as other litter. This means they won't drag litter around your house and on your carpet.
It's also five times more effective at absorbing odors than regular litter and 99% dust-free. This is a big advantage and highly reduces and extra cleaning you will have to do in your home. See the video below for a better idea of how it works.
You may also like this post here: Best Self-Cleaning Litter Box | 2021 Review and Buyers Guide
Dimensions: 27.5 x 19 x 17 inches
Other Litter Boxes For Cats
ecoFlex Litter Loo, Litter Box Cover/End Table
KEY FEATURES:
- Fits self-cleaning or automated litter pans
- Removable covered plug opening in back of unit
- Easy assembly – no tools required
- Sealed floor design
The ecoFlex Litter Loo, Litter Box Cover/End Table is another great design that makes our best litter box for cats list. Not only is it a great litter box but it's also a fantastic design that will look great in your home, as well as a functional table. Just place the litter box inside which is easily accessible.
Even if your cat misses, the eco-friendly, recycled material means you can simply wipe it away as it never absorbs moisture. The material of this litter box also means that it is very sturdy and will never crack, split, or warp.
Exterior (in): 30.0 (L) x 24.0 (W) x 28.9 (H);
Interior (in): 28.4 (L) x 22.4 (W) x 25.2 (H);
Door (in): 7.9 (W) x 7.9 (H)
IRIS Top Entry Cat Litter Box with Cat Litter Scoop
KEY FEATURES:
- Unique and stylish design
- Bpa free
- Prevents litter scatter.
- Non-skid rubber feet
The IRIS Top Entry Cat Litter Box is another beautiful design and great litter box on our list. This litter box has some fantastic features that both you and your cat will love. The unique circular top entrance means less chances of litter falling out and creating a mess. It also gives your cat optimum privacy.
If you notice the grooves on the lid, this is specifically designed as a built-in mat to remove litter from their paws as they exit. This litter box also features durable rubber feet that prevent the unit from sliding along the floor. A scoop is also included which hangs just inside of the litter box by a hook.
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
Extras
Litter Genie
KEY FEATURES:
- Hassle-free odor control
- Seven-layer refill cartridge that lasts up to 8 weeks
- The pail holds up to 14 days of cat litter (for one cat)
- Perfect for small spaces
The litter genie is the best way of disposing waste with a seven-layer refill to lock away odors which keeps your home smelling fresh. The standard and plus sizes hold soiled cat litter for up to two weeks. If you get the XL version then this increases to up to three weeks.
Key Benefits:- Compact, hygienic and convenient waste pail uses a Push-N-Lock system to seal off odors and keep your home smelling fresh.
- The Plus model includes a litter scoop with attached holder and the Plus refill is 30% larger than the standard Litter Genie refill.
- Uses a durable, five-layer bag with barrier technology to lock away dangerous germs and offensive smells.
- High-capacity pail eliminates the need to take daily trips to the trash; pail measures 17 x 9.5 x 8.5 inches.
- Available in silver or black and comes with one single refill that offers 18 feet of film.
For a better idea of how the litter genie works, take a look at the video below.
Gorilla Grip Original Premium Durable Cat Litter Mat
KEY FEATURES:
- Deep grooves and superior mesh to capture litter
- Large design
- Durable
- Premium comfort mat is phthalate free
- Easy to clean
Cat litter mats are optional but we highly recommend them as they do an amazing job of capturing loose litter. The large mats contain deep grooves and thick coils that remove litter from your cats paws, and trap any loose litter that may fall out of the litter box.
They are also very tough and durable which means they will last a very long time. Although they are very tough, the super-soft phthalate free material provides comfort for your cats paws.
To clean just simply shake off or vacuum. For a more deeper clean you can rinse with warm water and soap. 11,000+ reviews on Amazon show what a quality product the Gorilla Grip Original Premium Durable Cat Litter Mat is.
Dimensions:
Small: 24" x 17"
Extra large: 35" x 23"
Half circle: 30" x 20"
Corner: 32" x 32" x 45"
Jumbo: 47" x 35"
What to Look for in a Cat Litter Box
When choosing a cat litter box, here are some important factors you will need to take into consideration:
Choose the right size
Make sure to the litter box is the appropriate size for your cat before purchasing. A litter box that is either too small or too big for your cat means they may not use it. Also consider the size of the door opening, especially if you have a larger cat.
Open or closed top
Some cats prefer open top litter boxes and other prefer closed top. As all cats are unique there is no real way of finding out for definite which one your cat will like. It's just a case of trial and error to see which one your kitty likes. There are advantages and disadvantages to both.
Open Litter Boxes
Pros: Easier to clean and easier to tell when they need maintenance.
Cons: Does not block odor and you can see litter and waste.
Enclosed Litter Boxes
Pros: Offer more privacy and are great at keeping odors out of the air along with looking more aesthetically pleasing because they hide litter and waste.
Cons: Your cat may be scared and anxious of the closed box.
Front or top entry
If you saw the litter boxes on our list, you will of noticed there were some with front entry and some with top entry. Top entry is good for keeping litter inside. It's not a good choice if you have an older cat.
Self-cleaning
If you are a busy person or tired of keep cleaning a litter tray, a self-cleaning option will be better for you.
Design and color
Some designs are a complete eyesore whilst others will look fantastic in your home decore.
Frequently Asked Questions
What room should I place the litter box in?
Place the litter box in an area that is fairly quiet. This may take a bit of trial and error. So if you cat is not using it, try moving it to a different location.
How many litter boxes do I need?
The simple rule is, for every cat, add a litter for. This means, if you have one cat you will need two litter boxes. If you have two cats you will need three litter boxes.
Why won't my cat use the litter box?
There could be a number of reasons for this:
- Location of the box
- The type and design of the box
- Dirty litter box
- Health issues
Try changing location of the litter box. If this doesn't work then maybe they do not like the design. If you have an open top box then try getting a closed litter box and vice-versa. Always make sure to keep the litter box clean. If your cat still isn't using it then make an appointment with a veterinarian.
Tips for Getting Your Cat Used to A Litter Box
Here's how you can get your cat used to a new litter box:
- Keep their old litter box next to the new one for several days.
- Let them observe the new box and give them treats to associate it as something positive.
- Before adding litter, encourage them to climb into the box to allow them to get used to it. Do this by placing treats or their favorite toys in there.
- If you cat uses somewhere else in the house, move the litter box to that location.
Conclusion
Hope this post on the best litter box for cats has gave you a greater understand of what to look out for before purchasing a litter box. This is a post that we will continue to update over time and add new litter boxes that are worthy of making our list. To get informed of any updates you can subscribe to our newsletter.
