Cat Litter Boxes
Give your kitty a comfortable place to "go" with a cat litter box made for form and function. Having the right litter boxes for your cats can save you lots of hassle and cleaning headaches. Cat litter boxes come in a variety of styles—from basic to high-tech—to suit every household preference and need. Choose from a variety of types:
- Litter pans: Open-top, tray-style litter boxes, including high-sided, corner, rimmed styles, and more
- Covered litter boxes: Hooded, furniture-style, and enclosed styles that offer privacy and odor containment
- Automatic litter boxes: Fully automated self-cleaning litterboxes do the scooping for you
- Sifting: Two- or three-piece designs that lift out to separate waste for easy disposal
- Top-entry: An entrance at the top helps prevent tracking and contain litter and waste better—great for litter kickers and cats who aim high
Most experts recommend having at least one litter box per cat—or even more—to prevent competition and behavioral issues. Whichever types you choose, be sure to keep them clean and properly filled with fresh cat litter.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cat Litter Boxes
What types of litter boxes do cats like best?
Some cats like covered litter boxes best, while others prefer open styles. Senior cats and kittens may need a low-entry litter box for comfort, while fussy kitties may enjoy the always-scooped clean of an automatic litter box. Individual preferences vary widely, so you may need to experiment a bit to find the right one for your cat.
How big should a cat litter box be?
A cat litter box should be 1½ times as long as your cat and wide enough for your cat to easily turn around. Measure your cat from the head to the base of the tail and multiply by 1.5 to find the ideal length. If you choose a covered box, be sure the top is high enough that your cat can comfortably stand up. And for kittens and cats with mobility issues, be sure to choose a box with a low enough entry for easy access.
What is the best material for a cat's litter box?
The best material for a cat's litter box is one that's durable and easy to clean. Hard plastic is the most common material used for cat litter boxes, but you can also find ones made of stainless steel. Some litter boxes also include antimicrobial technology to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungus.
How deep should a cat litter box be?
A cat litter box should be deep enough to easily hold 2-3 inches of litter, with sides high enough to contain litter kicking and spray. Never fill the litter box up to the top—make sure there's plenty of room for your cat to dig around and cover waste without it spilling over the sides. A minimum of 6 inches deep is usually best for healthy, adult cats, but senior cats and kittens may need a shallower depth.