There are so many different litter boxes on the market today that it can make your head spin trying to find the right one for your cat or cats. Cats are extremely selective about where they go to the bathroom, so you will want to put a decent amount of thought into this decision. Fortunately, there is a lot of information out there to help you decide. Make sure that you think about the needs and nature of your cat when choosing. If you’re getting a new kitten, you may be able to have more control over their habits, but older cats may be set in their ways and require a specific litter box that they’re used to using.
Ultimately, it’s about finding what works for your home and your cat. In this guide, we’ll cover all of the elements necessary to ensure that you make the best choice, no matter what it seems your cat might need.
First Up: Size, Location, and Construction
Most litter boxes are made of some type of composite plastic material, making them easy to clean and deodorize. Of course, your first concern should be choosing something comfortable and spacious enough for your cats. With kittens, you want an open box with lower sides for easy access. Once they grow, you can consider larger boxes or enclosed litter boxes, but make sure that you start small to encourage good bathroom habits.
Typically, you’ll want no more than 2-3 inches on the side for a kitten, while a full-grown cat could use a box that’s about 24 inches long with 4-inch walls.
You can also find disposable boxes that are made of recycled cardboard and offer an easier option if you just want to toss it and start again. There are also wooden litter boxes that can be incorporated into home decor easier so that it doesn’t look like you have a litter box at all.
Where are you going to put the litter box? Choose a low-traffic area with privacy, such as a quiet bathroom, laundry room, or basement. If you are replacing a litter box, don’t relocate it. Put it back where it goes when you can. If you have to move the box, make sure that it’s easy to find and access.
Types of Litter Boxes
There are several different types of litter boxes available to choose from today, making it easy for you to find everything you need. You will need to consider the pros and cons of each choice concerning your needs. Think about any special conditions or behaviors your cat has that might influence your choice, as well. For example, some cats will never use enclosed boxes, while others will only use them.
For multiple cats or cats who struggle to find their place, an open litter pan might be the best option. Odors might be more noticeable without regular scooping, and curious kids or dogs could get into the box. However, if you’ve got a good hiding spot and the need for an open box, this is a choice. You’ll just have to be more mindful of your upkeep and placement with this kind of style.
Covered boxes work best for controlling odors in your home. Remember that when you get a litter box, you’ll also want to invest in a scoop to eliminate the waste regularly and reduce odors. However, with a covered box, you can guarantee that even between scoopings, you’ll still smell fewer odors. Covered boxes have all types of options for built-in ventilation, from holes in the side to litter boxes that are open on the top to allow the cat access and let the air in at the same time.
Self-Cleaning and Automatic Litter Boxes
In the dream world of cat ownership, no one ever cleans a litter box, and everyone is always happy. This is where automatic litter boxes can come into play. These are great for cats that are finicky about their bathroom habits or for owners who are just too busy to do the job themselves. There is an adjustment period for learning how to use these boxes for both you and your cat. But it’s usually a simple transition once they realize the constant cleanliness that they enjoy.
These litter boxes are harder to find a permanent location for because they usually require access to an outlet and may take up more space. But they can be the ideal solution for people who love cats but hate cleaning the litter box. For cats who are picky about going to the bathroom, it might also be the best way to keep them on track and prevent accidents or attitude problems.
What’s the Verdict?
Whether you buy a plastic tote for $10 and create your own litter box or choose a top-of-the-line automatic model, it’s about figuring out what best suits your needs. For people on a budget, a standard covered litter box should do the trick just fine. Remember that if you’ve got more than two cats, you’ll need an extra litter box for each additional cat (three cats need at least two boxes, and so on).
The biggest thing is to think about the cleaning convenience and the ease of use for your cat. If they’re not comfortable, they won’t use it, or they won’t use it correctly, and that could make your job of cleaning a lot more work. If you don’t like the litter box, you’re going to hate taking care of it, which can create more stress than necessary. This is one area where it’s okay to splurge a little and give yourself and your cat less to worry about.
Make sure that you keep your cat’s bathroom behavior in mind, and if you are shopping for a new kitten, pay attention to their habits so that you can choose the ideal litter boxes for them as they grow. As long as you do that, you’ll be on the right track no matter which style you choose or where you put it.