Cats can be pretty type-A when it comes to where they do the do.
Oftentimes, not just any litter box will actually do. Especially when you consider the fact that you’re going to be the one to clean it, hide it, and generally deal with it, too, deciding on the best litter box becomes a bigger task than we may have the time or patience to deal with. Factor in all the thousands of options out there, and you’ve potentially got some decision paralysis on your hands.
My cat (Louie) and I live in a tiny Brooklyn apartment, so positioning a litter box so it’s both accessible to him and out of sight for me has been somewhat of a struggle. I’ve put many to the test, as have my colleagues living in the city with cats, and we’ve been able to narrow down the best of the best when it comes to form and function.
We also connected with Dr. Anna Kaufman from Bond Vet in New York City to chat about litter box materials, maintenance, and recommendations.
Check out our FAQs below and read on to discover the 10 best litter boxes, from self-cleaning to stainless steel, expert-recommended and real cat-tested.
best litter boxes
- Best overall: Frisco Multi-Function Covered Cat Litter Box
- Best budget: Van Ness High Sides Cat Litter Pan
- Best splurge: Litter-Robot 4 Automatic Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box
- Best top-entry: IRIS USA Large Round Top Entry Cat Litter Box
- Best for kittens: Frisco Senior and Kitten Cat Litter Box
- Best for large cats: Frisco High Sided Cat Litter Box, Extra Large
- Best litter box furniture: Frisco Decorative Bench Cat Litter Box Cover
- Best disposable: Frisco High-Sided Disposable Cat Litter Box
How we tested
When it comes to putting a litter box to the test, it’s 50% about your cat’s reaction to it and 50% about how easy it is for you to clean and position. In testing those we tried, we considered the following criteria:
- User experience: Is it easy for your cat to use and get in and out of? Do they fit fully in the box in order to prevent messes? Does your cat use the bathroom outside of the box (a telltale sign that they don’t enjoy the litter box experience)?
- Maintenance: How easy is it to clean? Does used litter stick to the box? Does it absorb or repel odors?
- Longevity: How long does it last in between cleanings? How well does it withstand time and repeated cleanings? Does it emit odor over time?
Each litter box was tested for at least a month, unless of course our kitty cats refused to use them properly (in which case, you won’t be seeing them on this list).
The Best Litter Boxes
Best overall: Frisco Multi-Function Covered Cat Litter Box
Pros:
- Can serve as a litter box and storage unit
- Enclosed design offers privacy for cats
- Helps contain odors with its covered design
- Blends well with home decor
Cons:
- May require some effort to assemble
- Might be too bulky for small living spaces
The Frisco Multi-Function Covered Cat Litter Box is a versatile solution for cat owners seeking functionality and design. It serves as both a litter box and a storage unit, offering privacy for your feline friend while keeping litter and odors contained. Its sleek design allows it to blend seamlessly into your home decor.
I love how this litter box doubles as a piece of furniture! It keeps the litter out of sight and contains odors really well. Plus, the extra storage space on top is a great bonus for storing cat supplies.
CHEWY $74.99
Best budget: Van Ness High Sides Cat Litter Pan
Pros:
- Budget-friendly price
- Reduces litter scatter
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons:
- Made of plastic, which might not be as durable as other materials
- Lack of cover can result in more odor and less privacy
The Van Ness High Sides Cat Litter Pan is an affordable and practical option for cat owners. Its high sides prevent litter scatter, making it easier to keep your space clean. Made from durable plastic, this litter pan is easy to clean and maintain.
This litter box is perfect for my budget and does exactly what I need it to. The high sides keep the litter from getting everywhere, and it’s really easy to clean. I couldn’t ask for more at this price!
CHEWY $11.09
Best splurge: Litter-Robot 4 Automatic Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box
Pros:
- Self-cleaning feature reduces manual scooping
- App-enabled for remote monitoring
- Includes safety features and odor control
Cons:
- High upfront cost
- May be noisy, which could disturb some cats
The Litter-Robot 4 is a top-of-the-line automatic self-cleaning litter box that takes the hassle out of maintaining your cat’s litter area. With advanced features like app connectivity and odor control, it provides a luxurious experience for both you and your cat. The safety features ensure a worry-free operation.
Investing in the Litter-Robot 4 became a game-changer (quickly). It keeps the litter clean without me having to scoop daily, and the app notifications are super handy. It’s definitely a splurge, but it’s worth every penny for the convenience and cleanliness.
CHEWY $699.00
Best top-entry: IRIS USA Large Round Top Entry Cat Litter Box
Pros:
- Reduces litter tracking and scattering
- Provides a private space for cats
- Modern design that fits well in homes
Cons:
- May be difficult for older or disabled cats to enter
- Top-entry design can make cleaning a bit challenging
The IRIS USA Large Round Top Entry Cat Litter Box is designed to minimize litter tracking and provide your cat with a private space. Its modern design fits well in any home, while the top-entry feature helps keep the litter contained within the box.
This top-entry litter box is fantastic. It has significantly reduced the amount of litter my cat tracks around the house. Plus, it looks great in my apartment and provides my cat with a bit of privacy.
Best for kittens: Frisco Senior and Kitten Cat Litter Box
Pros:
- Low sides make it easy for kittens and senior cats to enter and exit
- Adequate space for small and growing cats
- Simple design for quick cleaning
Cons:
- Low sides might not contain litter as well as higher-sided boxes
- Plastic material may not be as long-lasting
The Frisco Senior and Kitten Cat Litter Box is specifically designed for the needs of kittens and senior cats. Its low sides make it easy for young and older cats to enter and exit, ensuring a comfortable and accessible experience for all life stages.
My friend’s kitten had no trouble using this litter box from day one. The low sides are perfect for her, and it’s really easy to clean. It’s a great size, and I know she’ll be able to use it as she grows.
CHEWY $35.75
Best for large cats: Frisco High Sided Cat Litter Box, Extra Large
Pros:
- Plenty of room for large cats
- Prevents litter scatter and contains messes
- Made from sturdy plastic
Cons:
- Takes up more space than standard boxes.
- Can be heavy when filled with litter.
The Frisco High-Sided Cat Litter Box is ideal for large cats, offering plenty of space and high sides to prevent litter scatter. Made from durable plastic, it is built to withstand heavy use and is easy to clean.
My large Louie fits comfortably in this litter box, and the high sides keep the litter from getting all over the floor. It’s sturdy and easy to clean, making it a perfect choice for bigger cats.
CHEWY $27.49
Best litter box furniture: Frisco Decorative Bench Cat Litter Box Cover
Pros:
- Blends with home furniture
- Acts as a bench and litter box cover
- Provides a private area for cats
Cons:
- Requires assembly
- May be too large for small spaces
The Frisco Decorative Bench Cat Litter Box Cover stylishly conceals your cat’s litter box, doubling as a functional piece of furniture. This elegant bench provides a private space for your cat while seamlessly integrating into your home decor.
This litter box furniture piece is both beautiful and practical. It hides the litter box perfectly and looks like a regular piece of furniture. My guests have no idea there’s a litter box inside, and my cat loves the privacy.
CHEWY $124.07
Best disposable: Frisco High-Sided Disposable Cat Litter Box
Pros:
- Ideal for travel or temporary use
- No cleaning required
Cons:
- Ongoing cost for replacements
- Not suitable for long-term use
The Cat’s Pride Disposable Litter Box is perfect for travel or temporary use. Pre-filled with low-dust clay litter, it offers convenience and ease of use. Simply use and dispose, making it ideal for trips and temporary situations.
These disposable litter boxes are great for when I travel with my cat. They’re super convenient and eliminate the hassle of cleaning a traditional litter box on the go. I always keep a few on hand for emergencies.
CHEWY $11.69
FAQs
Where in my home should I place my litter box?
“I would place the litter box inside, on the ground in as private of an area as possible,” Dr. Kaufman recommended. “You want to make sure it is an area that you are able to keep clean but that your cat feels comfortable using no matter what.”
How many litter boxes do I need?
“The general rule for litter boxes is the amount of cats in the household plus one,” said Dr. Kaufman. “For example, if you live in a two-cat household, the recommendation is three litter boxes. This can be overwhelming for people, so I generally say if you can add one more that is great!”
Are there any special considerations for older cats or cats with mobility issues when choosing a litter box?
Dr. Kaufman “recommend[s] a litter box that is easy to get in and out of. As our feline patients age, it can be harder to get in and out of the litter box.” This could mean a litter box with a ledge or a step or one with a low-rise opening — none of those top-entry litter boxes or ones with high sides all around.
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