Understanding the Various Types of Litter Boxes: Which Is Best for Your Cat?

The litter box is one of the most crucial pieces of equipment for any cat owner, directly impacting a cat’s comfort, hygiene, and house-training success. Yet, with so many types of litter boxes on the market, from the basic cat litter tray to the latest automatic litter box, it can feel overwhelming to choose the right one.

This guide breaks down the most common litter box designs, highlighting their features, benefits, and drawbacks while offering some litter box tips along the way. By the end, you’ll know which option might best suit your cat’s personality, your home environment, and your lifestyle.

Why the Right Litter Box Matters

Choosing the right kitty litter box isn’t just about convenience. It’s about protecting your cat’s well-being and making daily life easier for you. The litter box is central to your cat’s routine, and if it doesn’t meet their needs, problems can arise quickly. A poorly chosen box can lead to accidents, frustration, or even health concerns, while the right one encourages consistent use, keeps odors under control, and saves you time and effort.

Cat Acceptance

Your cat must feel comfortable using their litter box. If the size, shape, or placement isn’t right, they may refuse to use it, which can lead to household accidents or stress-related behaviors.

Hygiene & Odor Control

Cleanliness plays a major role in both your cat’s comfort and your home’s freshness. Certain types of litter boxes, like enclosed litter boxes, top-entry boxes, or automatic systems, offer better odor containment. If you’re struggling with smells, the right design paired with the right litter can make all the difference. However, there are some cats who do not take well to covered litter boxes, so to ensure you and your cat have the best experience, be sure to note how your cat responds.

Owner Convenience

Let’s be honest – scooping isn’t the most enjoyable task. Thankfully, innovations like self-cleaning litter boxes, cat litter disposal systems, and sifting litter boxes can reduce the time and effort required for maintenance. Their features keep the box fresher, minimize contact with waste, and help make litter duty more manageable for busy owners.

Cat’s Needs

Every cat is unique, and their litter box should reflect that. For a senior cat, a litter box with low sides can make bathroom trips easier for aging cats with arthritis, while an extra-large litter box ensures big breeds like Maine Coons have enough room to turn around comfortably. Similarly, a high-sided litter box might be the best option for cats who love to dig and scatter, keeping messes contained.

According to our Purina Pet Expert, Ragen McGowan, “While odor is important to us humans, for cats, the bigger culprit in driving them out of the box is obstructions in the litter. It is very important to keep your litter box scooped, giving your cat the freedom to manipulate the cat litter without running into past eliminations. So, pick a litter box that is easy for you to keep scooped and provides ample space for your cat to find a clean spot to eliminate.”

Common Types of Litter Boxes

With so many types of litter boxes available, it’s important to understand the differences, so you can select the one that works best for both your cat and your household. Each design offers unique benefits and drawbacks depending on your cat’s age, size, habits, and preferences as well as your own priorities for convenience, odor control, and aesthetics. Here’s a detailed look at the most popular litter box options:

Open Litter Boxes

An open litter box is the simplest and most traditional option. It is a shallow, uncovered cat litter tray that offers straightforward functionality. It’s often the first choice for kittens and senior cats because of its accessibility. 

Pros: 

• Affordability: Widely available and budget friendly.
• Ease of Cleaning: Simple to scoop, wash, and disinfect without extra parts.
• Airflow: Natural ventilation reduces odor buildup.
• Accessibility: Some are low entry which makes them suitable for kittens, seniors, or arthritic cats.
• Comfort: Ideal for cats that dislike confinement or enclosed spaces.

Cons: 

• Odor Control: Provides no containment of smells, which may not suit shared spaces.
• Litter Scatter: Higher risk of tracking and mess around the box.
• Privacy: Offers no seclusion for timid or shy cats.
• Appearance: Less visually appealing since litter is fully exposed.

Ideal For: 

• Kittens and senior cats who need a low entry litter box.
• Multi-cat households, since easy access reduces territorial stress, such as a cat guarding the entrance to a litter box. However, for multi-cat households, having multiple litter boxes is HIGHLY recommended.
• Cats that prefer open spaces and feel uncomfortable in enclosed boxes.

Upgrade Option: The Purina® Tidy Cats® Breeze® Original and XL Litter Box Systems

For owners who love the simplicity of an open tray, but want better odor control and cleanliness, the Tidy Cats® Breeze® Original Litter Box System is an excellent solution.

• How it works: Features an open tray with a sifting grate, anti-tracking pellets, and a disposable absorbent pad underneath to lock in ammonia odors for up to 7 days per cat.
• Easy maintenance: Scoop solids off the pellet surface daily, replace the pad weekly, and change pellets monthly. The starter kit includes everything: box, scoop, pellets, and pads.
• Odor control: Absorbent pads and dust-free pellets deliver superior odor management compared to standard trays.
• Cleaner floors: High-sided tray design and special pellets reduce tracking and scattering.
• Versatility: Open systems are available in Original and XL versions to suit cats of different sizes and owner preferences.

The Breeze system keeps the accessibility of an open tray while solving its biggest downsides, such as odor, mess, and tracking, making it an excellent balance between convenience and cleanliness.

Covered Litter Boxes (Hooded) 

A covered litter box, also known as a hooded cat litter box, features an enclosed design, typically with a hinged or removable hood and swinging entry flap, providing cats with a sense of privacy and helping contain mess. 

Pros: 

• Enhanced odor control: The enclosure helps trap smells within the box rather than allowing them to waft through your home.
• Added privacy: Many cats feel more secure and relaxed when doing their business out of view.
• Reduced litter tracking: Walls and lids help keep scattered litter contained.
• More discreet appearance: A hooded design blends into home decor more easily than an open tray.

Cons: 

• Poor ventilation: Trapped air can make the interior odor unpleasant over time if not cleaned frequently.
• Cleaning challenges: The hood may be cumbersome to lift or remove for thorough scrubbing.
• Cat preferences vary: Some cats feel confined or trapped by enclosed designs and may avoid using them.

Ideal For: 

• Owners focused on minimizing odor and keeping the litter area tidy.
• Cats that value privacy and want a more secluded spot.
• Homes where sightlines are important and owners want the hooded design to keep litter out of view.

Breeze-Enhanced Option: Purina® Tidy Cats® Breeze® Covered Litter Box System

For those who want the benefits of a covered box with upgraded cleanliness and odor control, the Tidy Cats® Breeze® Covered Litter Box System is an exceptional hybrid solution.

• Innovative design: Combines the privacy of a hooded box with a clever interior system. Anti-tracking Breeze pellets rest atop a grated base, while a slide-out drawer below houses a super-absorbent pad that locks in moisture and ammonia odor for up to 7 days.
• Hassle-free maintenance: Simply scoop out solids from the pellet surface, slide out and replace the urine pad weekly, and swap pellets monthly. The starter kit includes everything needed for about a month of use per cat.
• Cleaner, fresher environment: Pellets are 99.9% dust-free and anti-tracking, significantly reducing litter mess and airborne dust.

In summary, covered litter boxes offer enhanced odor control and privacy, but can require more effort to clean and ventilate. The Purina Breeze Covered System elevates the concept by combining enclosure with easy-clean design, effective odor management, and minimal mess. It’s an excellent option for owners who want the best of both worlds: discretion and cleanliness.

Top-Entry Litter Boxes

A top-entry cat litter box features an opening in the lid, requiring your cat to jump in from above. This design has become increasingly popular for its ability to keep litter contained and provide a sleek, modern look in the home.

Pros: 

• Excellent litter control: The high-sided design prevents litter scatter, while grooves on the lid often help catch stray pellets as cats exit.
• Strong odor containment: The enclosed walls and top-entry design help reduce odor spread compared to an open tray.
• Dog-proof design: Prevents curious dogs from getting into the litter box, making it a highly effective dog proof cat litter box option.
• Stylish appearance: Sleek, modern designs blend more easily into living spaces than traditional trays.

Cons: 

• Not suitable for all cats: Kittens, seniors, cats with mobility issues, or cats who find the higher litter boxes awkward to climb into may struggle to jump in and out, making it less ideal for these cats and may lead to them eliminating around the house instead of in the litter box.
• Adjustment period: Some cats may hesitate to use it initially, especially if they’re accustomed to front-entry boxes. 

Ideal For: 

• Young, active, or agile cats who don’t mind climbing in and out.
• Multi-pet households where dogs may try to access the litter box.
• Owners who prioritize odor control, cleanliness, and aesthetics in their home. 

In summary, a top-entry litter box is an excellent choice for active cats and households looking for a tidy, dog-proof solution. While it’s not suited for every feline, especially seniors or kittens, it offers some of the best odor and scatter control among modern litter box ideas for multiple cats or single-cat homes alike.

Sifting Litter Boxes

A sifting litter box employs a multi-layer design where waste sifts through perforated trays, leaving clean litter behind. It can be a closed or open litter box designed for various household needs. It streamlines daily maintenance and minimizes direct contact with waste.

Pros: 

• Faster cleaning: Simply lift the upper sifting tray as waste separates through the mesh, perfectly simplifying the cleanup process.
• Reduced waste: Only the clumped or soiled parts are removed, conserving clean litter.
• Less scooping needed: Eliminates the need to manually scoop litter every day.

Cons: 

• Must use compatible litter: Sifting works best with lightweight, well-clumping litters.
• Potential for mess: If lifted too quickly, litter can scatter.
• Durability varies: Budget versions may crack or warp with time or weight.

Ideal For: 

• Owners who want a no-scoop litter box solution without automation.
• Those who prefer quick, efficient litter maintenance.
• Multi-cat homes where daily scooping is impractical.

Optimal Litters for Sifting Systems

To enhance performance, it’s essential to choose a litter that clumps well, is low in dust, and simplifies sifting. Here are a few examples of great litters that are optimal to use with sifting systems:

• Tidy Cats® Lightweight 24/7 Performance® Odor Control Multi-Cat Clumping Litter
  • Lightweight formula that’s about 50% lighter than standard litters, making lifting the sifting tray easier.
  • Offers 21-day odor control, tight clumps, and is 99.9% dust-free, reducing tracking and clogging potential.
  • Ideal for multi-cat households.
• Tidy Cats® Naturally Strong® Unscented Cat Litter
  • Made of natural clay with activated charcoal, it excels at odor control, with near-zero dust.
  • Though clumps can be delicate, it remains a strong choice for sifting systems prioritizing odor management.
• Tidy Cats® Lightweight With Glade® Clear Springs® Multi-Cat Clumping Litter
  • Features a lightweight formula with a Glade® Clear Springs® scent.
  • Provides 21-day odor control and is 99.9% dust-free, making it suitable for sifting systems.

Explore more Purina litter options catering to various preferences (clumping, unscented, lightweight, or multi-cat formulas) that work well with sifting-style systems.

Self-Cleaning/Automatic Litter Boxes

An automatic litter box, also known as a self-cleaning litter box, automates the scooping process by using sensors or timers to detect when your cat has used the box. After each use, the system automatically removes waste, depositing it into a sealed compartment or drawer. Because these litter boxes require power, it’s important to check daily to ensure power hasn’t been lost resulting in a buildup of waste.

Pros: 

• Convenience: Reduces the frequency of manual scooping, saving time and effort.
• Odor control: Many systems include odor-sealing mechanisms to contain smells.
• Hygiene: Minimizes direct contact with waste, promoting a cleaner environment.
• Multiple designs: There are both open and closed automatic litter box designs for cats and households with specific preferences and needs. 

Cons: 

• Cost: Generally, more expensive than traditional litter boxes.
• Power source: May require batteries or a power outlet.
• Mechanical errors: The system could have functionality issues that are difficult to resolve.
• Compatibility: Not all litters are suitable; some systems require specific types, such as the Tidy Cats® Designed for Litter-Robot® Cat Litter.
• Startling sounds: The noises these types of litter boxes make can scare some cats, especially those who are nervous and anxious.
• Cramped space: Some of the closed automatic litter boxes can feel too small or cramped for some kitties, especially larger cats. 

Ideal For: 

• Busy individuals or households seeking to minimize litter box maintenance.
• Multi-cat homes where manual scooping becomes cumbersome.
• Owners looking to maintain a cleaner and more hygienic environment for their pets.

Smart Litter Box Features and Products

In addition to automation, many modern litter boxes and products incorporate smart technology to enhance functionality and monitoring:

• Health Monitoring: Tracks your cat’s weight, urination, and defecation events, alerting you to potential health issues.
• App Integration: Provides data and insights through a smartphone app, allowing for remote monitoring.
• Multiple Cat Recognition: Identifies and tracks the habits of multiple cats in the household.

One such product is the Purina® Petivity® Smart Litter Box Monitor System, which can be used with most types of litter boxes and utilizes AI technology to monitor your cat’s health and litter box habits. It delivers data to your smartphone app, offering insights and alerts that can help detect early signs of health issues. 

Automatic and smart litter boxes and products combine convenience, cleanliness, and advanced monitoring features, making them ideal solutions for busy households and proactive cat parents who want both a clean home and a deeper look into their cat’s overall health.

Furniture/Hidden Litter Boxes

A furniture litter box or hidden litter box integrates the litter box into a piece of furniture, such as a bench, cabinet, or side table. This design keeps the litter box discreet and provides your cat with more privacy in your home. It also allows for a cleaner and more stylish appearance than other litter box products. 

Pros: 

• Aesthetically pleasing: Blends seamlessly into home décor, making the litter area less conspicuous.
• Odor containment: Enclosures help trap odors and keep the room smelling fresher.
• Privacy for cats: Many cats feel more comfortable using a concealed box, reducing stress.
• Reduced litter tracking: Walls and furniture sides help keep litter contained.
• Easier accessibility: Allows cats easier access to litter boxes by placing these in common spaces as opposed to far corners and other out-of-the-way locations.

Cons: 

• Cost: Often more expensive than standard open or covered litter boxes.
• Cleaning: Accessing the box for scooping or complete litter changes can be slightly more cumbersome.
• Ventilation: Without proper airflow, odors can build up inside the furniture.
• Size limitations: Not all boxes fit inside furniture pieces; make sure the cat can move comfortably.

Ideal For: 

• Owners who prioritize home aesthetics and want the litter box to blend into living spaces.
• Cats that prefer privacy and enclosed spaces.
• Households where odor control and neatness are important.

Furniture or hidden litter boxes provide a stylish, discreet solution for owners who want both aesthetics and functionality.

Types of Litter Boxes: Comparison Chart

Choosing the Right Litter Box: Key Considerations

Selecting the ideal litter box is about more than just picking a container. It’s about matching your cat’s preferences, your home environment, and your lifestyle. Considering these factors carefully can prevent accidents, improve hygiene, and make maintenance easier for you.

Cat’s Preferences

• Size: Ensure the litter box is large enough for your cat to turn around comfortably. Larger cats may need a large cat litter box or extra-large cat litter box to move freely.
• Mobility: For kittens, senior cats, or cats with arthritis, a low entry litter box or senior cat litter box can make access easier and prevent stress.
• Privacy vs. Openness: Some cats prefer the seclusion of a hooded or enclosed litter box, while others feel trapped in enclosed spaces and prefer an open litter box.
• Cleanliness: Cats are famously particular with some only using a pristine box. Consider systems like sifting litter boxes for cats, a self-cleaning litter box, or another type of cat litter disposal system to maintain cleanliness effortlessly.
• Tracking: For cats that kick or scatter litter, a high-sided litter box or top-entry cat litter box can help contain messes.

Home Environment

• Space: Evaluate where the litter box will go. A corner litter box can save room in small apartments, while furniture-style solutions and other types of hidden litter boxes help keep it discreet.
• Odor Control: If odor is a concern, choose a box designed for odor management, such as a hooded cat litter box or one compatible with Purina’s odor-control litter products.
• Aesthetics: Some owners want the box to blend into the home. Furniture litter boxes and other hidden kitty litter box ideas can combine practicality and décor.
• Multi-Pet Household:
  • If you have dogs, a dog-proof cat litter box or top-entry cat litter box may be necessary.
  • For multiple cats, the rule of thumb is number of cats + 1 extra litter box.

Owner’s Lifestyle

• Budget: Litter boxes range from basic open trays to high-tech automatic litter boxes. Consider what fits both your financial comfort and your cat’s needs.
• Time Commitment: How often are you willing to scoop? If daily scooping is challenging, a no scoop litter box, sifting litter box, or self-cleaning litter box may save significant time.
• Maintenance: Features like cat litter bags, a litter mat, or cat litter trays designed for easy cleanup can simplify your routine.
• Physical Limitations: Owners with limited mobility may find an investment in a self-cleaning litter box or smart litter box monitor worthwhile to maintain hygiene without heavy lifting.

By weighing your cat’s preferences, your living space, and your daily routine, you can choose a litter box that keeps your cat happy, your home clean, and your maintenance manageable.

General Litter Box Best Practices

No matter which type of litter box you choose, following a few key best practices can keep your cat healthy and comfortable while making your life easier. These rules help ensure proper use, reduce accidents, and maintain a clean, odor-free environment.

• Number of Boxes:
  • The general rule is one litter box per cat, plus one extra. This helps prevent territorial disputes and ensures all cats have access when needed.
  • For guidance on multi-cat households, see How Many Litter Boxes Per Cat Do You Need?
• Location:
  • Place litter boxes in quiet, low-traffic areas where your cat feels safe.
  • Avoid placing boxes near food and water bowls to encourage consistent use.
  • Ensure the box is easily accessible, especially for kittens, seniors, or cats with mobility issues.
  • For multi-level and large homes, make sure to have multiple litter boxes available throughout the house for easier accessibility, including at least one litter box on every floor.
• Litter Type:
  • Cats can be picky about texture, scent, and depth. Choosing a litter they like encourages consistent use.
  • Explore Purina’s Cat Litter Selector to find the best option for your cat, whether it’s clumping, unscented, lightweight, or multi-cat formulas.
• Scooping Frequency:
  • Scoop at least once daily to maintain cleanliness; twice daily is ideal for multi-cat households.
  • Regular scooping prevents odors, encourages proper use, gets rid of obstructions that may impact a cat’s ability/willingness to use the litter, and helps monitor your cat’s health.
  • Learn more about proper scooping routines here: How Often Should You Clean the Litter Box?
• Full Litter Changes:
  • Wash the entire box weekly or bi-weekly, depending on the number of cats and the litter type.
  • Empty the box, scrub it with mild soap and warm water, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely before adding fresh litter.
  • For step-by-step guidance, see How to Clean a Litter Box.
• Litter Depth:
  • Maintain a depth of 2–3 inches to allow proper digging and covering. This also helps with proper clumping (reducing clumps sticking to the box) making cleaning easier.
  • Adjust depth for individual cat preferences; some cats may prefer slightly deeper litter, while others are comfortable with less.

Following these best practices ensures your cat has a clean, comfortable space to do their business while reducing the risk of accidents and unpleasant odors. Regular maintenance also makes life easier for you, whether you’re using a basic open tray, a covered litter box, a sifting system, or an automatic litter box.

At the end of the day, the best litter box is the one that balances your cat’s comfort with your convenience. Making an informed decision will not only improve your cat’s litter box acceptance but also reduce stress for you as an owner. The right choice can mean a happier cat and a cleaner home.

For more expert tips on cat litter, explore our other litter behavior articles.