Best Litter Box for Cats: How to Choose

Cats are selective when it comes to many things—their litter box is no exception. With tons of factors to consider like the size, material, and different types, this can make finding the best litter box for your cat feel like a chore! To help, we put together a handy guide so you can find a litter box your feline will love, and more importantly, use.

Cat litter box size & dimensions

An average-sized adult cat should have a litter box no smaller than 24 inches long with walls at least 4 inches high. For smaller cats and kittens, walls that are 2 or 3 inches are fine to help them easily step in and out of the box. Make sure your pet has enough room to step into the box, turn in a circle, scratch and do their business without bumping into the walls.

Larger cats may need a bigger box so they can use the bathroom comfortably. This includes felines of a larger-than-average breed, who weigh more than the average adult or who have longer fur. If you have the space in your home, there’s typically no such thing as a litter box that’s too big. Just be sure that the walls aren’t so high that your cat struggles to enter the box.

While bigger is typically better when it comes to the base of your cat’s litter box, the same doesn’t always apply to hoods and covers. Some felines prefer a top that is more confining, giving them a sense of security. If this is true for your cat, you may need to try different hoods to find one that provides peace of mind without being restrictive.

Litter box materials and placement

Most litter boxes are made of plastic since it doesn’t absorb unpleasant cat waste odors. There are also disposable boxes made from 100% recycled paper which neutralize ammonia gases and allow air to flow through. Wooden washrooms are available if you’re looking for something that blends with your decor.

When picking a spot for your cat’s litter box, find a place where they have privacy. High-traffic areas of your home will make your cat less inclined to use their box. Any time you replace your cat’s litter box with a new one, place it in the same location. Cats are creatures of habit and moving their box could confuse or upset them. If you must find a new spot, make sure they have easy access.

Different Types of Litter Boxes

Now it’s time for the fun—finding the best litter box for your cat! Before jumping in, consider your cat’s habits. Knowing their litter behavior or any special conditions will help you determine what they need. A cat that hates anyone noticing when they relieve themselves will welcome the added privacy. Senior cats who suffer from arthritis or aching joints will need a litter box that is easy to step into. Here are a few of the most common litter box options:

Best litter box for multiple cats—open litter pans

Cats are territorial which is why some pet parents follow the one litter box per cat rule. But what if your home doesn’t have space for more than one box? Or, what if your cats can’t figure out when the box is available? This is where open litter pans save the day!

Litter pans take up less space and are easy to clean. The open design allows cats to see each other so they can determine when it’s safe to handle their business. But before making your decision, know that odors may be more noticeable because of the open top. Curious dogs or children are other areas of concern since there’s no barrier to keep them out.

If neither of those are an issue, an open litter pan may be the best option for your multi-cat home. Buy a mat to help limit litter tracking or catch litter that gets kicked out. You can also look for high-back pans that keep litter where it belongs.

Best litter box for odor control—covered boxes

Covered litter boxes do a great job keeping litter and unpleasant odors under control. You may notice that you have more cleaning to do and that’s because covers or hoods concentrate odors within. To get around this, look for a covered litter box that has built-in ventilation.

Aside from being the best litter box for odor control, covered boxes lend more privacy. To see if this is a feature your feline prefers, let them test it out and make sure they can get comfortable. Most cats will enjoy the seclusion that a covered box provides.

Best litter boxes for busy pet parents—self-cleaning boxes

If convenience is a priority, you might find self-cleaning and automated litter boxes a worthwhile investment. These advanced options work by sifting waste from the litter and storing it in a disposable plastic bag or container. Some automatic litter boxes come with disposable trays, so you don’t have to worry about scooping litter or seeing your cat’s waste.

On top of that, these boxes work for cats who reject their pans if they smell or need a deep cleaning. While this is a convenient option, it can take some time to get used to. The unfamiliar noises may make your cat jumpy at first but with time, they’ll adjust and appreciate the cleanliness of their box.

Finding a permanent litter solution is a big task but by knowing the important factors to consider, you’re on the right track. Before making the decision, keep your cat’s litter behavior in mind. This plays a big role in your choosing the best litter box for your pet. Once you’ve narrowed down the choices, head to Petco to shop our selection of litter boxes and accessories!

Litter Box Types at a Glance: Which One Is Right for Your Cat?

Quick sizing reminder: The Cornell Feline Health Center recommends a box at least 1.5 times the length of your cat from nose to tail base — a useful benchmark when comparing models. [https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information]

Frequently Asked Questions

How many litter boxes does a cat need? The widely cited guideline is one box per cat, plus one extra — so two cats need at least three boxes. This reduces territorial tension and ensures every cat always has access to a clean option. [https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information]

What size litter box does an adult cat need? An average adult cat needs a box at least 24 inches long with walls at least 4 inches high — enough room to step in, turn a full circle and dig without touching the sides. Larger breeds or cats with longer fur may need an even bigger footprint.

Why is my cat avoiding the litter box? Avoidance is often linked to box cleanliness, location, size or litter type. Sudden changes in litter box habits can also signal a medical issue such as a urinary tract problem. If avoidance persists after addressing environmental factors, consult your veterinarian promptly. [https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information]

Are covered litter boxes better for odor control? Covered boxes do contain odors more effectively than open pans — but that works both ways. Odors concentrate inside the hood, which can actually discourage some cats from entering. Look for a covered box with built-in ventilation, and scoop at least once daily to keep the interior fresh.

Can kittens use the same litter box as adult cats? Kittens need lower entry walls — 2 to 3 inches — so they can step in and out without struggling. A standard adult box with 4-inch-plus walls may be too tall for a young kitten and could discourage use or cause accidents. Provide a kitten-appropriate box until your cat is fully grown.

When should I replace my cat's litter box? Even with regular cleaning, plastic litter boxes develop microscopic scratches over time that harbor odor-causing bacteria. Most veterinary behaviorists suggest replacing plastic boxes every one to two years, or sooner if persistent odors remain after thorough washing. [https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information]

Frequently Asked Questions

How many litter boxes do I need for multiple cats? The general guideline is one litter box per cat, plus one extra — so two cats need at least three boxes. This helps reduce territorial stress and gives every cat a clean option at all times. Your veterinarian can offer personalized advice if you notice avoidance or conflict between cats.

How often should I scoop and deep-clean a litter box? Scoop waste at least once daily — cats are fastidious and may refuse a soiled box entirely. Plan a full empty-and-scrub with mild, unscented soap at least once a month (more often for covered boxes, which concentrate odors faster). Rinse thoroughly and dry before refilling, since residual cleaning-product scent can deter use.

What litter box size does my cat actually need? At minimum, the box should be 1.5 times the length of your cat from nose to tail base. For most adult cats that means at least 24 inches long with walls at least 4 inches high. Kittens and smaller cats do fine with 2–3-inch walls so they can step in and out easily. When in doubt, go larger — there is no such thing as a litter box that is too roomy.

Why is my cat avoiding the litter box? Avoidance is one of the most common feline behavior concerns and can signal a medical issue, a dislike of the box type or location, or a litter texture preference. Consult your veterinarian first to rule out urinary tract conditions or other health causes before making changes to the box setup. [https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information]

Are self-cleaning litter boxes safe for cats? Automatic, self-cleaning boxes are generally well-tolerated once a cat adjusts to the unfamiliar sounds and motion. Introduce the unit while it is powered off so your cat can explore it at her own pace, then gradually allow normal operation. If your cat remains fearful or stops using the box after introduction, return to a traditional pan and speak with your veterinarian or a certified feline behavior consultant.

Should I use a covered or open litter box? It depends on your individual cat's preferences and your household. Covered boxes offer more privacy and help contain litter scatter, but they trap odors inside — which can be off-putting to cats with sensitive noses. Open pans ventilate better and let cats in multi-cat homes see when the box is available, reducing territorial tension. Offer both styles if you are unsure, and let your cat's behavior guide the final choice. [https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information]

This article was created with assistance from AI tools and reviewed for accuracy by Petco's content team.