Everyone poops, including pets, which is why having a litter box for your feline companion is so important. Cats have an instinctual need to bury their waste, and having the right litter box allows them to do this, while preventing your home from becoming one giant litter box.
Finding the best litter box for your feline companion means reading reviews, studying product features, and diving into the ins and outs of available styles and ease of cleaning. With the right litter box, this loathsome chore can become a quick, over-and-done with task.
We reviewed dozens of litter boxes to identify the best of the best, based on Amazon reviews, how well they performed in cleaning tests, cost, and other considerations. We narrowed our search down to 5 of the top-rated litter boxes cat owners can purchase to ensure a clean and healthy home.
We’ve identified iPrimio Ultimate Stainless Steel Cat XL Litter Box as the best litter box out there. With a durable stainless steel design that won’t absorb odors, stain, or rust, this litter box is one that will keep your kitty’s waste properly contained for years to come. These benefits allow you to enjoy more snuggle time with your feline companion, and less time scrubbing their litter box.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Litter Boxes
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | iPrimio Ultimate Stainless Steel Cat XL Litter Box | 4.7 |
| Runner Up | IRIS Top Entry Cat Litter Box | 4.4 |
| Best Budget Buy | Petmate Giant Litter Pan for Cat | 4.8 |
| Best Hooded Litter Box | Catit Jumbo Hooded Cat Litter Pan | 4.4 |
| Best Corner Litter Box | SmartCat Corner Litter Box | 4.3 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: iPrimio Ultimate Stainless Steel Cat XL Litter Box
The iPrimio Ultimate Stainless Steel Cat XL Litter Box took the top spot on our list of the best litter boxes, thanks in large part to its durable stainless steel design that won’t absorb odors, stain, or rust. Its large size is suitable for use in multi-cat households, while the high sides help to prevent litter spray. The rounded corners make it comfortable for kitty to enter and exit, as well as speeding up the cleaning process.
Those who purchased and reviewed this litter box appreciated that it helped to reduce the litter box smell in their home, and said their pets didn’t hesitate to use this box. People felt it was large enough for any sized cat, and found it easy to clean as the litter just slid out of the box.
With a price tag of around $50, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.7 on Amazon with nearly 400 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing cat owners to make the investment.
iPrimio Ultimate Stainless Steel Cat XL Litter Box Key Features:
- Ergonomic design
- Residue will not stick to pan
- Includes a satisfaction guarantee
Our Runner Up Pick: IRIS Top Entry Cat Litter Box
The IRIS Top Entry Cat Litter Box took the runner-up spot on our list of the best litter boxes, as it features a number of smart design features. The top-entry hole helps prevent canines from digging for treats, while still allowing kitties the ability to climb in and out. It might not be ideal for use with older cats, but for the more spry set it can help to contain litter spray and other messes.
Those who purchased and reviewed this litter box appreciated that the textured lid helped to remove litter from their cat’s paws as they exited the box, and like that the litter simply fell back into the pan. People liked the sleek appearance, and felt their cats seemed to enjoy the privacy this box offered.
At a cost of about $25, it’s not overly expensive or affordable, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.4 on Amazon with more than 3,100 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing cat owners to make the investment.
IRIS Top Entry Cat Litter Box Key Features:
- Available in a wide selection of colors
- Available in a choice of sizes
- Comes complete with a litter scoop (and integrated storage hook) for added convenience
Best Budget Pick: Petmate Giant Litter Pan for Cat
The Petmate Giant Litter Pan for Cat is an excellent option for those looking for a litter box that won’t break the bank. It boasts a basic, open design, but also features integrated storage compartments for your litter scoop and cleaning supplies. It is made from an eco-friendly plastic material, and comes complete with antimicrobial protection to help prevent the growth of stain and odor-causing bacteria.
Those who purchased and reviewed this litter box appreciated that it could hold up to 30-pounds of litter, making it ideal for bigger cats or those with multiple felines in the home. People appreciated the high sides, as well as the storage compartments. Some owners said their kitties managed to “go” in the storage spots, so just keep an eye on your pet until they get the hang of this box.
At a cost of approximately $16, this litter box is a solid choice for those looking for a litter box option on a budget. It has a rating of 4.8 on Amazon with more than 1,400 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing cat owners that this budget-friendly pick is just as good at containing their pet’s mess as its more expensive counterparts.
Petmate Giant Litter Pan for Cat Key Features:
- Suitable for use in multi-cat homes
- Durable, wide-profile base
- High walls help to prevent litter spray
Best Hooded Litter Box: Catit Jumbo Hooded Cat Litter Pan
The Catit Jumbo Hooded Cat Litter Pan is an excellent choice for kitties who prefer a little more privacy when doing their bathroom business. The large hood lifts up for easy access for cleaning, while the locking side tabs help to ensure a secure hold when moving the box. It boasts an integrated carbon filter on top that helps to remove unpleasant odors.
Those who purchased and reviewed this litter box appreciated that it was large enough for use in multi-cat homes, and that they could remove the flap if desired. Since several people found the flap to be more hassle than it was worth, the majority didn’t use it. Many reviewers commented on how easily their pet’s waste slid off the box when it was cleaning time, and liked that how easy it was to clean.
At a cost of about $53, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.4 on Amazon with more than 6,800 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing cat owners to make the investment.
Catit Jumbo Hooded Cat Litter Pan Key Features:
- Includes a free litter sample
- Front vented swing door
- Compatible with disposable liners
Best Corner Litter Box: SmartCat Corner Litter Box
The SmartCat Corner Litter Box makes a great option for those who are tight on space, but still want to provide their pet with a spot to go. Corner litter boxes can also be helpful for kitties who like to pee up things, as they often have higher backs and sides to help contain mess. The high sides on this box help to prevent litter spray, while the lowered front makes it easier for older cats to enter and exit.
Those who purchased and reviewed this litter box appreciated that it offered plenty of room for their pets to do their business, and found it easy to clean and fill. Some pet owners wished it came in more color options, but for the price and convenience of a space-saving design, it’s worth the trade-off.
With a price tag of around $21, it’s about middle of the road as far as the cost of litter boxes go, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.4 on Amazon with nearly 500 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing cat owners to make the investment.
SmartCat Corner Litter Box Key Features:
- Durable plastic resin construction
- Rounded edges for convenient cleanup
- Suitable for use with all types of litter
Who Should Buy a Litter Box
A litter box is an essential item for anyone with a pet cat, as it provides your pet with a place to do their business, and prevents your house from becoming one giant litter box. In homes with more than one cat, pet experts recommend having at least one litter box for each feline, plus an additional box. This helps to prevent territorial fights over who gets to use a certain box.
If mobility is an issue, or you simply don’t want to scoop your cat’s box on a daily basis, there are self-cleaning litter boxes that can make dealing with your pet’s waste a more pleasant experience.
And, if you’re concerned about the appearance of a litter box in your home, there is even specially designed litter box furniture to help conceal the box. These sorts of items can make bringing home a new cat more appealing for those who might otherwise be on the fence about having a litter box in their home.
Important Features to Consider
Not all litter boxes are created equal. A litter box should be easy to clean and fill, and large enough for your cat. Here’s what to consider when evaluating the options in search of the best litter box for your cat:
- Style. Arguably the most important consideration when it comes to choosing the best litter box for your cat is the style. Some people find hooded versions offer their pet a level of privacy and comfort to do their business, while other kitties prefer the freedom of an open box. If space is an issue, corner litter boxes can provide a solution. There are also self-cleaning litter boxes if you’d rather not have to scoop on a daily basis.
- Size. Some litter boxes aren’t large enough for use in multi-cat homes, or for use by fluffy kitties. There are plenty of models, however, that can accommodate cats larger than 15 pounds or be used in multi-cat homes.
- b Consider how easy a box is to disassemble, clean, and reassemble when the time comes, as you’ll be cleaning frequently in order to keep smells down and your cat healthy and happy.
- Litter type. If you end up choosing a self-cleaning litter box, keep in mind that not all boxes can be used with all litter types, so always be sure to check if you can use your kitty’s favorite litter or if you’ll need to switch them to something else.
- Price point. Finally, consider how much you are willing to spend on a litter box. Litter boxes vary in price from $10-$100 or more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you change out all the kitty litter?
The American Humane Society recommends daily scooping of your litter box, and suggests changing out the kitty litter at different times based on the number of boxes and cats in your home, as well as the type of litter you’re using. For clay litter, they recommend changing the litter completely a couple of times per week. Clumping litters can be changed once every 2-3 weeks, while there are also crystal cat litters that can go a month or two between changes. Always read and follow the directions on the bag of litter you’re using for the best results, and if you notice an odor or find that most of the litter is wet or clumped, go ahead and give it a change.
How do you disinfect a litter box?
Soap and water are all you really need to clean your cat’s litter box. Using chemicals or other cleaners such as bleach can result in an unpleasant smell that cats don’t like, and certain chemicals are toxic to cats. This might cause your kitty to do their business outside the litter box. Adding about a half-inch of vinegar to the bottom of the litter pan and letting it sit for about 15 minutes can help to disinfect the box.
How does a cat know where the litter box is?
A cat knows where the litter box is as they can smell previous waste, and are very territorial. Their litter box falls under their territory. They also have an instinctual need to dig and bury their waste, and if they discover a place where they can do this (the litter box) they will often naturally do so. That said, when you bring a new cat home, keep them in a closed room, along with their litter box. You can place them into the box to show them where they should go, and if you notice your cat about to do their business outside the box, you can pick them up and place them in the litter box as a gentle reminder. If your cat does go outside the box, placing their waste into the new box can help show them where to go. Keep in mind that if you move, you will need to show your cat the new spot for their box.
Will a cat naturally use a litter box?
Cats have an instinctual need to bury their waste, so if you provide them with a space to do so, they will often naturally use a litter box. You may need to spend some time showing your cat where the litter box is, but once they have been litter-trained, they should have no problem going there when nature calls.
Other Litter Boxes We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other litter boxes. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best litter boxes list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your feline companion. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Hooded Litter Boxes
Nature’s Miracle Oval Hooded Flip Top Litter Box w/Odor Control
This hooded litter box boasts an integrated odor neutralizing system that helps to keep bad smells at bay for up to three months at a time, while the enclosed hood helps to prevent litter spray.
Key Features:
- Available in a selection of colors
- Snap latches and flip top front
- Non-stick surface
Cost: $26
Petmate Top Entry Litter Pan Cat Litter Box
This hooded litter box has been specially designed to keep canines from digging for treats, and features a wide top hole that most felines can easily jump in and out of.
Key Features:
- Non-slip lid for convenient cleaning
- Integrated litter scoop storage hook
- Roomy enough for large kitties
Cost: $21
Good Pet Stuff Company Hidden Cat Litter Box
This hooded litter box boasts a large capacity design that resembles a flower pot for a more seamless look within your home.
Key Features:
- Durable polypropylene construction
- Vented design helps to control dust and odors
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Cost: $57
Petmate Clean Step Litter Dome
This hooded litter box boasts grooved, textured steps that help remove litter from your cat’s paws and they exit the box, and comes complete with a charcoal filter to help contain odors.
Key Features:
- Available in a selection of colors
- Suitable for use in multi-cat households
- Rounded pan for easier cleanup
Cost: $32
Van Ness Sifting Enclosed Cat Litter Pan
This hooded litter box boasts a scoop-free design that makes cleaning a cinch, and comes complete with an odor door and replaceable zeolite air filter to help contain unpleasant smells.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of sizes
- Odor- and stain-resistant finish
- Made in the USA
Open Litter Boxes
Pet Mate 42036 Arm & Hammer Large Sifting Litter Pan
This open litter box boasts a scoop-free, sifting design that makes cleanup quick and easy, and comes complete with a special antimicrobial protection that helps to extend the life of litter.
Key Features:
- Available in single or multi-packs
- Durable, reinforced bottom
- Suitable for use with clumping litter
Cost: $17
Nature’s Miracle High-Sided Litter Box
This open litter box boasts a high side design that helps to prevent litter spray, and comes complete with a non-stick surface for quick and convenient cleaning.
Key Features:
- Available in single or multi-packs
- Antimicrobial product protection
- Easy clean spout
Cost: $21
This open litter box boats high walls to help contain litter spray, while the low front side allows older cats to enter and exit with ease. Antimicrobial protection helps prolong the life of the litter.
Key Features:
- Available in single or multi-packs
- Easy clean spout
- Non-stick coating for quicker cleanup
Cost: $40
This open litter box boasts a basic design that’s easy to fill and clean, and for pets to get in and out of. Its wide base helps keep it upright in order to prevent spills.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of sizes
- Available in a selection of colors
- Rounded corners for convenient cleanups
Cost: $7
KittyGoHere Senior Cat Litter Box
This open litter box boasts a large design that is suitable for bigger pets or multi-cat households, and comes complete with rounded edges for more convenient cleanups.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of sizes
- Available in a selection of colors
- Suitable for use with clumping litter
Corner Litter Boxes
Nature’s Miracle Advanced Corner Hooded Corner Litter Box
This corner litter box boasts a covered design to help prevent litter spray, and comes complete with an odor-control charcoal filter to help keep unpleasant smells at bay.
Key Features:
- Available in single or multi-packs
- Non-stick surface for convenient cleanups
- Space-saving corner design
Cost: $29
Van Ness Corner High Sides Cat Litter Pan
This corner litter box boasts a space-saving design combined with high sides to help prevent litter spray. The rounded edges help protect kitty’s paws as they enter and exit, and makes cleaning a breeze.
Key Features:
- Odor- and stain-resistant finish
- Suitable for use with clumping litter
- Made in the USA
Cost: $20
IRIS Large Hooded Corner Litter Box with Scoop
This corner litter box boasts a hooded design to help contain litter spray, and comes complete with a flap entry door to help contain unpleasant smells.
Key Features:
- Available in a selection of colors
- Integrated handle for ease of portability
- Includes a litter scoop
Cost: $20
This corner litter box boasts very high sides to help contain litter spray and other messes, and features a low front that makes it easy for senior kitties to get enter and exit.
Key Features:
- Wipe-clean surface
- Odor- and stain-resistant finish
- Made in the USA
Cost: $13
Petmate 42104 Corner Open Litter Pan
This corner litter box boasts very high sides to help contain litter spray, along with a space-saving design. It features a low front that makes it easy for senior kitties to get enter and exit.
Key Features:
- Rounded edges for ease of cleaning
- Durable plastic resin construction
- Made in the USA
Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes
LitterMaid LM980 Mega Self-Cleaning Litter Box
Available in a single or two pack, this self-cleaning litter box comes complete with a removable automatic rake for easy clean up.
Key Features:
- Suitable for large cats
- High side walls help contain litter
- Safety bar stops rake in case of blockage
Cost: $75
PetSafe Simply Clean Automatic Litter Box System
This self-cleaning litter box boasts a low-power consumption design that helps cut down on odors and removes the need for daily scooping.
Key Features:
- Suitable for cats up to 15 pounds
- Includes a 1-year warranty
- Includes a 6-foot power cord
Cost: $79
Nature’s Miracle Multi-Cat Self-Cleaning Litter Box
This self-cleaning litter box comes complete with odor control receptacles and carbon filters to help keep unpleasant odors safely contained.
Key Features:
- Cleans and scoops after each use
- Sets up in just 3 simple steps
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Cost: $126
Pet Zone EZ Scoop No Touch Cat Litter Box
This self-cleaning litter box removes waste in one scoop into an enclosed bin with a carbon filter to help trap and eliminate odors.
Key Features:
- Includes four no-touch bags for safe, hygienic disposal
- Easy to disassemble for washing
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Cost: $34
SmartScoop Basic Self-Scooping Cat Litter Box
This box automatically scoops your cat’s waste so you don’t have to, and boasts a powerful yet quiet operation.
Key Features:
- Works with any brand of clumping litter
- Includes four no-touch bags for safe, hygienic disposal
- Activated carbon filters help remove unpleasant odors
Cost: $125
