Litter box

Size and space: Choose a litter box that allows your cat to enter, turn around, and dig comfortably. In multi-cat homes, experts recommend at least one litter box per cat plus one extra to prevent sharing and stress.

Open vs hooded: Open boxes are easy to access and clean, while hooded boxes help contain odors and litter spray. Some cats prefer privacy, others feel trapped by a covered space, observe your cat’s behavior to decide.

Materials and maintenance: Look for smooth, durable plastic without hard-to-reach corners. Easy-to-clean surfaces save time and reduce bacteria buildup. Ensure compatibility with your preferred cat litter, whether clumping, biodegradable pellets, or crystal litter.

Liner and frame options: Litter box liners can make cleanup faster but some cats chew or scratch liners. Anti-slip bases, rims, and built-in mats help minimize tracking and mess around the box.

Placement: Quiet, low-traffic areas away from food and water bowls reduce stress. If you have a small home, corner litter boxes or compact top-entry designs can save space while keeping odor contained.

Odor control: Consider boxes with carbon filters, sealed lids, or integrated deodorizing features. Pair the box with baking soda or odor-control litter additives for lasting freshness.

Open litter boxes are the most affordable and easiest to clean, ideal for active cats who like to dig and scratch. Hooded litter boxes help trap odors and reduce spray, but some cats feel confined and may avoid them.

Top-entry boxes minimize litter kick-out and tracking by allowing the cat to enter from the top. They’re great for households with multiple surfaces but can be harder for elderly or arthritic cats to access.

Self-cleaning litter boxes use a rake or rotating mechanism to sift waste automatically, reducing daily upkeep. They’re convenient for busy owners but require power, regular maintenance, and compatible litter to prevent jams.

Litter box enclosures and corner models save space and help keep odor contained in smaller rooms. Pair any type with a matching litter such as clumping, biodegradable, or crystal litter for optimal performance.

Scoop solids daily and replace soiled litter regularly to prevent ammonia buildup. Use a trash bag or dedicated container to dispose of waste to avoid cross-contamination in your home.

Top up with fresh litter as needed, aiming to keep the depth comfortable for digging while preventing spills. Periodically do a full litter change and wash the box with mild soap and warm water, avoid harsh chemicals that could irritate your cat.

Enhance odor control with baking soda, activated carbon deodorizers, or a scent-free, low-dust cat litter. A litter mat around the box helps trap litter granules, reducing tracking on carpets and floors.

Maintain good ventilation in the room and keep the area clean from dust and dander. Regularly check for scratches or cracks and replace damaged boxes to prevent leaks and odor leaks into your living space.

Self-cleaning models can save time on daily scooping and help maintain a fresher litter area between thorough cleanings. They work best with low-dust clumping litter and may require occasional maintenance to prevent jams or motor wear. If you have multiple cats, a self-cleaning box can simplify upkeep and keep odors more contained between changes.

However, they can be pricier upfront and rely on power sources. Some cats may be startled by automated movements, so a gradual introduction and choosing a model with a quiet cycle can help. For busy households or allergy-prone individuals, weigh the convenience against cost and cat comfort when deciding.

Scoop daily to remove waste and keep the litter at a comfortable depth. Perform a full litter change and box wash at least once a week for most households, or more frequently in hot climates or multi-cat homes with higher waste volume.

If you notice persistent odor or clumping that resembles a sour smell, increase the frequency of changes or switch to a low-dust, higher-quality litter. Always rinse the box thoroughly after cleaning to remove soap residues that could deter your cat from using it.

Explore our selection of litter box solutions, including liners, anti-tracking mats, biodegradable litter options, and quiet, energy-efficient self-cleaning units to suit every home and budget. With Wowcher UK, keeping your cat comfortable and your home fresh is easier than ever.