Every time I adopt a new cat, and I have adopted 3 over the past two years, I’m always faced with the same problem. What type of litter box should I buy.  My natural instinct is to go for litter box furniture as I always want nothing but the best for my cats, but I have to ask myself the question, is it really necessary to go with the most expensive option?

So what Is The Best Litter Box For Cats

I have been adopting cats for many years now. Actually my love for cats probably stems from my Mum, and as such the only time I can remember there not being a cat in my life is when I was at University for three years.

When it comes to deciding what are the best types of cat litter boxes to buy I have come to the conclusion that it all really depends on personal circumstances. As any a cat lover will know cats love a bit of privacy when it comes to such matters and one of the main reasons for cat litter box problems arising is due to the fact that us mere humans have failed to provide them with that privacy.

And that my friend is now my basis when it comes to choosing the type of litter box I am going to buy. Of course there is a little bit of trial and error involved here as all cats are different, all with their personal little quirks, so whilst I may think I have come to a decision, ultimately my cat is going to tell me if I have made the right one or not.

So below are my recommendations based on what types of cat litter boxes work for different types of environments.

Open Cat Litter Boxes

These types of litter boxes are by far the cheapest option and I would recommend the Iris Cat Litter Pan which is large in size and comes with a scoop, ideal if you are looking for a litter box for large cats. This is what I am currently using for my 2 year old female and I have no problems to report to date. The thing I like about this box is that it is high sided which minimizes the amount of litter that is scattered.

These types of litter boxes are ideal if you live in a large house as the subject of privacy isn’t as important. A couple of these trays can be placed in a quiet room of the house giving your cat all the privacy he needs.

My living accommodation isn’t large so to speak however I do have a basement so open litter boxes for my cats are ideal.

Hidden Cat Litter Boxes

Hidden litter boxes such as the Booda Dome Covered Cat Litter Box are great for a number of reasons. Firstly they provide your cat with privacy so if you are limited for space then hidden boxes a great solution.

I recommend the Booda Dome as it has a deep pan allowing for deeper litter levels, if this is what your cat prefers and are large enough. Another good thing about the hidden litter box is that it keeps the amount of litter scattered and tracked across the floor to a minimal.

Litter Box Furniture

Litter box furniture is designed to look like a piece of furnishing within your home, which to the untrained eye will pass as a cabinet, concealing its true identity. They are of course the more expensive option but with so many different designs available you are more than likely going to be able to find something that will blend in well.

I had a situation whereby my personal circumstances changed and my 8 year old male stopped using his litter box and at that time decided to buy a Pet Studio Litter Box. I chose this one because it had some good reviews on Amazon and Merlin took to it straight away. He does still actually prefer to use it than the open ones I have in the basement.

Self Cleaning Litter Boxes

These automatic cat litter boxes are designed to clear waste and deposit it in a tray below which can be pulled out and disposed of with ease. Ideal if you have a busy life style with limited spare time in your day to clean up after your beloved feline friends.

Personally I’m not a huge fan of the concept and have never used one so can’t really give any recommendations. I did have a look around before I bought the Pet Studio and the Omega Paw Self Cleaning Litter Box has some great reviews on Amazon. Not for me but I guess it’s a personal preference thing.

So personal circumstances should be the main contributing factor for deciding what type of litter box you should buy. If you have lots of space and can place boxes in a quiet room in your house, then an open top litter box should work just fine.

If space is limited you should seriously consider purchasing a hidden litter box as this will minimise the risk of problems arising and your cat not using his litter box. If your cat does suddenly stop using the litter box the first thing you should do is take him to the vet for a check over as a common reason for cats soiling outside of the box is urinary tract infections.

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