Does the scent of your cat’s bathroom sometimes overpower the rest of your home? We love our feline friends, but managing their litter box duties can sometimes feel like a constant battle. Choosing the perfect cat litter tray seems simple at first, but quickly becomes overwhelming. Do you need a covered box for privacy, or an open one for easy cleaning? Should you invest in a self-cleaning model, or stick to the basics?
These decisions directly impact your home’s cleanliness and your cat’s happiness. A poor choice can lead to tracking litter everywhere, unpleasant odors, and even your finicky cat refusing to use the box altogether! We know the frustration of trial and error. That is why we put together this ultimate guide.
Inside, you will discover how to match the tray style, size, and features perfectly to your cat’s personality and your living space. Stop guessing and start choosing with confidence. Read on to transform your litter box routine from a chore into a breeze!
Top Cat Litter Tray Recommendations
- OPEN-TOP KITTY LITTER BOX: This small cat litter pan provides ample space on all sides for cats to do their business comfortably, and is great for small cats or kittens to access
- KEEPS LITTER CONTAINED: This small cat litter box features a wide base to keep mess contained within the pan for litter-free floors It features a rim on all sides to easily lift move the pan Dimensions: "14 x 10.5"
- PET CLEAN UP: Swiftly clean up after your dog or cat while at home or on walks with a variety of waste management products. From waste bags, rakes, pans, trainings pads to poop scoopers, litter boxes & litter, we've got you and your pet covered
- Petmate: For over 50 years, we at Petmate are passionate about our dogs, cats and furry friends in general. Starting with the very first dog kennel, we've produced plenty of eco-friendly products that pets will love
- JUST FOR PETS: Petmate makes a variety of pet products for dogs, cats, chickens and other small furry friends! Check out our brands such as Petmate, Chuckit, Gamma2 Vittles Vault, Arm & Hammer and Quirky Kitty and more!
- No-Scoop Cat Litter and Tray: Designed for use with ScoopFree self-cleaning automatic litter boxes, this crystal litter and tray does all the work for you with no scooping, cleaning or refilling for weeks
- Odor Control and Leak Protection: Low-tracking 99% dust-free crystal litter absorbs urine and dries solid waste to quickly remove odors 5x faster than clumping clay litter; Disposable tray features a plastic liner to protect floors against leaks
- Leak Proof Litter: Lightweight, leak-proof plastic liners make this disposable litter tray ideal for pet parents everywhere
- Your Pet Deserves the Best: Explore all our products including leashes and harnesses, bark collars and wireless fences, pet doors, self-cleaning litter boxes and accessories, fountains and feeders, dog and cat toys and more
- Unleash a Lifetime of Joy: Since 1998 we’ve been on a mission to create places and spaces where pets are happy, healthy and safe; Our US-based customer care experts are available to answer your questions by phone, email or chat
- EASY CLEANING: Simplify your cat care routine with the sifting cat litter box's patented lift-to-sift technology. This provides efficient litter maintenance without scooping.
- MAXIMUM ODOR CONTROL: As one of the best litter boxes for indoor cats, its built-in Microban protection inhibits odors from kitty litter.
- MADE WITH RECYCLED MATERIALS: This sifting litter box for pine pellets is Made in the USA with recycled materials.
- VERSATILE LITTER COMPATIBILITY: Our cat litter tray can utilize pine, crystal, pellets, and clumping cat litter. We suggest using Arm & Hammer SLIDE for optimal results with this cat litterbox.
- COMFORTABLE SPACE FOR CATS: By following the guideline of being 1.5 times longer than your cat, and with its large cat litter box design, this product accommodates your feline friend's comfort needs.
- EASY, QUICK CLEANUP: No scooping required; when it’s time to clean up, simply remove the disposable litter tray and throw it away; just 1 tray can last up to 30 days in a single-cat household
- NO PERFUMES OR DYES: Free of all perfumes and dyes for sensitive cats (and their people)
- REMOVES ODORS QUICKLY: Crystal litter absorbs urine and dries solid waste to quickly remove odors 5 times faster than clumping clay litter
- LEAK PROTECTION: Plastic tray lining creates a powerful extra barrier to protect your floors against leaks
- LESS MESS: Low-tracking crystals don’t stick to your cat’s feet and are 99% dust-free—designed for all the days you don’t want to sweep the laundry room floor (again)
- No-Scoop Cat Litter and Tray: Designed for use with ScoopFree self-cleaning automatic litter boxes, this crystal litter and tray does all the work for you with no scooping, cleaning or refilling for weeks
- Odor Control and Leak Protection: Low-tracking 99% dust-free crystal litter absorbs urine and dries solid waste to quickly remove odors 5x faster than clumping clay litter; Disposable tray features a plastic liner to protect floors against leaks
- Leak Proof Litter: Lightweight, leak-proof plastic liners make this disposable litter tray ideal for pet parents everywhere
- Your Pet Deserves the Best: Explore all our products including leashes and harnesses, bark collars and wireless fences, pet doors, self-cleaning litter boxes and accessories, fountains and feeders, dog and cat toys and more
- Unleash a Lifetime of Joy: Since 1998 we’ve been on a mission to create places and spaces where pets are happy, healthy and safe; Our US-based customer care experts are available to answer your questions by phone, email or chat
- No Liners, No Scrubbing: Fill, use, and replace this disposable litter box in minutes. No cat box liners or scrubbing required. The easy clean litter box design keeps daily maintenance fast and predictable, making it the go-to cat litter tray for busy pet parents who want a cleaner, simpler litterbox routine.
- Durable & Eco Friendly Litter Tray: Thick recyclable walls make this disposable cat litter box resistant to leaking and digging, holding its shape through heavy use. A smarter cat litter pan that reduces plastic waste compared to traditional litter boxes and liners. Guilt-free for the environment, reliable for your cat.
- Odor & Moisture Control Built In: The open litter tray design promotes airflow so surfaces dry faster between changes, naturally suppressing odors without added chemicals. Ideal as a shallow litter box or low entry kitten litter box, this pet safe litter box keeps the cat litter disposal routine fresh and hassle-free.
- The Ultimate Travel Litter Box: Lightweight and compact, this portable litter box for cats is perfect for hotel stays, boarding, road trips, and car travel. Use it as a travel cat litter box or car litter box that sets up in seconds. Familiar comfort for your cat wherever travel takes you.
- Versatile Multi Pet & Multi Home Use: The roomy open profile works as a large cat litter box, small cat litter box alternative, or small litter box for kittens thanks to the shallow low entry design. Functions as a cat litter pan, litter tray, or litter box tray for cats, kittens, and small pets like rabbits. A flexible, pet safe litter box solution for any household setup.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding the Perfect Cat Litter Tray
Choosing the right litter tray is vital for your cat’s happiness and keeping your home clean. It might seem simple, but there are many options! This guide helps you pick the best one for you and your feline friend.
Key Features to Look For
Size Matters Most
The tray must be big enough for your cat. A good rule is that the tray should be at least 1.5 times the length of your cat, from nose to the base of the tail. Small trays make cats feel trapped. Large cats need large trays!
Hoods, Shields, and Doors
- Open Trays: These are basic and easy to clean. They offer quick access for your cat. They are best if you have space, as they let odors escape easily.
- Covered (Hooded) Trays: Lids keep litter scatter down. They also give shy cats privacy. However, they trap smells more easily, so you must clean them often.
- Entry Type: Some covered trays have a swinging door. Some have a top-entry design, which is great for stopping litter tracking but can confuse older or very small cats.
Ease of Cleaning
Look for smooth, seamless designs. Corners and tight spots hold dirt. Trays with removable parts, like sifting inserts or detachable hoods, make scooping much faster.
Important Materials
The material affects durability and cleaning.
Plastic
Most trays use plastic. Good quality, thick plastic lasts longer. Thin, cheap plastic scratches easily. Scratches trap bacteria and smells.
Other Materials
You might find stainless steel trays. These are very durable and resist smells well. However, they cost more.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
High-Quality Factors
- Rim Height: A higher edge around the tray stops enthusiastic diggers from kicking litter onto the floor.
- Non-Stick Surface: Smooth, quality plastic resists clumps sticking to the sides, making scooping simple.
- Ventilation: If you choose a covered tray, look for small vent holes or charcoal filters to help manage odors.
Low-Quality Factors
- Flimsy Construction: If the tray bends when you pick it up, it will break fast.
- Sharp Edges or Seams: These areas break down quickly and become hard-to-clean traps for waste.
- Small Footprint: Trays that are too small are the number one reason cats refuse to use them.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where the tray will live and who will use it.
For Small Spaces
If you live in a small apartment, a slim, high-sided tray or a top-entry model works well to control scatter and fit into tight corners.
For Multi-Cat Homes
You need more trays! Experts suggest one tray per cat, plus one extra. Choose large, open trays for easy access for multiple users.
For Kittens and Senior Cats
Young kittens or older cats with stiff joints need low-entry sides. They cannot step over high walls easily. Open trays are usually best for them.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cat Litter Trays
Q: How many litter trays should I own?
A: You should follow the “N+1 rule”: one tray for every cat, plus one extra. If you have two cats, you need three trays.
Q: Should I choose an open or covered tray?
A: Open trays let smells escape faster, but covered trays stop litter scatter. It depends on your cat’s preference and your space.
Q: How often must I replace the entire litter tray?
A: Even with daily scooping, plastic absorbs odors over time. Plan to replace the whole tray every 6 to 12 months.
Q: What is the best material for a litter tray?
A: Thick, smooth plastic is common and works well. Stainless steel lasts longest but costs more.
Q: Are top-entry litter trays good for all cats?
A: No. They are great for stopping scatter, but some cats hate jumping onto a lid, especially older or arthritic cats.
Q: Does the shape of the tray matter?
A: Yes. Rectangular shapes offer the most usable space. Round or oddly shaped trays waste space.
Q: What if my cat stops using the tray?
A: First, check cleanliness. Second, check the size and type. Cats are fussy; they might dislike a new hood or a small space.
Q: How do I stop litter from tracking outside the tray?
A: Use a tray with a high rim or a tray with a wide mat outside the entrance. Top-entry trays also help significantly.
Q: Are automatic litter trays worth the money?
A: They save time scooping, but they are expensive and require more maintenance when they break. They work best for single-cat homes.
Q: Do I need a tray with a hood if I use odor control litter?
A: The hood traps the smell if the litter doesn’t control it well. If you use excellent litter, a hood is optional, mainly for scatter control.