How to Choose the Best Cat Litter Box
Choosing a litter box your cat will actually use
Cats are particular about their litter box. Size, style and placement matter more than brand. The general rule is one box per cat, plus one extra.
Compare litter box types
| Box type | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Open pan | Most cats, easy monitoring | Easy entry, low odor trap |
| Covered / hooded | Privacy-seeking cats | Contains spray and odor |
| Top-entry | Dogs in the home, diggers | Reduces litter scatter |
| Self-cleaning | Busy households | Automatic waste removal |
Sizing and placement
- The box should be about 1.5 times your cat’s body length.
- Place boxes in quiet, low-traffic areas away from food and water.
- Scoop daily and fully replace litter regularly.
FAQ
Q: How many litter boxes do I need?
A: One per cat, plus one extra. A two-cat home should have three boxes.
Q: Why is my cat avoiding the litter box?
A: Common causes include a dirty box, wrong litter type, or the box being too small or in a busy area.
Q: How often should I replace the litter?
A: Scoop daily and do a full clean-out and fresh litter every 1–2 weeks.
Written by the Furaly Pet Care Team · Updated September 2026