Does the thought of that unmistakable litter box smell make you cringe? We all love our feline friends, but dealing with their bathroom situation can sometimes feel like a losing battle against odor and tracking. Finding the perfect litter box is key to a happy home and a happy cat, and sometimes, that means looking beyond the basic open pan.
Covered litter boxes promise a cleaner, more contained solution. They can trap odors and keep litter from scattering across your floor. However, stepping into the world of covered options brings its own set of questions. Which design works best? Will your cat actually use it? And how do you keep the inside clean when the opening is small?
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explore the pros and cons of various covered litter box styles. You will learn exactly what features make a covered box a success for both you and your furry roommate. Get ready to transform your litter box area from an eyesore to an easily managed part of your home.
Top Covered Litter Box Recommendations
- ENCLOSED DESIGN: The cat litter box with top cover is designed to prevent litter scatter and provide a private space for your furry friends. The cat litter box is made of high-quality stainless steel, which is long-lasting, rust-proof, and easy to clean. The sturdy construction ensures that the box can withstand the weight of your cats and provide long-term use.
- EXCLUSIVE DESIGN PATENT：The 30° angled litter filter plate in the AIPERRO litter box provides a specific advantage in preventing cats from easily taking litter out of the box. This can be particularly beneficial in keeping the surrounding area clean and reducing the need for constant cleanup.
- XL SIZE: The stainless steel cat litter box is extra large, measuring 23 x 15 x 11 inches. It is suitable for cats of all sizes, including large and giant breeds. The high sides prevent litter from spilling out, making it easy to clean and maintain.
- ANTI-URINE LEAKAGE: The cat litter box is designed with a leak-proof design, including a sealed bottom and a curved shape. Superior sealing - ensures liquids are contained within the stainless steel cat litter box, keeps your home clean and no odor.
- PERFECT COMBINATION: Stainless steel litter box comes with a cat litter mat, which provides a comfortable surface for your cats to step on. It also includes an all-metal litter scoop, making it easy to clean the litter box thoroughly.
- EASY ACCESS FOR CATS: The swinging plastic door allows your cat to enter and exit the hooded cat litter box with ease while keeping the interior mess contained
- ODOR CONTROL: The litter boxes feature a pre-installed carbon filter, reducing unpleasant odors, with replacement filters sold separately for continued freshness
- STAIN AND ODOR RESISTANT: The covered litter box is crafted from durable plastic that resists stains and odors and provides a clean and hygienic environment for your furry friend
- SPACIOUS ENCLOSED DESIGN: This enclosed litter box provides your cat a private space, offering a comfortable area to do their business in peace
- XXXL Stainless Steel Litter Box and Splash Cover Combo: this XXL litter box provides ample space for large cats and comes with an oversized DIY litter box splash cover, perfect for large cats, kittens, senior cats, and multi-cat households
- Dimensions: this litter box measures 27.5 x 20 x 4 inches, providing plenty of space for larger cats and ensuring litter doesn't splash or leak; The DIY splash cover measures 31.5 x 20.47 x 13.75 inches; Please measure your litter box and splash cover placement area before ordering to ensure a proper fit
- Safe Material: our large litter boxes are made of durable stainless steel, rust-proof, and scratch-resistant; This litter box features a urine-proof barrier made of PP material, which is safe, odorless, and harmless to cats' health; The splash-proof barrier surrounds the litter box, providing a private space for your cat, while the open top allows them to breathe fresh air
- Easy Assembly: this DIY splash guard consists of multiple plastic sheets and connectors, allowing for free combination and installation; When assembling, please check and ensure that the metal wires of all plastic sheets are fully inserted into the connectors; Otherwise, the sheets may easily come undone, or large gaps may appear between the sheets
- Easy to Clean: Keeps the floor cleaner, reducing litter run-out and scattering! Tired of constantly cleaning litter? This extra-large capacity litter box's high barrier keeps litter inside, preventing floor soiling
- EASY ACCESS FOR CATS: The swinging plastic door allows your cat to enter and exit the hooded cat litter box with ease while keeping the interior mess contained
- ODOR CONTROL: The litter boxes feature a pre-installed carbon filter, reducing unpleasant odors, with replacement filters sold separately for continued freshness
- STAIN AND ODOR RESISTANT: The covered litter box is crafted from durable plastic that resists stains and odors and provides a clean and hygienic environment for your furry friend
- CONVENIENT HANDLING: The hooded litter box includes a built-in handle for easy carrying and snaps into place, simplifying the process of scooping or changing litter
- SPACIOUS ENCLOSED DESIGN: This enclosed litter box provides your cat a private space, offering a comfortable area to do their business in peace.
- HIGH-SIDES DESIGN: Keep your floors clean with the high sided cat litter box that contains litter effectively
- CONVENIENT ACCESS: The open style and lowered front on these litter boxes make it easy for cats to enter and exit, catering to older and large cats
- DURABLE MATERIAL: Crafted from BPA-free and recyclable plastic, this kitty litter box provides long-lasting durability
- EASY TO MONITOR: The open, uncovered design of our large cat litter box allows simple monitoring and effortless scooping
- ON-BOARD SCOOP STORAGE: Features a litter scoop that conveniently stores onboard, so you always have it handy
- ODOR CONTROL: The easy access flap door seals in odors and keeps particles from spilling onto the floor, ensuring they don't infiltrate your home and keeping the area neat and clean.
- ENCLOSED PRIVACY: The 9.25"W x 9"H wide door opening allows your cat access while ensuring a private, enclosed space for comfort and security.
- PORTABLE CONSTRUCTION: Equipped with a carrying handle and secure buckles for easy transportation while litter box is emptied.
- ORGANIZED: The included scoop features a hook, allowing you to hang it on the underside of the hood to store it between cleanings and have it within reach whenever it's needed.
- DIMENSIONS: The Litter box measuring 21"L x 18.75"W x 17"H with interior dimensions of 15.25"L x 14"W x 15.5"H provides ample space for small to medium cats.
- Easy-Clean 135° Flip-Top Lid: 135° flip-top cover lets you scoop and change litter without removing the entire lid, making daily cleaning faster and less messy compared to traditional covered litter boxes.
- Heavy-Duty Stainless Steel, No Odor Absorption: The metal litter pan is made of thick 201 stainless steel that won’t warp, crack, or absorb odors like plastic. The smooth non-stick surface keeps urine and litter from sticking for easier washing.
- Built-In Odor Control System: A carbon filter at the top vent absorbs ammonia and litter box smells, helping keep your home fresh and reducing litter box odor for apartments and multi-cat homes.
- Front & Top Entry for All Cat Types: The rotating latch allows cats to enter from the front or jump in from the top, reducing litter tracking while supporting kittens, senior cats, and larger cats with different habits.
- Extra Large for Big Cats & Multi-Cat Homes: With a 35L capacity and a spacious interior (23.6" x 15.7" x 15.3"), this extra large enclosed litter box gives big cats and multiple cats plenty of room to turn, dig, and move comfortably.
- MADE IN USA: The IRIS USA open top kitty litter tray offers a functional and comfortable solution to your cat's bathroom needs. With the open air kitty litter pan, getting in and out of the tray has never been easier for your cat and the tall walls keep any litter or spraying inside the tray.
- MULTI-CAT HOMES: Designed for homes with multiple cats, offering each pet a dedicated space to do their business comfortably, helping to minimize conflict, improve hygiene, and keep your cats happy and stress-free.
- PRIVATE: This open air cat litter tray offers privacy for your cat with tall walls that form the scatter shield, offering the privacy of a hooded cat litter box with the easy access and cleaning of an open air kitty litter pan.
- OPEN TOP & TIDY: Easy to monitor your cat’s health while tall walls keep litter scatter and spray inside the pan, making cleanup easier and reducing litter waste.
- GREAT SIZE: Dimensions: 19"L x 15"W x 11.75"H. Open top IRIS Cat Litter Box is designed to offer cats plenty of room and quick accessibility
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Covered Litter Box
A covered litter box can make a big difference for you and your cat. It helps keep smells in and litter scatter down. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you find the perfect covered home for your cat’s business.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, keep these important features in mind. They make using the box easier and cleaner for everyone.
- Size Matters: Make sure the box is big enough for your cat to turn around comfortably. Small boxes make cats unhappy.
- Entry Style: Most have a front entry. Some have a top entry. Top entry boxes are great for stopping litter tracking outside the box.
- Hood and Door: The cover should fit snugly. Look for a swinging door that your cat can easily push open.
- Easy Cleaning Access: How easily can you scoop the litter? Some models lift off completely, which is very helpful.
- Odor Control: Does it have a place for a carbon filter? Filters absorb bad smells, keeping your room fresher.
Important Materials for Longevity
The material the box is made from affects how long it lasts and how easy it is to clean.
- Durable Plastic: Most covered boxes use sturdy, non-porous plastic. This plastic resists scratching and doesn’t hold onto odors easily. Avoid thin, flimsy plastic.
- Filter Material: Carbon filters are the standard for odor control. Ensure replacement filters are easy to find and affordable.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all covered boxes offer the same quality. Pay attention to these details.
What Makes a Quality Box:
- Strong latches or clips that securely hold the top onto the base.
- A smooth interior surface that you can wipe down easily.
- A design that minimizes gaps where urine or litter dust can escape.
What Lowers the Quality:
- Thin plastic that cracks when you try to clean it.
- Overly complicated designs with too many nooks where waste can hide.
- Doors that get stuck or are too heavy for smaller cats to push.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where you will put the box and who will use it. This changes what features matter most.
- For Small Spaces: A tall, narrow design works well in tight bathrooms or laundry rooms. Top-entry models are great here because litter stays inside.
- For Multi-Cat Homes: You need a very large box. Look for models where the hood detaches completely for quick, deep cleaning.
- For Picky Cats: Some cats dislike enclosed spaces. If your cat is shy, choose a box with a very large opening or one that has a removable door so they feel less trapped.
- Odor Management: If the box lives near your living room, investing in a model with a high-quality carbon filter is crucial.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Covered Litter Boxes
Q: Why should I buy a covered litter box instead of an open one?
A: Covered boxes trap odors better and stop litter from being kicked out onto the floor. They also give shy cats more privacy.
Q: Are covered litter boxes harder to clean than open ones?
A: Sometimes they take a little longer because you have to unclip or lift the hood first. However, if the hood comes off easily, cleaning is simple.
Q: Do covered boxes really control smells well?
A: Yes, especially if the box has a working carbon filter. The cover traps the smell until you clean it out.
Q: What is the best way to stop litter tracking with a covered box?
A: Choose a top-entry model. When cats jump down from the top, the litter falls right back into the box instead of sticking to their paws.
Q: Will my cat use a covered box if they are used to an open one?
A: Most cats adjust quickly. If your cat hesitates, try removing the swinging door first. This lets them get used to the enclosed space without a barrier.
Q: How often should I change the carbon filter?
A: Most manufacturers suggest changing the carbon filter every month or every six weeks for best results.
Q: What size box is right for a large cat breed?
A: Look for extra-large or jumbo sizes. The box should be at least 1.5 times the length of your cat, from nose to tail base.
Q: Are there any health concerns with using covered boxes?
A: For very healthy cats, no. But if your cat has breathing issues like asthma, the trapped odors might bother them. An open box might be better for those cats.
Q: Should I buy a box with a self-cleaning feature?
A: Self-cleaning boxes are convenient, but they are usually more expensive and often have a more complex design. Manual covered boxes are simpler and very effective.
Q: What is the downside of a covered litter box?
A: The main downside is that they take up more vertical space. Also, some very large cats can feel too cramped inside them.