Living in a cozy apartment with your feline friend is wonderful, but where do you put that essential, yet sometimes smelly, litter box? Does it feel like every option takes up too much precious floor space or constantly tracks litter across your clean floors? You are not alone in this common struggle! Finding the perfect litter box for apartment living means balancing size, odor control, and cleanliness in a small area.
The wrong choice can lead to frustrating odors, constant sweeping, and a less-than-happy cat. That is why we dove deep into the best solutions designed specifically for smaller living spaces. Keep reading to discover top-rated, space-saving, and low-tracking litter boxes that will solve your apartment cat care dilemmas. We will break down the pros and cons so you can choose a box that fits your space and keeps your home fresh.
Top Litter Box For Apartment Recommendations
- 【Extra Large Size】 The XL stainless steel litter box measures 23.5" X 15.6" X 13", providing a spacious space for big cats while being suitable for cats of all sizes, the extra large size makes it the best choice for multi-cat households
- 【Why Choose Stainless Steel Litter Box!】 Open top stainless steel cat litter box made of high-quality ABS enclosed high wall enclosure and stainless steel litter pan, unlike plastic litter boxes, stainless steel litter boxes with high sides do not collect any residue or odor, are easily to clean, have strong and durable, and never rusty
- 【6" High-Sided Enclosure, Reduce Mess！】The height of the extra large stainless steel cat litter box is 13", with a unique curved high wall design, to protect your cat's privacy and prevent litter spilling and urine leaking. The tracking-proof pedal further prevents litter from being carried out, ensuring a mess-free indoor environment even with a naughty cat
- 【Secure Buckle Connection】The stainless steel cat litter pan is tightly connected to the high wall by a buckle, more stable connection, and no need to worry about the shell falling off
- 【Better Solution】 If you are tired of the odor from the cat litter after your cat pees, please buy this stainless steel litter box to solve your problem. WoofiGo believes it will be your last cat litter box. If you have any questions, please contact WoofiGo; we will do our best to solve your problems
- Hidden Cat Litter Box: Our hidden cat litter box cleverly disguises itself as a real flower pot, blending effortlessly into your home. With a height of 27.6" (70 cm), it provides ample space for cats of all sizes, multi-cat households, and other small pets. The 18-leaf simulated plant and pebbled decorations add elegance to your space. Plus, it’s a proud winner of the American Good Design Award!
- Roomy & Cat-Friendly: With its optimal overall size, it easily accommodates felines of any age or size. The low threshold height of 5.9in (15cm) and the built-in small platform at the opening create a welcoming space for kittens, older cats, and those with limited mobility, also allows cats to rub off litter on their feet, ensuring a more hygienic and cleaner space. Additionally, the rounded corner design at the entrance protects cats away from scratches.
- Easy to Assemble and Clean: The lower shell and bottom basin are equipped with seams, this user-friendly feature simplifies the process of removing and assembling the cover part when cleaning the cat litter, preventing any feces from getting into the gaps and facilitating easier cleanup. The glossy finish both inside and outside of the product not only adds a touch of beauty but also makes it easy to clean.
- Odor Control: The top of the litter box features a hollow opening that houses an activated carbon filter cotton which effectively filters odors, ensuring that smells are trapped and neutralized. The activated carbon, measuring 7.9" (20cm) in diameter, can be replaced after use to maintain optimal odor control. Additionally, the closed bin design of the litter box locks trash, dust, and dander within the bin, promoting a clean and tidy surrounding area.
- Durable and Convenient: Our cat litter box includes a shovel with a hook that can be easily hung at the flowerpot or placed directly on top, ensuring easy access whenever needed. The flowerpot can be rotated and fixed, preventing accidental falls. Cleaning is hassle-free with the pour-and-clean bottom basin, no extra liners needed. If you need an additional basin, it is compatible with basins measuring up to 17.25" (43.8cm) in diameter and 4.5" (11.4cm) in height.
- 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.
- MADE IN USA - Aesthetically pleasing solution to your cat's bathroom needs. With the top entry, everything stays inside and out of sight, and the enclosed design lessens the prevalence of unpleasant odors in the room.
- TOP ENTRY - The top entry of the cat litter pan means more privacy for your cat, less litter spillage, and any spraying remains contained within the tall walls of the kitty litter box. It also functions to keep other pets, such as dogs, out of your cat's business.
- TIDY - The grooves in the lid catch any lingering litter particles on your cat's paws and keep them from spilling out onto the floor, keeping the area neat and clean and making clean-up a breeze.
- ORGANIZED - The included scoop features a hook, allowing you to hang it from the side of the kitty litter pan to store it between cleanings and have it within reach whenever it's needed, making the days of hunting around for the scoop a thing of the past.
- GREAT SIZE - Dimensions: 20.75"L x 16.125"W x 14.625"H, Entry: 9"W x 10.5"H
- OPEN-TOP KITTY LITTER BOX: This large 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: The jumbo 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 105"
- 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 your pet covered
- Petmate: For over 50 years, we at Petmate are passionate about our dogs, cats 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 other small furry friends Check out our brands such as Aspen Pet, Arm Hammer, Booda, Chuckit, Jackson Galaxy more
- 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.
- REDUCE LITTER BOX ODOR: The makers of Diaper Genie present the Litter Genie Pail to keep litter box odor in check! The pail holds up to 14 days of soiled litter per one cat, eliminating daily trips to the trash.
- NO MORE STINK: Our pail includes a refill bag featuring a multi-layer film to seal in odor while lasting up to 8 weeks.
- USE IN 3 SIMPLE STEPS: Scoop clumps from the litter box and drop in the pail. Pull the handle to help seal in waste and odor!
- A PURRFECT FIT: The pail's compact design is great for bathroom, under the kitchen sink, and home office spaces. The pail minimizes your trips to the trash!
- PET PARENT MUST HAVE: Litter Genie Pails and Refills are necessities for any cat, small dog or rabbit parent! Trust the Litter Genie brand for a fresher smelling home.
- Hidden Litter Box: Cat litter box enclosure furniture can hidden cat litter box, and with a soft mat featuring large holes to catch stray litter, hidden cat litter box furniture with 2 S-shaped hooks, simplifying cleanup and maintaining hygiene
- More comfortable: Cat litter box hidden is hand-woven from odorless rattan material, cat litter furniture hidden adds a touch of rustic elegance to your home and cat hidden litter box is durable and commendable, ensuring a safe haven for your pets
- Pet-friendly: The cat box furniture size of 18.5”L x 20.5”W x 19.1”H can accommodate most cat litter boxes. Cat litter box hidden is light-permeable structure offers them a sunlit spot to relax and effectively blocks disturbing odors
- Multi-functionality: Litter box enclosure furniture has a 2" fence on the top provides added space for personal items or pet supplies, cat box enclosure doubles as a nightstand or end table, making hidden cat furniture a practical addition to any room
- Easy to use: The door lock with a cute cat head image can easily rotate to open the door. Hidden kitty litter furniture is very simple, and the tools needed to complete the task are included, you can assemble enclosed litter box furniture up quickly
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding the Perfect Litter Box for Your Apartment
Living in an apartment means space is precious. Choosing the right litter box for your cat is super important. A good box keeps smells down and makes cleanup easy, even in small spaces. This guide helps you pick the best one for apartment life.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop, look closely at these important features:
- **Size and Footprint:** Since space is tight, measure where you plan to put the box. A smaller footprint is usually better. However, the box must still be big enough for your cat to turn around comfortably.
- **Odor Control:** This is number one for apartment dwellers! Look for hooded (covered) boxes or those with carbon filters. Some high-tech options even have automatic cleaning features that trap smells instantly.
- **Entry Height:** Consider your cat’s age and health. Kittens or senior cats need a low entry point so they can step in easily.
- **Litter Capacity:** A deeper tray holds more litter, meaning you scoop less often. This is great if you are busy or have a larger cat.
Important Materials Matter
The material of the litter box affects how long it lasts and how easy it is to clean.
Most standard litter boxes use durable **plastic** (like polypropylene). Good quality plastic resists scratches. Scratches trap bacteria and smells. Cheaper, thin plastic wears out fast.
Some premium boxes use **stainless steel** or include **carbon filters**. Steel is very easy to sanitize and lasts forever, but it costs more. Carbon filters are usually replaceable inserts designed to absorb ammonia odors.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a litter box great or frustrating?
Quality Boosters:
- **Smooth Interior Surfaces:** A non-porous, smooth inside surface lets you scoop waste completely away.
- **Sturdy Construction:** If the box flexes when you pick it up, it will crack sooner. Look for thick, rigid walls.
- **Easy Disassembly (for cleaning):** If the hood or sifting trays come apart easily, deep cleaning becomes much faster.
Quality Reducers:
- **High Lips on Hoods:** While covered boxes control scatter, very high entry lips can stop timid cats from using the box.
- **Poorly Fitting Lids:** If the lid doesn’t snap on tightly, odors escape, defeating the purpose of buying a covered box.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about your daily routine. How often will you clean?
For busy professionals, an **automatic, self-cleaning litter box** might be worth the investment. These systems scoop waste into a sealed container, drastically reducing daily interaction with the litter.
For the budget-conscious renter, a **simple, high-sided plastic pan** works well. You just need to be diligent about scooping twice a day to manage odor in a small space.
If you have multiple cats in a small apartment, consider using **two smaller, open litter boxes** instead of one huge one. Cats sometimes prefer separate facilities, and spreading out the waste locations helps control smell across the living area.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Apartment Litter Boxes
Q: What is the best size litter box for a studio apartment?
A: The best size is one that is 1.5 times the length of your cat from nose to tail base. For small spaces, look for taller, narrower designs rather than wide, shallow ones.
Q: Are hooded or open litter boxes better for apartments?
A: Hooded boxes usually control scatter and odor better, which apartment neighbors appreciate. However, some cats dislike enclosed spaces, so observe your pet’s preference.
Q: How often should I clean an apartment litter box?
A: You must scoop solid waste at least once daily. A complete litter change and box scrubbing should happen every one to two weeks, depending on the litter type you use.
Q: Can I use a drawer-style litter box in a small space?
A: Yes! Drawer systems are excellent because they seal the waste away cleanly when you pull the drawer out for disposal, minimizing immediate odor release.
Q: Do carbon filters actually work against strong smells?
A: Yes, quality carbon filters absorb and neutralize ammonia smells, which is the main source of strong litter box odor in small rooms.
Q: What if my cat refuses to use a new, covered box?
A: Place the new box next to the old one. Once the cat uses the new one consistently for a week, you can remove the old box. Never switch litter or box style suddenly.
Q: Is a stainless steel litter box worth the extra cost for an apartment?
A: If you struggle with persistent odors in plastic boxes, yes. Steel does not absorb smells or scratch easily, making it the most hygienic long-term choice.
Q: How can I stop litter from tracking out of the box onto my floor?
A: Use a litter mat with deep grooves placed directly outside the exit. Also, consider using a slightly heavier, less dusty litter.
Q: Should I buy a self-cleaning box if I have a tiny apartment?
A: They save time, but self-cleaning boxes are often large. Measure carefully! They are best if odor control is your absolute top priority.
Q: What is the minimum number of litter boxes I need for one cat in an apartment?
A: The general rule is N+1, where N is the number of cats. So, for one cat, you need at least one box, but two small boxes are often better for hygiene in tight quarters.