The Best Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes For Cats
Choosing self-cleaning litter boxes for your cats can simplify your life in so many ways. They can help you cut back on how often you have to get down to clean your cat's mess while minimizing how much litter you go through, saving you both time and money. Meanwhile, because the box will always be fresh and cleared out, you won't have to worry about funky smells, and your pets will be less likely to have accidents in other places around your home.
What to Look For
Chances are that if you’re looking for a self-cleaning litter box, you want one that will do the most with the least effort possible. For that reason, we recommend focusing on each model’s size, versatility, and type of litter you can use. For example, the PetSafe ScoopFree self-cleaning litter box uses disposable crystal litter trays. All you have to do is pull the old one out and slip a new one in. However, if you have a picky cat that will only use a specific brand or form, the Pura Max litter box from Petkit has you covered. And if you want more details, you can continue reading below.
PetSafe ScoopFree Self-Cleaning Litter Box
Simple convenience
The ScoopFree self-cleaning litter box from PetSafe is one of the most convenient automatic cat boxes you can find. It uses disposable crystal litter trays that you can load in and pull out as needed. The automatic scooping feature pulls out the mess and leaves behind fresh crystals. And it also has a vital safety feature, which stops the rake to prevent injuries anytime your pet is inside.
Pros:
- You can use the disposable trays for maximum convenience, but there’s also a reusable version that you can clean and refill if you want to minimize costs.
- It’s a great size. Most cats up to 20 pounds can use it comfortably.
Cons:
- This box only works with crystal litter, which limits you on budget options and makes it hard to use for cats who prefer other litter varieties.
Petkit Pura Max Self-Cleaning Litter Box
Spacious and versatile
If you have a finicky cat, the Petkit Pura Max self-cleaning litter box is for you. You can use virtually any litter inside, including clay, clumping, and pellets. The roomy interior allows cats of any size to fit, and it uses unique sensors that track your cat’s weight, how often they use the box, and more. Plus, everything is readily accessible and controlled with a handy app you can download on your phone.
Pros:
- The used litter goes into a closed-off section, which keeps odors to a minimum. Added to the automatic feature that scoops as soon as your cat exits, you can count on this box to keep your home smelling fresh.
- It’s super easy to get most cats to learn how to use this box because you don’t have to switch their usual litter brand.
Cons:
- Because it connects using your Wi-Fi, you may have to reset and recalibrate it if your router loses power or goes offline.
Whisker Litter-Robot 3
Comfortably clean
One drawback to many automatic litter boxes is that the entrances tend to be higher off the ground than traditional versions. That’s not a problem if you choose the Whisker Litter-Robot 3. It includes a slip-free ramp and tracking mat to help your cat get in and out comfortably while cutting down on litter spread. You can also control the built-in carbon air filter and health sensors from your phone.
Pros:
- The Litter-Robot 3 is one of the easiest automatic litter boxes to set up and calibrate. It usually takes ten minutes or less.
- You can use almost any kind of clumping or crystal litter. The only limitation is that you can’t use large pellets.
Cons:
- Litter can stick to the walls if your cat doesn’t aim for the middle.
Hillpig Self-Cleaning Litter Box
Protect your pets
From safety braking sensors to health monitors and litter capacity, the Hillpig self-cleaning litter box tracks it all and sends the information to your phone. You can check how often your cats use the box, and the app will let you know when to clean it. It’s also compatible with almost any brand or litter type, allowing you to stick to your pet’s favorite, while the spacious interior works for cats up to 28 pounds.
Pros:
- Unlike other models, this litter box offers sleep mode, so it won’t make noise during the night. You can turn it back on in the morning, and it will clear the nighttime mess away.
- Clearing it out is a breeze. You pull out the bag of used litter and add a new one, topping up the litter as needed.
Cons:
- The large size can make finding a place for it a little trickier.
Catlink Automatic Cat Litter Box
Filter the funk
All self-cleaning litter boxes are supposed to help eliminate odor, but the Catlink automatic litter box has the features to back that claim. It has a built-in rechargeable air purifier and carbon filter that work together to keep things fresh. The large waste drawer holds in the ick while also making it easy to clean. Plus, there are gravity, infrared, and pinch sensors for added safety.
Pros:
- This litter box runs almost silently and won’t wake you up or disturb you as you work.
- All you have to do is set it up and plug it in. There are no apps or diagnostics to worry about.
Cons:
- You will need to get replacement filters to keep odors at bay.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I train my cat to use a self-cleaning litter box?
Some cats are afraid of the moving parts inside self-cleaning litter boxes. The easiest way to combat this is to add a litter they’re used to and let them use it unplugged for a couple of days. Plug it in after they use it so that it can clear the litter and reassure your pet that it isn’t harmful.
Do self-cleaning litter boxes fit all cats?
Self-cleaning litter boxes work best for cats over four pounds. If they weigh less than that, the safety sensors may not recognize that a cat is present, which can lead to injuries.
About the Author
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