Homemade Litter Boxes

While most pet stores offer an array of litter boxes, sometimes the choices can be less than thrilling. Expensive boxes that promise everything from odor control to self-cleaning settings can fail to live up to promises. Cheap boxes can be too small or made shoddily so they don't last long, making them a very poor value and not worth the money. You may find your best options lie outside the pet store. You can make your own litter boxes that are durable, will suit your needs and cost less than those you'll find at the pet shop.

Things You'll Need

  • Open box or pan
  • Newspaper or rubber mat
  • Large box (optional)
  • Box cutter
  • Plastic bag
  • Kitty litter (10 to 20 lb. box or bag)
  • Large plastic storage container
  • 9-inch circle template (like a dinner plate)
  • Permanent marker
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Instructions

  1. Temporary Litter Box

    • 1

      Grab something you might have on hand, such as a cardboard box or foil roasting pan, to make a quick litter box if you find yourself unexpectedly without one. The box should ideally be at least 22 inches long and 18 inches wide for a grown cat.

    • 2

      Lay newspaper or a rubber mat on the floor for added protection between your floor and the box. If the cat likes to kick sand and dig, take a larger box and cut off the top and one whole side. Place the litter box inside it and the remaining sides of the box will act as a shield.

    • 3

      Line the makeshift litter box with a plastic bag to prevent leakage. Put a 3-inch to 4-inch layer of kitty litter inside.

    Storage Container

    • 4

      Purchase a storage container made of rubber or plastic. Find one that is approximately 24 inches long by 18 inches wide by 18 inches deep. If you want to keep it covered, it should be at least 24 inches deep to allow for the kitty litter and still give your cat plenty of head room.

    • 5

      Cut a 9-inch diameter hole in one side of the container, with the bottom edge of the hole about 8 inches from the floor. The hole should be large enough to accommodate your cat, so adjust the size if necessary. Feel around the hole to ensure there are no sharp plastic edges, and trim edges if necessary until smooth.

    • 6

      Set the box down in a low traffic area on the floor. Place the cover on the floor in front of it to catch dust and litter your cat might drag out as it exits. Alternatively, cut six vent holes in the top of the cover, about 1 or 2 inches wide, and place the cover on the box.

    • 7

      Fill the box with a layer of kitty litter about 4 inches deep.