Different Styles of Cat Litter Boxes

Using a litter box is one of the first things a kitten should learn. There are many types of litter boxes on the market. Depending on the individual cat and the number of other felines in the home, litter box training can be difficult, but once the proper box and litter have been chosen, the cat is more apt to use its dedicated place for waste removal.

  1. Traditional Litter Boxes

    • Traditional litter boxes are rectangular in shape and are the most common type of box used. Most measure four inches deep and can accommodate all sizes of cats. Traditional litter boxes are the least expensive, and are popular with cats who stand to defecate rather than squat.

    Covered Litter Boxes

    • Covered litter boxes have the same basic shape as traditional litter boxes, but have a snap-on hood that provides privacy. These types of litter boxes are better suited for smaller cats or households with only one cat, as they are more difficult to use. They also limit the cat's ability to cover its urine and feces.

    Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes

    • Self-cleaning litter boxes are more expensive than traditional and covered boxes, but they are also more user-friendly. Operated on a timed cycle, the automatic cleaning feature moves used litter into an easy-to-empty receptacle after your cat uses the box. These litter boxes often come with optional covers, and the timing mechanism can be set to various intervals.

    Self-Flushing Litter Boxes

    • Self-flushing litter boxes are the newest trend in cat waste management and don't require the pet owner to ever touch the litter. These boxes are hooked up to a water and waste system, and after the cat uses the box, the environmentally friendly litter gets flushed away much like human waste. These boxes are the most expensive, priced at over $200 (see Resources).

    Types of Litter

    • The type of litter required for higher-end litter boxes is often specific to the boxes themselves. Those who use traditional litter boxes or ones with covers can choose whichever litter they prefer, but scoopable clumping litters are the easiest to use.