If you're new to the world of cat ownership or just looking to up your litter box game, you've come to the right place. Today, we're diving into all things litter box-related, from the benefits of traditional scooping to where to put it in your home and everything in between.
Litter Robot vs. Litter Box
Let's start with the age-old question: box or robot? While litter robots may seem like the ultimate convenience, there are some benefits to sticking with the tried-and-true litter box.
Traditional litter boxes allow for better monitoring of your cat's health, as changes in their waste can indicate underlying issues. This blog explains what to look for in your cat's pee and poop. They are also cost-effective (mine was $15) and easy to maintain. Litter robots rob you of the ability to monitor your cat’s health because you’re letting a machine do it for you; therefore, it’s out of sight and out of mind. Litter robots are also expensive and inadequately sized for most cats (we’ll talk about the recommended litter box size in just a bit).
Some argue that litter robots keep odors at bay; however, if you get into the habit of scooping a traditional litter box daily, that won’t be an issue. If scooping daily seems tedious, set up your litter box like a station to make it quick and easy. Next to the box should be extra litter, a heavy-duty scoop, a small wastebasket with a tight-fitting lid lined with a trash bag to dump the waste, extra trash bags, and a broom or handheld vacuum to tidy up the litter scatter. When all the tools you need to scoop your litter box are right at your fingertips, cleaning will take minutes of your day.
Recommended Specs for a Perfect Litter Box
When it comes to choosing the right litter box, size matters. The recommended size of a litterbox is 1.5 times the length of your cat, ensuring they have plenty of room to do their business comfortably. This means that if your cat measures around 18” in length, their litter box should be around 27” inches in length. The best litter boxes are clear, plastic storage bins. Measure and cut one side low enough for easy entry, smooth down the edges with a sanding sponge, and keep it uncovered. Covered litter boxes trap moisture and retain odor. It's like a port-o-potty for cats: gross and uninviting.
Optimizing Your Cat's Litter Box Location
Now that you've got the perfect litter box picked out, where should you put it? Aim for quiet, low-traffic areas of your home, away from loud appliances or other stress-inducing stimuli. Avoid placing the litter box near your cat's food and water dishes, as this can cause location aversion as explained in this cat behavior blog. We don't eat in the bathroom and cat's don't eat where they eliminate either.
One Box Per Cat (Plus One): Pro Tips for Litter Box Harmony
As a general rule of thumb, aim for one litter box per cat in your household, plus an extra. This ensures that each cat has access to a clean box whenever nature calls, reducing the likelihood of accidents or territorial disputes. It will do your cats no good if you line up multiple litter boxes next to one another. For them, it simply becomes one giant litter box in a single location for which they have to compete for access. Place litter boxes in different areas of your home to provide multiple options for your feline friends.
Deep Clean: The Key to Kitty Comfort
Last but certainly not least, let's talk about deep cleaning. While scooping daily is essential for maintaining a fresh litter box, it's also important to give the box a thorough cleaning regularly. Empty the litter, scrub the box with mild soap and water, and replace it with fresh litter at least once a month. This helps prevent odor buildup and keeps your cat's bathroom spot in tip-top shape.
So there you have it, folks: The Litter Box Lowdown! With these cat litter box tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to providing your feline friend with the perfect bathroom experience. Happy scooping!
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