AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.
Owning a cat is a double-edged sword: On the one hand, you get all the floofy nuzzles and affection you can handle. On the other, you have to deal with that portal to Hades known as the litter tray. But hey, this is the 21st century! It’s time to let the robots do the dirty work. Here, you’ll find our picks for the best automatic litter boxes to suit even the pickiest of cats.
Do automatic litter boxes really work?
While automatic litter boxes have been around since 1991, the pet industry has produced fairly advanced models in recent years that are both efficient and reliable (unlike most of the ones made in the 1990s). Five years ago, Paul Joly, CEO of Shichic, a company that manufactures chic litter box enclosures and litters, would have unequivocally advised against them “due to hefty price tags of close to $1,000, as well as drawbacks such as cats feeling stressed by them or even getting stuck inside.” However, with significant advancements in technology and a more “palatable price range of $500,” he now recognizes the convenience and appeal.
Dr. Paola Cuevas, a veterinary consultant at Catster, an online community and publication for cat lovers, says that the major advantage of automatic litter boxes is that they help keep your home cleaner and odor-free. “By automating the removal of cats’ waste quickly and efficiently, they encourage its usage and prevent the cat from taking their business to other areas of your home,” she says.
Self-cleaning litter boxes are also great in multi-cat homes, since many felines will refuse to use a litter box that contains another cat’s waste, says Cuevas. With regular litter boxes, many experts recommend having at least one litter box per cat plus an extra one, which can take up a lot of space. It also requires a lot of litter and more frequent cleaning. “Automatic litter boxes save litter, make cleaning much easier and preventing owners from having to hand scoop waste,” Cuevas says. “They’re also a great option for cat parents who might have to stay more than a day away from home.”
As a lifelong cat parent, I am intrigued by the latest self-cleaning litter boxes. To learn more about them and help me determine the best ones available, I talked to (along with Joly and Cuevas), Dr. Erin Tate, VP of development at CityVet, a company that offers vet care as well as boarding and grooming at locations in Texas, Colorado and Arizona; Dr Nicole Peta, lead veterinarian at HUB Veterinary Group in Port Chester, New York; and Whisker veterinarian, Dr. Laria Herod (Whisker makes the Litter-Robot, which is included on my list, as well as other innovative pet products).
How do automatic litter boxes work?
Self-cleaning cat litter boxes contain sensors that detect weight so they know when a cat enters and exits. Once the cat leaves the box, most wait a few minutes then trigger a motorized rake or sifter that directs any clumps into a separate container, often a drawer on the bottom.
The Litter-Robot, for instance, explains Herod, automatically separates dirty clumps from clean cat litter and deposits them into the tightly sealed waste drawer below, which leaves a fresh bed of litter behind for the next visit. Peta adds that generally cats like automatic litter boxes, because they love a clean box (I mean, wouldn’t you?).
What to consider when buying an automatic litter box
Like most things you purchase these days, choosing an automatic litter box involves sifting through a range of options and products from various companies. According to a 2023 Bloomberg economy report, the global pet industry is expected to grow to $500 billion by 2030; that’s a whole lot of wet cat food, cat litter, dog food for allergies, pet furniture, litter boxes and everything in between.
“When choosing an automatic litter box which has mechanical parts, it's especially important to purchase from a reliable brand,” Cuevas says. Amazon reviews are another great way to learn about the details of each product that you can’t see in an image or video. Through them, you’ll glean more information about things such as noise, the rake not getting through all the litter, litter coming out through gaps and certain brands not having good customer service, all of which “can be deal breakers when purchasing expensive self-cleaning litter boxes,” Cuevas explains.
Size
The rule of thumb for the size of a cat litter box is quite straightforward, according to Joly: The minimum should be as long as your cat from the tip of their nose to the tip of their tail and as wide as their length from nose to tail base. “This allows enough room for the cat to turn around, scratch and cover their waste comfortably,” he says. Remember, though, that automatic litter boxes tend to be much larger than traditional ones, sometimes up to four times the volume. “This can be a significant drawback for those with limited space,” Joly points out.
Style
Cats, as any cat owner knows, can be quite particular about everything and their litter box is no exception. “While top-entry litter boxes help reduce litter tracking and offer more privacy, they might not be suitable for older cats or those with mobility issues,” explains Joly. In fact, these are usually the least cat-friendly setup.
Front-entry boxes with low entryways, on the other hand, offer more accessibility, especially for cats who might not be super agile, such as kittens, elderly cats, or those with mobility issues. Joly says in these situations, a lower entry point is essential. If your cat is shy, consider a high-sided box that can help contain litter scatter as well as provide privacy.
Open vs. covered
“This is another area where cat preferences can differ significantly,” says Joly. Some cats appreciate the privacy and security of a covered litter box, which also helps contain odors and litter scatter (something many humans appreciate).
“However,” says Joly, “some cats may prefer an open litter box for their ample ventilation.” Open boxes help keep odors at bay and make some cats feel less confined or ambushed, which is particularly appreciated by feral cats or those living in multi-pet households. If you’re afraid someone is going to sneak up on you while you’re doing your business, you might not want to do it in a confined space where you won’t see them coming.
Joly stresses that it's crucial to observe your cat's behavior and preferences to determine which type they are more comfortable using.
Tracking features/health monitoring
Herod recognizes that many people often adopt an out-of-sight/smell, out-of-mind mentality when it comes to litter box maintenance. While privacy is important, she says that “keeping up with your pet’s litter box habits helps you establish what is normal and therefore, what is abnormal.”
Cats are stoic creatures: They rarely show you their feelings, especially when they’re in pain or something is wrong health-wise. “Which is why it’s important to notice any subtle, easily missed changes in their urine or fecal clumps, including frequency of use,” says Herod. Tracking litter box usage is essential in identifying urinary issues including infections and stones, gastrointestinal abnormalities and even metabolic disorders like diabetes. A cat with diabetes could be drinking more and, as a result, taking more bathroom breaks.
“Knowing your cat’s normal litter box habits offers critical information to your veterinarian for healthy and sick visits,” explains Herod. While veterinarians know medicine, cat owners know their cats. If yours seems off – not eating, drinking, or using the bathroom like normal – and has been that way for two to four days, Herod recommends a veterinarian visit.
As far as what to look for in relation to litter box health, indicators that something might be afoot include increased frequency of bathroom trips, both successful and unsuccessful. “If you notice that your cat has not urinated in the last 24 to 36 hours, especially in males, this can be indicative of a medical emergency and warrants a trip to the veterinarian expeditiously,” says Herod. The safest option is always to call your vet’s office to determine if an appointment is recommended as opposed to monitoring. When in doubt, call your veterinarian!
Appearance
Self-cleaning litter boxes are not small, discreet items, especially not the covered versions. Whether or not your cat likes it and, therefore, uses it is most important, many people may also want to consider the appearance of the actual box and where and how it will fit into their home. A few of the boxes on this list resemble space-like escape pods or small cat-sized flying machines (or at least, that’s what they look like to me). “The Litter-Robot can be hidden inside furniture that the company manufactures specifically for the purpose,” says Tate. One such piece is the company’s credenza cabinet which sells for $499.
Ease of cleaning
“A litter box that is easy to clean encourages regular maintenance, which is essential for your cat's health and comfort,” says Joly. Most self-cleaning litter boxes feature a separate compartment for litter waste that holds a plastic bag or liner for easy emptying. Also, check to see how easy it is to clean the entire box when you need to completely replace the litter. Many models have a setting that allows you to dump the entire contents into the waste drawer for litter replacement.
Our top picks for the best automatic litter boxes
Most sophisticated automatic litter box: Whisker Litter-Robot 4
Most sophisticated
Whisker Litter-Robot 4
Herod calls the Litter-Robot 4 a “revolutionary, self-cleaning litter box that eliminates the chore of scooping, reduces litter tracking and traps odors.” For those of us who have always used the humble plastic tray in the past, ‘revolutionary’ is a very apt term. The Litter-Robot 4 automatically separates dirty litter clumps and deposits them into the sealed drawer below. It’s equipped with ‘OmniSense’ which provides accurate cat detection as well as litter-sifting technology and ‘SmartScale’ which tracks your feline’s weight. The companion app provides all the data you never knew you needed (such as waste drawer and litter levels) in real time and litter box usage (for up to four different cats.)
Round in shape, the Litter-Robot 4 looks (and acts) a lot like a portal opening; something you’d find on a future spacecraft that allows your feline to enter another dimension, do their thing and return leaving the odor and mess to be dealt with elsewhere by a dutiful robot. Oh, and it comes in a range of colors to suit almost any décor, and even features a night light.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 22 inches wide x 27 inches long x 29.5 inches high.
- Entry: Round, 15.75 inches diameter.
- Weight: 24 pounds.
- Power source: 15-volt DC, standard electrical outlet.
- Color: Black, white, lilac, fuchsia, mint, marble, woodgrain, gray stone.
- Footprint: 22 inches x 27 inches.
- Trial period: 90 days.
- Price on publish: $699 (some colors +$50).
What we like:
- Suitable for up to four cats.
- Lots of data provided by companion app.
- Quiet operation.
What we don’t like:
- Takes up a lot of space.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Technologically advanced, pricey self-cleaning litter box (with a useful app) that looks like a portal to alternate dimensions.
Get it here: Whisker Litter-Robot 4
Best smart automatic litter box: Casa Leo Loo Too Self-cleaning Smart Litter Box
Best smart
Casa Leo Loo Too Self-cleaning Smart Litter Box
Similar to the Litter-Robot 4, the Casa Leo Loo Too provides data pertaining to your cat’s weight and habits via the companion app, but it adds the ability to connect to your smart home system (Amazon Alexa or Google Home). Another notable feature is its utilization of UV sterilization to kill the majority of bacteria and viruses in the waste drawer, which contains dense bamboo filters and is large enough that you can go a whole week without emptying it.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 22 inches wide x 24 inches long x 27.5 inches high.
- Entry: Round, diameter 8.5 inches.
- Weight: 27.5 pounds.
- Power source: 15-volt DC, standard electrical outlet.
- Color: Green, baby blue, leo gray, pretty pink.
- Footprint: 22 inches x 24 inches.
- Trial period: 90 days.
- Price on publish: $649.49.
What we like:
- Large waste drawer.
- Quiet operation.
- Works with Alexa and Google Home.
What we don’t like:
- Entry smaller than some others.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Smart home-compatible automatic litter box with large waste tray, quiet operation and companion app.
Get it here: Casa Leo Loo Too Self-cleaning Smart Litter Box
Best budget automatic litter box: Pet Zone Smart Scoop Self Cleaning Litter Box
Best budget
Pet Zone Smart Scoop Automatic Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box
If your cat is averse to a covered box (some are, according to the veterinarians I spoke to), or you desire one that simply cleans itself without any other bells and whistles, the Pet Zone Smart Scoop delivers at a comparatively budget-friendly price. The quiet motor activates a rake (15 minutes after detection of a cat body) that moves over the litter, collecting any clumps and disposing them into the waste compartment. It includes a carbon filter to neutralize odors and six waste compartment bags. This box garners mixed online reviews though, so if you really want an automatic cleaning model, you may want to look into higher-priced options.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 17 inches wide x 25.4 inches long x 6.6 inches high.
- Entry: Uncovered, top entry.
- Weight: 10.55 pounds.
- Power source: 15-volt DC, standard electrical outlet.
- Color: Dark gray and green.
- Footprint: 17 inches x 25.4 inches.
- Trial period: None.
- Price on publish: $145.95.
What we like:
- Budget-friendly.
- Quiet motor.
- Odor absorbing filter.
What we don’t like:
- Shallow waste reservoir.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Low-tech, uncovered automatic litter box at a budget-friendly price.
Get it here: Pet Zone Smart Scoop Self Cleaning Litter Box
Best automatic litter box with crystal litter: PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Pro Self Cleaning Litter Box
Best with crystal litter
PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Pro Self Cleaning Litter Box
The lead technician at HUB uses the Pet Safe Scoopfree litter box and loves its affordability, ease of use and small footprint. Designed only for crystal litter (which absorbs urine and dehydrates solid waste), the ScoopFree Pro features an LCD display that keeps track of how many times your cat uses the box, as well as a manual rake button.
The automated setting triggers the rake 20 minutes after the feline exits the box. Lined with plastic, the disposable tray comes with a lid for easy, spill-free disposal. Additional crystal litter trays cost around $70 for three, an expense that adds up over time as you’ll need to replace it entirely at least every month.
This is a good choice for an automatic litter box for older cats who may not be able to climb steps or jump into some of the higher-entry enclosed boxes. Options also include lids with either front or top entry openings.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 19.1 inches wide x 27.6 inches long x 6 inches high.
- Entry: Top.
- Weight: 19.3 pounds.
- Power source: 15-volt DC, standard electrical outlet.
- Color: Gray.
- Footprint: 19.1 inches x 27.6 inches.
- Trial period: 45 days.
- Price on publish: $199.95.
What we like:
- Small footprint.
- Excellent deodorizing capabilities.
- Crystal litter is low tracking.
What we don’t like:
- Litter trays have to be completely replaced at least every month.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Top entry, automatic litter box that uses crystal cat litter and tracks the number of times your cat visits the box.
Get it here: PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Pro Self Cleaning Litter Box
Best litter free automatic litter box: PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Smart Front Entry Litter Box
Best litter free
PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Smart Front Entry Litter Box
This is essentially the same box as the previous PetSafe one, but with the added functionality of a companion app that allows you to customize notifications, monitor your furry companion’s activity and set reminders (like when to replace the litter tray or order more). It uses only crystal litter, which offers exceptional odor control by absorbing liquids and dehydrating solid wastes. Some cats don’t like crystal litter, though, and may take some time to adapt. And remember that, like all PetSafe crystal automatic litter boxes, you’ll need to install a new litter tray every month.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 19.1 inches wide x 27.6 inches long x 15.6 inches high.
- Entry: Front.
- Weight: 19.3 pounds.
- Power source: 15-volt DC, standard electrical outlet.
- Color: Gray.
- Footprint: 19.1 inches x 27.6 inches.
- Trial period/return policy: 45 days.
- Price on publish: $299.95.
What we like:
- Real-time usage data.
- Sleeker design than some others.
- Great odor control.
What we don’t like:
- Not all cats like crystal litter.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Wi-fi enabled with companion app, low profile automatic cleaning litter box for use with crystal litter only.
Get it here: PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Smart Front Entry Litter Box
Best quiet automatic litter box: Ubpet Self Cleaning Litter Box
Best quiet
UBPET Automatic, Self-Cleaning Litter Box with App & Camera for Multiple Cats
As well as an app that tracks your feline’s weight and usage, this self-cleaning litter box from Ubpet also includes an internal camera. I’m not quite sure how I feel about that (mainly because I think if your cat knew you were recording them, they’d be outraged) but some pet parents may find it useful if they have multiple cats. The more significant reasons to consider this particular box are its incredibly quiet cleaning operation and the waste bin that holds a standard two-gallon trash bag. When you need to change all the litter, simply push a button and the entire contents empty into the waste collection receptacle. The Ubpet is recommended for cats up to 15 pounds.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 20 inches wide x 21 inches long x 22 inches high.
- Entry: Oval; 11.5 inches diameter height and 9 inches diameter width.
- Weight: 21 pounds.
- Power source: 15-volt DC, standard electrical outlet.
- Color: White.
- Footprint: 20 inches x 21 inches.
- Trial period/return policy: 30 days.
- Price on publish: $531.
What we like:
- Works with standard two-gallon trash bags.
- Compatible with all kinds of clumping litter.
- Super quiet.
What we don’t like:
- Not for large cats.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Easy to clean, automatic dome-shaped litter box with internal camera.
Get it here: Ubpet Self Cleaning Litter Box
Best automatic litter boxes for multiple cats: Petkit PuraMax Self-Cleaning Litter Box
Best for multiple cats
Petkit PuraMax Self-Cleaning Litter Box
Also one of the best automatic litter boxes for large cats, the PetKit automatic litter box comes with a detachable Pura Air smart spray, which can be set for automatic deodorization after use or for timed intervals to keep the surrounding room clean and fresh smelling. The companion app identifies each cat by their weight, recording that as well as using frequency and duration.
There is also a slot inside the waste compartment for a PetKit odor block which provides enhanced deodorization. Available cleaning modes include automatic, timed or manual. The robust waste container accommodates 15 days of waste for one cat before requiring emptying, and the large and low entrance provides easy entry for cats of varying ages and sizes. If you have a bigger cat, this automatic litter box provides ample space for them to get in and out.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 24.4 inches wide x 21.18 inches long x 21.73 inches high.
- Entry: Front, rectangle, 10 inches x 8 inches.
- Weight: 30.5 pounds.
- Power source: 15-volt DC, standard electrical outlet.
- Color: White.
- Footprint: 24.4 inches x 21.18 inches.
- Trial period: 30 days.
- Price on publish: $599.
What we like:
- Great for large cats (up to 22 pounds).
- Low entry.
- Large waste compartment.
What we don’t like:
- Large footprint.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Automatic, large litter box with companion app and enhanced odor control, including detachable air fresheners; compatible with all types of clumping litter and suitable for cats up to 22 pounds.
Get it here: Petkit PuraMax Self-Cleaning Litter Box
Best automatic litter box for odor control: PetKit Purax Self Cleaning Litter Box
Best for odor control
PetKit Purax Self Cleaning Litter Box
The main difference between this PetKit self-cleaning litter box and the PuraMax model is the overall entry size. This one is smaller in width and height and a bit taller, with a circular entry hole that measures 8.66 inches in diameter crosswise and 7.08 inches in diameter lengthwise (there’s a flat step/landing on the bottom that reduces the vertical span of the hatch). The app allows for customization of both cleaning (automatic, manual, timer and empty modes) and air freshening (automatic and timer). Equipped with 12 safe sensors, it will cease operation when your cat approaches and/or enters the box. Like the PuraMax, single-cat households can go for 15 days without emptying the waste container.
With their rectangle shape, PetKit automated litter boxes potentially fit into smaller nooks than the round, space-age type. They also appear a bit less conspicuous – most of your visitors will likely notice the huge, round, futuristic-looking, colorful Litter-Robot while the white, rectangle appearance of the Petkit boxes refrain from announcing their presence to the casual passerby.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 19.84 inches wide x 20.55 inches long x 25.27 inches high.
- Entry: Front, 8.66 inches wide x 7.08 inches high.
- Weight: 37 pounds.
- Power source: 15-volt DC, standard electrical outlet.
- Color: White.
- Footprint: 19.84 inches x 20.55 inches.
- Trial period: 30 days.
- Price on publish: $499.
What we like:
- Excellent odor control.
- Compact, rectangular shape.
- Multiple safe sensors.
What we don’t like:
- Entry on the small size.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Rectangle shaped, self-cleaning litter box with companion app and excellent odor control, plus air freshening features.
Get it here: PetKit Purax Self Cleaning Litter Box
How we chose the best automatic litter boxes
To select the litter boxes included here I consulted veterinarians and other pet industry experts, as well as online consumer reviews. I considered things like reliability, ease of use and company customer service ratings. Then I weighed those factors against the expert advice, consumer reviews and my own personal experience of living with various opinionated felines for the past 50-some-odd years.
How to set up and use an automatic litter box
Each automatic litter box will include instructions specific to that box, but generally, you set them up as you would any litter box, but with the added step of pairing to an app (if there is one). If you’re transitioning from a traditional box, place the new self-cleaning one next to it. Fill it with the same kind of litter your cat is used to. If you need to change litter for the specific automatic box you purchased, do that beforehand using the traditional box.
Initially, don’t turn on the box or put the lid on (if it has one), giving your cat a few days to check out the new addition. If you have a kitten or are introducing an outdoor cat who has never lived anywhere with an indoor box, place some soiled litter in the clean automatic litter pan.
Let your cat, or cats, do what they will for at least a week, keeping the two boxes side by side. You can try sprinkling some catnip in the litter tray of the new box to get them to explore it.
Once your cat has been using the new self-cleaning box for a few days, turn it on, but be sure to supervise. Some cats will be afraid of the noise or motion while others could be overly interested in it, watching the rake in action and even pouncing on it or whacking it with their paws.
If your cat insists on using their old box, leave the waste in it for one day with the shiny new, clean one right next to it. This may be enough incentive for them to switch to it.
Cleaning and maintenance required for automatic litter boxes
While traditional boxes require daily scooping, automatic boxes only require you to empty the waste compartment, usually weekly. You should give the box a thorough cleaning once a month, though. “Make sure to use gentle cleaning agents to avoid deterring your cat with harsh chemicals or strong scents, particularly citrus,” says Joly (most cats hate citrus).
This will come as no surprise to anyone who shares their home with a cat but, Cuevas points out, cats are extremely picky creatures. “It’s well reported that a cat will refuse to use a dirty litter box and do their business elsewhere in the house,” she says. This could be in the bathtub, on a carpet or rug or even on your bed. As Cuevas says, when an annoyed feline needs to get a message across they will find creative ways to make their point.
As well as wanting to avoid this unpleasant situation, regular hygiene practices are really important when sharing your space with a cat, according to Cuevas and other vets. This is because cats are considered the definitive host of the parasite toxoplasma gondii, which transmits toxoplasmosis to humans. This disease can cause aches and pains. It can also lead to ocular and brain damage to developing fetuses and individuals with an immunocompromised system.
“Approximately one week after their initial infestation, cats will shed millions of the parasite’s oocysts in their feces for up to two weeks,” says Cuevas. The good news is that these oocysts are not infectious to humans for at least 24 hours, during which time they sporulate. Depending on the environment, this process (of creating spores) can take from one to five days. This means that the risk of contracting toxoplasmosis diminishes greatly if you — or your robot — cleans the litter box on a daily basis.
Another important factor is that a dirty litter box smells terrible, says Cuevas. The smell can be incredibly strong and overpowering. “By keeping the litter box clean your home’s environment will be much better,” she points out.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Are automatic litter boxes suitable for all cats?
Yes! “Many cats like the newer versions of automatic litter boxes since they stay cleaner,” says Tate. Keep in mind, though, that some cats don't like to be closed in. Older automatic litter boxes were noisy when the cat was in the box, but newer technology means that the emptying, raking or sifting happens after your cat has left the box (like Elvis). The downside, of course, is the cost.
How often do I need to clean an automatic litter box?
This depends on the number of cats using the litter box, says Tate. The more cats, the more often it should be cleaned. If you live with one to three felines, she suggests cleaning the litter box every two weeks to help prevent possible accidents outside the box.
What happens if the power goes out?
“Unless you have a generator, if the power goes out, so does the litter box,” says Tate.
Is an automatic litter box worth it?
“Yes,” says Peta, “if your cat takes to it and is compliant, it’s a wonderful option.” In the age of emerging robot technology, litter box cleaning is an excellent example of something that most people would prefer to delegate to someone – or something – other than themselves. I can’t think of one cat person I know who has ever said, “Oh yeah, I love cleaning the litter box.” If your budget allows, investing in a self-cleaning litter box is definitely worth it.
AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.
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