How to Choose Cat Litter and a Litter Box

Setting up a comfortable and functional litter area is one of the most important things you can do for your cat’s well-being and your household harmony. The right choices can encourage consistent use, minimize mess, and control odors. The process isn’t about finding a single “perfect” product, but about understanding the options and creating a setup your cat will happily use. We’ll walk you through the key considerations for both litter and boxes to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Best Cat Litter Type for Your Home

The array of cat litters available can be overwhelming. The best cat litter type for you depends on your priorities: clumping for easy cleaning, low dust for allergies, minimal tracking for clean floors, or natural materials for personal preference. Most importantly, your cat must accept it. Cats can be surprisingly particular about the texture and scent under their paws, and a rejected litter can lead to accidents outside the box.

Here is a comparison of common litter types to help you understand the basic trade-offs.

A good starting point for many households is an unscented, clumping clay litter. It offers a balance of easy maintenance, cost, and cat acceptance. If you or your cat have respiratory sensitivities, look for a low-dust or dust-free formula. Remember, a strongly scented litter designed to appeal to humans can be overpowering and unpleasant for a cat’s sensitive nose, potentially causing them to avoid the box.

Selecting the Right Litter Box

The box itself is just as crucial as what goes inside it. A box that is too small, difficult to enter, or located in a stressful area can create problems.

Size and Shape

The golden rule for litter box size is that it should be at least one and a half times the length of your cat (from nose to base of tail). This gives them ample room to turn around, dig, and position themselves comfortably. When in doubt, go larger. Many standard boxes sold in stores are too small for average-sized adult cats. Consider using a large, shallow storage container as an inexpensive, spacious alternative.

Open vs. Covered Boxes

This is a common dilemma with no single right answer.

• Open Boxes: Most cats prefer these as they offer easy access, multiple escape routes, and don’t trap odors inside. They are also easier for you to clean and monitor.
• Covered/Hooded Boxes: These can provide privacy (though cats are vulnerable when eliminating) and help contain litter scatter and odors from spreading in the room. However, they can trap odors inside for the cat, and some cats feel trapped or dislike the enclosed space.

If you want to try a covered box for mess control, choose one with a removable top so you can offer it as an open box first, or remove the top if your cat seems hesitant. For more on creating a comfortable environment for your cat, see our guide on Cat Trees, Scratching Posts, Beds and Window Perches.

Entry Style

High-sided boxes are excellent for cats who kick litter vigorously, but they can be a barrier for kittens, senior cats, or cats with mobility issues like arthritis. For these cats, a low-entry box or one with a cut-down side is essential. Some covered boxes have flaps over the entrance; these can startle nervous cats and may deter use.

Essential Accessories: Mats, Scoops, and Odor Control

A few supporting items can make litter box maintenance much easier and keep your home cleaner.

Litter Mats

Placed just outside the box, a good litter mat catches granules stuck to your cat’s paws. Look for mats with a textured, grippy surface that allows litter to fall through into a tray below. This prevents the cat from tracking the litter a second time when they step off. Mats should be easy to shake out or vacuum regularly.

Litter Scoops

A sturdy, metal scoop with sturdy slots is often more effective and durable than flimsy plastic ones. The slots should be small enough to sift out clean litter but allow clumps to be lifted away. For non-clumping litter, a slotted scoop is still useful for removing solid waste.

Odor Control Strategies

Odor control starts with the right habits, not just additives.

• Scoop Frequently: Scoop solid waste and urine clumps at least once, ideally twice, daily. This is the most effective odor control method.
• Deep Clean Regularly: Completely empty, wash with mild soap and water (avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia, as their smells can repel cats), dry, and refill with fresh litter weekly or bi-weekly, depending on the litter type and number of cats.
• Use Adequate Litter: Maintain a depth of about two to three inches so your cat can dig and clumps form properly.
• Consider the Litter Itself: Some litters, like silica gel, have superior odor-absorbing properties. Baking soda, which is often added to litters, can help neutralize odors.
• Avoid Air Fresheners & Strong Scents: Sprays, plug-ins, or heavily scented litters near the box can be offensive to cats and mask the problem rather than solve it. Good ventilation in the room is a better approach.

For a broader look at essential and non-essential items for your cat, our Cat Products Guide offers helpful insights.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many litter boxes do I need?

The general rule is one litter box per cat, plus one extra. So, for one cat, have two boxes; for two cats, have three. This prevents resource guarding, gives choices, and ensures a clean box is always available. They should be placed in different, separate locations around your home, not side-by-side.

My cat is kicking litter everywhere. What can I do?

First, ensure the box is large enough—a cramped cat may kick more vigorously. A high-sided box or a covered box can contain the scatter. Placing the box inside a larger, low-walled tray or on top of a very large litter mat can also help. Some digging and kicking is natural burying behavior, so some mess is to be expected.

Why is my cat suddenly avoiding the litter box?

Sudden avoidance is a red flag. The first step is always to rule out medical problems with a veterinary visit, especially urinary issues. If health is cleared, consider changes: Did you switch to a new litter, a scented litter, or a covered box? Have you moved the box to a noisy or high-traffic area? Is it not being scooped frequently enough? Retrace any recent changes in your litter and cleaning routine.

Can I flush cat litter?

We do not recommend flushing any cat litter, even products labeled “flushable.” Cat feces can contain the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which is not reliably removed by all wastewater treatment systems and can harm marine life. Furthermore, even “flushable” litters can clog home plumbing systems. The safest practice is to bag waste and used litter and place it in the trash.

How can I make the litter area more appealing for my shy cat?

Place the box in a quiet, secure corner where the cat won’t be startled or cornered. Use a large, open box so they have a clear view of their surroundings. Ensure the pathway to the box is clear and not blocked by noisy appliances or other pets. Providing enrichment and safe spaces elsewhere in your home can also reduce overall anxiety. Explore ideas in our article on Cat Toys and Enrichment.