Best Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes for Cats
(Updated September 2024)
Are you looking for a self-cleaning litter box that keeps your home fresh and your cat happy? We’ve reviewed the top self-cleaning litter boxes for 2024 to help you find the perfect one for your feline friend. With expert insights and thorough testing, we’ve ranked the best options based on performance, design, and ease of use.
1
Best Overall
PetSafe ScoopFree® SmartSpin™ Self-Cleaning Litter Box
(Outstanding)
$$$$
- Tracks your cat's weight and usage via the SmartSpin™ app
- Sealed waste drawer for 4x better odor control
- Quiet motor operation
- Uses regular clumping litter
- Sleek, modern design with faux wood legs
Why We Love It:
This self-cleaning litter box offers fantastic odor control, and the app integration adds peace of mind by monitoring your cat’s health. The setup is easy, and its quiet operation keeps your home peaceful.
More Details
What We Like
- The brand tailors your dog’s meal plans according to their age, breed, and nutritional requirements, with six protein sources to choose from, including chicken, beef, lamb, venison, duck and turkey.
What To Consider
- All of their foods are completely raw. If your dog isn't already on a raw-food diet, you'll need to follow their transitioning guide.
Suitable For
- For Puppies
- Grain Free
- Healthy
- Sensitive Stomach
- Human Grade
- Wet Food
- Raw Food
- Raw Food
Read Full Review
2
Litter-Robot 4 | WiFi-Enabled, Automatic Litter Box
(Exceptional)
$$$$
- WiFi-enabled, integrates with the Whisker app
- SmartScale™ technology tracks your cat's weight
- QuietSift™ technology for reduced noise
- Sleek, modern design
- Carbon-filtered waste drawer to reduce odors
Why We Love It:
The Litter-Robot 4 is one of the most reliable and loved self-cleaning litter boxes on the market. It offers real-time monitoring, odor control, and is perfect for households with multiple cats. Its quiet operation and high-tech features make it a favorite among pet parents.
Close Details
What We Like
- The brand tailors your dog’s meal plans according to their age, breed, and nutritional requirements, with six protein sources to choose from, including chicken, beef, lamb, venison, duck and turkey.
What To Consider
- All of their foods are completely raw. If your dog isn't already on a raw-food diet, you'll need to follow their transitioning guide.
Suitable For
- For Puppies
- Grain Free
- Healthy
- Sensitive Stomach
- Human Grade
- Wet Food
- Raw Food
- Raw Food
Read Full Review
3
Litter-Robot 3 | Automatic, Self-Cleaning Litter Box
for Cats
(Outstanding)
$$$$
- Automatic cleaning cycle after each use
- Large waste drawer, ideal for multi-cat households
- Quiet operation with MoonGlo NiteLite for night use
- No special waste bags are needed—just regular garbage bags
Why We Love It:
Though it’s been succeeded by the Litter-Robot 4, this version still delivers in terms of convenience and reliability. It’s a tried-and-true favorite among cat owners, especially those with multiple cats.
More Details
What We Like
- The brand tailors your dog’s meal plans according to their age, breed, and nutritional requirements, with six protein sources to choose from, including chicken, beef, lamb, venison, duck and turkey.
What To Consider
- All of their foods are completely raw. If your dog isn't already on a raw-food diet, you'll need to follow their transitioning guide.
Suitable For
- For Puppies
- Grain Free
- Healthy
- Sensitive Stomach
- Human Grade
- Wet Food
- Raw Food
- Raw Food
Read Full Review
4
Leo’s Loo Too Automatic Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box
(Very Good)
$$$$
- Whisper-quiet sifting technology (30 decibels)
- App integration for remote control
- Alexa and Google Voice Assistant compatibility
- Programmable UV light for disinfection
- Large waste drawer for easy maintenance
Why We Love It:
Leo’s Loo Too is a stylish, smart litter box with advanced safety features and a UV light to keep the litter box clean and fresh. While slightly smaller, it’s a great alternative for those looking for modern design and efficiency.
More Details
What We Like
- The brand tailors your dog’s meal plans according to their age, breed, and nutritional requirements, with six protein sources to choose from, including chicken, beef, lamb, venison, duck and turkey.
What To Consider
- All of their foods are completely raw. If your dog isn't already on a raw-food diet, you'll need to follow their transitioning guide.
Suitable For
- For Puppies
- Grain Free
- Healthy
- Sensitive Stomach
- Human Grade
- Wet Food
- Raw Food
- Raw Food
Read Full Review
5
PetSafe ScoopFree Automatic Self-Cleaning Litter Box
(Good)
$$$$
- Pre-filled with PetSafe crystal cat litter
- Disposable litter trays for easy maintenance
- Automatically cleans for up to 30 days
- Rakes waste into a covered compartment
- Simple setup and no scooping required
Why We Love It:
The PetSafe ScoopFree Automatic Litter Box offers convenience with its disposable litter trays and ease of use. It’s ideal for single-cat households, though it may require more frequent changes for multiple cats. While the ongoing cost of disposable trays may add up, it remains a solid choice for those looking for an affordable, no-scoop solution.
More Details
What We Like
- The brand tailors your dog’s meal plans according to their age, breed, and nutritional requirements, with six protein sources to choose from, including chicken, beef, lamb, venison, duck and turkey.
What To Consider
- All of their foods are completely raw. If your dog isn't already on a raw-food diet, you'll need to follow their transitioning guide.
Suitable For
- For Puppies
- Grain Free
- Healthy
- Sensitive Stomach
- Human Grade
- Wet Food
- Raw Food
- Raw Food
Read Full Review
Honorable Mentions:
While these litter boxes didn’t make our top 5, they’re still worth considering:
CatGenie A.I. Self-Washing, Self-Flushing Litter Box
(Good)
$$$$
- Self-washing and flushing system, no traditional litter
- Requires installation to plumbing
- Uses washable granules and SaniSolution for cleaning
Why We Love It:
A unique, hands-off solution that washes and flushes your cat’s litter. Ideal for those who don’t mind the initial setup and ongoing costs but want maximum automation.
More Details
What We Like
- The brand tailors your dog’s meal plans according to their age, breed, and nutritional requirements, with six protein sources to choose from, including chicken, beef, lamb, venison, duck and turkey.
What To Consider
- All of their foods are completely raw. If your dog isn't already on a raw-food diet, you'll need to follow their transitioning guide.
Suitable For
- For Puppies
- Grain Free
- Healthy
- Sensitive Stomach
- Human Grade
- Wet Food
- Raw Food
- Raw Food
Read Full Review
PETKIT Pura X Self-Cleaning Litter Box
(Good)
$$$$
- 12 safety sensors, app-controlled
- Odor-removing system, suitable for multi-cat households
Why We Love It:
PETKIT Pura X offers excellent safety features and odor control. Though a bit noisier, it’s perfect for tech-savvy cat owners who want smart control over their litter box.
More Details
What We Like
- The brand tailors your dog’s meal plans according to their age, breed, and nutritional requirements, with six protein sources to choose from, including chicken, beef, lamb, venison, duck and turkey.
What To Consider
- All of their foods are completely raw. If your dog isn't already on a raw-food diet, you'll need to follow their transitioning guide.
Suitable For
- For Puppies
- Grain Free
- Healthy
- Sensitive Stomach
- Human Grade
- Wet Food
- Raw Food
- Raw Food
Read Full Review
LitterMaid Automatic Multi-Cat Litter Box
(Fair)
$
- Automatic scooping rake, ideal for multi-cat households
- Carbon filters for odor control, but needs frequent maintenance
Why We Love It:
A very affordable option with basic self-cleaning functionality. Great for multi-cat homes, but it requires more hands-on upkeep than higher-end models.
More Details
What We Like
- The brand tailors your dog’s meal plans according to their age, breed, and nutritional requirements, with six protein sources to choose from, including chicken, beef, lamb, venison, duck and turkey.
What To Consider
- All of their foods are completely raw. If your dog isn't already on a raw-food diet, you'll need to follow their transitioning guide.
Suitable For
- For Puppies
- Grain Free
- Healthy
- Sensitive Stomach
- Human Grade
- Wet Food
- Raw Food
- Raw Food
Read Full Review
Automatic Litter Box Buyer's Guide
Choosing the right automatic litter box can be a game-changer for cat owners, offering convenience, cleanliness, and less manual scooping. However, with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know which features to prioritize. This guide will help you understand what to look for, making it easier to select the perfect self-cleaning litter box for your cat.
Benefits of Automatic Litter Boxes
Why invest in an automatic litter box?
- Time-saving: No more daily scooping of dirty litter.
- Odor control: Many models come with built-in odor management systems.
- Cleaner environment: Automatic cleaning helps maintain a fresher home.
- Ideal for multi-cat households: Some models are built to handle the waste of multiple cats, reducing maintenance needs.
Key Features to Consider
When choosing an automatic litter box, keep these important factors in mind:
1. Size & Space Requirements
- Litter Box Dimensions: Make sure it will fit in the desired space in your home. Some are bulkier than traditional litter boxes.
- Cat Size Compatibility: Larger cats or multi-cat households may require a model with a bigger litter area.
2. Odor Control
- Sealed Waste Compartments: Some litter boxes come with tightly sealed waste drawers that trap odors effectively.
- Built-in Deodorizers: Look for units with carbon filters or other deodorizing technologies for added freshness.
3. Ease of Cleaning & Maintenance
- Removable Waste Trays: Choose a model where waste compartments are easy to remove and clean.
- Disposable Litter Trays: Some litter boxes use disposable trays for added convenience, but consider the cost of replacing these over time.
- Automatic Cleaning Cycle: Ensure the box’s cleaning mechanism is efficient and doesn’t get jammed easily.
Types of Automatic Litter Boxes
There are different styles and mechanisms when it comes to self-cleaning litter boxes. Here are the most common types:
Rotating or Sifting Litter Boxes
- How They Work: These units rotate or sift the litter, separating the waste into a designated compartment.
- Best For: Cats that don’t mind some mechanical noise. These models are great for multi-cat households and generally offer better odor control.
Raking Mechanism
- How They Work: A rake automatically moves through the litter after your cat has used the box, pushing waste into a container.
- Best For: Single-cat households or quieter environments, as these tend to be less noisy but may require more frequent cleaning of the rake.
Flushing Systems
- How They Work: These connect directly to your home’s plumbing and flush waste like a human toilet. They also wash the litter, meaning no litter replacement is required.
- Best For: Owners looking for a high-tech, completely hands-off experience. Note: these systems can be more expensive and require a more complex installation.
Common Concerns with Automatic Litter Boxes
Even the best litter boxes have some potential drawbacks. Be aware of the following:
- How They Work: Noise: Some units may be noisy during the cleaning cycle. If you have a skittish cat or prefer a quieter home, opt for models with quieter motors, like the Leo’s Loo Too or Litter-Robot 4.
- Cost: Automatic litter boxes can range from budget-friendly options around $100 to more premium models exceeding $600. The more advanced features, such as self-flushing or Wi-Fi connectivity, often come at a higher price point.
- Ongoing Maintenance Costs: Models that use disposable trays or proprietary litter can add to the overall cost of maintenance. Be sure to factor in these expenses when deciding which model works best for your budget.
Odor Control: What to Look For
Effective odor management is one of the primary reasons cat owners turn to automatic litter boxes. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Sealed Waste Drawers: Units like the Litter-Robot 4 and PetSafe SmartSpin feature sealed drawers to trap odors.
- Carbon Filters: Many high-end models use activated carbon filters to neutralize smells, keeping your home fresh for longer.
- Deodorizers: Some boxes come with UV light deodorizers or replaceable scent packs to ensure a smell-free environment.
Smart Features: Do You Need Them?
More advanced models offer high-tech features such as:
- App Integration: Some models, like the Litter-Robot 4 or Leo’s Loo Too, connect to an app, allowing you to monitor litter levels and your cat’s usage patterns remotely.
- Weight Tracking: A few smart litter boxes can track your cat's weight after each use, helping monitor their health.
- Customizable Settings: Look for options where you can adjust the cleaning cycle timing or manually trigger it via an app.
While these features can be helpful, they may not be necessary for everyone. Consider whether you really need the extra tech, or if a simpler model will meet your needs.
Budget Considerations
Initial Costs vs. Long-Term Savings
While the upfront cost of an automatic litter box may seem high, the convenience and time saved can make it worthwhile, especially for multi-cat households.
- Low to Mid-Range Options: Models like the PetSafe ScoopFree Automatic Litter Box are budget-friendly but may require more frequent maintenance.
- High-End Models: Options like the Litter-Robot 4 offer advanced features but come at a premium price.
Pro Tip: Before purchasing, calculate any ongoing maintenance costs, such as special litter, trays, or filters, and compare them with the time and effort saved by the automatic cleaning.
Final Thoughts
Automatic litter boxes can significantly improve both your cat’s hygiene and your household’s cleanliness. When selecting a model, think about your cat’s behavior, your household needs, and your budget. Whether you go for a high-tech option like the Litter-Robot 4 or a more budget-conscious choice like the PetSafe ScoopFree, the right litter box can make caring for your cat easier and more enjoyable.
Why Trust Pet Tech Advisor?
Choosing the right tech products for your pets can be challenging with so many options available. At Pet Tech Advisor, we simplify the process by providing thoroughly researched and tested recommendations. Our team combines hands-on experience and expert insights to bring you the top tech solutions for pets in 2024.
We cover a range of products to meet different needs, ensuring there’s something for every pet and owner. Trust our reviews to help you find the perfect tech for your furry friends.
A BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO AUTOMATIC LITTER BOXES
The concept behind automatic litter boxes is simple: they clean themselves, reducing the need for daily scooping. This technology helps keep your home cleaner and minimizes the effort required to maintain your cat’s litter area. The main goal is convenience for cat owners and a more sanitary environment for your pets.
HOW AUTOMATIC LITTER BOXES WORK
An automatic litter box typically follows these steps:
1
The Cat Uses the Box
When your cat enters the litter box, sensors detect its presence. Some models also measure the cat’s weight to trigger the cleaning cycle.
2
The Waste is Collected
After your cat exits, the system waits for a short period before beginning the cleaning process. This delay allows clumps to solidify for more efficient removal.
3
The Cleaning Process Activates
The litter box uses different mechanisms—such as a rake, rotating drum, or conveyor belt—to separate the waste from the clean litter.
4
Waste is Deposited into a Container
The collected waste is stored in a sealed compartment, which you can empty periodically without touching any litter.
CHOOSING THE BEST AUTOMATIC LITTER BOX FOR YOUR CAT
Finding the right automatic litter box depends on your specific needs. Consider these factors:
Cat Size and Weight
Some litter boxes are designed for larger cats, while others suit smaller breeds. Look for models with adjustable sensor settings for different cat weights.
Number of Cats in the Household
Multi-cat households may require a model designed for more frequent use and higher waste capacity.
Type of Litter
While most automatic litter boxes work with clumping clay litter, some models are compatible with crystals or alternative litter types.
Budget
Prices for automatic litter boxes can range widely, depending on features and durability.
COMPARING AUTOMATIC LITTER BOX FEATURES
Each automatic litter box offers a unique combination of features, with trade-offs involved:
Self-Cleaning Mechanism
Different models use raking, rotating drums, or conveyor belts to collect waste.
Odor Control
Features like carbon filters or sealed waste containers help manage odors effectively.
Ease of Maintenance
Look for models with easy-to-replace waste compartments and washable components.
Noise Level
Some litter boxes operate more quietly than others, which might be important for light sleepers or noise-sensitive cats.
PROS
Less Maintenance:
Fewer daily scooping tasks for owners.
Odor Control:
Better odor management with sealed compartments.
Ideal for Multi-Cat Households:
Handles frequent usage.
Cleaner Environment:
Automatic cleaning keeps the litter box fresher.
CONS
Initial Cost:
Automatic models are pricier than standard litter boxes.
Maintenance Requirements:
Regular cleaning of sensors and moving parts is necessary.
Potential for Malfunctions:
Mechanical parts may occasionally fail, requiring repairs.
CHOOSING THE BEST SELF-CLEANING LITTER BOX FOR YOUR NEEDS
Not sure where to start? Follow these steps to find the right model:
Choose a model that balances features with affordability.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do automatic litter boxes work for multiple cats?
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How often should you ttempty an automatic litter box?
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What happens if the litter box malfunctions?
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Can you use non-clumping litter in an automatic box?
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