Best Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes for Cats

(Updated March 2025)

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

(Exceptional)

$$$$

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.

Suitable For:

2 PetSnowy Snow+ Self-Cleaning Litter Box

(Outstanding)

$$$$

Why We Love It:

The PetSnowy Snow+ Self-Cleaning Litter Box offers superior odor control and prevents leakage from high-spraying cats. We also love that it doesn’t actually LOOK like a litter box, so it fits into your home’s decor just about anywhere you choose to put it.

Suitable For:

3 CATLINK Self Cleaning Litter Box - Scooper Luxury Pro-X

(Outstanding)

$$$$

Why We Love It:

The CATLINK Luxury Pro-X is one of the few automatic litter boxes to offer advanced health monitoring for multiple kitties. Combined with the triple odor-removal system and the highly customized cleaning modes, it’s one of the best options for multi-cat families.

Suitable For:

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.

Suitable For:

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.

Suitable For:

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)

$$$$

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.

Suitable For:

PETKIT Pura X Self-Cleaning Litter Box

(Good)

$$$$

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.

Suitable For:

LitterMaid Automatic Multi-Cat Litter Box

(Fair)

$

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.

Suitable For:

GUIDE TO

Automatic
Litter
Boxes

Why Consider An Automatic Litter Box?

Automatic litter boxes have steadily gained popularity among cat owners looking to streamline daily pet care. Far more than a mere novelty, these innovative systems rely on sensors and self-cleaning mechanisms to sift waste automatically, reducing the need for constant scooping. By tackling one of the most time-consuming aspects of pet ownership, automatic litter boxes offer a cleaner home and create a more sanitary environment for cats.

Not only do these self-cleaning litter boxes simplify your routine, but they also improve your cat’s overall comfort—making them a practical, modern solution for today’s busy feline families.

PROCESS

How Do Automatic Litter Boxes Work?

cat steps in

Cheek Swab

Your cat uses the box just like any traditional litter box. The familiar litter surface feels natural, offering a comfortable spot to relieve themselves. Everything stays straightforward for your pet right from the start.

Sensors & Activation

Detect & Trigger

When your cat leaves, sensors confirm the box is empty. After a brief delay, the self-cleaning cycle kicks in—no more constant scooping for you, and seamless convenience for your feline friend.

Cleaning Mechanism

Sift & Separate

During cleaning, the unit sifts or rotates the litter, moving waste into a concealed compartment. Odors are contained, leaving fresh litter in the main area—ready for the next use.

Waste Removal

Dispose & Refresh

When the drawer is full, simply slide it out, remove the bagged waste, and replace it with a fresh liner—keeping your home cleaner, your cat’s area sanitary, and maintenance hassle-free.

HOW TO CHOOSE

Choosing the Best Automatic Litter Box for Your Needs?

Finding the right automatic litter box depends on your cat’s habits and your personal preferences. Consider these factors:

01 Box Capacity

Decide if you need a model for a single cat or multiple felines. Some boxes include larger waste bins and deeper basins, while others are built with a smaller footprint for tighter spaces. Ensure your cat can step in and out without feeling cramped.

02 Cleaning Mechanisms

Look at how the box actually cleans—some use a rake system, others rotate to sift out waste. A quiet operation and reliable sensors help minimize disruptions. If your cat spooks easily, choose a unit that prioritizes gentle, automated cycles.

03 Odor Control

Sealed waste compartments, carbon filters, and specialized liners all help tackle smells. If you’re sensitive to odors or live in a smaller space, focus on boxes designed with strong odor-blocking features. It’s worth checking reviews to see how each model handles this issue.

04 Maintenance & Cost

Some units rely on proprietary waste bags or filters, while others allow standard supplies. Factor in ongoing costs and how often you’ll need to empty the bin. Higher-end models may cost more initially, but can save time and effort over the long haul.

BENEFITS & CONCERNS

Pros & Cons of Automatic Litter Boxes?

PROS

CONS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQs About Automatic Litter Boxes

Are automatic litter boxes reliable?

Many modern models feature sturdy construction and advanced sensors that trigger cleaning only when the box is empty. While occasional malfunctions can occur, most reputable brands are designed to handle regular daily use with minimal issues.

Will my cat be comfortable using one?

Most cats adapt well if introduced gradually. Allow your cat to sniff around and use the automatic box without turning on the cleaning cycle at first. Once they’re accustomed, the automation typically goes unnoticed.

How often do I need to empty the waste drawer?

It depends on the box’s capacity and the number of cats. In most cases, you’ll only need to empty the waste drawer every few days or once a week—much less often than a standard litter box.

Are automatic litter boxes safe?

Yes. Built-in safety features, like motion sensors and delay timers, prevent the cleaning process from starting while a cat is inside. This ensures your pet stays safe and unafraid during normal use.

What type of cat litter should I use?

Most automatic boxes work best with clumping litter, but always check the manufacturer’s guidelines. Using a compatible litter ensures smoother cleaning cycles and reduces the risk of clogs.