As soon as you bring home your new kitty, they begin learning how to navigate their new surroundings. At first, litter training might seem like a challenge. Some kittens will catch on the first time, and others can be a bit less receptive initially.
Buying an appropriate litter box will help them with the process. To make things easier, we’ve written some reviews that we think you’ll love when it comes to searching for litter boxes geared towards young cats. Here are the top products tailored to meet your kitten’s needs.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites
The 10 Best Litter Boxes for Kittens – Reviews & Top Picks 2021
1. IRIS USA Clean Pet Open Top Litterbox — Best Overall
Design:
Bolstered sides
Entry Point:
Front
Purpose:
Easy access, flicking prevention
Overall, we loved the IRIS USA Clean Pet Open Top Litterbox the most. This selection is large, easy to climb inside, and efficient. Your kitten should have no issues finding the box, which is one of the most important factors to consider.
There is a simple front entry point with bolstered sides all around that snaps into the base. These raised areas prevent your kitten from slinging the litter out of the box and making bigger messes. You can take them off when you need to for routine maintenance and cleaning.
The plastic is safe and easy to wipe down. Once you change out the litter completely, you can sanitize it without worrying about smell retention. It’s also large enough that you won’t have to replace the entire box once your kitten reaches maturity.
The design is perfect for helping your kitten feel secure without being too enclosed or exposed. There are no unique qualities that this litter box has as far as special features are concerned, but it does the job well. It even comes with a scooper as a bonus.
Pros
Simple entry
Provides security while using the bathroom
Easy to clean
Comes with scooper
2. Van Ness Cat Starter Kit – Best Value
Design:
Starter Set
Entry Point:
Front
Purpose:
All-in-one-kit
We think that the best litter box for kittens for the money is the Van Ness Cat Starter Kit. It comes with everything you need to set up your cat area. It includes plastic food and water dishes along with a matching scooper.
The litter box has a simple, open concept that is easy for kittens to spot and smell. There’s nothing fancy here, just lots of convenient items that first-time owners need. So if you have no supplies just yet, this purchase may be the smarter move you can make.
The front of the box has a low entryway that is easy for your cat to access. It also has an attachment for the top that prevents flicking and tracking. For the price, we think it truly is the best value. But if you already have some supplies, you may not benefit from the extras.
This stylish self-cleaning selection comes in three colors: gray, purple, and taupe. You can also select between top or side entry—but the standard front entry might be best for early learners. Having a top entry might prove tricky for them to find.
The entire concept is pretty straightforward. This item comes with a crystal litter pan that fits nicely on the bottom. You just place the litter pan, close the box itself, and let your cat do their business. This design offers odor control for up to a week.
The crystal litter is ultra-absorbent and low-tracking, so you can contain orders with efficiency. Keep in mind that this setup is designed for this specific litter. If you find your cat doesn’t like it, you might not be able to use it long-term.
Your kitten will adore the low front entry because it is easy to climb in and out of. The sides are high, so you won’t have to worry about sweeping up unnecessary messes or stepping in litter when you walk through the room.
Another really awesome perk as it has antimicrobial iodine protection built into the plastic. This box prevents odors from lingering inside of the plastic itself so you can breathe easier after every cleaning. If you don’t have an available corner, you might not need this particular design.
Pros
Fits in corners
Low entry point
Antimicrobial plastic
Cons
Design might not work in every space
5. Kitty’s Wonderbox Disposable Litter Box
Design:
Disposable, biodegradable
Entry Point:
Front
Purpose:
short-term use
If you’re just getting started with the process, the Kitty’s Wonderbox Disposable Litterbox might work out for your needs. You can recycle them when all is said and done. They are low enough that your kitten can hop in and out. Once your cat fills the box to capacity, you can pitch the whole thing—guilt-free.
The litter pan is designed for ultimate airflow, keeping everything fresh and sanitary. The litter pan itself is entirely biodegradable. If you were going to sit in a more eco-friendly way of doing things, you might want to fill it with biodegradable litter as well, such as paper pellet litter.
Each box lasts a few weeks apiece with daily cleaning. These selections are perfect for outings, trips, and those little kittens were just learning the ropes. Of course, this disposable factor is a temporary solution until your kitty gets the concept. Replacements can get pricey otherwise.
Pros
Perfect for training
Disposable
Biodegradable
6. Iris USA Pne-500H
Design:
Bolstered sides
Entry Point:
Front
Purpose:
Easy access, reduces litter flicking
For kittens, we really think the Iris USA Pne-500H is worth considering due to its overall shape. This oval litter box has a high base around the sides with a lower front entry point. Your kitten will have virtually no trouble out of the box.
The sides are just high enough that they won’t be making a bunch of messes during training. You can disassemble the top piece to give you easy cleaning access. This lightweight contraption comes in two color choices: white or black.
We loved the oval design because it makes it easier to clean. Sometimes, with traditional square shapes, poop clumps can get stuck in the corners, making it a real pain to clean. This setup eliminates any annoying issues you might have.
It also offers a handy little scooper to get things going. But we have to admit—it’s a little flimsy and not the most durable against tough messes.
Pros
Oval design for easy cleaning
Bolstered sides
Multiple colors
7. PetMate Booda Dome Clean Step Cat Litter Box
Design:
Enclosed, gradual steps
Entry Point:
Front
Purpose:
Low-tracking
Providing easy entry and low tracking, we love the Petmate Booda Dome Clean Step Cat Litter Box. This teaches excellent habits to your cat early on. They can go into a secluded area that is totally private to do their business. This helps to control odor and keep waste out of sight.
They won’t have any problem walking up the ramp to the inside of the litter box either. So, if you have a kitty just starting out, they shouldn’t have any problem with mobility. Also, the enclosed design helps to combat airborne smells.
When you’re ready to clean this litter box, you simply pop off the top and sift through the litter. It isn’t complicated—just a few snaps, and you’re able to clean out the box and reassemble. Make sure to keep the entryway ramp free of debris.
Each time you clean the litter box, it would be good to wipe down the steps to keep everything sanitary. If you already have existing cats, this works for a multi-cat household just fine. However, some kittens might not like being in a dark box right away—so keep that in mind.
Pros
Secluded area
Low-tracking
Odor control
Cons
Some kittens might not like being enclosed
8. Pet Fit For Life Collapsible Litter Box
Design:
Collapsible, portable
Entry Point:
Front
Purpose:
Travel, short-term use
If you were on the go a lot while your kitten is young, Pet Fit For Life Collapsible Portable Litter Box has a solution. This litter box is perfect for vacations, camping trips, and grooming visits. Anywhere where your cat will be without a suitable place to use the bathroom, you can bring this nifty box with you.
The construction is entirely collapsible—so when you aren’t using it, you can always clean it out thoroughly, fold it up, and store it away. Of course, if you don’t have any planned trips that require a reusable litter box, you might not need the features specifically.
However, if you are a person who is on the go a lot, it’s a good option for you. It’s also suitable for training purposes.
Pros
Perfect for travel or training
Collapsible
Reusable
9. PetFusion BetterBox Non-Stick Large Litter Box
Design:
Open concept
Entry Point:
Low entry, front
Purpose:
Easy access
The PetFusion BetterBox Non-Stick Large Litter Box will last your kitty from early years well into adulthood. This box is the perfect size to allow your kitty lots of space to grow. It also has a low entry point to make it easier for your cat to climb in and out as they need.
Overall, it is a pretty standard, simple concept. It doesn’t come with any special bonuses—just the litter pan itself. However, this option is incredibly durable.This litter box has higher sides than many others, which prevents a majority of flicking behaviors. However, messes can still happen if your cat flicks more than most. Because it is made of odor-resistant plastic, it’s a breeze to clean.
Pros
Non-stick
Higher sides
Odor-resistant
Cons
Sides might not be tall enough for some
10. Purina Tidy Cats Breeze Litter Box System
Design:
Multi-step system
Entry Point:
Front
Purpose:
Reduce odor
The Purina Tidy Cats Breeze Litter Box System offers everything you need when you’re starting out. However, we have to mention that these components are brand-specific. That means you have to purchase specific refills during upkeep.
Aside from this recurring cost, we love the setup. The litter box itself is heavy-duty, making it last for years to come. The litter is paper pellet-based, making the waste biodegradable. It also requires absorbent pads that trap in heavy anomia smells for up to 7 days per cat.
A major downfall here—if you don’t yet know what litter works best for your cat, this can be a pretty big commitment. It’s more expensive than most due to the additives in the box, but if your kitten says no—you’re stuck with an unusable litter box with no purpose.
Pros
All-inclusive product
Heavy-duty
Efficient System
Biodegradable litter
Cons
Pricy replacements
Not all kittens will take to the type of litter
Buyer’s Guide
If you’re shopping for a litterbox for your new addition, that probably isn’t the only task on your list. Bringing home a new kitten is an event full of anxieties and excitement. To make the process easier for you both, creating good bathroom habits early is essential.
So, just how do you train a kitten? And what aspects are essential when you shop for supplies? Let’s discuss the process and how to pick the litter box that will help you on this journey.
How to Litter Train a Kitten
You might dread the idea of litter training, but cats actually catch on pretty quick to the concept. Most kittens that come home at eight weeks have some awareness of litter box use, even if there are a few accidents along the way.
Here are a few tips to get you through the training process:
1. Introduce your kitten to the litter box when they arrive home
Litter Box introductions should be one of the first things you do when you bring your kitty home. Put them inside and let them sniff around.
2. Place the kitten into the litter box when they finish eating or drinking
Anytime your kitten indulges in food or drink, show them the litter box. Cats will eliminate shortly after consuming water or meals, so it’s good to get them in the routine.
3. Limit free-range access in your home
At first, it’s a good idea to keep your kitten safely in one room. That will allow them to get adjusted to the new area without a lot of extra space to run off and potty out of the litter box. You can slowly extend their range whenever you’re comfortable.
4. Have more than one litter box
Your home is a big, new place for a tiny cat. Once you feel comfortable allowing them to free-range, offer a litter box in every room until they are acclimated properly.
5. Leave a small amount of waste behind during every cleaning
Until your kitten gets into the swing of things, leave a small amount of poop or a pee spot in the litter box. The smell will remind them where they need to go each time they get the urge.
6. Reward your kitten for a job well done
Each time your kitty goes to the potty in their new box, reward them accordingly. Offer a favorite treat or a fun toy.
7. Avoid punishments for accidents
Cats don’t respond favorably to harsh punishments. They simply don’t understand this aggression. Instead of scolding your cat, try to maintain patience and understanding.
8. Know that the type of litter is just as important as the box
It’s best to start your cat off with a clumping litter. It encourages good covering behavior and caters to their natural impulse to bury their waste.
Most kittens will get the hang of this right away. Cats have natural impulses to bury and cover their waste—how polite. So once you introduce them to a suitable box that they can use freely, they will soon want to use nothing else.
Most kittens are fully litter trained by 8 weeks, but it can be a long process for some. Have patience, use positive reinforcement tactics, and always buy the right supplies.
Image Credit: Ekatsyerina Kostsina, Shutterstock
Types of Litterboxes for Kittens
While there are tons of options on the market, here are the best types of litter boxes for kittens.
Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes
Self-cleaning litter boxes are designed to reduce odors associated with cat boxes. This way, you can go a bit longer in between cleanings.
When you first start out with litter training, it is best to always leave a little waste behind as a scented reminder for your kitten. The smell will attract them to the box—and they’ll get the hang of it in no time.
Traditional Litter Boxes
Traditional litter boxes are typically made of anti-stick plastic and basic properties that do the intended job. Many of these options are just a standard plastic base without hoods, covered entries, or extra bells and whistles.
These selections are meant to accomplish one task—providing your cat with adequate bathroom space.
Hooded Litter Boxes
Hooded litter boxes are positive for both owners and cats alike. As a kitten, feeling vulnerable while doing their business can make them find more favorable spots to go—like under your bed. With a hood, they can feel safer and more relaxed during the process.
Plus, having a hood traps in some of the strong waste odors, so your home won’t smell like a porta-potty.
Low-Entry Litter Boxes
Kittens are downright tiny when you bring them home. At first, they might not be too keen about jumping into a dark box to do their business. A low-entry point allows them to step inside with ease, making the process more seamless.
We do need to note that this can lead to additional tracking, so make sure you secure the front of the box with a protective mat.
Disposable Litter Boxes
Disposable litter boxes are a great training tool. You can start them off with this type since it provides biodegradable qualities and helps to teach them where to go. After the first several weeks, you can transition to a long-term litterbox of your choosing.
Image Credit: Africa Studio, Shutterstock
Litter Boxes to Avoid for Kittens
Even though a litter box might seem like a simple item without much thought, there are a few types to avoid if you have an early learner.
Top Entry Litter Boxes
Top entry litter boxes are designed to allow cats access through the top portion of the hooded box. It eliminates a lot of tracking and keeps smells to a minimum.
However, finding the entry can be confusing when you have a kitten who isn’t familiar with proper potty etiquette. Since that can lead to accidents, it’s best to steer away from these types.
Covered Door Litter Boxes
Some hooded litter boxes come fully equipped with flap doors in front of the entry/exit point. These boxes are terrific to keep bad smells contained inside of the box without leaking into the rest of the house.
However, with kittens, they might not be strong enough to push through the door. Or, they might feel confused or uneasy with this type of entryway. These boxes are best suited for experienced litter box users.
Conclusion
Hopefully, these honest reviews help you select the best option for your young little cat so they can grow with healthy bathroom habits. Litter training doesn’t have to be difficult, especially if you make the whole process easier for your new learner.
We stand by our top choice—the IRIS USA Clean Pet Open Top Litterbox. It provides adequate security without any tricky entry points or dark spaces. It prevents litter flicking, too—which is common among kittens. Ultimately, we think it has every feature you need for litter training success.
As far as money-savers, we pick the Van Ness Cat Starter Kit. It comes with all the basics to get you started, so you trim down on cost right away. Plus, it provides an easy-access open concept for your newbie, so they know where to put their waste without searching.
No matter what you choose, remember to be patient while your kitty learns where to use the bathroom.
Featured Image Credit: galsand, Shutterstock
Ashley Bates is a freelance dog writer and pet enthusiast who is currently studying the art of animal therapy. A mother to four human children— and 23 furry and feathery kids, too – Ashley volunteers at local shelters, advocates for animal well-being, and rescues every creature she finds. Her mission is to create awareness, education, and entertainment about pets to prevent homelessness. Her specialties are cats and dogs.
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