Cleaning out a cat’s litter box is one of the least fun tasks of owning a cat. I’m sure you’re not going to disagree with me there.
The good news is, there are some automatic self-cleaning cat litter boxes on the market. Technology has come a long way in recent years, so whatever you think these little boxes to be like, cast that image aside.
You’re going to be pleasantly surprised just how well they work. How much time and effort it will save you manually scooping poop out their box. And, how much happier your cat is going to be too.
Quick Comparison: Best Automatic Cat Litter Boxes
| Picture | Cat litter Box | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| ScoopFree Self-Cleaning Litter Box | $$$ | 4.5 |
| Omega Paw Self-Cleaning Litter Box | $ | 4.4 |
| Scoop Free Ultra Self Cleaning Cat Litter Box | $$$ | 4.3 |
| Littermaid LM980 Mega Self-Cleaning Litter Box | $$ | 4.1 |
Read on for detailed reviews of each product.
How Do Automatic Cat Litter Boxes Work?
There are a few different types of self-cleaning litter boxes. But most of them follow the same principles.
They have a rake that moves from one side to the other, raking the litter and picking up any mess. Much like you would manually.
The waste is then put in a separate container. Good quality boxes are great at stopping any odor being detected, and are also quiet when raking.
You’re probably wondering how the box knows it’s been used, and how it knows not to rake when the cat is in there.
They typically have sensors that set the system off when a cat enters or leaves the box. With additional safety switch that stops it operating when a cat is in there.
Why Finding the Best Automatic Cat Litter Box Is Important
No one likes cleaning out a litter box manually. So an automatic one is a smart choice. But like with most purchases, you can’t go into it without knowing what you’re looking for.
Cheap or badly designed boxes can turn out to be more hassle than they are worth. If it’s too loud, your cat won’t want to use it. That means your cat will find somewhere else, not good!
If it doesn’t clean properly or as often as it should. Again, your cat will not want to use it. Plus, you will likely detect odors, which is another thing you want to avoid.
So you need to find a smooth, quiet, reliable, and quality automatic litter box. Which is why I have reviewed and looking closely at the best four that not only meet all these requirements. They offer good value for money too.
Reviews of the Best Self Cleaning Automatic Cat Litter Boxes
ScoopFree Self-Cleaning Litter Box
It comes with a disposable litter tray, prefilled with blue crystals. It has a plastic lining, creating a barrier against leaking.
This ScoopFree Self-Cleaning Litter Box works by sweeping waste out of sight. Storing it in a separate container locking in any odors.
If you’re going away you can leave this box for weeks at a time. Not many boxes use disposable trays like this one too. So you get to easily pick up and throw out the used litter.
Just replace the tray every few weeks. Meaning you have a minimal hassle, low maintenance, convenient solution.
Omega Paw Self-Cleaning Litter Box
It doesn’t use any electricity, liners, or filters. It has a patented grill to separate waste from the rest of the litter.
The waste collects in a tray that just simply pulls out. Meaning you can pick up and dispose of the waste as often as you feel necessary. The manufactures claim it’s great with multiple cats, or big kitties.
So if you have more than one cat that are already ok with sharing a tray, this one might be for you. To use, just roll the box on its side, this causes the scoop and grill to separate the waste from the litter and you’re ready to go.
Scoop Free Ultra Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box
You can set it to clean for 5, 10 or 20 minutes after it’s been used by your cat. It’s equipped with safety sensors, so no need to worry about safety.
It’s a big unit. So cat of any size should be just fine. Multi cat use is fine too if that’s how you already run things in your household.
Scoop Free Ultra Self Cleaning Cat Litter Box uses disposable litter trays. So you will not have to get your hands dirty. You don’t see, smell, or touch any waste. Perfect for people who really don’t enjoy that side of things.
Littermaid LM980 Mega Self-Cleaning Litter Box
This Littermaid LM980 Mega Self-Cleaning Litter Box is a little less expensive than most models, but seeing as owners give it a thumbs up for reliability, there are no concerns there.
It’s an open top style, with large walls and good coverage. It’s passed for cats weighing 15 lbs so even those big chunky cats can use it without the worry of breaking it.
It has a little paw cleaning ramp for kitties on the way off. Not sure how effective that is, but it’s a nice touch.