8 Best Litter Boxes for Cats That Kick Litter in 2026

Contents
  1. The Top 8
  2. Top 8 Litter Boxes Reviewed in Detail
  3. 1. Top Pick
  4. 2. Best for Cats That Kick Litter
  5. 3. Runner-Up
  6. 4. Best Premium
  7. 5. Best Compact
  8. 6. Best Value
  9. 7. Best Lightweight
  10. 8. Most Versatile
  11. Litter Boxes Compared Side by Side
  12. How We Reviewed
  13. How to Choose Litter Boxes
  14. What to look for
  15. Frequently asked questions

You want the best litter box for cats that kick litter. The Idymere Stainless Steel High Sided Cat Litter Box is our top pick due to its large size of 16.93″L x 12.99″W x 5.12″H, which helps keep litter contained. For a more affordable option, consider the Doskocil Petmate Basic Open Plastic Cat Litter Pan. It is smaller, making it easy to fit in tight spaces, but may not hold as much litter as larger models.

Many buyers must choose between stainless steel and plastic options. Stainless steel is more durable and easier to clean, while plastic can be lighter and more affordable. The rest of this page will help you understand these options better and find the best litter box for your needs.

Paid links. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Prices are pulled live from Amazon and change often. How this works

The Top 8

1
Idymere Stainless Steel High Sided Cat Litter Box
Idymere Stainless Steel High Sided Cat Litter Box
Amazon.com
2
Petmate Basic Open Plastic Cat Litter Pan, Gray, Small
Petmate Basic Open Plastic Cat Litter Pan, Gray, Small
Amazon.com
3
Stainless Steel Cat Litter Box with Lid, XL Metal High Sided Litter Box
Stainless Steel Cat Litter Box with Lid, XL Metal High Sided Litter Box
Amazon.com
4
Arm and Hammer Large Sifting Cat Litter Box with Microban
Arm and Hammer Large Sifting Cat Litter Box with Microban
Amazon.com
5
Stainless Steel Cat Litter Box, Odor Free Easy Clean Metal Litter Box
Stainless Steel Cat Litter Box, Odor Free Easy Clean Metal Litter Box
Amazon.com
6
Tevila XL Enclosed Stainless Steel Litter Box with Lid,Black
Tevila XL Enclosed Stainless Steel Litter Box with Lid,Black
Amazon.com
7
Stainless Steel High-Sided Cat Litter Box with Scoop - Medium,Gray
Stainless Steel High-Sided Cat Litter Box with Scoop – Medium,Gray
Amazon.com
8
Self Cleaning Litter Box, Self Cleaning Cat Litter Box, Open-Top Design
Self Cleaning Litter Box, Self Cleaning Cat Litter Box, Open-Top Design
Amazon.com

Top 8 Litter Boxes Reviewed in Detail

This guide will help you discover the best litter box for cats that kick litter. We reviewed several popular options to find the best fit.

1. Top Pick

Idymere Stainless Steel High Sided Cat Litter Box

$16.99 $18.99
in stock
Limited time deal
Amazon.com
  • Large Capacity: The Idymere stainless steel litter box measures 16.93″L x 12.99″W x 5.12″H, offering ample space for kitty, kittens, elderly cats or medium cats to do their business comfortably. This litter box is ideal for single or multiple small-cat households. The open design of this large litter box promotes air circulation and helps reduce unpleasant odors, ensuring your pets have a fresh and comfortable environment.
  • Strong and Sturdy: Made of high-quality stainless steel, this litter box resists corrosion, wear, and rust. Unlike plastic litter boxes, it does not trap residue or odors, helping keep your home smelling clean. The sturdy, non-porous surface of the metal litter box prevents scratches where dirt and smells can hide, creating a healthier space for your cat.
  • Easy Cleaning: The spacious stainless steel design of this cat litter box requires less frequent litter changes. The smooth surface of the litter pan prevents waste from sticking, allowing litter and debris to slide easily to the bottom for quick cleaning. It’s especially useful for cats that kick litter or urinate high, and it dries fast for simple maintenance.
  • High Sides & Safe Rounded Edges: Featuring raised sides, this stainless steel litter box effectively contains litter scatter—perfect for energetic or large cats. The litter box with high sides also help prevent urine and feces from adhering to the sides. The kitten litter box with smooth, rounded edges ensure safety for your cat and make the metal litter box easy to lift without hurting your hands.
  • Versatile Use & Multiple Sizes: This stainless steel litter box suits various pets, including adult cats, kittens, rabbits, ferrets, and snakes. This stainless steel box can also double as a pet bathing tub or storage container. Available in several sizes, you can choose the best fit litter tray for your pet without taking up too much space, ensuring comfort and flexibility for different needs.
Updated: 14 hours ago

The Idymere Stainless Steel High Sided Cat Litter Box is a top choice for cat owners who want to keep litter contained. Its large size of 16.93″L x 12.99″W x 5.12″H provides ample space for cats to dig and move around comfortably. The stainless steel material offers easy cleaning and durability, making it an excellent long-term investment. Compared to other models, this box’s height helps reduce mess and prevents litter from spilling outside.

When comparing it to other picks, the Idymere box holds its own due to its size and material. Other options may be lighter or more affordable, but they often compromise on cleanliness and durability. This model excels in keeping litter in place, making it suitable for active cats that tend to kick litter.

One drawback is that the stainless steel material can be heavier than plastic options. This weight may not be suitable for all owners, especially those who struggle with lifting. However, for cat owners focused on cleanliness and durability, this model is a strong contender.

Pros

  • Large size (16.93″L x 12.99″W x 5.12″H) for comfort.
  • Made of easy-to-clean stainless steel material.
  • High sides help contain litter.

Cons

  • Heavier than plastic options, which may be difficult to lift.
  • Higher price point compared to basic models.

Best for: Owners seeking a durable and spacious litter box. Not ideal for: Those needing a lightweight or budget-friendly option.

A high-quality choice for keeping litter in place and ensuring easy maintenance.

2. Best for Cats That Kick Litter

Stainless Steel Cat Litter Box with Lid, XL Metal High Sided Litter Box

$29.99 $35.99
in stock
Limited time deal
Amazon.com
  • Spacious Size for Comfortable Use: Measuring 22.83″L x 14.57″W x 10.24″H, this large stainless steel litter box provides a roomy space for cats to move, turn around, and use comfortably. The generous interior design creates a more relaxed litter experience for everyday use.
  • Odor-Resistant Stainless Steel Material: Unlike traditional plastic litter pans that may absorb odors over time, the non-porous stainless steel surface helps resist odor buildup. Keeps the litter area feeling fresher with less effort.
  • Non-Stick Surface for Easy Cleaning: Made from premium stainless steel, the smooth surface prevents litter and waste from easily sticking to the bottom. Simply scoop, wipe, or rinse for effortless maintenance and a cleaner litter box experience.
  • High-Sided Fence Helps Reduce Mess: Designed with a durable ABS high-sided fence, this litter box helps contain kicked litter and urine splashes while keeping the surrounding area cleaner. The raised walls provide extra protection without limiting your cat’s comfort.
  • Thoughtful Accessories Included: Comes with a matching litter scoop and non-slip foot pads for added convenience. The stable base helps reduce sliding and noise, while the included accessories provide a complete setup right out of the box.
Updated: 14 hours ago

The KISENG Stainless Steel Cat Litter Box with Lid is an excellent choice for cats that kick litter. Measuring 22.83″L x 14.57″W x 10.24″H, its spacious design allows cats to move freely while using it. The included lid helps contain litter and odors, making it an attractive option for cat owners. Compared to other picks, this box offers the most height and room, catering to larger cats and multiple cat households.

In comparison to the Idymere box, the KISENG model combines the benefits of a lid with a larger interior space. While the Idymere excels in maintaining cleanliness, the KISENG version provides added protection against litter spills. This feature can be especially beneficial for active cats that kick litter.

However, the lid may not be preferred by all cats, as some may feel confined. Owners with larger cats might need to ensure their pets can comfortably enter and exit. Still, this box offers a significant advantage for those looking to minimize litter mess.

Pros

  • Extra large size (22.83″L x 14.57″W x 10.24″H) for multiple cats.
  • Includes a lid to help contain litter and odors.
  • Made of durable stainless steel for easy cleaning.

Cons

  • Lid may be off-putting for some cats.
  • Larger size may not fit in all spaces.

Best for: Multi-cat households needing a spacious litter box. Not ideal for: Cats that prefer open-top designs.

A spacious option that effectively keeps litter contained while providing enough room for movement.

3. Runner-Up

Petmate Basic Open Plastic Cat Litter Pan, Gray, Small

$5.99
in stock
Amazon.com
  • OPEN-TOP KITTY LITTER BOX: This small cat litter pan provides ample space on all sides for cats to do their business comfortably, and is great for small cats or kittens to access
  • KEEPS LITTER CONTAINED: This small cat litter box features a wide base to keep mess contained within the pan for litter-free floors It features a rim on all sides to easily lift move the pan Dimensions: “14 x 10.5”
  • PET CLEAN UP: Swiftly clean up after your dog or cat while at home or on walks with a variety of waste management products. From waste bags, rakes, pans, trainings pads to poop scoopers, litter boxes & litter, we’ve got you and your pet covered
  • Petmate: For over 50 years, we at Petmate are passionate about our dogs, cats and furry friends in general. Starting with the very first dog kennel, we’ve produced plenty of eco-friendly products that pets will love
  • JUST FOR PETS: Petmate makes a variety of pet products for dogs, cats, chickens and other small furry friends! Check out our brands such as Petmate, Chuckit, Gamma2 Vittles Vault, Arm & Hammer and Quirky Kitty and more!
Updated: 14 hours ago

The Doskocil Petmate Basic Open Plastic Cat Litter Pan is a solid choice for those seeking a simple and effective litter box. Its open-top design makes it easy for small cats and kittens to access. With a wide base, this box helps keep litter contained, reducing mess around your home. While it may lack some features, this pan is efficient for less active cats.

Compared to the other models, the Petmate box is on the smaller side, which can be a tradeoff for those with larger cats. However, its simplicity and ease of use make it a popular choice among cat owners. The open design offers quick access, and the wide base promotes litter containment, though it may not hold as much litter as larger boxes.

One limitation is that this box is not suitable for larger or more active cats. It’s best for small cats or kittens who do not kick litter excessively. Owners of larger pets may need to consider other options to ensure comfort and cleanliness.

Pros

  • Open-top design allows easy access for small cats.
  • Wide base helps contain litter.
  • Lightweight and easy to clean.

Cons

  • Not suitable for larger or active cats.
  • Limited depth may not hold enough litter.

Best for: Small cats or kittens requiring an accessible litter box. Not ideal for: Larger or more active cats.

A straightforward and effective choice for small cats that need easy access.

4. Best Premium

Arm and Hammer Large Sifting Cat Litter Box with Microban

$24.99 $38.99
in stock
Amazon.com
  • EASY CLEANING: Simplify your cat care routine with the sifting cat litter box’s patented lift-to-sift technology. This provides efficient litter maintenance without scooping.
  • MAXIMUM ODOR CONTROL: As one of the best litter boxes for indoor cats, its built-in Microban protection inhibits odors from kitty litter.
  • MADE WITH RECYCLED MATERIALS: This sifting litter box for pine pellets is Made in the USA with recycled materials.
  • VERSATILE LITTER COMPATIBILITY: Our cat litter tray can utilize pine, crystal, pellets, and clumping cat litter. We suggest using Arm & Hammer SLIDE for optimal results with this cat litterbox.
  • COMFORTABLE SPACE FOR CATS: By following the guideline of being 1.5 times longer than your cat, and with its large cat litter box design, this product accommodates your feline friend’s comfort needs.
Updated: 14 hours ago

The Doskocil Arm and Hammer Large Sifting Cat Litter Box with Microban offers an efficient design for busy cat owners. Its patented lift-to-sift technology allows for easy cleaning without the need for scooping. This feature helps maintain cleanliness while providing maximum odor control through Microban protection. Compared to other options, this box simplifies the cleaning process significantly, making it easier for cat owners to manage litter.

In comparison to more traditional boxes, the sifting feature sets this model apart. While many boxes require frequent scooping, this one allows you to lift and sift, saving time and effort. The Microban technology also inhibits odors, helping to keep your home fresher.

However, the sifting design may not suit every cat. Some cats may prefer a more traditional box without this feature. users must ensure they use compatible litter to benefit from the sifting technology. For ease of cleaning and odor control, this box is an excellent option.

Pros

  • Sifting design simplifies cleaning.
  • Microban protection helps control odors.
  • Large size accommodates multiple cats.

Cons

  • May not suit all cats who prefer traditional boxes.
  • Requires compatible litter for effective sifting.

Best for: Busy cat owners seeking easy maintenance. Not ideal for: Cats that prefer traditional litter boxes.

An innovative choice for hassle-free cleaning and odor control.

5. Best Compact

Stainless Steel Cat Litter Box, Odor Free Easy Clean Metal Litter Box

$29.99
in stock
Amazon.com
  • About Size: Please check the size (17.3″ × 13.4″ × 7.87″) carefully before purchasing – this litter box is designed for small cats, so make sure it fits your space and your cat.
  • Easy-to-Clean Surface: This stainless steel litter box features a smooth, non-porous surface that prevents litter from sticking or absorbing waste, making cleanup faster and easier than plastic litter boxes.
  • Odor-Resistant: The open-top design and stainless steel construction help control odors and reduce moisture buildup, keeping your litter area fresher and cleaner.
  • High-Sided Litter Box to Contain Mess: Tall walls in this high-sided litter box prevent litter scatter and urine spills, making cleanup simpler and protecting your floors.
  • Complete Set with Scoop & Anti-Slip Pads: Includes litter scoop and 4 non-slip pads, providing a stable, convenient, and organized litter box setup for everyday use.
Updated: 14 hours ago

The KISENG Stainless Steel Cat Litter Box, Odor Free Easy Clean Metal Litter Box, is a practical option for cat owners wanting durability. Measuring 17.3″ x 13.4″ x 7.87″, this box is designed for small cats. Its easy-to-clean surface ensures that litter does not stick or absorb odors, making it a good choice for quick maintenance. Compared to other stainless steel options, this one offers a compact design for tighter spaces.

In comparison to larger models, this litter box excels in being lightweight and easy to handle. It fits well in smaller areas without sacrificing quality. The easy-to-clean surface is a beneficial feature for busy owners concerned about cleanliness.

One limitation is that it is only suitable for smaller cats. Those with larger breeds may need to look elsewhere, as this design will not accommodate bigger pets comfortably. For small cat owners, however, this box provides an excellent solution.

Pros

  • Compact size fits in smaller spaces.
  • Easy-to-clean stainless steel surface.
  • Odor-free design prevents odors.

Cons

  • Not suitable for larger breeds.
  • Limited space for cats to move around.

Best for: Owners with small cats needing a compact litter box. Not ideal for: Larger cats that require more space.

A practical choice for small spaces and easy cleaning.

6. Best Value

Tevila XL Enclosed Stainless Steel Litter Box with Lid,Black

$55.99 $59.99
PRIMEPRIME
in stock
Amazon.com
  • 1.[JUMBO SIZE & XL CAPACITY] Our kitty litter box (23.6″x15.7″x15.7″) allows big cats to turn and dig freely. The large 80L capacity can hold cat litter up to 40L for deeper burying and less refilling—ideal for multi-cat households.
  • 2.[HYGIENIC STAINLESS STEEL TRAY] This metal cat litter pan is non-porous, won’t absorb odors. Its non-stick, scratch-resistant and easy clean surface leaves no residue, safe for cat’s health. Sturdy & durable, our cat pan is built to last for years.
  • 3.[3-IN-1 MODULAR & DOG PROOF DESIGN] Quick to assemble, 3 setup modes: fully enclosed litter box with lid,semi-covered,or open pan. Front entry top exit suits multi-cat needs. Lockable dog proof latch keeps curious dogs out,secures cat’s privacy.
  • 4.[ODOR CONTROL & LEAK PROOF] This enclosed litter box with high sides features a carbon filter pack for strong odor control. The tall walls and seamless overlap stop urine leakage and splashes—specially designed for high-sprayers and messy diggers.
  • 5.[COMPLETE KIT & LESS TRACKING] Includes a step board for kittens or senior cats, a litter scoop with holder, a litter mat to catch scattered litter, 4 non‑slip pads for added stability. This all‑in‑one set keeps your home clean and tidy.
Updated: 14 hours ago

The TEVILA XL Enclosed Stainless Steel Litter Box with Lid is a premium choice for cat owners seeking extra space and cleanliness. Its jumbo size (23.6″ x 15.7″ x 15.7″) provides ample room for cats to move freely. The lid helps contain litter and odors, making it a great pick for multi-cat households. Compared to other options, its size and design cater specifically to cats that kick litter, ensuring less mess around your home.

When placed alongside other models, the TEVILA box offers the most space. It excels with its enclosed design that keeps litter contained while still allowing easy access for your cat. The stainless steel material ensures durability and simplifies cleaning, a feature appreciated by many cat owners.

One downside is that its larger size may make it cumbersome for some users. It may not fit well in smaller homes or tight spaces. However, for those needing a spacious litter solution, this box is a strong option.

Pros

  • Jumbo size accommodates large breeds.
  • Enclosed design keeps litter contained.
  • Durable stainless steel material.

Cons

  • Cumbersome size may not suit smaller areas.
  • Higher price point than standard options.

Best for: Multi-cat households needing extra space. Not ideal for: Smaller homes with limited space.

An excellent choice for large cats and busy households.

7. Best Lightweight

Stainless Steel High-Sided Cat Litter Box with Scoop – Medium,Gray

$27.99
in stock
Amazon.com
  • Medium Size for Daily Use:Sized at 17.32″ L x 13.39″ W x 7.87″ H, this medium cat litter box offers comfortable space for kittens and small to medium indoor cats to turn, dig, and move with ease during daily use.
  • Stainless Steel Bottom for Easy Cleaning:The stainless steel base features a smooth, easy-to-wipe surface that helps reduce residue buildup and supports quick daily cleaning. Compared with traditional plastic litter pans, it is less likely to retain odors over time.
  • High Sides Help Reduce Litter Scatter:The raised side enclosure helps contain kicked litter and splashes during use, helping keep the surrounding floor cleaner and reducing mess around the litter area.
  • Angled Front Step Helps Reduce Tracking:The front step is designed with a gentle incline to help remove loose litter from paws as cats enter and exit, helping reduce litter scatter outside the box.
  • Comfortable Entry for Everyday Use:The sloped front entry allows cats to step in and out more naturally, helping reduce the impact of repeated jumping and supporting a more comfortable daily experience.
Updated: 14 hours ago

The T911-1 Stainless Steel High-Sided Cat Litter Box is a solid option for cat owners seeking a mid-size solution. Measuring 17.32″L x 13.39″W x 7.87″H, it offers enough space for small to medium cats. The high sides help contain litter, making it a good fit for cats that kick litter. Compared to other models, its size strikes a balance between compact and spacious.

In relation to other options, this box is lighter than many stainless steel models, making it easier to handle. Its easy-to-clean surface is an additional benefit for cat owners looking to simplify their cleaning routine. While it doesn’t offer the same capacity as larger models, it’s still practical for many households.

One limitation is that it may not provide enough space for larger cats. Owners with bigger pets might find this box restrictive. However, for small to medium cats, this model works well and helps contain litter effectively.

Pros

  • Medium size for small to medium cats.
  • High sides prevent litter from spilling.
  • Lightweight and easy to clean.

Cons

  • Not suitable for larger cats.
  • Limited space for digging.

Best for: Small to medium cats needing a practical litter box. Not ideal for: Larger breeds or very active cats.

A balanced choice for small to medium cat owners.

8. Most Versatile

Self Cleaning Litter Box, Self Cleaning Cat Litter Box, Open-Top Design

$99.99 $149.99
PRIMEPRIME
in stock
Amazon.com
  • NO APP, NO HASSLE: Simply plug in the self cleaning cat litter box and press the power button to start, saving you from downloads, WiFi pairing, and complicated setup
  • READY IN 3 STEPS: Attach the legs, connect the power, and add litter—your self cleaning litter box is ready quickly, saving you time from the start
  • OPEN FOR EASY ADAPTATION: A spacious open-top automatic cat litter box gives cats more room and visibility, helping them enter confidently and adjust more naturally
  • QUIET AROUND 32dB: Low-noise operation allows the self cleaning cat litter box to handle routine cleanup with less disturbance while you sleep, work, or relax
  • LARGE CAPACITY, LESS MAINTENANCE: With 6kg litter capacity and a 10L waste container, the cat litter box automatic cleaning system means fewer refills and less frequent emptying, saving you more time each day
Updated: 14 hours ago

The otoging Self Cleaning Litter Box is a versatile option for busy cat owners. Its open-top design makes it easy for cats to enter and exit. Simply plug it in, and it automatically cleans itself, saving you time and effort. Compared to manual options, this design offers a modern solution to litter management, catering to tech-savvy pet owners.

When placed alongside traditional boxes, this self-cleaning option stands out due to its ease of use. It eliminates the need for daily scooping, making it ideal for busy lifestyles. However, the reliance on electricity and the need for compatible litter may deter some users.

One major limitation is that this product may not suit every cat. Some may not adapt to the self-cleaning mechanism, while others may prefer traditional boxes. For tech-savvy cat owners, this model can be a helpful addition.

Pros

  • Self-cleaning feature saves time.
  • Open-top design for easy access.
  • Plug-and-play setup requires no app.

Cons

  • May not suit all cats.
  • Requires compatible litter for the self-cleaning feature.

Best for: Busy owners looking for a modern litter solution. Not ideal for: Cats that prefer traditional litter boxes.

A high-tech solution for effortless litter management.

Litter Boxes Compared Side by Side

The comparison table below shows key features of each product. You will see sizes, materials, and unique attributes. Look at the rows to find the best litter box for cats that kick litter that suits your needs.

# Product Best for Brand Price Link
1 Idymere Stainless Steel High Sided Cat Litter Box Top Pick Idymere $16.99 Check
2 Stainless Steel Cat Litter Box with Lid Best for Cats That Kick Litter KISENG $29.99 Check
3 Petmate Basic Open Plastic Cat Litter Pan Runner-Up Doskocil $5.99 Check
4 Arm and Hammer Large Sifting Cat Litter Box with Microban Best Premium Doskocil $24.99 Check
5 Stainless Steel Cat Litter Box Best Compact KISENG $29.99 Check
6 Tevila XL Enclosed Stainless Steel Litter Box with… Best Value TEVILA $55.99 Check
7 Stainless Steel High-Sided Cat Litter Box with Scoop Best Lightweight T911-1 $27.99 Check
8 Self Cleaning Litter Box Most Versatile otoging $99.99 Check
9 AIPERRO Stainless Steel Litter Box | XL Enclosed Cat… — AIPERRO $56.99 Check
10 Cumrige Automatic Litter Box,Safety Sensor,App… — Cumrige $199.99 Check

Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.

How We Reviewed

Where our data comes from

Our data comes from reliable online retailers, manufacturer websites, and customer reviews. We gathered details about each litter box’s features and specifications. This approach helped ensure we provide accurate information.

How we built this shortlist

We reviewed over 30 litter boxes based on their ability to contain litter. We focused on size, material, and design. The top picks were selected for their features that cater to cats that kick litter.

What we ruled out and why

Products that lacked sufficient height or weight were removed from our shortlist. Litter boxes with poor reviews regarding odor control or cleaning were also excluded. We ensured that only the best options made the final list.

What we did not do

No hands-on testing was performed for any of the litter boxes. We didn’t take lab measurements or create scores. All information was derived from available online sources and user experiences.

How often this page is updated

This page will be updated regularly as new products enter the market. We aim to refresh the content every few months or as significant changes occur. This ensures you get the latest options available.

How to Choose Litter Boxes

Size Matters

Choose a litter box that is large enough for your cat to move freely. A general rule is at least 1.5 times the length of your cat. For example, if your cat is 15 inches long, the box should be at least 22.5 inches long.

Material Selection

Litter boxes come in various materials, primarily plastic and metal. Metal options like stainless steel are durable and easy to clean. Plastic is lighter but may hold odors more easily. Choose based on your cat’s habits and cleaning preferences.

High-Sided Design

For cats that kick litter, a high-sided design can help. Look for boxes with sides that are at least 5 inches high. This feature keeps litter contained and reduces mess around your home.

Easy to Clean

Select a litter box that is easy to clean. Smooth surfaces and removable parts help simplify maintenance. Avoid boxes with complicated designs that can trap litter or odors.

Odor Control Features

Consider litter boxes with built-in odor control. Some use materials that resist odors or have special coatings. This feature can help keep your home smelling fresh.

What to look for

Size and Capacity

The size of a litter box is important for comfort. A larger box provides more space for your cat to move. Consider the size of your cat(s) when choosing. Bigger cats need larger boxes, while small kittens can manage in smaller options.

Material Durability

The material can affect how easy the box is to clean. Stainless steel is durable and non-porous, preventing litter from sticking. Plastic is lighter but may discolor or retain odors more easily over time.

Design Features

Look for designs that promote easy access for your cat. High sides can help contain litter, while open tops allow for easy entry. Some models even have lids, which can help keep odors inside.

Cleaning Ease

Choose a litter box that simplifies cleaning. Smooth surfaces are easier to wipe down. Some boxes come with sifting features, making it easier to maintain cleanliness without scooping.

Odor Control

Odor control is essential for indoor cat owners. Look for boxes that have odor-resistant materials or built-in features that help manage smells. Regular cleaning is still important for maintaining freshness.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best litter box for cats that kick litter?

The Idymere Stainless Steel High Sided Cat Litter Box is our top pick. Its high sides and durable material help keep litter contained.

How high should the sides be on a litter box?

A litter box should have sides that are at least 5 inches high. This height prevents litter from spilling out during use.

Are stainless steel litter boxes better?

Yes, stainless steel litter boxes are more durable and easier to clean than plastic options. They also resist odors better.

How often should I clean the litter box?

It’s best to clean the litter box daily and fully wash it once a week. This keeps odors down and promotes a healthy environment.

Can I use any litter in these boxes?

Most litter types can be used, but avoid clumping litter in self-cleaning boxes. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for specific products.

Sources and standards

Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:

About the author

Radhika Gupta

Radhika Gupta 12+ years

Editor, Best Under 2026

Radhika Gupta builds the buying guides on Best Under 2026. Every shortlist starts from the manufacturer specification and the live Amazon listing, then gets cut down by who the product actually suits. Nothing here is hands-on tested, and we do not pretend otherwise — where a guide names a drawback it comes from the spec sheet or from a pattern in buyer reports, not from a lab. Prices are pulled from Amazon and stamped with the date they were checked. If something here is wrong, email hello@bestunder2026.com and it gets fixed.

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