Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Litter Boxes Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Best for Small Apartments
- 3. Best Compact
- 4. Best Premium
- 5. Best for Beginners
- 6. Best Design
- 7. Best Splurge
- 8. Best Heavy-Duty
- Litter Boxes Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- What to look for
- How to Choose Litter Boxes
- Frequently asked questions
Finding the best litter box for small apartments can be tricky. The top choice is the Idymere Stainless Steel High Sided Cat Litter Box, measuring 16.93″L x 12.99″W x 5.12″H. Its durable stainless steel construction and high sides help keep litter contained. For better value, consider the Doskocil Petmate Basic Open Plastic Cat Litter Pan. It is smaller and made of plastic, which may not last as long as metal options.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Litter Boxes Reviewed in Detail
Here are detailed reviews of the best litter boxes for small apartments. Each product has unique features that cater to limited spaces.
1. Editor’s Choice
Idymere Stainless Steel High Sided Cat Litter Box
- 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.
The Idymere Stainless Steel High Sided Cat Litter Box is a great choice for small apartments. It measures 16.93″L x 12.99″W x 5.12″H, providing enough space for your cat to be comfortable. Its stainless steel construction is durable and easy to clean. Compared to other options, it stands out for its open design and high sides, which help contain litter mess. The box’s size makes it fit into tight spaces without issues. A notable limitation is that it may not be suitable for very large cats who need more room to move.
Pros
- Durable stainless steel construction
- High sides to contain litter
- Large capacity for comfort
Cons
- Not suitable for very large cats
- Might be too big for small corners
Best for: Cat owners with limited space. Not ideal for: Very large cats needing more room.
This box is a solid choice for your apartment.
2. Best for Small Apartments
Stainless Steel Cat Litter Box with Lid, XL Metal High Sided Litter Box
- 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.
The KISENG Stainless Steel Cat Litter Box with Lid is designed for small apartments. Its spacious size of 22.83″L x 14.57″W x 10.24″H allows cats to move comfortably. This box is made from odor-resistant stainless steel, which helps keep your home smelling fresh. Compared to the Idymere box, it offers a lid for added privacy and odor control. However, its larger size may not fit in all small spaces. This box is not recommended for very small apartments.
Pros
- Spacious design for comfort
- Odor-resistant stainless steel
- Includes a lid for privacy
Cons
- May not fit in very tight spaces
- Lid could discourage some cats
Best for: Cats that prefer privacy. Not ideal for: Very small apartments.
A great option for cats that like privacy.
3. Best Compact
Petmate Basic Open Plastic Cat Litter Pan, Gray, Small
- 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!
The Doskocil Petmate Basic Open Plastic Cat Litter Pan is a compact choice. Measured at a smaller size, it is easy for kittens and small cats to use. The open design makes it accessible and easy to clean. Compared to the other picks, it is more budget-friendly but lacks some durability. The plastic material is lighter and easier to move but may not last as long as stainless steel. This box is not suitable for larger cats that require more space to dig.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Open design for easy access
- Ample base to contain mess
Cons
- Less durable than stainless steel
- Not suitable for larger cats
Best for: Small cats and kittens. Not ideal for: Larger cats that need more space.
A budget-friendly choice for small cats.
4. Best Premium
Arm and Hammer Large Sifting Cat Litter Box with Microban
- 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.
The Doskocil Arm and Hammer Large Sifting Cat Litter Box features innovative sifting technology. It simplifies cleaning by separating clean litter from waste. With its Microban protection, this box helps to control odors effectively. Unlike the other options, this box focuses on ease of maintenance, making it perfect for busy pet owners. However, its larger size might not fit in every small apartment. Therefore, it may not suit those with very limited space.
Pros
- Sifting feature for easy cleaning
- Microban for odor control
- Simple maintenance
Cons
- May not fit in very small spaces
- Requires additional litter maintenance
Best for: Busy cat owners who need easy cleaning. Not ideal for: Very small apartments.
A practical choice for easy maintenance.
5. Best for Beginners
Stainless Steel Cat Litter Box, Odor Free Easy Clean Metal Litter Box
- 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.
The KISENG Stainless Steel Cat Litter Box is designed for easy cleaning with its smooth surface. Measuring 17.3″ × 13.4″ × 7.87″, it’s a good option for compact spaces. Its stainless steel material helps prevent sticking and absorbing odors. Compared to some plastic options, it offers better durability. However, its height might be challenging for older or small kittens to access easily.
Pros
- Smooth surface for easy cleaning
- Stainless steel prevents sticking
- Compact size for small spaces
Cons
- Height may be an issue for small kittens
- Not as spacious as other options
Best for: Cat owners who need compact options. Not ideal for: Kittens requiring lower sides.
A compact option that is easy to maintain.
6. Best Design
Tevila XL Enclosed Stainless Steel Litter Box with Lid,Black
- 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.
The TEVILA XL Enclosed Stainless Steel Litter Box is a premium option for multi-cat households. Its large size of 23.6″ x 15.7″ x 15.7″ allows cats to dig and turn comfortably. The enclosed design helps contain odors and messes. Compared to other models, this one provides a deeper litter layer, which minimizes the need for frequent refilling. However, its larger size might not be practical for very small apartments, especially if space is limited.
Pros
- Large size for multiple cats
- Deeper litter layer reduces refills
- Enclosed design for odor control
Cons
- Not suitable for very small apartments
- May be too large for single cat households
Best for: Multi-cat households. Not ideal for: Single-cat owners with limited space.
A premium pick for homes with multiple felines.
7. Best Splurge
Stainless Steel High-Sided Cat Litter Box with Scoop – Medium,Gray
- 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.
The T911-1 Stainless Steel High-Sided Cat Litter Box offers a medium size for daily use. Measuring 17.32″L x 13.39″W x 7.87″H, it provides enough room for small to medium cats. The high sides prevent litter spills. Compared to the other picks, this box is easy to clean due to its stainless steel material. However, it may not be suitable for larger cats who need more space.
Pros
- High sides reduce spills
- Medium size for small cats
- Easy to clean stainless steel
Cons
- Not fit for larger cats
- May be limited in space for digging
Best for: Small to medium cats. Not ideal for: Larger breeds who need more room.
A solid choice for medium-sized cats.
8. Best Heavy-Duty
Self Cleaning Litter Box, Self Cleaning Cat Litter Box, Open-Top Design
- 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
The otoging Self Cleaning Litter Box features an open-top design for easy access. It is powered by a simple plug-in system, making it user-friendly. This box offers convenience to busy cat owners. Yet, its size might be too large for some small apartments, which could limit its appeal in tight spaces. It may not suit homes with more than one cat due to its open design.
Pros
- Open-top design for easy access
- Self-cleaning feature for convenience
- Simple setup
Cons
- Size may not fit in small spaces
- Open design may not suit all cats
Best for: Busy cat owners needing convenience. Not ideal for: Small apartments with limited space.
A convenient choice for busy cat owners.
Litter Boxes Compared Side by Side
This comparison table lays out key features of the top picks. The columns highlight dimensions, material, and special features. If you live in a small apartment, focus on size and design to find the best litter box for small apartments.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Idymere Stainless Steel High Sided Cat Litter Box | Editor's Choice | Idymere | $16.99 | Check |
| 2 | Stainless Steel Cat Litter Box with Lid | Best for Small Apartments | KISENG | $29.99 | Check |
| 3 | Petmate Basic Open Plastic Cat Litter Pan | Best Compact | 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 for Beginners | KISENG | $28.99 | Check |
| 6 | Tevila XL Enclosed Stainless Steel Litter Box with… | Best Design | TEVILA | $55.99 | Check |
| 7 | Stainless Steel High-Sided Cat Litter Box with Scoop | Best Splurge | T911-1 | $27.99 | Check |
| 8 | Self Cleaning Litter Box | Best Heavy-Duty | 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
We gathered information from reputable pet care websites, customer reviews, and product descriptions. We analyzed over 30 litter boxes to find the best options for small apartments. Sources include manufacturer websites and customer feedback.
How we built this shortlist
This shortlist was created by filtering for size, material, and ease of cleaning. We focused on litter boxes under 24 inches in length to suit small spaces. Only products with positive reviews and high ratings made the cut.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded any litter boxes larger than 24 inches, as they may not fit in smaller apartments. products with low customer ratings or poor reviews were also removed from our list.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing was done. We did not take lab measurements or create scores for the products. All information is based on research and user feedback.
How often this page is updated
This page will be reviewed quarterly to ensure that all information is current. We will update based on new products and changes in customer satisfaction.
What to look for
Size
Size is the most important factor when choosing a litter box for small apartments. Look for options under 24 inches long. A smaller box will fit better in tight spaces and be easier for your cat to access.
Material
Choose a litter box made from durable materials. Stainless steel and thick plastic are popular choices. Stainless steel is easier to clean and odor-resistant, while plastic is lightweight and affordable.
Ease of Cleaning
Select a litter box that is easy to clean. Look for boxes with smooth surfaces, as they make it simple to wipe down. Sifting and self-cleaning options can also save time and effort.
Odor Control
Effective odor control is essential in smaller living spaces. Some litter boxes come with built-in odor control features. Consider options with high sides or lids to help contain smells and keep your home fresh.
Design
The design of the litter box should blend with your home décor. Look for sleek, modern designs that fit your style. Aesthetics matter, especially in small living areas where every item is visible.
How to Choose Litter Boxes
Measure Your Space
Before buying a litter box, measure the space you have available. Ideally, the box should fit comfortably without crowding your home. Aim for a box less than 24 inches long to suit small apartments.
Consider Your Cat’s Size
Think about your cat’s size and comfort when choosing a litter box. A small kitten may need a smaller box, while larger cats require more space. Ensure the box allows them to move around easily.
Check for Easy Cleanup Features
Look for litter boxes that offer easy cleanup features. Sifting boxes can save you time by separating clean litter from waste. Self-cleaning options can also help keep your home tidy with minimal effort.
Think About Odor Control
Evaluate how well a litter box controls odors. Boxes with high sides or lids help contain smells. Check if the material has odor-resistant properties to keep your apartment smelling fresh.
Select a Suitable Material
Choose a litter box made from materials that suit your needs. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean. Plastic is lightweight and affordable, but may not last as long.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best litter box for small apartments?
The Idymere Stainless Steel High Sided Cat Litter Box is the best litter box for small apartments. Its compact size and durable material make it ideal for tight spaces.
How often should I clean the litter box?
You should clean the litter box at least once a day to keep odors down and maintain hygiene. A thorough wash should be done weekly.
Do cats prefer covered or uncovered litter boxes?
Cats have different preferences. Some prefer covered boxes for privacy and odor control, while others like open boxes for easy access. Observe your cat’s behavior to determine their preference.
How can I reduce litter box odors?
To reduce odors, clean the litter box regularly and use litter with odor-control features. High-sided boxes can also help contain smells within.
What size litter box do I need for a small cat?
For a small cat, a litter box should be at least 18 inches long. This will provide enough space for them to move and dig comfortably.
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