There are several types of litter boxes: covered, open, self-cleaning, and corner boxes. I do NOT recommend covered boxes and here is why:
- If your cat has trouble hiding their poop or is generally a vigorous digger, they will be exposed to dirty and dusty air in a covered box, and it cannot be good for their respiratory health.
- You have to take off the lid every time you clean the litter. Depending on the design, this can be quite annoying.
- You need to clean the lid, just like the box, regularly.
Furthermore, make sure to choose a box with right dimensions, depending on the size of your cat. In doubt, opt for a box that is more on the bigger side.
How many litter boxes are necessary?
The recommended number of litter boxes is one per cat plus one extra. But I would reformulate the statement as one per cat / per storey or per 75-100 square meters. Since my apartment is quite small, my cats seem to be very happy with the two boxes, which I scoop twice a day. In that sense, the size of your apartment/ house and how often you clean the boxes play a crucial role in determining how many boxes you need.
Where to place the litter box?
Boxes should be in quiet and low-traffic areas, so entryway or laundry room are not the right choice. They should ideally be in a room your cat can access all day. So if you place them in the bathroom, like I do due to lack of an alternative, be prepared to receive loud objections from your cats should you lock them out.
Also, avoid placing the litter box near their food or water as cats prefer to keep these areas separate.
Which cat litter is the right one?
Most cats prefer fine, clumping litter similar to beach sand, which is easier on their paws and to scoop. Of course, there are other types such as non-clumping, organic (out of paper or wood pellets), or silica. You will find out your cat's favourite in time but should observe their toilet behaviour closely after adoption.
It's best to avoid dusty or scented litters as they can irritate cats’ respiratory system. The litter should be filled to about 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) deep depending on the cat’s preference.
How to clean the litter box?
Regular maintenance is a must:
- Scoop the litter box at least once a day.
- Completely change the litter and clean the box (+ the lid) with mild soap and water weekly. Avoid using aggressive cleaning detergents.
- Monitor your cat's bath room habits as changes may indicate health issues or discontentment with the litter (box).
What to do in case of litter box issues?
If your cat avoids using the litter box, consider the following tips:
- Ensure the box is always clean; cats are very clean creatures and a dirty box can deter them.
- Try a different type of litter; some cats have preferences for certain textures or scents.
- Check for any health issues, especially if the change in behavior is sudden. Consult your veterinarian as needed.