The 12 Best Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes for Multiple Cats (Automatic + Manual)

Daily scooping of a litter box shared by multiple cats can be a very time-consuming task.

The litter gets a lot dirtier much sooner than if a single cat were using it. So, you have to constantly stay on top of it to keep it fresh, odor-free, and pleasant for your cats’ use. Fall behind on this task and your cats might refuse to use their litter tray, making cleaning up even more stressful!

Self-cleaning litter boxes help you out considerably by saving your time while keeping an immaculate litter box. They also tend to take less cat litter, potentially cutting costs in the long run and being better for the planet as they produce less waste.

In this article, I review some of the best self-cleaning litter boxes. As you’ll soon see, they vary a lot in terms of how they operate. Some are automatic and/or smart, whereas others still require some form of manual cleaning.

The thing to keep in mind is that self-cleaning litter boxes still require you to renew the litter batch regularly – they are not magical robots! Still, if you’re struggling to keep on top of cleaning up after all your kitties, they could be a Godsend!

My Top Picks

PetSafe ScoopFree Original Cat Litter Box (Best Automatic Option)

Overall, my top choice is PetSafe ScoopFree Original Automatic Cat Litter Box because it is effective, easy to use, and dependable. The rake starts sifting about 20 minutes after your cat has used it so the waste doesn’t sit there for long. The waste is pushed into a closed compartment where it is kept until you empty it. PetSafe ScoopFree Original Automatic Cat Litter Box has a hooded version and a top-entry version too.

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Omega Paw Roll’N Clean Cat Litter Box (Best Manual Option)

My top choice for a manually operated self-cleaning box is the Omega Paw Roll’N Clean Cat Litter Box because it is an affordable litter box that is fairly dependable, suitable for large kitties, multi-cat use, and has an ingenious system for manual scooping. Omega Paw Roll’N Clean Cat Litter Box works with any hard clumping litter of your choice.

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Below you’ll find my review of the top 12 self-cleaning litter boxes suitable for multi-cat use and big breeds.

Along with this review, you’ll also find information on the wide variety of features available, what to look for in a self-cleaning litter box, how to acclimate your cat to an automatic self-cleaning litter box, and a pros and cons list to help you choose between automatic, smart, or manual self-cleaning litter boxes.

Choosing the Best Self-Cleaning Litter Box for Multiple Cats

I have considered the following factors when evaluating multi-cat self-cleaning litter boxes on the market:

• Size: The bigger the litter box, the more comfortable your cat will be when using it. Also, it will keep fresh for longer as all the waste inside the tray will be disbursed. This is crucial when you’re going to have multiple cats using the litter box, or smells and waste can build up quickly. However, you don’t want a litter box that is too large for your cat might feel vulnerable while using it. I’ve included reviews of litter boxes that are all different sizes, so make sure you choose one that’s the right size for your cat.
• Size of the waste receptacle: The bigger the waste receptacle is, the less frequently you’ll need to empty it – so less work for you. When multiple cats are sharing, waste can build up quite quickly as well, making a large waste receptacle even more essential. You at least want it to be able to hold enough waste for several days so the money you invest into a self-cleaning litter box is worth it.
• Practicality: Is it easy to disassemble and put together? Does it have a long cord for plugging? Does it require custom things that you need to buy additionally and continuously? Does it have a battery backup? These are all factors that can easily be overlooked but make the difference between a litter box being good and being great. After all, self-cleaning litter boxes are supposed to make your life easier!
• Efficiency: Does the litter box do its job well? Consider whether or not you’ll run into problems such as frequent malfunctions, or the litter box not doing a proper job of scooping. Poop is easy, but how does it handle urine clumps? If your self-cleaning litter box is ineffective at avoiding issues and running by itself, it’s not taking much time off of your hands.
• Comfort: Of course, whether or not your cats like their litter box and can use it comfortably is crucial. This largely depends on your cats’ ages, sizes, and personal preferences. I have included litter boxes of all shapes and sizes, so you should be able to find some that suit. As you’re looking for a litter box for multiple cats, make sure you consider the needs of each of your furry felines.
• Litter required: Some self-cleaning litter boxes require a certain type of litter while others are more flexible on the issue. Where possible, litter boxes that are compatible with many types of litter are best as you won’t have to worry about swapping the litter over. Plus, you can choose what litter your cats like best, avoiding potential bathroom accidents while your cats adjust to the change.
• Price: As you’ll soon see, there is a wide range in price when it comes to self-cleaning litter boxes. Best value for money is my motto when it comes to price, while anyone looking for flashier features will need to be prepared to pay a premium. However, don’t skimp out on other crucial criteria just because you’re trying to save money – this litter box should be making your life easier, so things like practicality and effectiveness should be more important than keeping costs down.

So, without further ado, here is my selection and my reviews for the top 12 self-cleaning litter boxes for multiple cats or large cats on the market. I’ve reviewed them in two separate categories: Automatic (smart automatic & automatic litter boxes) and manual ones.

Best Automatic Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes for Multiple Cats

Automatic litter boxes separate your cats’ waste from the clean litter by themselves. This requires them to be connected to a power source to function. There is a huge range of options available! From smart litter boxes to one with scheduled cleaning times, here’s a look at all your automatic options.

1. PetSafe ScoopFree Original Automatic Cat Litter Box (Best All-Rounder)

Automatic self-cleaning litter boxes work with electricity. They have sensors that detect your cat and they can start a cleaning cycle by themselves. This is great because it means all waste is cleared away immediately. This prevents any nasty odors from escaping into your home and means the litter box is clean and ready for your next cat to use.

How it works: This litter box has an automatic rake system that moves back and forth along the tray to sift the poop in the litter. The rake starts sifting about 20 minutes after your cat has used the litter box, so the waste doesn’t sit there for long. The waste is pushed into a closed compartment where it is kept until you empty it. There is a disposable tray slot underneath the litter box in which you insert the tray filled with litter. When renewing the litter, you just pull out the tray from its slot, cover it up with its lid, and throw it away along with the litter.

This litter box is used with its custom silica gel crystal litter, which has a few varieties. I’d recommend the ScoopFree Sensitive Unscented Non-Clumping Crystal Cat Litter because it is unscented and dye-free. Plus, all versions of the ScoopFree litter are non-clumping and biodegradable. Since it is non-clumping silica, it just absorbs the urine so that there are no urine clumps. This might mean you have to switch to a new cat litter. However, make the change gradually and you shouldn’t run into too many problems.

The main downside of this litter box is that it has low sides. Therefore, although it is effective at keeping the litter box itself clean, it isn’t great at containing mess. If your cats are sprayers or end up kicking litter all over the floor, this litter box won’t do much to stop it. Some customers also reported that they found the motor a little noisy, and it is disappointing that there is no battery backup.

Overall, this is a solid choice for an automated litter box that is reasonably priced, efficient, and easy to use.

Pros

Cons

2. PetSafe ScoopFree Smart Self Cleaning Cat Litter Box (Best for Single Cats Only)

This litter box is the smart version of the PetSafe ScoopFree I’ve introduced above, which means that it syncs with its custom app on your smartphone. The app offers you remote control of the litter box and gives you data on your cat’s litter box activities. However, it can’t differentiate between cats if more than one cat is using it. So everything will appear as the data for one cat. This is why I would recommend you to get the non-smart version of this litter box and save money if you live in a multi-cat household. While extremely useful for one cat, it serves a limited function when being used for multiple cats.

How it works: The system of this litter box is essentially the same as the one mentioned above. It has a rake that goes back and forth in the litter tray and deposits the solid waste into a compartment for you to throw away. It is used with its custom silica crystal litter which is deposited into the litter box with its disposable litter tray through a slot at the bottom.

I’ve given you the link to the hooded version of this box. This hooded design will help to contain mess from spraying and stop litter from getting kicked all over your floors. It does mean there is less ventilation inside the tray, but as all waste is removed within 20 minutes this won’t be an issue. With that being said, there is a non-covered version if you prefer, which is also a bit cheaper.

Overall, this is a dependable choice for an automated smart litter box that is also affordable. But these smart features aren’t great for multiple cats that are sharing.

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3. LitterMaid Multi-Cat Litter Box and Nature’s Miracle Multi-Cat Litter Box (Best Budget Buy)

These two are automatic self-cleaning litter boxes that are specific for multi-cat use. I’ll review them together because they have the same system. In fact, if you compare the designs of the two, you’ll see that their only difference is the logo on the product.

How they work: Like all automated litter boxes, there is a sensor that detects your cat’s use and activates a cleaning cycle a while after that. A rake moves back and forth to separate solid waste into a disposable waste receptacle. If you choose, you may line it up with a plastic bag so that you don’t need to keep on getting new receptacles. Make sure that you don’t overfill it with litter, as this may overwork the motor and result in ineffective cleaning.

I’ve given you the link to the hooded version of this box. Again, this is because I prefer this style of litter tray. They’re much better at containing all mess, plus it hides the litter from view. However, they aren’t for everyone. Besides, your cat might not like an enclosed litter box. If you’d prefer, here’s the non-covered version which is also a bit cheaper.

They both have single-cat versions too: LitterMaid Single Cat Self-Cleaning Litter Box, Nature’s Miracle Single-Cat Self-Cleaning Litter Box. These single-cat litter boxes are cheaper than their multi-cat counterparts. However, anyone with more than one cat should definitely go for the multi-cat version. It is larger in size and can handle a higher quantity of waste before it needs emptying. 

Overall, my joint verdict for these two is that they have a good concept and the fact that they are specific for multi-cat use is great, but they are not the most reliable options out there.

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4. ChillX AutoEgg Self-cleaning Litter Box (Best for Kittens)

The ChillX AutoEgg is also a smart litter box that connects to an app on your phone. Like the other smart litter boxes, the app of this one also gives you readings to monitor your cat’s health and also allows you to control the litter box remotely. However, unlike the PetSafe smart litter box (#2 product recommendation), this litter box can differentiate between two cats. Therefore, it is worth paying the extra cost to get detailed information on both of your cats’ bathroom habits and health statuses.

How it works: The AutoEgg starts cleaning 5 minutes after it has been used. This is great as all waste is cleaned out almost instantly. There will be no nasty smells escaping into your home, and the litter box will be in pristine condition next time one of your cats needs to go to the toilet. To clean, there is a rake that goes back and forth inside it that collects solid waste and stores it in a receptacle.

There is another huge perk to this product – it can be used with kittens! Most self-cleaning litter boxes cannot be used with young cats; they weigh too little to be picked up by the sensors. Even the ChillX AutoEgg needs cats to weigh at least 4.4lbs to be detected. However, this product gets around this issue by performing four self-cleans at four set times each day of its own accord.

Another perk of this litter box is that it works with hard-clumping litter. It doesn’t matter which clumping litter you choose, which means you have the option to pick something you and your cat both like. Additionally, it has a very modern, sleek design – which I like the best out of all the smart litter boxes out there. It resembles a cool, futuristic egg!

Overall, I would recommend this litter box if you are looking for a high-end and aesthetic automated smart litter box for a small or mid-sized cat. Even though it is a bit expensive, it has good value for money.

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5. CatGenie A.I. Self-Washing Cat Box (Best Eco-Friendly Option)

This is perhaps the most distinct automatic self-cleaning and self-washing litter box on this list because it has washable granules instead of a conventional litter. That’s right, this is a literal cat toilet that flushes away waste just like a normal human toilet. For this reason, it is great for the planet as you’ll never have to throw out cat litter! Instead, you reuse the washed litter again and again and again.

How it works: So, the raking system is pretty much the same as other automated litter boxes. The sensor initiates a cleaning cycle 10 minutes after your cat’s use which collects the poop. Here’s the interesting part: the litter-like granules are washed with a cat-safe SaniSolution, heat-dried, and the dirty water and the solid waste are flushed out like in a human toilet.

To work in this way, the litter box has to use the drain of your toilet or washing machine. This does limit where you can place your cat’s litter tray and some owners might find this frustrating. Moreover, the complex cleaning and drying cycle takes around 45 minutes to complete. This only makes it semi-effective with multiple cats – they had better have strong bladders!

The CatGenie A.I. litter box is another smart litter tray that connects to a mobile app via Wi-Fi. Every time your cat uses the litter tray, their health is analyzed and updated in the app for you to check.

If you have multiple cats, don’t get this A.I. version of CatGenie, instead, consider the non-A.I. version. This is because the smart app cannot differentiate between cats, so you’ll have inaccurate readings. Save your money and get the non-A.I. model instead!

Overall, I think this is an ambitious product that largely fulfills its job. The promise of never buying litter again is tempting, but special requirements for placement and set up may be straining.

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Cons

6. Litter-Robot 3 Connect (Best for Monitoring Health)

I know the main function that we are looking for in self-cleaning litter boxes is their ability to keep themselves clean. However, if you want to take things one step further, try the Litter-Robot 3 Connect. This is a smart litter box that feedbacks on all aspects of your cats’ health statuses. Moreover, it can accommodate and accurately track up to four cats at once, ideal for multi-cat households!

How it works: After your cat exists, the Litter-Robot initiates a countdown after which the inner lining of its round hood starts rotating. During the rotation of this globe, the fresh litter goes through the sift, and the remaining solid waste is collected at the carbon filtered bottom compartment of the Litter-Robot. You can line this compartment with any plastic bag you have. You can throw the full bag away when the litter box notifies you on your phone that it’s full.

While I love the app for its health monitoring, it is also useful in terms of cleaning. Via the app, you can monitor the usage and schedule extra cleans. This means the litter box will always be clean – no exceptions. You can also troubleshoot any issues using the app, so if for whatever reason it isn’t working, you’ll have it up and running again within minutes.

I also rate that this is an actual robot – no kidding! It’s designed to look like a little round robot, like something out of Star Wars. It is sleek, modern, and looks the part in any contemporary home. What’s more, its enclosed design also helps to keep mess inside the litter tray. Plus, there is an enclosed carbon filter in the waste compartment to keep any odors even more tightly contained.

Another advantage is that you can use any kind of clumping clay litter with this litter box. Training a cat to use a new cat litter and a new litter box at once can be stressful for them! So, the option to use whatever litter you like is useful. Also, the manufacturers claim that using the Litter-Robot 3 Connect will reduce your litter usage by 50%. This is better for your bank, and better for the planet!

Overall, I would say that this litter box is a decent automated smart litter box, but I’m not convinced that it is worth its expensive price with regard to practicality and job efficiency.

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Cons

7. Pet Zone Smart Scoop Automatic Litter Box

This is an automatic self-cleaning litter box that works with any hard clumping litter. The way it operates is quite similar to the other automatic litter boxes such as LitterMaid and Nature’s Miracle. However, the area of the actual litter pan itself is a little larger. This makes it more suitable for bigger breeds such as gorgeous Maine Coons and Persians.

How it works: The automated rate activates 15 minutes after your cat has used it. The rake moves along the litter tray to pick up the solid waste, and lifts it out to drop it into its closed waste receptacle. From there you can collect the waste and throw it away with its plastic liner. You should make sure that you don’t overfill the tray for it to work effectively.

Although the cleaning method is effective, the main issue I have with this tray is its design. I think it looks quite ugly with the sifting section exposed. Colors also vary, so you can’t even choose one that matches your home aesthetics. With that being said, its appearance doesn’t impact its functionality, so it depends on whether this is important to you.

Moreover, what this product lacks in appearance it makes up for in value. It is one of the most affordable products. It is also extremely quiet when it runs – four times quieter than most other brands! This litter tray also comes with an odor-absorbing filter to trap any lingering smells, which is perfect for multi-cat households as things tend to get a litter smellier.

Overall, this is an affordable product that functions well and is much quieter than other products. However, it is a bit of an eye-sore and its low sides mean mess might escape.

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8. PetSafe Simply Clean Self-Cleaning Litter Box (Best Scheduled Cleaning Litter Box)

I’ve already reviewed two PetSafe litter boxes on this page, and here I am again with another! However, unlike the other two, this one has a unique round design and a different cleaning mechanism.

How it works: The round base of the litter box rotates once every hour and a half. There is a fixed rake near the entrance of the waste conveyor which scoops out the solid waste and takes it to the closed bin with the carbon filters. You can line the waste compartment with a bag of your choosing and just throw it away when it’s full. 

One of the main differences this product has with all others on this list is that it cleans itself every hour rather than immediately after use. This is great in some ways – you don’t need to worry about the sensors not working, and kittens can use it despite them not weighing much. However, as the waste is not cleaned up immediately, odors have longer to escape into the air. Also, if you have three cats and they all go to the bathroom within the same hour, the tray will be pretty dirty up until the next clean!

The shape of the litter box is also rather limiting. It won’t fit into a corner or flat against a wall as it is completely round. There is then a portion in the center that takes up quite a lot of available space. So, despite having a large overall size, your cats will have to climb awkwardly around this centerpiece. For this reason, I wouldn’t recommend it for large breeds or senior cats.

That’s not to say there aren’t good things about this product though. For one, you can use any hard clumping litter. This flexibility means you should easily be able to find one that you and your cat like. There is also a high rim to help prevent litter scatter, so it is a good option for messy cats. Finally, a carbon filter helps to absorb odors before they enter the air.

Overall, this litter box has a smart design but unfortunately, it breaks down a lot and doesn’t work as efficiently as it claims.

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9. Smarty Pear Leo’s Loo Covered Self-Cleaning Litter Box (Best for Messy Cats)

Do you have a super messy feline? If so, I suggest you take a look at the Smarty Pear Leo’s Loo Self-Cleaning Litter Box. This litter box has a completely enclosed design. No matter how much your cat kicks its litter or sprays up the sides, it will all be contained inside the tray. There is also a step they have to climb to get in and out, which is useful in minimizing tracking.

How it works: So, this litter tray is good at keeping mess inside, but how are its self-cleaning capabilities? You’ll be pleased to hear that this litter box is very efficient. Shortly after your cat leaves the litter box, it separates the waste and deposits it in an enclosed waste draw. This helps trap nasty odors and ensures the litter box is clean for its next visitor. To clean, simply open this tray and tip all of the waste away.

One thing I love about this product is the display screen in replace of a mobile app. This is located on the front of the litter tray and tells you how many times your cat has been inside. This information is useful as it gives you an idea of how much waste is in the tray, but it also gives you a better understanding of your cat’s toilet habits so you can easily spot changes that could indicate illnesses. The screen also displays your cat’s weight, further helping you monitor their health.

Other perks include the easy setup options, ultra-quiet sifting technology, and the ambient lighting which guides your cat to their tray at night. The waste drawer is also lined with an all-natural bamboo charcoal filter to effectively minimize odors. Plus, this litter box is specifically intended to support up to four different cats at once.

As with every product, this litter box isn’t perfect though. For one, it is on the expensive side and will set you back a few hundred dollars. There is also no backup battery, so the litter box will stop self-cleaning if the power cuts. Also, the high step up isn’t ideal for older cats that have mobility issues.

Overall, this is a great litter box… if you can afford the hefty price tag! It is effective, attractive, and suits up to four cats. But if you have an older kitty with mobility issues, opt for another product.

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10. PETKIT Pura X Self-Cleaning Litter Box (Best for All Litter Types)

If you’re worried about swapping your cats’ litter and litter box at once, the PETKIT Pura X Self-Cleaning Litter Box is a great option. It is compatible with every type of clumping cat litter apart from crystals. This includes plant litters, bentonite litters, and more! No matter which litter you choose, the self-cleaning mechanism is extremely effective.

How it works: The litter box uses 12 high-precision sensors to detect when your cat is inside. This includes thermal sensors, infrared sensors, and weight sensors. Once your cat has safely left the litter tray, the drum will rotate and filter out the waste from the clean litter. Alternatively, you can set the litter box to clean at scheduled times. Whichever option you choose, the filtered waste is sent to a tray at the bottom which simply needs emptying when it gets too full.

This is a smart litter box, so all the health information for your cats can be viewed using the PETKIT app. From the app, you can also check the waste levels and status of the tray. For ease, there is an LED display screen as well that lets you check the data stored within seconds.

In terms of suitability for multiple cats, this litter box fares well. The waste bin holds up to 7l, which is plenty large enough for a few cats sharing. However, the app cannot differentiate between cats nor tell data for each. Another limitation of the app is that it doesn’t support multiple users. If your cats are jointly owned, only one of you will be able to view the status of the litter tray from your smartphone.

Overall, this is an advanced litter tray that is great for multiple litters and cleans effectively. However, it is unable to track multiple cats so the smart features have limited use.

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Best Manual Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes for Multiple Cats

Manual self-cleaning litter boxes do not need electricity to work. They work by converting the act of scooping into an easier action on your part such as pulling a lever or tilting the box, etc.)

1. Omega Paw Roll’N Clean Cat Litter Box

This is a manual self-cleaning litter box that works with any hard clumping litter of your choice. Be that clay clumping, pine clumping, or something else, the choice is yours! This is my top choice for a manual self-cleaning litter box – I love the simple design, enclosed sides, and effective sifting tray.

How it works: To use this litter box, you simply begin tilting the litter box on its right side until it is turned fully upside down. As you do this, the unclumped litter goes through a sift and the solid waste is separated into a pull-out tray on the side. Then, you bring the litter box right side up, this time tilting it a little bit further to the left side. This allows for the unclumped litter to collect back into the base of the tray where it is ready for use.

You can empty the waste receptacle by pulling it out by its handle. If you wish, you can line the receptacle with a plastic bag so that you don’t need to wash it all the time. Any old plastic bag will do – you can purchase specific litter liners, but I suggest you don’t waste your money. Regular plastic bags work just as effectively.

In terms of use for multiple cats, this is a great product. The waste tray is large in size, as it’s the litter box itself. This makes your cats more comfortable in sharing. However, as a manual litter box, you do need to keep on top of cleaning yourself. Yes, it is quicker and easier than scooping each clump of waste out by hand. But you do need to keep on top of it, especially when dealing with waste from multiple cats.

Overall, this manual litter box has a very smart system that works fairly effectively. I would recommend it as my top choice for a manual self-cleaning litter box.

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2. Catit SmartSift Litter Box (Best for Easy Use)

I think we can all agree that some self-cleaning litter boxes are overly complicated. Now, don’t get me wrong – I am impressed by all the tech that is available today. But if you’re not wanting anything too over the top, the Catit SmartSift Litter Box could be the one. This is a manual self-cleaning litter box that operates with the simple pull of a lever.

How it works: This litter box has a lever on its side that rotates the litter tray on the inside when pulled. The litter falls through a sifter and the collected solid waste is dropped into the waste receptacle from where you can empty it.

As I said, this is an ideal option for anyone wanting a simple solution. As the cleaning mechanism isn’t automatic, you do need to still keep on top of daily scooping. However, with the handy lever, it has never been easier. I also love the hooded design to help contain all mess, plus the door which helps to prevent litter tracking around your home.

Other advantages of this litter box include the integrated carbon filter pads, its near-silent operation, and the large waste tray that can hold as much as 2 weeks’ waste at once. With that being said, it is expensive for a manual litter box and might be a bit small for larger breeds.  

Overall, this litter box has a smart operating system but unfortunately, its lever-lock system is prone to malfunctioning.

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Additional Factors to Help You Determine the Best Self-Cleaning Litter Box

I’ve mentioned above briefly a few essential factors to consider when choosing a self-cleaning litter box: size, size of its waste receptor, practicality, efficiency, required litter, comfort, and price.

Some of these features are essential. For example, your litter box must be practical and easy to use – after all, the whole reason for investing in a self-cleaning litter box is to make your life easier. However, many others are down to the preferences of both you and your cats. So, how can you choose the right litter box for your precise situation?

If you’re struggling to figure it out, you can relax! I’ve made this handy buying guide packed with all the questions you should consider when choosing a self-cleaning litter box for multi-cat use. Run through these questions and you’ll know precisely what features your perfect litter box needs to have – simple!

Is it Suitable for Multiple Cats Sharing?

You’re looking specifically for a self-cleaning litter box for multiple cats to use, right? Therefore, you need to determine whether or not the product is well adapted to being more than one kitty’s bathroom.

Now, we know that the litter box rule of thumb is: The number of litter boxes = number of cats plus one. For example, anyone with two cats should have at least three litter boxes in the home. Similarly, anyone with three furry felines should have a minimum of four litter boxes.

However, not everyone has that much room in their house, especially when you’ve accounted for all the other cat items you need to provide. You’re going to need multiple beds, bowls, toys, and scratch posts. And frankly, cats sharing a litter box can be completely fine if the conditions are proper.

If cats are to share a litter box, self-cleaning litter boxes are essential. They are kept constantly clean, so your cats won’t mind sharing as much. This keeps your cats happier, reduces the likelihood of litter box conflict, and minimizes the risk of toilet accidents. But what other features should litter boxes for two or more cats have? There are a few things to consider:

• Large in Size: Make sure the litter box is large if your cats are going to share. The main issue with cats sharing a litter box is that waste builds up quickly and starts to smell, which deters cats from using it altogether. By choosing a large litter box, urine and poop are more evenly distributed inside the tray. This leaves more unsoiled areas available for your cats to do their business.
• Automated Self-Cleaning: When cats are sharing, it is better for them to share an automated self-cleaning litter box as it will be cleaned shortly after each cat’s use. This ensures the box is kept fresh for the next cat’s turn, again avoiding the issue of stinky litter boxes your cats refuse to use.

It will also save you lots of time. Think about it – if you were to attempt scooping after each time one of your cats used the litter box, that would mean scooping 6-10 times a day if you have two cats. Imagine how much time and effort it would take. An automated self-cleaning litter box does this for you effortlessly.

Will it be Comfortable for my Cats?

This is one of the most important questions you need to consider. After all, if cats don’t like their litter boxes, they will refuse to use them. Self-cleaning litter boxes are supposed to make your life easier by giving you time back into your day. If your cats aren’t comfortable using the litter box, you’ll end up with a must larger task on your hands. You’ll constantly be cleaning up pee and poop from around your home – what a nightmare!

For a cat to find a litter box comfortable, it needs to hit three main criteria:

1. The litter box is the right size for your cats to use
2. The litter box is easy to access and use
3. The litter box is always kept clean and free from smells

The cleanliness of the litter box is already improved by using a self-cleaning litter box. However, points 1 and 2 depend on your individual situation. As a general rule, the size of the litter box should be at least 1.5x the length of your cat for them to comfortably be able to use it. On the other hand, ease of access varies depending on the age and health conditions of your cat. For example, seniors with mobility issues will struggle to use a top-entry litter box.

As long as you keep these three things in check – correct size, easy to access, and cleanliness – most cats will comfortably use a self-cleaning litter box. With that said, in some cases, it may be difficult for cats to adjust to a new litter box, especially if it’s an automatic self-cleaning one.

This is because the motor will make noise, and she may observe that something’s happening in there (i.e., the rakes moving) that she’s not used to. It may cause distrust in the litter box, and she may shy away from using it. However, this shouldn’t be a problem if you introduce the new litter box properly and gradually. Your cat just needs to adapt to the changes.

Does it Require a Special Litter?

Some self-cleaning litter boxes for multiple cats only work with certain types of cat litter, whereas others don’t discriminate. For instance, the PetSafe ScoopFree automatic litter box has its custom non-clumping silica crystal litter, while the Litter-Robot can be used with any type of clay clumping litter. There is even a litter box (CatGenie A.I.) that doesn’t require litter at all!

This discrepancy is because each litter box has a different system of cleaning that works better with a specific type of litter. Which litters work with which boxes depend on things like the size of the holes in its sift, the distance between the teeth of its rake, and so on.

If you need to change the cat litter you use, this isn’t a problem at all. Most cats will adapt to using a new litter with little training. However, you will need to introduce the change gradually so that it doesn’t freak your cats out. If you don’t have time to do this, consider choosing a litter box that is compatible with the litter you’re currently using.

You might also wish to keep your cat litter the same if your cats have shown a particular preference for one type of litter. For example, many cats don’t like using pellet litter as it feels more uncomfortable on their paws. Others only happily use litter boxes containing fragrance-free litter as artificial smells aggravate their respiratory system. If this sounds like your cats, ensure the litter box you choose accommodates the litter you know your cats like.

Will it Need a Special Placement?

You need to consider where in your home you want to place your cats’ litter box. Remember, it needs to be in a convenient and easily accessible location to encourage your cats to use it.

If using a manual self-cleaning litter box, this isn’t an issue. You can simply place the new tray where the old litter box used to be. In fact, this is always recommended whenever you chance your cats’ litter tray. By placing the new box where the old one used to be, most cats immediately realize that this is their new bathroom and switch to using this litter box without any issues.

However, if your litter box is automatic and needs to be plugged in, you may need to place it close to an electric socket. When there is not a socket in an appropriate location, this can be problematic. Also, you should probably keep automatic litter boxes out of your bedroom or any other place where you will be distracted by its noise.

As a special case, the self-washing litter box CatGenie A.I. mentioned in the reviews above needs to be placed where there are a cold water line and waste drain to operate.

Again, this can be pretty limiting if you don’t have an appropriate place for it. Consider the layout of your home and where your sockets/water lines are before making any purchase.

Do I Need to Buy Custom Parts?

As I mentioned earlier, self-cleaning litter boxes are more expensive than plain and simple litter trays. Additionally, many require you to buy custom parts. This is an ongoing cost you need to consider before purchasing any product.

Manual self-cleaning litter boxes typically don’t require any special parts. However, some automatic ones do. Below are some examples:

• Cleaning Solutions: The Cat Genie A.I.requires you to purchase a cartridge of its custom SaniSolution about every month, which is the special solution that washes its granules.
• Disposable Litter Trays: The PetSafe Scoop-Free requires you to buy a custom disposable litter tray set every three months.
• Custom Waste Liners: Some automatic litter boxes have custom liners for their waste receptacles, too. These often need to be replaced each time you enter the waste receptacle.

If you are prepared to invest in these ongoing costs for the benefit of never having to scoop cat poop again, then go for it! But it is important to consider and weigh up all the costs before making a purchase – not just the price of the litter box itself.

How Often do I Need to Clean it Out?

Self-cleaning litter boxes do the job of daily scooping, taking control of this unpleasant task and giving you time back into your day. However, even self-cleaning litter boxes require a little cleaning and maintenance! You’ll still need to replace the used litter with a fresh batch at regular intervals.

If the litter box does a thorough job of scooping, the litter will keep clean for a longer period. If not, you may need to replace batches more often. Therefore, how frequently you need to clean the box and empty the waste depends on the model you use. This period may vary between 1-2 weeks to a month, which is something to consider.

Bear in mind that if the litter box is used by multiple cats, then the litter needs to be changed more frequently. Therefore, any periods provided by the manufacturer need to be made proportional to the number of cats you own. So, if a single cat’s litter box requires a litter change once every 20-30 days, the litter box of two cats will require a litter change of 10-15 days, and so on.

Can Kittens or Senior Cats Use it?

Most healthy adult cats can use a self-cleaning litter box without any trouble whatsoever. However, kittens and senior cats need special consideration. If you have young kittens or an older feline, make sure the litter box is appropriate for them.

Senior cats can use self-cleaning litter boxes, but you need to make sure the product you choose is easy for older cats to climb in and out of. Oftentimes, elderly cats have mobility issues and aren’t as agile as they used to be. Avoid top-entry designs and make sure the tray is large enough to be used without their legs touching the sides.  

Kittens and self-cleaning litter boxes are more problematic. In fact, you may have noticed that almost all automated self-cleaning litter boxes advise against kitten use. There are two reasons for this:

• Unable to Detect Weight: The sensors in automatic litter boxes may not be able to detect kittens as they don’t weigh much. This means that the cleaning cycle won’t be activated after your kitten’s use. Or worse, the cycle may activate while your kitten’s in there. This is even more likely in multi-cat households as another cat might have used it straight before your kitten stepped inside.
• Ineffective with Kitten Poop: Another possibility is that kitten poop can be too small for the rake or sift in a particular self-cleaning litter box. This will mean that the litter box may not clean your kitten’s waste efficiently enough, and you’ll have to do a lot of manual cleaning yourself.

With these two things considered, you might be better off getting a manual self-cleaning litter box if you have small kittens. This ensures the cleaning cycle won’t accidentally go off with your kitten inside the tray. Alternatively, you can use an automatic litter box, but leave it unplugged until your kitten is older than 6 months of age. At this age, most kittens will be heavy enough to trigger the sensors, and their poop is large enough to be sifted effectively.

Does it Make an Unpleasant Noise?

Many pet parents that are debating whether to purchase a self-cleaning litter box have concerns over noise. Now, automated self-cleaning litter boxes do make some noise as they go through their cleaning process. But the amount of noise they make varies between brands. For example, the ChillX AutoEgg is the quietest one, while the PetSafe ScoopFree can be a bit more vocal. 

If you are concerned about noise, make sure you go for the quietest option on the market. On the other hand, a manual litter box might be a better option for you. As these litter boxes don’t have a motor or any kind of moving mechanism, they won’t make any noise.

With that said, even noisy automatic litter boxes can be used without bother if you’re clever with placement. Keep it out the way and not in any room that you usually relax in, such as your bedroom or sitting room. If you think about it, you won’t be subjected to it that much. Besides, a typical cleaning cycle is complete in under 1 minute, which isn’t too long to bear a little noise – especially in exchange for never having to scoop up poop again!

Automatic vs. Manual Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes

As you might have noticed when going through the selection of products above, self-cleaning litter boxes don’t share a standard system of working. There are many ways that self-cleaning litter boxes work but we can divide them into two broad categories based on the way they operate: automatic and manual.

I can’t tell you one is better than the other because each has its advantages and disadvantages. Also, you may prefer one over the other, but another cat parent may choose otherwise. It all comes down to personal preference and which is right for your unique situation.

The above buying guide should have already got you thinking about which product is best for you and your cat. But to make the comparison even easier, you’ll find the pros and cons of each listed below. The two lists below may help you in deciding which one suits you better:

Pros and Cons: Automatic Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes

Pros

• Automatic Cleaning: The litter box scoops itself, meaning you can leave it entirely unattended for two or three days and never have to scoop poop again! Simply empty the waste tray once it is full and the machine is ready to kick back into action.
• Remote Monitoring: Smart automatic litter boxes can be controlled remotely. This is great for busy pet parents, but even more beneficial if leaving your cat alone for several days and don’t have anyone available to pop in and scoop your cat’s litter tray.
• Insights into Bathroom Habits: Smart technology also offers you information on your cats’ litter box use and alerts you to important things, helping to highlight potential issues or medical conditions early on. For example, cats that suddenly frequent their litter box more often might have a urinary condition or kidney disease.
• Permanently Clean: Since these litter boxes clean away all waste automatically right after each use of the litter box, the waste doesn’t sit around for long periods. This means your litter box is permanently clean each time your cat enters it, which encourages use. You also won’t have to deal with as many nasty odors floating around your home.
• Best for Multi-Cat Use: The main reason cats shouldn’t share litter boxes is because waste accumulates quickly. Since automatic litter boxes initiate their cleaning cycles immediately after each use, it is better for multi-cat use than regular or manual self-cleaning litter boxes.

Cons

• Can Malfunction: Like all technology, automatic litter boxes are more prone to breaking down and malfunctioning. In most cases, there is a quick fix. However, you should consider the cost of potential repairs and issues before making a purchase.
• Adjustment Time: All cats need a little time to adjust to a new litter box. Cats are creatures of habit and any change, no matter how small, can cause stress. However, this adjustment time is often longer when trying to get your cat used to an automatic litter box. If you have a timid cat that hates strange noises, this can be even more of an issue. If you’re worried about this, I’ve got a step-by-step guide below which will help!
• More Expensive: Self-cleaning litter boxes are the most expensive types of litter boxes on the market. When purchasing these litter trays, you are quite literally paying for your time back and getting this unit to do the dirty work for you. Whether or not this is worth the cost of the initial investment is up to you.
• Noisy Motors: The motors of automatic self-cleaning litter boxes are usually noisy. This can be disruptive, especially if you are sensitive to noises. The sound can also be problematic for cats, potentially deterring them from using the litter box.

Pros and Cons: Manual Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes

Pros

• Unlikely to Break: Manual self-cleaning litter boxes are much less likely to break down than automatic litter trays. These don’t have a motor or any other electrical components that could falter, meaning the litter box might be more reliable.
• Easy Adjustment: Your cat will not know the difference between a manual self-cleaning litter box and a regular litter tray. There are no unfamiliar noises to get used to, and to them, it seems like normal. Therefore, cats adjust to these litter boxes more easily.
• More Affordable: Manual self-cleaning litter boxes are more pocket-friendly than automatic ones. This does reflect their convenience – while automatic litter boxes do all the work for you, you must still operate manual litter boxes by hand. But if you’re tight on budget, this can be advantageous.
• Easy to Use: Manual self-cleaning litter boxes are usually very straightforward to operate and set up. This means no added complications are added to your life, and you can start using the new litter box immediately without any issues.

Cons

• Operated by Hand: These litter boxes sift litter for you, meaning you never have to scoop poop again. However, they do require manual operation each day and don’t clean themselves. This also means you can’t control these litter boxes remotely.
• Remain Dirty for Longer: Unlike automatic litter boxes, the litter is not cleaned immediately after each use. This reduces the convenience factor and means you still have to keep on top of cleaning. When two or more cats are sharing, waste can also accumulate pretty quickly. This might deter your cats from using the litter box and mean they pee elsewhere in your home!

How to Acclimatize Your Cat to an Automatic Self-Cleaning Litter Box?

As mentioned above, one of the main drawbacks of automatic litter boxes is the adjustment time. It may be hard for cats to get used to a new type of litter box, especially if it’s one that makes weird noises or starts doing things on its own all of a sudden!

Like every other area of training your cat, getting her acclimated to an automated litter box requires patience, time, and a positive attitude. Never push your cat and make sure to make it a gradual, smooth transition.

Here are the things you should pay attention to when acclimating your cat to a typical automated self-cleaning litter box:

1. Keep it Unplugged Initially

This is a golden rule. If you plug it in from the get-go, the chances are your cat will be frightened of it and won’t go near it, like a vacuum cleaner. This is why you should use the machine unplugged until your cat gets used to it as an object and starts using it. In fact, it’s best if your cat doesn’t see it working until she has already used it a number of times.

2. Encourage Your Cat to Explore it

You can guide your cat towards the new litter box with toys and treats. You can also bring her to it a while after meals, about when she would need to use a litter box. Don’t force her into it though. Let her do her own exploring and sniffing. You can show her the litter by digging into the fresh litter with your hand.

3. Place it Next to the Old Litter Box

Don’t get rid of your old litter box right away. Getting rid of it all of a sudden will disorient your cat. If she doesn’t acclimate to the new box right away, she may start peeing elsewhere if she doesn’t have her old litter box.

If you place the new and the old litter boxes side by side, your cat will associate the two and won’t need to go looking for it. You can also aid this process by placing some clumps from her dirty litter into the new one so that she feels familiar with it.

4. Stop Cleaning the Old Litter Box

When the two litter boxes are next to each other, gradually stop cleaning the old one. Since cats like to use clean litters, she will be encouraged to use the clean, new one. If you keep on cleaning her old litter box, she’ll have no reason to start using another one that she’s not used to.

After your cat shows interest in the new litter box and uses it a few times, you may remove the old one completely.

5. Don’t Switch Litters (if you can!)

Switching both her litter box and her litter at once is too much of a change for your cat. If you can, keep the litter constant so that your cat feels a familiarity with the new litter box.

With this being said, some automatic litter boxes like the PetSafe ScoopFree and CatGenie have to be used with their custom litters. If you’ve got one of these litter boxes, you’ll have to switch litters whether you want to or not. Also, most automatic litter boxes require hard clumping litter, so if you’ve been using non-clumping pellet litter or silica, you will probably need to switch litters too.

Don’t worry, you can acclimate your cat to the new litter too. Just make a mixture of the new and old litters at the beginning. You may put some of the new litter into the old litter box so that your cat gets used to it in a setting she knows. You can also sprinkle some of her old litter into the new litter box. Since you’ll be using it unplugged initially, doing this won’t cause the automatic litter box problems in cleaning. You can just do manual scooping till your cat starts getting used to the new litter box. Gradually reduce the amount of the old litter in your litter mixture, and you’re set.

In the special case of the CatGenie washable granules, it is advised that you place the washable pellets into your cat’s old litter in her old litter box so that she gets used to their texture beforehand. You may wash the pellets in the CatGenie later on.

CONCLUSION

If you are looking after multiple cats, I genuinely think that you should give self-cleaning litter boxes a chance. I would especially recommend you try an automated litter box that scoops up waste after each use. Not only will this save you an immense amount of time, but it will also enhance your cats’ litter experience.

Self-cleaning litter boxes are also a great option for cat parents that are busy during the day or are away from their homes for a lot of the time. Smart litter boxes are especially useful in such cases. Imagine your cat’s litter box getting scooped with the push of a button on your phone from miles away! Not to mention getting reports on your cat’s urinary health and litter box activities.

With all these being said, it is wrong to assume that self-cleaning litter boxes are complete wizards and that they won’t need any regular maintenance. Keeping that in mind, I would definitely say that a self-cleaning litter box can make your life as a cat parent a lot easier. You may dedicate all your previous scooping time to cuddling your cat!