I think it a safe bet to say that cat owners do not look forward to that familiar scraping sound as a cat searches for its favorite spot in the litter box. However, litter boxes are a necessity that comes as part of the cat package.
Even cats that have outdoor access need to be provided with an indoor option.
So what do you do? Besides suffering through the unsightly mess that cats produce, one option is investing in a covered litter box. But, trust me, you do not want to get into the habit of cleaning the litter tray after each visit, especially if you have more than one kitty at home.
But what are the best cat litter boxes? There is no shortage of options on the market, and we all know that decision paralysis is real. This article is here to help you find the best-covered cat litter box for your needs.
Product
Details
Top Pick
Tidy Cats Breeze Hooded Cat Litter Box System
- Product Dimension:
21″L x 16″W x 16″H
- Item Weight: 3.5 Pounds
Runner Up
Nature’s Miracle High Sided Cat Litter Box
- Product Dimension:
23″L x 18″W x 11″H
- Item Weight: 1.9 Pounds
Aesthetic Design
MS Cat Litter Box
- Product Dimension:
24″L x 18″W x 15″H - Item Weight: 8 pounds
Modern Layout
Modkat XL Litter Box
- Product Dimension:
21″L x 16″W x 17″H - Item Weight: 9.4 pounds
Artistic yet Functional
IRIS Top Entry Cat Litter Box
- Product Dimension:
20″L x 16″W x 14″H - Item Weight: 4.6 Pounds
Budget Pick
Van Ness Enclosed Cat Litter Box
- Product Dimension:
21″L x 18″W x 17″H - Item Weight: 3 Pounds
Spacious & Versatile
Petphabet Jumbo Litter Box
- Product Dimension:
25″L x 19″W x 17″H - Item Weight: 3.12 Pounds
Easy to Assemble
Nature’s Miracle Hooded Litter Box
- Product Dimension:
25″L x 19″W x 11″H - Item Weight: 3.48 Pounds
Best Covered Cat Litter Box
As a responsible pet owner, you want the best for your pet. To many, a litter box is a litter box, and there is no distinction. However, making the right choice of a cat litter box early on is a wise investment.
The right-covered litter box can help with everything from reducing litter tracking and odors to making your life easier when it comes to scooping and deep cleaning.
If you haven’t already, it’s time to say goodby to your old litter box and invest in a hooded cat litter box today.
Below we will look at the eight best-covered cat boxes available.
1. Tidy Cats Breeze Hooded Cat Litter Box System
Objectively, a litter box is more than just a tray where cats perform their ablutions. However, when you look closer, there are several jobs a litter box needs to do in order to be effective.
The Tidy Cats Breeze system is a shining example of modern litter box technology. There are no electronics or fancy mechanics, but the clever system is designed to make life easier for you and your cat.
The incorporation of fluid-repellent cat litter and an underlying absorbency pad keeps your kitty box cleaner and stops ammonia smells for up to 7 days. Additionally, solids are retained on the top of the tray, making your daily litter scoop that much easier.
The Tidy Cats box is an excellent choice for novice or experienced pet owners and simplifies the box cleaning process as much as possible.
Dimensions: 16.5 x 21.75 x 16.75
Pros
- No contact, easy cleaning system
- Great odor control
- Easy to position around the home
- Easy to assemble with or without cover
Cons
- Need to buy absorbancy sheets and specific kitty litter
- Cats can’t bury their poop
Tidy Cats Breeze Hooded Cat Litter Box System
The price of “Tidy Cats Breeze Hooded Cat Litter Box System” varies, so check the latest price at
2. Nature’s Miracle High Sided Cat Litter Box
Cats are vulnerable while using litter boxes, and a high-sided box such as this from Nature’s miracle is a great choice.
The high walls offer a bit of security and help to reduce litter tracking, while the open top ensures your cat has the visibility they are biologically designed to seek. The large litter box from Nature’s Miracle is excellent for cats of all sizes and has a low entry point that is just 5 inches from the floor.
A specialized non-stick coating also helps to eliminate the classic problem of clumped litter sticking to the bottom of the tray.
Measuring 11 inches at their peak, the tapered high sides also help keep your house looking tidy by hiding the box’s contents from view.
Dimensions: 23 x 18.5 x 11
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Easy access for cats of all ages and sizes
- Keeps home tidy
- Budget-friendly, especially for its size
Cons
- No cover available
- Open litter boxes don’t have the best odor control
Nature’s Miracle High Sided Cat Litter Box
The price of “ Nature’s Miracle High Sided Cat Litter Box” varies, so check the latest price at
3. MS Cat Litter Box
Cat parents want the best for their feline friend. The times have changed, and litter boxes are no longer unsightly plastic boxes that need to be endured and aesthetically ignored.
The MS cat litter box is a stylish design that looks like it could be a piece of furniture rather than a cat toilet. It is available in various colors and is one of the best litter boxes for a family home. This MS product is, without a doubt, the best-looking box on this list, and if aesthetics are important to you, look no further.
Inside, this MS product further impresses with its entrance floor grid that reduces litter spread and helps keep your cat’s feet clean. At the same time, the handy built-in waste drawer makes for easy, mess-free cleaning.
An ultra-modern style, it also offers a hidden storage compartment, perfect for holding bags for cleaning, and the free litter scooper that comes with every purchase.
Dimensions: 24x 18 x 15
Pros
- Stylish design
- It doesn’t look like a litter box.
- Home remains tidy as litter tracking is largely prevented
Cons
- Expensive
- Large breeds may struggle
MS Cat Litter Box
The price of “ MS Cat Litter Box” varies, so check the latest price at
4. Modkat XL Litter Box
Covered cat litter boxes don’t come more modern than the Modkat XL litter box. A top entry litter box with an innovative top grate that cleans your cat’s paws as they leave. There is also a side entry door which is perfect for older cats or those with mobility issues.
Nobody enjoys cleaning their cat box. However, the Modkat XL litter box has two features that take the sting out of cleaning day. A folding swivel lid makes access to the litter tray easy, while a litter scoop can hang on the side of the box.
In addition, the litter box comes with reusable liners that can be unhooked, emptied, cleaned, and returned. The liners hook securely in place and won’t be dislodged by even the most enthusiastic diggers.
While not a corner design, the Modkat XL fits neatly into any room, making it an excellent choice for any home.
Dimensions: 21 x 16.3 x 17
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Modern design looks sleek anywhere in the home
- Large enough for big cats to use
- Top entry litter box prevents dog snacking
Cons
- Pricey, especially if you own multiple cats
- The modern design might not suit all homes
Modkat XL Litter Box
The price of “Modkat XL Litter Box” varies, so check the latest price at
5. IRIS Top Entry Cat Litter Box
Cat litter boxes have come a long way and now often look more artistic than they do functional. The IRIS top-entry cat litter box is one such example. This beautiful design features a grooved lid that collects cat litter from your cat’s feet and keeps your house tidy.
The large entry point makes the Iris top entry cat litter box perfect for most cats. While for owners, it comes with an included scoop and a hook from which it can be hung.
A hooded litter box also helps keep dogs and other pets from getting at and spreading the contents through your home.
With a rounded design, the IRIS top entry box is a premium choice. The only problem you’re likely to have with this litter box is deciding where to put it so that you can enjoy it for its cuteness as well as its functionality.
Dimensions: 20.75 x 16.13 x 14.63
Pros
- Looks great
- The hooded cover enhances odor control
- Won’t break the bank
Cons
- Litter can get caught in the grooves
- Older cats may struggle to get in and out
IRIS Top Entry Cat Litter Box
The price of “IRIS Top Entry Cat Litter Box” varies, so check the latest price at
6. Van Ness Enclosed Cat Litter Box
The Van Ness enclosed cat litter pan is a traditionally designed litter box. Available in two sizes and two colors, it doesn’t pander to the hyper-modern crowd. Instead, the Van Ness enclosed cat litter pan is built around being functional without breaking the bank.
Cat litter boxes don’t need to be complicated. With a large base that offers your cat plenty of room, along with an odor control door and a zeolite air filter system to help keep smells out of your home, you really can’t ask for any more from a litter box.
Arguably one of the best budget cat litter boxes on the market, it does what it needs to. To top it off, this cat litter pan is made from 20% recycled materials.
Cleaning this box is also easy, as all you need to do is release the clips and simply lift the hood away.
Dimensions: 21.5 x 17.75 x 18
Pros
- Affordable
- Spacious for larger cats or multiple cats
- Effective at reducing unnecessary odors
- Easy to clean
- Being made from recycled materials helps those trying to be more eco-friendly.
Cons
- Not as sturdy as other litter boxes
- Not great for small rooms or spaces
- High entry might be difficult for older cats or those with reduced mobility
Van Ness Enclosed Cat Litter Box
The price of “Van Ness Enclosed Cat Litter Box” varies, so check the latest price at
7. Petphabet Jumbo Litter Box
The Petphabet Jumbo hooded cat litter box is a quality litter box for cats of all ages and sizes. One of the larger litter boxes on the market, it is perfect for large cats, while small cats will have ample room to search for that ideal spot.
The clear lid provides cats security and privacy without removing their line of sight, something cats prefer given the vulnerable position using a litter box puts them in.
The Petphabet litter box has a no-frills design, while the removable hood allows you to create an open litter box for those cats that struggle with a hooded box. In addition, when the hood is attached, it is one of the best litter boxes for preventing unsightly litter scatter.
A solid beginner’s choice for those first-time cat owners looking to stock up on everything they need for their new feline friend.
Dimensions: 25 x 19 x 17
Pros
- Vivid colors options are a refreshing change
- Perfect for large cats
- Helps keep rooms litter free
- User-friendly design
Cons
- The transparent cover doesn’t hide the content very well
- Pricey for what it is
Petphabet Jumbo Litter Box
The price of “Petphabet Jumbo Litter Box ” varies, so check the latest price at
8. Nature’s Miracle Hooded Litter Box
Nature’s miracle hooded litter box is a quality cat litter box from a big name in the world of pet products. A traditional front entry cat litter box with a charcoal filter built into the hood that helps to eliminate odors. Each filter lasts for up to four weeks.
An easy-to-use covered litter box that promises to minimize litter spray and keep solid waste contained and safe from curious dogs looking for a snack.
Easy to assemble, this generous cat litter box has enough room for even the largest of cats. However, the 7.25-inch entry step might be a struggle for some. Unlike a classic rectangular litter box, this offering from Nature’s Miracle is perfect for male cats who like to aim high.
A top-tier litter box, this offering from Nature’s Miracle is perfect for those cat parents that are extra sensitive to odors
Dimensions: 25.13 x 19.13 x 11.75
Pros
- The sleek curved design looks appealing
- Helps keep your home smelling fresh
- Ideal cat litter box size for larger cats
Cons
- Difficult for kittens or older cats to use
- Missing door flap increases change of litter being sprayed
Nature’s Miracle Hooded Litter Box
The price of “Nature’s Miracle Hooded Litter Box” varies, so check the latest price at
Choosing the Best Covered Litter Box: What to Look For
There is no right or wrong choice when looking at covered litter boxes. The market is flooded with many amazing products, some that are budget friendly and some that offer a little bit of luxury.
Below is a short buyer’s guide detailing the five key considerations that will help you find the right box for you and your cat.
Design
Will your hooded litter box be hidden away from sight, or does it need to be in your main living space? If so, the design of the litter box is vital. Not all hooded litter trays are equal. Some are designed to blend into your home and look more like an item of furniture.
In addition to the aesthetic design, you must also consider the functional design. Will you choose a front or top entry box?
Litter Type
Depending on your budget and your cat’s preferences, your litter selection can impact which enclosed boxes you should use. Some are built around using a particular type of litter.
Before making a purchase, it’s a good idea to ask about litter requirements just in case. Whether you use pine litter or crystal litter, it is important to verify that it won’t impinge on the functionality of the box you’re buying.
Top Entry
Top entry boxes will most likely cost you a little extra, but they offer extra benefits, such as reducing litter and mess spread. A top-entry litter box also helps keep dogs and toddlers from exploring the contents.
A top entry box is also a great choice for more anxious cats as they provide an extra level of security and privacy.
Shape and Size
The size and shape of a litter box depend more on your cats than anything else. From big cats to kittens or elderly cats with bad hips, it is important to put proper thought into whether your new litter box is the right shape and size for your kitty.
For those with limited space, looking for a corner design is a great way to ensure your cats have the space they need without intruding on the room.
Odor Control
A cat litter box can be a smelly place. There’s no way of getting around it. However, some hooded litter boxes offer different degrees of odor control. There are numerous options, from charcoal to a carbon filter or a self-cleaning system that works with particular cat litter brands
If your litter box is in one of the main living spaces in your home, odor control is a vital consideration.
FAQ‘s
Below are three frequently asked questions about buying the best cat litter box.
Is It Better to Have a Covered Litter Box?
Yes, many feel it is better to have a covered litter box. Research shows that cats show no preference for either a covered or open litter box; however, feline bias aside, there are many other benefits of owning a covered tray.
There are several benefits of a covered box over some other litter box for you as a pet owner. For example, reduced litter spread – because cats love to dig – and the fact that nuggets are hidden from view.
Are Covered Litter Boxes Less Smelly?
Yes, as a general rule of thumb, a covered box helps contain odors better than open trays. However, the best choice for an odor-reducing litter box would be one that also includes some sort of filter.
You will also notice a difference in aroma diffusion between front or top entry boxes. As with any litter box, it’s imperative to scoop out any solid waste as soon as you can. Not only does that make your room less smelly, but also helps keep paws clean.
Do Cats Dislike Covered Litter Boxes?
No, cats do not dislike covered or hooded litter boxes. Research suggests that cats are entirely indifferent to the style of the box they use. There is a school of thought that’s against using an open box, given the vulnerable position they are in. However, cats are smart and soon grow accustomed to their environment.
While some picky cats may resist, generally speaking, if you introduce a covered box correctly, your cat will not have any complaints.
Final Thought
The best cat litter boxes are the ones that work best for you and your cat. Every cat owner knows that their precious fur babies can be extremely fussy, especially when it comes to their litter boxes.
Every litter box on this list is a great choice for any cat. Just remember that if you have multiple cats, you will need multiple litter boxes for them. Whether you go for a top-entry cat litter box system or a standard front-entry box, as long as you do a bit of research along the way, you can’t go wrong.
Your cats will soon tell you if they don’t like it, and until then, we hope this article helped.
