How to choose a cat litter box?

Today, pet stores offer a huge selection of different trays. And sometimes it’s not so easy to choose the option that the cat likes. Some pets prefer closed options in the form of houses, others do not mind a tray with a grate, and still others generally recognize only classic bowls. Which tray to choose for a cat?

Types of trays:

• classic tray

  The simplest type of tray has a rectangular shape and small sides. This option is ideal as a first tray for kittens, as it is convenient for babies to climb inside. In addition, it is easy to take it with you on trips: it weighs little and does not take up much space. However, there is a drawback: from diligent burying, the filler can spill out of the tray.

• High tray

  An improved model of the classic version – a tray with high sides. Its main advantage over conventional trays is that the filler does not spill onto the floor. In addition, the price for it depends on the manufacturer, but is usually in the middle range.

  There is also a more advanced model – a tall cat tray with a removable rubber nozzle on the sides. It allows you to secure the bag, which can be easily changed as the tray gets dirty.

• Tray for cats with grate

  The biggest advantage of trays with a grate is that it is not necessary to purchase a filler to use them. The liquid flows into the grate and thus does not stain the cat’s paws. But when choosing this type of tray, you should pay attention to the distance between the grate and the tray: it should not be too small.

  In addition, such a tray is not always to the taste of picky pets: some are annoyed by the grate, as claws cling to it, while others may not like the lack of filler.

• Closed cat litter box

  The closed tray appeared in Russia not so long ago, but has already managed to find its fans. Such trays look very similar to carriers: as a rule, it is a plastic box with a transparent door, some models have a handle on the lid for ease of movement.

  True, it should be borne in mind that not every pet feels comfortable in a closed space, and many are distrustful of the tray door. However, resourceful owners usually quickly solve the problem – they simply remove the door.

  The main advantage of this model is that the closed cat tray retains odor well: it usually has a charcoal filter. But it is bulky and takes up a lot of space, so before buying, you should evaluate whether it will fit into your home.

• automatic tray

  Technology does not stand still, and manufacturers of pet products are not far behind. They have gone further and already offer cat owners complex designs that look like a real toilet. The automatic tray does not need to be cleaned, it reacts to movement and, after the cat leaves the toilet, cleans the surface.

  The advantage of this type of trays is obvious – they do not need to be removed. But they are not perfect either. The obvious disadvantage is the high price. And, besides, cats are often afraid of the process of cleaning the tray and the machine itself, as a result, they refuse to use the automatic tray.

When choosing a tray, be guided not only by the quality of the material and price, but also consider the nature of the pet, its habits and preferences.

If you choose a tray for kittens, then in this case the main thing is its size and quality of the filler. Choose wood litter over clumpy litter as toddlers love to taste it.

Photo: Collection

13 2018 June

Updated: 27 June 2018