Top 7 Best Automatic Litter Box For Self Cleaning in 2024

What's the one thing we really don't enjoy about having a cat? If you guessed “cleaning the cat litter boxes,” you're absolutely right!

Having to deal with the litter box might not be the highlight of owning a feline friend, but it's a task that shouldn't be ignored. Ensuring that the litter box stays clean and fresh is not only beneficial for my cat's well-being but also for the overall health and comfort of everyone in the household.

Moreover, a clean litter box is crucial for preventing any unpleasant odors from permeating the house – definitely a situation we would all prefer to avoid!

If the constant cleaning of litter boxes gets tiring, and if assigning the job to someone else hasn't been effective, there's thankfully a technological solution waiting to make life easier.

Sounds like something from the future? Scratch that: the future is here.

The Best Self-Cleaning Litter Box Reviews: 7 Top Brands

So, what is the best litter box for cats? We've tested and find 7 of the top-selling brands around. Which one is best for your cute companion?

1. Litter-Robot 4

Having recently explored the innovative features of the Litter-Robot 4, we are eager to share our personal insights into this cutting-edge self-cleaning litter box, which promises to transform the experience of cat ownership.

Why We Love It

• Effortless Maintenance: As cat owners, we deeply appreciate the unparalleled convenience offered by the Litter-Robot 4's automatic waste disposal system. With its ability to sift and deposit waste into a separate drawer after each use, we are spared the laborious task of manual scooping, freeing up valuable time for other activities and ensuring a consistently clean litter box environment.
• Multi-cat Compatibility: Living in a household with multiple feline companions, we find the Litter-Robot 4's versatility to be a major advantage. Whether we have a petite kitty or a larger breed, this litter box caters to all sizes, accommodating the diverse needs of our beloved pets without compromising on performance or functionality.
• Odor Management: The Litter-Robot 4 goes above and beyond in its commitment to odor control, incorporating a sophisticated notification system and specialized mechanisms to combat unpleasant smells effectively. By alerting us when the waste drawer is nearing full capacity and implementing innovative odor-neutralizing technology, it ensures a fresher and more hygienic living environment for both cats and humans alike.
• Privacy and Comfort: Recognizing the importance of privacy for cats during their daily routines, we are impressed by the thoughtful design of the Litter-Robot 4. Its enclosed space provides a secluded haven where our feline companions can conduct their business in peace, fostering a sense of security and comfort that contributes to their overall well-being.
• Advanced Technology: The Litter-Robot 4 sets a new standard in litter box innovation with its cutting-edge technology and optional accessories. From advanced litter-sifting mechanisms that minimize dust and maintain a clean space for delicate paws to optional add-ons like the OdorTrap system and SafeCat monitoring, every feature is meticulously designed to enhance user satisfaction and elevate the cat care experience to new heights.
• Quiet Operation: We appreciate the consideration given to noise levels during the development of the Litter-Robot 4. With its QuietSift cleaning cycle, the litter box operates smoothly and quietly, minimizing disruption to our cats' daily routines and ensuring a more serene living environment for ourselves.
• Warranty and Guarantee: The manufacturer's commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in the generous warranty and money-back guarantee offered with the Litter-Robot 4. With options for a 90-day money-back guarantee and additional warranty extensions of 1 or 3 years (albeit with an extra fee), we feel reassured and confident in the product's durability and performance, knowing that our investment is protected.

Things We Had to Consider

• Space Constraints: While the Litter-Robot 4 excels in functionality, its size may pose challenges for cat owners with limited space, requiring careful consideration before purchase.
• Litter Spillage: Although the inclusion of a complimentary fence helps to mitigate litter tracking, the open door design may still result in occasional spillage, necessitating additional precautions.

In our personal opinion, the Litter-Robot 4 represents a game-changing innovation in the realm of cat care, seamlessly blending convenience, hygiene, and technology to streamline the litter box experience.

Despite minor drawbacks related to size and design, its numerous benefits far outweigh any concerns, making it a worthwhile investment for cat owners seeking to enhance the well-being of their furry companions.

With its user-friendly features and commitment to customer satisfaction, the Litter-Robot 4 has earned our enthusiastic recommendation as a must-have addition to any cat-loving household.

2. CatGenie A.I. Self-Washing Cat Box

Let your cat relieve herself and satisfy her covering instincts with these washable and reusable granules instead of normal throw-away litter. This thing looks and works just like a little feline toilet!

With CatGenie, your cats have an automatic cat box that's more hygienic than your own bathroom. CatGenie not only flushes away waste, it also washes and hot-air dries itself clean after every use. All you do is tell CatGenie when to clean itself (choose between automatic or manual modes), a feature making it the best self-cleaning litter box for some.

CatGenie requires NO LITTER, only cat-approved, septic-safe Washable Granules that never need changing. When kitty goes, liquids drain through the non-absorbing Washable Granules.

CatGenie scoops and liquefies the solids for safe and easy disposal down the laundry drain or toilet then cleans and hot-air dries the Washable Granules, all for your cat's comfort.

Why We Love It

• Effortless Maintenance: Say goodbye to the chore of constantly replacing litter. The CatGenie utilizes washable granules instead of traditional litter, eliminating the need for constant refills and saving both time and money.
• Hygienic Operation: Unlike conventional litter boxes, the CatGenie offers a level of cleanliness that rivals even our own bathrooms. It automatically flushes away waste, washes, and hot-air dries itself after each use, ensuring a pristine environment for our feline companions.
• Reliability: With its self-cleaning, self-sanitizing, and self-drying capabilities, the CatGenie offers unparalleled reliability among self-cleaning litter boxes. Its high-quality materials and advanced technology provide peace of mind, knowing that our cats' needs are being met with utmost care.
• Environmentally Friendly: By using washable granules and minimizing waste, the CatGenie aligns with our commitment to sustainability and eco-conscious living. It's a win-win for both our cats and the planet.
• Ideal for Multiple Cats: As a household with multiple furry friends, we appreciate that the CatGenie is designed to accommodate up to three cats, ensuring that all our pets receive the same level of comfort and cleanliness.

Things We Had to Consider

• Installation Requirements: While the CatGenie offers unparalleled convenience, it does require a cold water line, drainage, and outlet for proper operation. Installation may be a bit of a hassle, but the benefits far outweigh the initial setup effort.
• Maintenance: Users have noted occasional clogs in the waste drainage system, often caused by kitty hair. However, this serves as a gentle reminder to maintain a regular grooming routine for our beloved furballs, ensuring their comfort and well-being.
• Odor Concerns: During the cleaning cycle, the CatGenie may emit a foul odor, which is to be expected. To mitigate this, we recommend installing the unit away from high-traffic areas in the house.

CatGenie is a must-have for cat owners who prioritize hygiene and convenience. While it may require some initial effort in terms of installation and maintenance, the benefits it offers far outweigh any minor inconveniences.

With its innovative technology, eco-friendly design, and commitment to cleanliness, the CatGenie has earned its place as a staple in our home. If you're looking for a litter box that offers hands-free operation and unparalleled cleanliness, look no further than the CatGenie. Your cats—and your peace of mind—will thank you for it.

3. PetSafe ScoopFree Ultra Self-Cleaning Litter Box

In our opinion, this self-cleaning cat litter box revolutionizes the chore of cat waste management. Its utilization of highly absorbent crystal litter not only effectively dries out solid waste but also efficiently absorbs urine, preventing any potential leaks. The automated rake system, equipped with a customizable timer offering three settings, effortlessly cleans the disposable tray, promptly disposing of the waste into a concealed compartment.

Why We Love It

1. Enhanced Odor and Moisture Control: It boasts five times better odor and moisture control compared to conventional cat litters, ensuring a fresher environment for both you and your feline companion.
2. Privacy Hood: The privacy hood provides a secluded sanctuary for your cat, reducing the likelihood of litter tracking throughout the house while offering your pet a sense of security and privacy.
3. Cost-Effective Quality: Despite its advanced automation, this system remains relatively affordable compared to other automated litter boxes, making it an attractive option for cat owners seeking quality without breaking the bank.
4. Longevity and Monitoring: It efficiently absorbs up to 20 days' worth of urine, effectively minimizing the frequency of tray replacements. Additionally, its ability to track your cat's litter box usage offers a unique opportunity to monitor your pet's digestive health.

Things We Had to Consider

1. Scent Issue: While it excels in odor control, the litter crystals themselves may emit a noticeable scent. Regular stirring of the crystals and ensuring adequate ventilation can mitigate this issue.
2. Scratching Concerns: Excessive scratching from your cat could potentially damage the disposable tray's cardboard bottom, leading to leaks. While rare, this possibility may necessitate additional precautions, such as placing a permanent plastic tray underneath.

If you're willing to invest in the disposable crystal litter trays and prioritize superior odor control, this model could be an excellent choice for your household. Just be prepared to replace the litter tray every 10-20 days, particularly in single-cat households. However, if you have multiple feline companions, it might not be as feasible.

4. Littermaid LM980 Mega Self-Cleaning Litter Box

Are you a proud owner of multiple feline friends? Finding it challenging to keep up with their litter box needs? The Littermaid LM980 Mega could be the solution you’ve been looking for. With its capacity to hold up to 50% more cat litter than other brands, it’s specifically designed for households with multiple cats.

Why We Love It

• Efficient Cleaning System: The automatic cleaning system is equipped with an easy-to-remove rake, simplifying the process of occasional cleaning.
• Designed to Keep Your Home Clean: The high walls, cleaning pad, and ramp are designed to prevent litter from being kicked or carried out of the box.
• Odor Control: The inclusion of carbon fiber filters effectively minimizes odors, keeping your home fresh.
• Safety Features: The litter box features a safety bar that stops the rake in the event of a blockage, ensuring your pet’s safety.
• Comprehensive Package: The product comes with a battery backup, 4 carbon filters, and 4 sealed waste receptacles.
• Suitable for Larger Cats: It’s designed to accommodate multiple cats over 15 pounds.
• Affordability: Despite its advanced features, the Littermaid LM980 Mega is reasonably priced.

Things We Had to Consider

While the Littermaid LM980 Mega offers numerous advantages, there are a few factors to consider:

• Lifespan: The product typically has a lifespan of about 2-4 years.
• Maintenance: Occasional cleaning may be necessary due to waste blockages.
• Motor Strength and Noise: Some users have reported that the motor strength may not be very durable, and the noise level can be a bit high. Consider placing this litter box away from the main areas of your home.
• Litter Level: Be careful not to overfill the box as the sensors can get dusty.
• Not Ideal for All Cats: This litter box may not be suitable for cats who produce a lot of waste or have urinary issues.

If you’re not looking to completely eliminate your scooping duties but are simply hoping to do them less often, the Littermaid LM980 Mega could be your next perfect purchase. It’s designed to make your life easier while providing a clean and comfortable environment for your beloved cats.

5. Pet Zone Smart Scoop Automatic Litter Box

As pet lovers and tech enthusiasts, we were thrilled to test out this self-cleaning litter box. This high-tech product, equipped with a smart sensor for triggered activation of the cleaning cycle, promises to revolutionize pet care routines.

The package includes a one-month supply of no-touch plastic bags and a one-year warranty, which we found to be a thoughtful addition.

Why We Love It

1. Versatility: We were impressed by the litter box’s compatibility with virtually any brand of clumping cat litter. This flexibility is a significant advantage for pet owners who may prefer specific brands.
2. Quiet Operation: The motor operates so quietly that it didn’t disturb us or our pets. It’s a relief not to have to deal with the noise typically associated with automatic litter boxes.
3. Easy Maintenance: We found the litter box easy to disassemble for cleaning. This feature simplifies maintenance and ensures a clean environment for our pets.
4. Effective Design: The litter box features an angled deflector with fins and a raised height, which effectively keeps clumps inside the litter pan. The carbon zeolite technology was particularly effective in eliminating cat odor, which is a common issue with traditional litter boxes.

Things We Had to Consider

However, there are a few aspects to consider before purchasing:

1. Waste Management: Depending on the number of pets and their habits, you might need to empty the waste bags daily. We found this to be the case with multiple cats.
2. Motor Issues: We did come across reports of some users experiencing problems with the motor, even when the product was new. This is something to keep in mind.

If you’re looking to extend your litter box cleaning routine from every day or two to every 4 to 6 days, and if you’re a fan of high-tech gadgets that can help you improve your pet’s health, this automatic cat box could be the solution you’ve been seeking.

However, be prepared to occasionally scrape urine clumps from the bottom of the tray, as the rake may miss smaller clumps. Despite these minor inconveniences, we believe this product represents a significant step forward in pet care technology. It certainly made our pet care routine more manageable and less time-consuming.

We recommend giving it a try if you’re in search of a more efficient and hygienic solution for your pet’s needs.

6. PetSafe Simply Clean Self-Cleaning Litter Box

We’ve been using the PetSafe device for a while now and we must say, it stands out from the competition. The key feature that sets it apart is its rotating litter bowl.

This ingenious design allows the device to run continuously, significantly enhancing its hygiene benefits.

What We Love About It

• The 1-year warranty that comes with it provides a sense of security and trust in the product’s durability.
• The continuous waste removal mechanism is a game-changer. It allows us to get more use out of our litter since there’s less chance for foul-smelling bacterial growth.
• The waste removal process is made even more convenient by the fact that we can line the waste bucket with any kind of plastic bag. This simple feature makes a big difference in maintaining cleanliness.
• The motor is impressively quiet, especially considering it runs continuously! This is a huge plus for us as it doesn’t disturb our daily activities or our pet’s peace.
• The unit is compact and affordable, making it an excellent choice for us living in an apartment. It’s a testament to PetSafe’s thoughtful design catering to pet owners in small spaces.

Things We Had to Consider

• The size of the unit is something to keep in mind. It’s designed for a single cat weighing 12 pounds or less. So if you have a large cat, she probably won’t fit.
• The movement of the device, despite being slow, might not be liked by all cats. If your cat is particularly finicky, she may not take to it well.
• Occasionally, the device may make a grinding noise. However, this can be easily fixed by cleaning litter out of the space between the base and the rotational plate.
• The type of litter used with this product matters. If you use cheap litter, waste may clump under the sifting device.

While it’s compact and hygienic, this device does require a bit of daily care and maintenance. But for us and our small, healthy kitty, it’s been a great option.

It’s worth noting that PetSafe is a major American retailer of pet products and is known for making modern pet products such as training leashes, electric fences, and automatic ball launchers. This gives us confidence in the quality and reliability of their products.

Overall, we believe the PetSafe device offers a good balance of convenience, hygiene, and affordability.

7. Omega Paw Self-Cleaning Litter Box

Rounding up our list is this super affordable and easy-to-use auto-cleaning litter box from Omega Paw.

We’ve been using the Omega Paw Self-Cleaning Litter Box and it’s a game-changer. It’s super affordable and easy to use, making it a standout in the auto-cleaning litter box market.

What We Love About It

• The simplicity of its use is one of its best features. Anyone in the house can be part of cat litter duty! All we need to do is roll it upside down and then right side up. The remaining waste clumps are shuttled into a disposable waste tray, making the process clean and hassle-free.
• It doesn’t require electricity, filters, or water hook-ups. This makes it a convenient and eco-friendly option.
• It’s the most affordable of the bunch. This makes it a great choice for those on a budget but still wanting a quality product.
• It’s big and private, perfect for your shy and/or large kitty. The size and design provide ample room and privacy for your feline friend.

Things We Had to Consider

• It’s not truly “automatic,” since it does require manual action from the user. However, we still don’t have to come in direct contact with dirty kitty litter on a daily basis, which is a huge plus!
• On occasion, clean cat litter may fall into the disposable waste tray. This can be a bit wasteful from a financial aspect, but it’s a minor issue considering the overall benefits.
• Litter tracking is not unusual with this design, but placing a mat beneath the unit should help reduce this problem significantly.

So, for pet owners who are looking for a super affordable, effective, and easy-to-use litter box that removes the need to frequently come in contact with dirty kitty litter, the Omega Paw Self-Cleaning Box may be a great fit for your home. If your kitty is on the larger size, you may also want to look into this option, since she’ll definitely have ample room inside!

The Omega Paw Self-Cleaning Litter Box is a good first-timer’s product to test out before thinking of shelling out more cash for the more expensive models of self-cleaning litter boxes on the market. It’s a testament to Omega Paw’s thoughtful design catering to pet owners in small spaces. This gives us confidence in the quality and reliability of their products.

Overall, we believe the Omega Paw Self-Cleaning Litter Box offers a good balance of convenience, hygiene, and affordability.

3 Reasons Why You Should Own An Automatic Cat Litter Box

If you've never thought about owning a new litter box that self cleans instead of a traditional litter box, here are 3 reasons you may change your mind:

An automatic cat litter box saves time.

Feline friends make great pets for busy homeowners. Why? These animals are highly independent and can handle being on their own for extended periods of time—most of them, anyway.

But if you're traveling, slammed with work, coming home late, or running in and out of the house between work and family commitments, then cleaning out the cat litter box/litter boxes is probably the last thing on your mind.

With electric litter boxes, you'll deal with way less hassle and mess, which can save you valuable time every week. It's like a “set it and forget it” way to keep you and your feline friend happy.

An electric litter box is good for hygiene.

Having a box that cleans itself can help keep your cat cleaner, too. No more “Oh shoot” moments when you realize you forgot to empty out the cat's litter box again!

Using an electric litter box is a great way to pamper your furry friend!

Many cat owners have resorted to teaching their feline friends how to use the actual toilet. But this can be a pretty frightening for most cats—and a frustrating process for most pet parents!

A worthwhile reminder: aside from the obvious challenges of “potty training” your kitty, felines also have a natural instinct to bury their waste. “Forcing” your cat to use the potty can actually deprive her of this inherent act.

If you think your furry friend will have a hard time adjusting to a new box, you don't have to write off an auto litter box as an option yet. The best products which come with auto-cleaning capabilities are cozy and comfortable for your kitty. With time, she may very well love her new potty!

Admit it: your pampered kitty acts like a cute little queen. Doesn't she deserve a clean and luxurious “throne”? Let her relieve herself as nature intended in a private, stylish, state-of-the-art console that will fit subtly into your decor.

Also Read: Best Automatic Cat Feeders 2024

How We Tested Automatic Litter Boxes

When testing automatic litter boxes, we followed a comprehensive and rigorous process to ensure the accuracy and reliability of our results. Here’s a breakdown of our testing methodology:

1. Selection of Litter Boxes: We started by researching the market to identify the most popular and highly-rated automatic litter boxes. We considered a range of models from various manufacturers, ensuring a mix of different prices, designs, and features. This allowed us to test a representative sample of what’s available to consumers.
2. Setup and Installation: We followed the manufacturer’s instructions for each litter box to set it up. We paid attention to how easy or difficult the assembly process was, how clear and helpful the instructions were, and whether any additional purchases were necessary (like proprietary litter or liners). This gave us insight into the user-friendliness of each product.
3. Usage Over Time: We didn’t just use each litter box for a day or two. Instead, we used them over several weeks to a month. This allowed us to see how they performed over time, how often maintenance like refilling litter or emptying waste compartments was needed, and whether any issues or malfunctions arose.
4. Cleaning Efficiency: We closely observed the cleaning process of each litter box. We checked whether any waste was left behind after the cleaning cycle and how well the automatic mechanism worked. We also noted if there were any instances of the mechanism failing or jamming.
5. Odor Control: One of the main benefits of an automatic litter box is supposed to be superior odor control. So, we regularly assessed how well each box contained odors. We did this by checking for unpleasant smells at different times of the day and over the course of the testing period.
6. Noise Level: Automatic litter boxes can be noisy, which could be disruptive, especially if the box is located in a common area of the house. So, we used a decibel meter to measure the noise produced by each litter box during its cleaning cycle.
7. Pet Acceptance: The most critical factor of all is whether cats will use the litter box. We observed our test cats’ reactions to each box and noted any signs of reluctance or fear. We also monitored whether the cats stopped using their regular litter box in favor of the automatic one.

Through this rigorous testing process, we aimed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of each automatic litter box, helping cat owners make an informed decision when choosing the best option for their feline friends.

A Few Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Buy One

Ready to browse the internet for the best self cleaning litter box? Before you do, you may want to ask yourself a few questions:

• When it comes to pet chores, how important is convenience? Understandably, a self scooping litter box tends to be a little pricier compared to traditional litter boxes. But many users agree that the amount of hassle and, well, yuckiness, that can be avoided with a self-cleaning cat litter box is far worth the investment.
• Do you often forget to change your cat's litter box or litter boxes, or dread the task so much that you put it off until the last minute? Take your own will power out of the equation. Using a box that does the hard lifting for you relieves you of your least favorite chore!
• How many pets do you have? If you live in a multi-cat house, a box that cleans itself can save you a ton of time! This is because you won't have to change out the litter as frequently. Even if you only have one feline friend roaming about, you can still expect to spend a fraction of the time on minding her litter boxes compared to what you would spend using a standard box.
• Are you comfortable troubleshooting an electronic device?  Auto litter boxes come with directions and the best ones are easy to set up and use. But if you're a bit of a technophobe, you'll want to make sure you're ready to handle a new automatic device in your house.

Conclusion: Automatic Litter Boxes Are a Great Solution for the Busy Pet Owner

You love your kitty. She's an important part of the family, and as such, she deserves all the proper care and attention she needs to be healthy and happy.

But let's be honest: cleaning out the kitty litter day in and day out can be a real drag!

Besides, sometimes life gets in the way. Maybe you get caught up at the office and come home late from work one day. Perhaps you're traveling out of town and don't want to bother your neighbor or house sitter with kitty litter duties. Maybe you've got a bunch of furry friends in your house, and the amount of cleaning, scooping, and tossing is driving you a little nuts!

You may even be struggling with a medical condition, and the thought of having to handle, touch, and clean the toilet of your feline every day just seems like far too much work.

By the end of the day, we all want the same thing: clean litter box! No matter what reason you have for wanting to cut down on your time managing your feline's indoor potty, an automatic cat litter box can be the answer to all your needs!

Automatic Cat Litter Box FAQs

How does it work?

Generally, automatic cat litter boxes (aka self-cleaning ones) have a receptacle beneath or at one end of the box itself. A mechanical rake moves through the litter and sifts out your kitty's waste products, depositing it into the receptacle. Odors are contained in the receptacle until you empty the receptacle by some sort of enclosure or top.

What type of litter should I pick for an automatic litter box?

Read the directions on your device, as it should specify what type of litter you'll need to use (e.g., clumping, crystals, non-tracking, etc.). Using the incorrect one may impair the function of the self-cleaning box.

Where should I place my cat litter box in my home?

The ideal place is in a low-traffic, low-noise area where your cat regularly goes. It should be on a hard and sturdy surface and easy for your cat to access in multiple ways.

How do I help my cat get used to her new fancy toilet?

You can get your animal used to her new high-tech litter box or litter boxes by placing a small amount of her waste from her old box inside the new one, in order to “familiarize” it. You may need to leave the electric litter box powered off for the first couple days until she's using it on her own. When you do turn it on, simply watch to see how she reacts to the noise of the mechanism. This may also take her a little time to get used to.

How do I teach my new kitten to use an automatic litter box?

Expect to start teaching your kitten how to use a litter box around 1 month old. In some cases, she may even come to you already trained by her mother! You'll need to show your kitty where the “toilet” is, and may need to follow the similar steps for re-training an older cat how to use a new box. Cats and kittens are more comfortable using litter boxes when they have privacy hoods, are easily accessible, and in an area of the home where no one can sneak up on them and surprise them while they're doing their business.

If you've been looking for an easier and quicker way to maintain your kitty's box, then we recommend reading through these self cleaning litter box reviews to determine which one of the many options available may be the best fit for you and your feline companion. Also, make sure you remember the points from this infographic. Click for bigger picture.