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When it comes to litter boxes, there are four main types to choose from: uncovered, hooded, top-entry, and self-cleaning. Any of these styles clash with your aesthetic, of course. But the best litter box furniture enclosures can help keep both you and your cat happy.
We asked cat behaviorists and veterinarians how to choose litter box furniture that best meets your needs. Whether you live in a small studio, want to keep your dog away from the litter box, or are searching for a design that complements your home, these 12 enclosures offer effective solutions. Our top pick is the Recaceik Cat Litter Box Enclosure With Cat Tree. It's a budget-friendly cabinet with a spacious interior and plenty of spots on top for your cat to perch.
Keep in mind that cats are notoriously particular about their litter box setup. If they dislike a box's placement or size, you might end up with some major messes. "Whether someone has a few cats or just one, the litter box and the furniture it's placed in should provide privacy, peace, quiet, and always be clean so a cat can easily and happily use the bathroom when they have to," says Dr. Michelle Lugones, a veterinarian at Best Friends Animal Society's New York Lifesaving Center.
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Best overall: Recaceik Cat Litter Box Enclosure with Cat Tree - See at Amazon
Best budget: DINZI LVJ Litter Box Furniture - See at Amazon
Best table: Tuft and Paw Haven Litter Box Enclosure - See at Tuft and Paw
Best with storage: Tucker and Murphy Laskie Litter Box Enclosure - See at Wayfair
Best for a corner: Kitangle Corner Kitty Litter Box - See at Chewy
Best for bathrooms: New Age Ecoflex Jumbo Litter Box End Table - See at Chewy
Best for large cats: PetFusion Modest Cat Litter Box Privacy Screen - See at Chewy
Best for senior cats, kittens, and cats with special needs: Qlevo Cat Litter Box Cabinet - See at Etsy
Best for automatic litter boxes: Whisker Litter-Robot Credenza with Litter Box Enclosure - See at Amazon
Best planter: Good Pet Stuff Original Hidden Litter Box - See at Amazon
Best for homes with dogs: Qlevo Top Lid Opening Zero Spill Design - See at Etsy
Cats are both predators and prey, which means they're always on high alert. In fact, cats in the wild will go to the bathroom in the open so they can see potential threats approaching, says Molly DeVoss, a certified cat behavior specialist.
Our top pick for the best litter box furniture, the Recaceik cat litter box cabinet, has large entrances on both sides, back ventilation holes, and front-slatted cabinet doors. This design provides your cat with plenty of vantage points and fresh air. Plus, with two ways to enter and exit, your cat always has a quick escape route in case of a threat, like the sound of another pet approaching.
The enclosure includes an adjustable divider that can be used for added privacy or removed to accommodate one of the best large litter boxes. The unit has a cat cubby, scratching posts, and perches, so it might not be the most inconspicuous choice if you prefer furniture that doesn't immediately scream cats. But since it also provides space for cats to play and rest, it can maximize your cat-friendly area if you have limited space. While it may seem somewhat intimidating to put together, reviewers say assembly is fairly straightforward.
If you have multiple cats, you most likely have multiple litter boxes. Buying the best litter box furniture enclosures to hide them all could get pretty expensive, but the DINZI LVJ Litter Box Furniture offers plenty of feline-friendly features for under $100.
This enclosure provides privacy for your cat and keeps the litter box hidden from view. It has a generously sized entrance: 9.4 inches wide and 8.7 inches high. The front slots also provide ventilation and an outside view. Though it's made of particle board rather than solid wood or water-resistant plastic, it's sturdy enough for regular use. You can also install the door on either side, which may be a bonus if you have limited options for where to place it.
The Tuft and Paw's Haven Litter Box Enclosure doubles as an attractive side table, which is why it's a top pick for the best litter box furniture. It does come with a higher price tag ($699) than some of our other recommendations, but most reviewers say it's worth the investment. You also have the option to consult with a feline behavior specialist, free of charge, before making your purchase.
Lugones says cats generally accept litter box enclosures as long as they're accessible and in a stress-free location. However, if your cat has an underlying health condition that restricts their mobility, then the elevated entrance of the Haven likely won't work for them.
With an entrance opening of 11 inches wide, cats of most sizes should fit comfortably through the door. The enclosure's design might make your life easier, too. The latched and triple-hinged front panel provides wide access for cleaning, and the slatted exit captures litter before it can end up on your floor.
If you're looking to gain extra space with your litter box enclosure, the Tucker and Murphy Laskie may be a good option. The steps that take your cat to an elevated lounging area double as roomy drawers to stash cleaning tools or anything else you want to keep handy. It has two entrances, both 7.75-inch squares. This is good for your cat because two exit points can help keep your cat from feeling trapped in the confined space and offer a quick escape if they're being ambushed by another furry family member, says Dr. Mark Freeman, a veterinarian and assistant professor of community practice at the Virginia Tech Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine.
The enclosure is made of MDF wood and weighs just under 60 pounds when assembled. Assembly may take an hour or two between two people, according to reviewers. Also note the drawers don't come with knobs, which one reviewer says can make them a little tricky to open.
It's essential to provide your cat with a litter box in a low-traffic spot to help keep their stress to a minimum. When using even one of the best cat litter boxes becomes stressful, that's when cats resort to eliminating elsewhere. Lugones says peeing or pooping outside the litter box is the number one reason cats are surrendered to the shelter and a common reason for veterinary visits.
If you share a small home or apartment with cats, you might find yourself with limited options for where to put the box. But that's where the Kitangle Corner Kitty litter box comes in handy. Its triangular design makes it suitable for even the most awkward spaces, like the corner of a room.
There aren't many options for litter boxes that fit into an out-of-the-way corner, but Kitangle offers the best we've seen. It's made of sturdy polypropylene plastic and has a seamless design that's more spacious than many traditional covered boxes. The removable lid helps simplify cleaning, and a one-piece base helps keep urine from seeping into cracks. The entry, which is 8.75 inches high and 8.5 inches wide, is just 6 inches off the ground, so most cats should be able to enter and exit without trouble.
If you share a bathroom with your cat, this pick for the best litter box furniture has extra counter space that can be a great solution. And speaking of extra space, the interior of this litter box enclosure has plenty of room. Lugones says it's important to choose a litter box that allows your cat to stand up and turn around without touching any sides, including their tail. The design of this generously sized litter box allows your cat to do just that. Plus, the ventilation slots on each side allow for necessary airflow and a full view of the room. This litter box enclosure has one entry, a 7.9-inch square at the front.
The enclosure is made of Ecoflex, a super wood/plastic composite that's resistant to both liquid and odors. In short, you won't have to worry about it soaking up cat pee or absorbing litter box odors.
If you have a big cat that needs a large litter box, furniture may not be a workable option. A privacy screen, however, can keep the box out of view without sacrificing your cat's comfort. This screen features semi-transparent plastic panels, a bamboo wood frame, and two-way hinges so you can position it into a "Z" or "U" shape. This can create a clear entry and exit from the box to help minimize litter tracking, especially if you add a litter mat. The screen itself is fairly light — just under 8 pounds — so it's possible a cat could knock it down in a fit of post-bathroom zoomies.
DeVoss says cats tend to prefer litter box furniture that provides ample space to do their business and isn't enclosed on all four sides. "I'd recommend little box furniture that is open in the back, very tall, and has an exit path on each end," she says. Customizing furniture to check all those boxes can be challenging, not to mention costly. However, this enclosure satisfies all DeVoss's must-haves for cats of all ages and sizes — for under $70.
Not all cats are agile enough to use any type of litter box. Senior cats and cats with arthritis may find it painful to use litter boxes with high sides or furniture with steps. Young kittens, who have short legs and limited vertical reach, may have a hard time accessing elevated litter boxes. Cats with poor balance and vision, limited motor skills, or other special needs may also be unable to use elevated boxes.
Low-to-the-ground boxes without steps or inclines can better accommodate these cats, Lugones says. The Qlevo litter box cabinet, handmade and sold through Etsy, is one option that fits these criteria. This enclosure has a floor-level entryway that measures 10 inches by 16 inches, with large cutouts that let in plenty of light and air. You can also customize it further by adding a second entrance, such as a top entry. The top of the enclosure lifts up for easy cleaning.
You can't return or exchange this product, but you can ask the seller any questions you have before you make the purchase.
Generally speaking, cats prefer a pristine litter box, and one of the best self-cleaning litter boxes helps ensure they always have what they need. Yet even though smart litter boxes are designed to help reduce noise and odors, hiding the litter box in furniture still has its perks. "We love our cats, but don't necessarily need to observe their every elimination," Freeman says.
The farmhouse-rustic design features two solid wood sides and three credenza doors. The fourth side remains entirely open to allow for air circulation and easy entry. Whisker manufactures this litter box credenza, and any Whisker Litter-Robot model will fit inside, along with its ramp. The large design should also accommodate most automatic litter boxes on the market. Just keep in mind that once assembled, it may be difficult to move, as it weighs 111 pounds.
Cats and real plants don't always coexist happily, and that's where this double-duty planter may come in handy. The spacious hollow base acts as your cat's litter box, and the faux foliage on top adds aesthetic appeal. The entry, a 9-inch square, is slightly elevated to prevent litter from being kicked out. You can also add a high-wall lining to the enclosure to prevent leaks, which may come in handy if you have an enthusiastic sprayer.
While the fake plant may not do much to freshen the air, the planter's polypropylene plastic base and replaceable carbon filter may help prevent odors. That's because plastic is less likely to trap odors and bodily fluids than porous materials like unfinished wood, Lugones says. However, the best way to keep any litter box smelling fresh involves scooping daily and deep cleaning the box with soap and water every two to four weeks.
The planter consists of five parts that need to be assembled: the two-part base that twists and snaps securely, a carbon filter, and the faux foliage and florist moss.
Most cats don't appreciate surprise guests while they're going to the bathroom. That includes curious canines who might like to stick their nose where it doesn't belong, or worse, forage for cat poop. The best solution is to place the litter box in a room your dog can't access, DeVoss says. But if you have limited space, Lugones says litter box furniture can be an excellent solution.
This top-entry litter box enclosure keeps your cat's business private by preventing dogs from getting in. It also helps keep litter in the box instead of scattered throughout your house. The perforated entry and exit platform allows for air circulation and returns stray litter from your cat's paws back into the box. While this enclosure fits most standard litter boxes, the seller says they're happy to accommodate custom requests, like a larger size or extra features like air vents or another door. The unit has locking wheels for easy movement and a top-opening lid for simple cleaning. The entry hole at the top is 10.2 inches in diameter.
You can't return or exchange this product, but you can message the seller with any questions before purchasing.
We recommend considering these essential features when selecting the best litter box furniture. Our advice is based on information from our experts, research, and personal experience.
Size: If your litter box and the furniture that houses it isn't large enough for your cat to stand up and turn around in, your cat may choose to eliminate elsewhere. We selected litter box furniture suitable for cats of all sizes and opted for pieces that fit well in small spaces.
Accessibility: Senior cats, kittens, and special needs cats may have different accessibility needs than other cats. To accommodate cats with mobility limitations, we chose furniture with large openings flush or just slightly off the ground.
Multiple viewpoints and entrances: While some cats may find an enclosed space soothing, others might prefer a view of their surroundings and multiple escape routes. For this guide, we prioritized furniture that accounts for a cat's predator-prey instincts with large cutouts and more than one entrance.
Ventilation: We prioritized litter boxes with plenty of ventilation, so trapped ammonia particles don't irritate your cat's sensitive nose. We also considered options with odor-reducing features, like carbon filters. Our experts advise daily scooping, which they consider standard practice for any litter box, to prevent unpleasant odors from the hidden litter box.
Materials: When searching for furniture, we prioritized seamless designs and water-resistant materials over porous materials. This helps ensure the furniture won't absorb urine and offensive odors. Plus, these designs are generally easier to clean.
Ease of assembly: When selecting litter box enclosures, we opted for products with clear assembly instructions, manageable parts, and a user-friendly design. We prioritized options that provide step-by-step guidance, like Whisker's video instructions, and those that can easily snap together, like the Good Pet Stuff Hidden Litter Box planter. We also considered fully assembled options, like Qvelo's designs.
Price: Our experts recommend having one litter box per cat, plus one extra — and the cost of enclosing all those litter boxes in furniture can add up quickly. So, we included furniture at a range of price points.
To select the best litter box furniture, we consulted two veterinarians and a certified feline training and behavior specialist (CFTBS).
Dr. Michelle Lugones is a veterinarian at Best Friends Animal Society's New York Lifesaving Center and an associate adjunct professor at LaGuardia Community College's veterinary technology program. Lugones helped us understand the biological needs of a cat and the importance of proper litter box placement and selection.
Molly DeVoss is a certified feline training and behavior specialist (CFTBS), certified cat behavior consultant, and Fear Free certified trainer who specializes in using positive reinforcement to modify and prevent unwanted behaviors in cats. She is the founder and owner of Cat Behavior Solutions. DeVoss helped us understand what features make litter box furniture adaptable to a cat's needs and what features to avoid.
Dr. Mark Freeman is a board-certified veterinarian and assistant professor of community practice at Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. Freeman helped us understand how best humans and cats can cohabitate comfortability, which includes making compromises with litter box placement and design.
We also conducted extensive research to develop our selection criteria for the best litter box furniture. We then reviewed the options available at major online retailers to select our top choices in 12 different categories.
Most cats will use litter box furniture when the design appropriately meets their needs. When introducing the furniture for the first time, Lugones advises against limiting your cat's access to an unenclosed litter box. Instead, provide a litter box both inside and outside the furniture, and let your cat choose which to use. Start by cleaning both boxes as needed, eventually cleaning the unenclosed box less often. Once your cat consistently uses the litter box inside the furniture, it's safe to remove the other litter box.
Litter box furniture has the potential to trap odors, which your cat probably dislikes just as much as you do. To prevent odors, opt for litter box furniture with adequate airflow and avoid using scented litter, which is too harsh for many casts. Lugones says the best way to prevent litter box odors is by scooping daily and deep cleaning the box every two to four weeks.
The ideal spot for a litter box is away from heavy foot traffic. Litter boxes should be spread throughout the home and not placed in rooms with loud appliances, like washing machines and dishwashers, DeVoss says. In multi-story homes, it's best to have a litter box on each floor. Keep in mind, too, that while concealing a litter box from plain view is a major perk of litter box furniture, experts caution against hiding it so well that you forget to scoop. "If we can't see the litter, we might wait until we can smell that it needs to be cleaned, and that's way too dirty for a cat's liking," DeVoss says.
Furniture that offers a way to disguise the litter box that can work well in small living spaces. These furniture pieces can blend in with your home decor, providing a functional space for the litter box while concealing its purpose. However, cats who feel insecure about resources, have conflict with other cats in the home, or see cats outside the window may not prefer an enclosed litter box, DeVoss says. This is because cats feel safer eliminating in the open where they can watch for threats and make a quick escape when necessary. Keep in mind, too, that without proper ventilation and cleaning, litter box furniture can also worsen the box's smell — which neither you nor your cat will like. "A dislike for the box can result in inappropriate elimination issues," DeVoss says.
Some cats might prefer using a hidden litter box, especially those who like hiding in enclosed spaces. Features like mesh, slots, grates, and multiple entrances can add light and visibility to the box and help cats feel more secure when using litter box furniture. Still, less confident cats or cats experiencing conflicts with other pets may prefer to use an open litter box.
The best litter box furniture designed with a cat's needs in mind could benefit your cat, Freeman says. Appropriately-designed litter box furniture provides cats with a secure and private space while also allowing them to observe their surroundings. Some designs also provide lounging or resting areas for cats or function as tables or benches for humans.
To encourage your cat to use new litter box furniture, Lugones recommends placing it next to their current litter box. This gives them the option to choose between the two. Once your cat chooses to use the new litter box inside the furniture consistently, remove the old litter box.
