Cat owners are all too familiar with the acrobatic leaps, curious stares, and gentle purring that make felines a joy to have around the house. Each cat brings its own personality to the home, and this individuality extends beyond playtime and cuddles. Even the choice of a cat litter tray — a seemingly minor accessory — can impact your cat’s daily comfort, hygiene routine, and sense of security, especially when considering features like a litter box's clumping. Yet, with so many options lining the shelves of pet stores, selecting the right litter tray often involves a process of trial and error to find one that is both practical for you and a comfortable retreat for your feline companion.
Let’s untangle the considerations and uncover what sets certain litter trays apart, so both you and your cat can find harmonious satisfaction in this important household detail.
Why the Right Litter Tray Matters
A suitable litter tray doesn’t just contain mess; it can shape your cat’s attitude towards cleanliness and, in some cases, prevent unwanted ‘accidents’ outside the designated spot. Cats are fastidious creatures. They prefer a clean, private space, and even minor missteps — too small a tray, overwhelming odours, or an awkward entry — can push a sensitive cat to seek alternatives.
Here are a few key impacts of your choice:
- Reduces the likelihood of inappropriate elimination
- Supports your cat’s physical health, reducing the escalation of common urinary issues
- Makes cleaning simpler for you, encouraging better hygiene
It’s not just about a tray that fits your laundry nook; incorporating a litter mat is equally important, as it helps keep the area tidy while aligning with your cat’s natural instincts and physical needs.
Assessing Your Cat's Specific Needs
Every cat’s personality plays a role in determining the most suitable tray. Consider these factors before you choose and even visit a pet store.
Age and Agility
Kittens and elderly cats often struggle with trays that have high sides or complex covers. Younger, more agile cats or energetic breeds may leap in and out without issue, while larger or senior cats appreciate easy access.
Size Matters
The golden rule: the size of the tray should be one and a half times the length of your cat, from their nose to the tip of their tail. Too small, and your cat may not have enough space to turn, dig, or cover waste, leading to discomfort or mess.
Privacy Preferences
Some cats want a fortress of solitude; others like to keep an eye on their surroundings. Covered litter boxes may offer privacy and contain odours but aren’t universally loved, so it's important to know whether your cat prefers a litter box with a cover or without. Observe your cat’s behaviour: do they retreat into quiet corners, or are they curious and outgoing, never missing a movement in the house?
Exploring the Options
Let’s break down the main types, including non-clumping, found in any reputable pet store and highlight their unique features.
| Tray Type | Good For | Watch Outs | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open/Uncovered | Easy cleaning, visibility | Less odour control, less privacy | Most cats, especially those who dislike enclosed spaces |
| Covered/Enclosed | Containing odour, privacy | Can trap smells, some cats dislike covers | Shy cats, multi-pet homes |
| Top-entry | Limits tracking, neat look | Not for elderly or small kittens | Agile, tidy cats |
| Self-cleaning | Low maintenance | Initial cost, noise may startle some cats | Owners prioritising convenience |
| High-sided | Preventing spillage | Harder for kittens/seniors to access | Lively diggers, large cats |
This table isn’t exhaustive, but it’s a solid starting point for narrowing down which style you choose that aligns with your household and your pet’s preferences, often requiring some trial and error.
Material Quality and Durability
Choosing a robust material and appropriate size means your tray won’t warp, crack, or absorb odours over time, ensuring that litter mats underneath remain effective. Plastic is the go-to material for most trays: it’s lightweight, affordable, and easy to clean. Premium trays sometimes incorporate antimicrobial coatings or smooth finishes that resist scratches and harbour fewer bacteria.
When checking material quality, look for:
- Smooth seams and edges (no snags on fur or paws)
- Sturdy construction with a base that won’t easily tip
- BPA-free and pet-safe certifications for peace of mind
A well-made tray makes maintenance less of a hassle and stands up to years of daily use — important for both you and your feline.
Considering Cleaning and Maintenance
Hygiene isn’t just about the surface that meets the eye, especially when considering the covered litter box. The best litter trays are those that enable swift, thorough cleaning with minimal effort. Look for trays that prevent litter clumping:
- Have detachable rims or lids for easy access
- Feature secure clips or latches (for covered trays)
- Avoid awkward corners where soiling can collect
Self-cleaning litter boxes are a technological leap that appeals to owners with busy schedules or those who might be away frequently, offering the convenience of an automated litter box solution. That convenience, however, comes with the responsibility of keeping mechanisms unobstructed and free of residue, otherwise they can malfunction or stress cats who are startled by unexpected noises.
Location, Location, Location
Even the best tray can lose its effectiveness if placed in the wrong spot. Your cat craves privacy, but also doesn’t want to feel trapped. Avoid putting trays in noisy, high-traffic areas, or near loud appliances. A litter tray’s accessibility at all times is vital, especially for kittens and elderly cats.
Here’s what often works best:
- Quiet, low-traffic rooms (like the laundry or an ensuite bathroom)
- Areas with good ventilation, but not directly under windows
- Spots that are always accessible, not blocked by furniture or doors
Cats dislike change, so once you’ve found the ‘sweet spot’, try not to move the tray around unnecessarily.
Odour Control and Liner Options
No one likes walking into a room and being met with a tell-tale scent. Odour control is influenced by the type of tray, but also by how you maintain it.
Covered trays may reduce spread, but they can trap stale smells inside unless you’re extra diligent with cleaning. Some options come with charcoal or carbon filters built in, but these just reduce airborne scents — they don’t replace the need for fresh litter and scrubbing.
Cat litter tray liners and a litter mat can help extend the life of the tray and make cleaning speedier. Some cats, though, find the rumpled texture off-putting, so this comes down to your cat’s tolerance as much as your own convenience.
Litter Compatibility
Some trays are specifically shaped to pair with particular types of litter, be it clumping clay, crystals, wood pellets, or silica. Top-entry or sifting trays, for example, can work wonderfully with fine clumping litter but create a mess with heavier pellets, whereas non-clumping litter might provide a cleaner experience in such trays.
If your cat has already expressed a preference, choosing a tray compatible with their chosen substrate will help ensure easy transition and ongoing use.
Unique Household Scenarios
Life is rarely as simple as “one cat, one tray.” If you’re part of a multi-cat family or have kittens and adults together, think in multiples. Feline behaviourists recommend offering one tray per cat, plus one extra, to avoid territorial disputes or reluctance to share.
In homes with both cats and dogs, a high-sided, covered litter box or top-entry tray helps prevent curious canines from turning the litter box into a snack bar — a win for feline privacy and household hygiene alike.
Style Meets Function
Modern pet supplies bring together practicality and appearance. There’s no reason your cat’s bathroom corner can’t fit seamlessly with your interior design.
Some trays now feature neutral colours, enclosed furniture-like housings, or fun pop colours to complement any decor. But don’t sacrifice size, accessibility, or hygiene just for aesthetics. A pretty tray that is too cramped or hard to keep clean will only cause frustration for you and your cat.
Personal Service at ADS Pet Store
There’s value in expertise, especially with something as personal as pet care. Staff in dedicated pet stores have hands-on familiarity with a wide variety of products and can discuss your cat’s individual quirks, sensitivities, or health issues.
Some questions to ask your pet care advisor:
- What trays work best for nervous or shy cats?
- Are there trays suitable for small urban apartments?
- Which are easiest to keep odour-free in large family homes?
- What are the most robust choices for lively multi-cat households?
A well-stocked store should offer a range to suit every scenario, backed by advice that’s grounded in animal welfare, not just sales targets.
Key Reminders Before Making Your Purchase
- Size isn’t negotiable: Your cat should easily turn and dig inside the tray.
- Account for growth: Kittens need trays they won’t outgrow in six months.
- Cleaning routine: Be honest about how much maintenance you can realistically manage each day.
- Experiment if unsure: Some cats are surprisingly fussy about clumping litter, and a trial and error approach is often necessary as they don’t mind giving feedback — loudly — if you get it wrong.
Choosing something your cat will use happily, considering the right size, is one of the simplest ways to support their wellbeing each day. When the fit between pet and product is right, even a litter tray becomes more than just a utilitarian box — it’s a space where your feline can express their natural behaviours, contentedly, and with minimal fuss for everyone in the family.
Take your time in making this choice. Consider not only your household’s specific practicalities, but your cat’s personality, comfort, and needs. The investment in the right litter tray or litter box pays off in household harmony, feline happiness, and a cleaner, fresher home. At ADS PET STORE, there’s a solution for every unique cat and family, paired with advice you can trust. Discover the full range in our to cat litter collection find the perfect match for your home.
