Whether you have one cat or five, providing them with one of the best large litter boxes will save you headaches and messes in the long run. Cats need space to avoid stepping on soiled spots and comfortably dig and bury their waste. "Litter box use is important, and I like knowing my cats are happy with their boxes," says Stephen Quandt, a certified cat behavior specialist and founder of Cat Behavior Help. That's because when cats are unhappy with their litter boxes, they'll go to the bathroom elsewhere. If a cat pees or poops over the side of the box, perches on the walls of the box, or leaves the box to cover their waste, then the litter box is too small.
With input from cat behaviorists and a veterinarian, we researched the largest litter boxes for cats of varying ages and needs. Our top pick, the KittyGoHere Jumbo Litter Box, is a generous 28 inches long. For about $50 less, the Smart Cat Ultimate Litter Box will keep most cats happy with its 25-inch long interior. Our other recommendations range from do-it-yourself boxes to high-end designs guaranteed to last a lifetime. If you want even more options, you can check out our guide to the overall best cat litter boxes.
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Our top picks for the best large litter boxes
Best overall:KittyGoHere Jumbo Litter Box - See at Amazon
Best budget: SmartCat Ultimate Litter Box - See at Chewy
Best hooded:Frisco Hooded Cat Litter Box, Extra Large - See at Chewy
Best DIY: Iris 50 Qt. Latch Lid Underbed Storage Box - See at Amazon
Best top-entry: Modkat XL Top-Entry Litter Box - See at Amazon
Best nonstick:PetFusion BetterBox Non-Stick - See at Chewy
Best metal: iPrimio Stainless Steel Cat XL Litter Box - See at Amazon
Best automatic: Whisker Litter-Robot 4 - See at Chewy
Best with high sides: NVR Miss Litterbox - See at Agrifeed Pet Supply
Best round:Boxscoop Curve XL - See at Boxscoop
Best overall
According toMolly DeVoss, a certified cat behavior specialist and founder of Cat Behavior Solutions, a litter box should be at least 1.5 times the length of your cat from nose to tail. Your cat's body should not touch the sides while in the box. It's also important that all cats who use it can access it easily and that it is easy to clean.
The KittyGoHere checks all these boxes. DeVoss's cats, including a large 17-inch long tabby, use this box, which she likes for its simplicity and large interior. Many cats favor a large cat litter box that feels natural to use, and a simplistic open design means no latches, hoods, or drawers to fuss with when cleaning the box.
This is the best of the extra large litter boxes for big cats because even cats the size of Maine coons can comfortably enter. The design includes a low entry, making it a great option for senior cats. Many cats over 10 years old have arthritis, so providing a box with a low entry that doesn't require a step up is really important, DeVoss says. The extra-tall walls also reduce the chances of an aggressive digger kicking litter out of the box. But we recommend pairing this box with a mat to catch rogue litter.
If your kitten or senior cat doesn't need quite so large of a box, another great pick is Shirley K's Senior Cat Litter Box, which is 25 inches long and wide. This box also has 9-inch sides and an entry just 3 inches high to accommodate cats with limited mobility.
Best budget
Our experts all agree that a cat needs more than one litter box. In fact, you should have one litter box for each cat plus one additional box. You'll also want to place these boxes in separate but secure locations. "A litter box on each floor is ideal," says Denise Johnson, a fear-fear certified veterinarian and cat behavior consultant at IndeVets. Of course, the cost of multiple litter boxes can quickly add up.
You can find plenty of litter boxes for around $15, but they tend to run on the smaller side. For a larger litter box with veterinarian-recommended features, the SmartCat Ultimate Litter Box is an affordable pick at $22.
It has a design that Johnson prefers in litter boxes — a taller rear wall to prevent litter scattering and a tapered front for easy entry. Plus, the Smart Cats litter box is made of easy-to-clean plastic resin and features an extra-large rim for effortless handling. The one downside of this litter box: It only comes in bright blue.
Best hooded
Like top-entry litter boxes, covered litter boxes provide more privacy for cats and help reduce wafting odors. However, unlike most top-entry litter boxes, hooded or covered boxes offer user-friendly front entrances.
You can set up the Frisco Hooded Cat Litter Box however you and your cat prefer. If your cat doesn't like the door, you can easily remove it. If they seem hesitant to use a hooded box, you can completely detach the cover. We love this customizability because it offers the opportunity to explore your cat's personal preferences on a budget and named it our top pick for the best cat litter boxes. "Keep track of what they like to do where and make adjustments accordingly," says Johnson.
The litter box comes in three easy-to-assemble pieces: a high-sided pan, a hood that clips on, and a charcoal filter for absorbing odors.
Best DIY
When shopping for the best large litter box, you might often feel you're paying too much for a design that somehow falls short of what you want. If that's the case, DeVoss says you can make a DIY litter box from plastic storage boxes. She prefers low-sided under-the-bed bins, but clear high-sided totes work well, too.
"Select one with a bottom smooth enough to clean easily," Johnson says. And while online marketplaces can be a good place to score a cheap (or even free) storage tote, Johnson says not to purchase a used litter box.
You'll want to follow the same size requirements: 1.5 times the length of your cat, but this container is long enough to accommodate even very long cats. You can cut an entry door at any height to suit your cat's needs. Our experts don't recommend covered litter boxes. However, if you'd like to leave the lid on your DIY box, adding a second entrance and ventilation slots will make the box more ideal for your cat.
Best top-entry
When choosing among the best large litter boxes, you'll want to select one that works for both you and your cat. The best top-entry litter boxes do a great job minimizing litter tracking and concealing messes in the box. However, they can also block your cat's view of their surroundings and trap odors when not cleaned frequently. Some cats may also have a harder time accessing a top-entry box. Because of these reasons, not all cats like them, Quandt says.
The Modkat XL litter box tackles some of those issues with its thoughtful feline-friendly design. First, as the name suggests, it has plenty of room. But what makes this design unlike other top-entry litter boxes is its optional second entry, which our experts say is key for helping a cat feel secure. The front entry offers a more accessible entry to cats who can't make it to the top. To scoop, you simply fold back the perforated folding top lid.
Best nonstick
Our experts recommend scooping the litter box at least once daily. For as much time as you'll spend cleaning your cat's box, you'll likely want a hassle-free one, like this nonstick option from PetFusion. The durable ABS plastic and antistick coating extend the litter box's life while making your life easier. Most reviews say the nonstick coating lasts for months, but if you notice any peeling before it's time to replace the box, contact the company for assistance.
In addition to feeling good about not scraping caked litter from the box, you may also find it satisfying to know this litter box gives your feline friend plenty of room to do their business. We recommend pairing this purchase (or any litter box purchase) with iPrimio's nonstick litter scoop.
Best metal
Metal is known for its durability, which is crucial when scratch marks from cat nails can create a breeding ground for bacteria. Once you spot a scratch on the bottom of a plastic litter box, it's time to replace the box, DeVoss says. As a rule of thumb, Johnson and DeVoss recommend replacing plastic boxes every six months. So, while they may cost more initially, metal litter boxes could make a better investment.
In addition to its durable material and large size, this litter box has a versatile design. The iPrimio Stainless Steel Cat XL Litter Box comes with optional sides that extend the wall height from 6 inches to 12 inches. However, the wall extension simply sits on top of the litter box walls rather than snapping in place, so your cat could knock it off during a post-bathroom burst of zoomies.
While the elevated front entry makes this litter box attractive to pet parents of prolific diggers, seniors with arthritis may have difficulty accessing the entryway.
Best automatic
If you want a large cat litter box that's also hands-off, Whisker's Litter-Robot 4 is your best bet and our top pick for the best self-cleaning litter boxes. An automatic litter box ensures your cats always have a clean box to use, which is important because cats are very fastidious about cleanliness, DeVoss says.
The Litter-Robot 4 doesn't just automatically sense waste and tumble it into an odor-locking drawer. Thanks to its large, circular entry and roomy interior globe, it also provides plenty of space for your cat to feel at ease. The app will notify you when to empty the waste drawer, which may be every few weeks, depending on the number of cats and litter boxes. The brand also recommends deep cleaning the globe every one to three months.
In our multi-cat household, Whisker has remained a trusted brand since the days of Litter-Robot 2, and we consider it well worth the sizable investment. That said, if you (or your cats) aren't happy with the Litter-Robot 4, you can return it within 90 days. You will, however, need to cover the cost of shipping.
Read our full Whisker Litter-Robot 4 review.
Best with high sides
When choosing the right litter box for your cat, its underlying health conditions matter. Conditions like urinary tract infections or kidney disease can increase urine output. In addition to getting veterinary care for your cat, you'll also want to make sure there's always enough litter in the pan to quickly soak up the urine so it doesn't pool.
The "Goldilocks box," then, may be one that has high sides, a deep base for holding litter, and an entry low enough for small kittens or cats with mobility issues. Quandt's recommendation of the NVR Miss Litterbox fits the bill. He says he has two NVR Miss Litterboxes and especially likes that the 11.2-inch walls shield the spray of his "high shooter." The box's entry height will work for most cats, but it may not be ideal for seniors with arthritis.
Best round
Circular litter pans are said to be ergonomically designed for cats, who tend to move in a circular motion when using the litter box. While DeVoss says there's no evidence cats prefer a circle litter pan over a box, reviewers still rave about the Boxscoop Curve XL. A cat dad engineer who's passionate about both efficiency and clean cat paws designed this round pan. The box features a unique stepping pad in the center so your cat can enter without coming into contact with clumps of waste.
Boxscoop provides an easy-access step to help all cats access the entry. The step does double duty to help reduce litter tracking as your cat leaves the box. The included scoop is tailored to fit the contours of the bottom and sides of the litter channel. This makes it easy to remove waste with just one swift, circular motion around the pan. Any of thebest cat littersthat's a clumping formula works for the Boxscoop Curve. You can also purchase this pan in a top-entry design.
While the Boxscoop Curve is our top pick for round litter pans, we consider the Less Litter Box L-6 worth a mention. This stainless steel round litter pan has a 23.75-inch diameter and a height of 19.75 inches. It comes with a hefty price tag — more than $450 — but the brand says it lasts a lifetime. Since our experts recommend replacing plastic litter boxes roughly every six months, you may find this one-time purchase a wise investment.
What to look for in a large litter box
Based on input from our experts, research, and personal experience, we recommend considering these essential features when shopping for the best large litter box for your cat.
Size: Because every cat is a different size, our experts say there's no standard litter box that suits every cat. Instead, opt for a box at least 1.5 times the length of your cat, measured from their nose to their tail. Keep in mind that kittens will need a low entry and a larger box as they grow. The largest litter box should work for cats of all ages and mobility needs.
Accessibility: If you have a senior cat, kitten, or feline with special mobility needs, you'll want to choose litter boxes with low-to-the-ground entryways. The ideal entry height can vary from cat to cat, but aim for a box your cat can easily step into. To accommodate cats with mobility limitations, we chose litter boxes with low entrances or steps.
Design: Our experts recommend open litter boxes that provide cats with unobstructed views and quick escape routes. If you prefer a covered or top-entry box, opt for one with ventilation, odor control, and multiple entrances. You can also disguise an open litter box with a piece of the best cat litter box furniture.
Material: The most common materials for at-home litter boxes include plastic and metal. While plastic litter boxes are readily available and cost-effective, you'll want to replace them at the first sign of scratch marks — or about every six months, according to our experts. Metal litter boxes tend to cost more upfront but have a longer use life, as long as you don't mind the sound of cat nails on metal. We included both metal and plastic large litter box options.
Ease of cleaning: Our experts say litter boxes should be scooped daily and deep cleaned with soap and water every four to six weeks. To come up with our picks for the best large litter boxes, we considered the ease of cleaning.
Price: Our experts recommend having one litter box per cat, plus one extra. Since buying multiple litter boxes can add up quickly, we included litter boxes at a range of price points, including a DIY option.
How we selected the best large litter boxes
To get more guidance on choosing the largest litter box that works best for your cat, we consulted three experts:
Dr. Denise Johnson is a Fear Free certified veterinarian and cat behavior consultant (CCBC) at IndeVets who specializes in behavioral health and low-stress handling. Johnson helped us understand the role a cat's age and health conditions play in choosing the most appropriate litter box.
Molly DeVoss is a certified feline training and behavior specialist (CFTBS), CCBC, 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 to look for in litter boxes, including the size, material, and design.
Stephen Quandt, CFTBS, founder and owner of Cat Behavior Help, has over 20 years of experience working with cats. His expertise lies in understanding feline behavior through the lens of a cat's evolution and adaptation to life with humans. Quandt helped us understand what features make a litter box functional.
Large litter box FAQs
What size is an extra-large litter box?
According to our experts, no single extra-large litter box works for all cats, as each cat has a unique size. Instead, they suggest selecting a litter box 1.5 times the length of your cat from nose to tail.
Do cats need larger litter boxes?
"The larger the cat, the larger the box should be," Quandt says. As a general rule of thumb, your cat should be able to enter the box and turn around without any body part touching the sides. If they can't turn around comfortably inside the box, it's too small.
Why do cats need a large cat litter box?
Cats need a large litter box to avoid stepping on soiled spots and comfortably dig and bury their waste. As mid-level predators, they have an instinct to hide their elimination from both potential prey and predators. Having a larger litter box with plenty of space between deposits allows them to bury their waste more effectively, Johnson says.
How do you know if a litter box is too small?
If your cat eliminates over the side of the litter box, perches on the walls of the box, or leaves the box to cover their waste, they typically need a bigger box. When a litter box is too small, difficult to use, or dirty, a cat may choose to eliminate outside the litter box. According to Quandt, improper elimination (pooping and peeing outside the litter box) is a leading reason people surrender their cats to shelters or rehome them.
Can large cats use a top-entry litter box?
The ability to use a top-entry litter box depends on your cat's age and any underlying health conditions. Top-entry litter boxes can be difficult or impossible for some cats to access — and if your cat has difficulty accessing their box, they're less likely to use it, Quandt says.
Best budget
The Smart Cat Ultimate Litter Box has a generous size, is made of easy-clean plastic resin, and costs just $25.
Chewy
Our experts all agree that a cat needs more than one litter box. In fact, you should have one litter box for each cat plus one additional box. You'll also want to place these boxes in separate but secure locations. "A litter box on each floor is ideal," says Denise Johnson, a fear-fear certified veterinarian and cat behavior consultant at IndeVets. Of course, the cost of multiple litter boxes can quickly add up.
You can find plenty of litter boxes for around $15, but they tend to run on the smaller side. For a larger litter box with veterinarian-recommended features, the Smart Cat Ultimate Litter Box is an affordable pick at $25.
It has a design that Johnson prefers in litter boxes — a taller rear wall to prevent litter scattering and a tapered front for easy entry. Plus, the Smart Cats litter box is made of easy-to-clean plastic resin, and it features an extra-large rim for effortless handling. The one downside of this 25-by-18.5-inch litter box: It only comes in bright blue.
Best hooded
The Frisco Hooded Cat Litter Box provides a roomy pan plus a clip-on hood if your cat prefers extra privacy.
Chewy
Like top-entry boxes, covered litter boxes provide more privacy for cats and help reduce wafting odors. But unlike most top-entry litter boxes, hooded or covered boxes also offer user-friendly front entrances.
You can set up the Frisco Hooded Cat Litter Box however you and your cat prefer. If your cat doesn't like the door, you can easily remove it. If they seem hesitant to use a hooded box, you can completely detach the cover. We love this customizability because it offers the opportunity to explore your cat's personal preferences on a budget. "Keep track of what they like to do where and make adjustments accordingly," Johnson recommends.
The 26-by-18-inch litter box comes in three easy-to-assemble pieces: a high-sided pan, a hood that clips on, and a charcoal filter for absorbing odors.
Best top-entry
The Modkat XL litter box has both a top and front entry so it's more accessible for all cats.
Modkat
Instead of simply choosing the largest litter box you can find, you'll also want to find one that works for both you and your cat. Top-entry litter boxes do a great job at minimizing litter tracking and concealing messes in the box. However, they can also block your cat's view of their surroundings and trap odors when not cleaned frequently. Some cats may also have a harder time accessing a top-entry box. Because of these reasons, not all cats like them, Quandt says.
The Modkat XL litter box tackles some of those issues with its thoughtful feline-friendly design. First, as the name suggests, it has plenty of room: It's 21 inches long, 16 inches wide, and 17 inches tall. But what makes this design unlike other top-entry litter boxes is its optional second entry, which our experts say is key for helping a cat feel secure. The front entry, at 6 inches off the ground, offers a more accessible entry to cats who can't make it to the top.
This litter box is made of sturdy injection-molded ABS plastic. To scoop, you simply fold back the perforated folding top lid.
Best automatic
The Litter-Robot 4 is an automatic litter box with enough room for older kittens and cats of all sizes.
Chewy
If you want a large litter box that's also hands-off, Whisker's Litter-Robot 4 is your best bet. An automatic litter box ensures your cats always have a clean box to use, which is important because cats are very fastidious about cleanliness, DeVoss says.
The Litter-Robot 4 doesn't just automatically sense waste and tumble it into an odor-locking drawer. It also provides plenty of space for your cat to feel at ease, starting with a circular entry 16 inches in diameter. The interior globe measures a roomy 15.75 by 15.75 inches. The app will notify you when to empty the waste drawer, which may be every few weeks depending on the number of cats and litter boxes. The brand also recommends deep cleaning the globe every one to three months.
In our multi-cat household, Whisker has remained a trusted brand since the days of Litter-Robot 2, and we consider it well worth the sizable investment. That said, if you (or your cats) aren't happy with the Litter-Robot 4, you can return it within 90 days. You will, however, need to cover the cost of shipping.
Best with high sides
With 11-inch high walls, the large NVR Miss Litterbox may be a great option for cats who like to dig deep in the box or have a high spray.
NVR Miss Litterbox
When choosing the right litter box for your cat, their underlying health conditions matter. For example, conditions like urinary tract infections or kidney disease can increase urine output. In addition to getting veterinary care for your cat, you'll also want to make sure there's always enough litter in the pan to quickly soak up the urine so it doesn't pool.
The "Goldilocks box," then, may be one that has high sides, a deep base for holding litter, and an entry low enough for small kittens or cats with mobility issues. Quandt's recommendation of the NVR Miss Litterbox fits the bill. He says he has two NVR Miss Litterboxes and especially likes that the 11.2-inch walls shield the spray of his "high shooter". The interior of this box measures a spacious 21.5 by 15.5 inches. The box's entry height of 5.6 inches will work for most cats, but it may not be ideal for seniors who have arthritis.