In pet care, a cat litter plants and box is essential to every cat owner. It allows cats to be cats and do their business comfortably. It also does its job of keeping your home clean and helping prevent foul odor.
You might have seen various designs and types of cat litter boxes: open, closed, self-cleaning, and a plant kitty litter box with cat litter plants. As a fur parent, you want to choose what’s best for you and your cat.
Now, are cat litter plants worth it? What kind of litter box should you get? Here’s a guide to help you out.
Before you make any purchase, it’s best to start off with a quick checklist. There is no one-size-fits-all cat litter box. Here are important things to consider:
- Your cat’s age
- The size of your cat
- The number of cats you have
These will help you get the best size as well as quantity for your pets so that they can be happy and comfortable.
Cat Litter Plant
Now, there is a way to upgrade your standard plastic litter boxes with cat litter plants! A plant kitty litter box is made of durable materials and looks like a real clay pot or a planter box with an entrance.
The spacious bed will allow your pet to easily move around and cover its waste. Its opening has a high side to keep cat litter sand contained. Unlike regular covered cat litter boxes, you won’t have to deal with unpleasant odor. This has a filter system made of activated carbon to remove odor and has a vented design to control dust.
With a plant kitty litter box, you no longer need to have your cat’s bathroom out in the open. It effectively hides it without sacrificing your pet’s comfort.
On top of that, it comes in different designs and artificial plants that you can choose from. It will look like a beautiful decor in your home, adding a natural touch.
Open Cat Litter Box
An open cat litter box looks like a regular large pan or tray without any cover. While it’s not much to look at, it does the job. As long as you have the right size and height for your cat, of course.
What’s great about this litter box is that it offers comfortability and accessibility. It gives a lot of space for your cat to squat, move, and turn around. Some believe that it’s perfect for kittens as well, as they tend to prefer open spaces when they need to go.
Pet parents will find that cat litter trays are very easy to clean. These are also the most affordable among the litter box types.
Now, what’s not so great about a cat litter tray? Well, imagine if your cat didn’t cover its poop. That’s not exactly the best sight to see. If you have more than one cat, that can also mean more visible waste. It’s also prone to mess.
Another downside is that while it also provides the best ventilation, it can still give off odors. This might not be ideal for small enclosed spaces. It’s best to clean the tray often.
Closed Cat Litter Box
A closed cat litter box is enclosed with a small hole or entrance on the side, enough to let your cat go in and out whenever it pleases. It varies in design, but its main job is to give your fur baby some privacy while it does its business.
This is perfect for fur parents who prefer hiding an unsightly litter box and any odor that emits from it. It also saves you from constantly sweeping away litter from the floor, thanks to your cat’s mad digging skills.
With this type of litter box, cleaning up can take more time. You will need to detach the cover or hood, clean the tray, and close it back after. But if you are performing a general cleaning, which is typically once a week, an enclosed litter box will take more time and effort to do so.
Pet owners who plan to get this type of litter box must keep it clean at all times to prevent the smell from building up within. As a tip, make sure to pair this with high-quality litter sand that is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic to manage scent build-up.
Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box
Interestingly, technology has made its way to pet care solutions. An automatic or self-cleaning litter box contains motion or weight sensors that detect when your pet has used it. This initiates the self-cleaning cycle. For more info check out our article on self cleaning cat litter trays
The built-in rake system will scoop your cat’s waste and dispose of it in a separate compartment that may contain odor controllers. This can help eliminate odor in your home.
This is a convenient option for cat owners who may not enjoy the task of cleaning up or want to save time on doing so. Cats will also love always having a clean box ready for use.
On the other hand, automatic litter boxes can be costly, with prices ranging from $100 to $500. Some models require specialized litter to operate which also means added cost. These are also bulky and need a power source to operate.
You also need to check the automatic rake as it can catch cat feces. As with any machine, this litter is prone to malfunction. This option works best for cats weighing 5 lbs. to 15 lbs.
Additionally, the self-cleaning mechanism can stress out your cat. It might stop using it, and do its business elsewhere. It can take some time before your pet gets used to it. If you choose this litter, you will need to help your cat acclimate with several techniques.
Is a Plant Kitty Litter Box Worth It?
Yes, definitely. Cat litter plants or a plant kitty litter box combines functionality and aesthetics. They are also good value for money. The large bed capacity offers great comfort for your pets. It offers odor control, and unlike other litter boxes, it is designed like a planter box with plants nestled on top that adds beauty to your home.
