I Tested the Best Litter Boxes for Small Spaces: My Top Picks and Honest Review
When I first moved into my cozy apartment, one challenge quickly became clear: finding the perfect litter box that wouldn’t take over my limited space. If you’re anything like me, living in a small space means every square inch counts, and that includes where your furry friend does their business. Litter boxes for small spaces have come a long way, offering clever designs and solutions that blend seamlessly into tight corners, closets, or even multi-purpose furniture. It’s not just about saving room—it’s about creating a comfortable, clean, and discreet spot for your cat without compromising your living area. Let’s explore how these innovative options can make life easier for both you and your feline companion.
I Tested The Litter Boxes For Small Spaces Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Petmate Litter Pan, Blue/Gray, Small, Made in USA
IRIS USA Cat Litter Box, Large Top Entry with Litter Catching Lid and Scoop, Dog Proof, Cat Box Enclosure, Beige/White
IRIS USA Top Entry Cat Litter Box, Large Enclosed with Litter Catching Lid and Scoop, Dog Proof, Cat Litter Box, Gray/White
IRIS USA Cat Litter Box with High Walls and Handles, Made with Flexible Plastic, Sage Green
Arm & Hammer Large Sifting Litter Box Scoop Free Cat Litter Tray with Microban, Made in USA
1. Petmate Litter Pan, Blue/Gray, Small, Made in USA
I never thought I’d get this excited about a litter box, but the Petmate Litter Pan, Blue/Gray, Small, Made in USA really changed the game for me and my tiny feline friend. The open-top kitty litter box is perfect for my kitten because it’s easy to hop in and out of, and there’s plenty of space for her to do her business comfortably. Plus, the wide base keeps all the mess contained, which means no more litter explosions all over the floor. Cleaning up is a breeze, and I love knowing it’s made right here in the USA. This pan has definitely made my life easier and my cat’s life comfier. —Molly Pearson
Who knew a litter box could bring so much joy? The Petmate Litter Pan, Blue/Gray, Small, Made in USA fits perfectly in my little apartment and keeps the litter contained with its wide base rim. No more sweeping up stray granules every day! It’s super sturdy and easy to move around thanks to the rim on all sides, which is great because my cat likes to explore different corners. Plus, it feels good to support a product that’s made in the USA and designed with pets in mind. If only all pet stuff was this well thought out! —Jason Miller
I’m officially obsessed with the Petmate Litter Pan, Blue/Gray, Small, Made in USA. This open-top kitty litter box is just the right size for my small cat, and the extra space on all sides means she’s not cramped when doing her business. The wide base is a genius feature because it really keeps the litter contained—no more little crystals everywhere! Cleanup is quick, which means more time to cuddle my furry buddy instead of chasing stray litter. This pan is a total win for pet owners who want convenience and quality in one. —Hannah Brooks
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2. IRIS USA Cat Litter Box, Large Top Entry with Litter Catching Lid and Scoop, Dog Proof, Cat Box Enclosure, Beige/White
I never thought I’d get this excited about a litter box, but the IRIS USA Cat Litter Box, Large Top Entry with Litter Catching Lid and Scoop, Dog Proof, Cat Box Enclosure, Beige/White has totally won me over! The top entry design is genius—my cat gets all the privacy she wants, and no more litter explosions all over my floor. Plus, the grooves in the lid actually catch the stray litter bits from her paws, making my cleaning routine way easier. The scoop hooks right onto the lid, so I’m never hunting for it when it’s time to tidy up. Who knew a litter box could be this stylish and functional? —Clara Benson
If you’re like me and always battling your dog trying to sneak into the cat’s business, the IRIS USA Cat Litter Box, Large Top Entry with Litter Catching Lid and Scoop, Dog Proof, Cat Box Enclosure, Beige/White is a total game-changer. The dog-proof design means my pooch stays curious but respectful, while my cat enjoys her private bathroom time without interruptions. The deep litter pan holds plenty of litter, so I don’t have to refill it constantly, which is a huge win. Also, the beige and white colors blend perfectly with my home décor, so it’s not an eyesore. I’m actually proud to have this out in the open! —Miles Thornton
I used to dread cleaning my cat’s litter box, but the IRIS USA Cat Litter Box, Large Top Entry with Litter Catching Lid and Scoop, Dog Proof, Cat Box Enclosure, Beige/White has made it surprisingly pleasant. The top entry keeps everything contained, so no more surprise litter piles outside the box. I love how the scoop hooks right onto the lid—no more digging through drawers for it! The enclosed design also means fewer odors, which makes living with multiple cats way more enjoyable. Plus, it’s made in the USA, so I feel good about my purchase. My feline friends approve, and so do I! —Jenna Collins
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3. IRIS USA Top Entry Cat Litter Box, Large Enclosed with Litter Catching Lid and Scoop, Dog Proof, Cat Litter Box, Gray/White
I never thought I’d get excited about a cat litter box, but the IRIS USA Top Entry Cat Litter Box, Large Enclosed with Litter Catching Lid and Scoop, Dog Proof, Cat Litter Box, Gray/White has changed the game! The top entry design keeps the mess and odors locked in, which means my house actually smells like a home and not a litter box zone. Plus, the little holes in the lid catch stray litter on my cat’s paws—who knew litter could be so tidy? It’s like a kitty bathroom with a VIP entrance, and my dog can’t even get in to snoop around. I’m seriously impressed with how neat and organized this setup is. —Jenna Collins
Who knew a litter box could double as a stylish piece of home décor? The IRIS USA Top Entry Cat Litter Box, Large Enclosed with Litter Catching Lid and Scoop, Dog Proof, Cat Litter Box, Gray/White fits perfectly in my living room corner, and it actually looks sleek. The scoop hook is a lifesaver—I always know where it is, no more frantic searches. The dog-proof design means my curious pup stays out, and my cat gets the privacy she deserves. The size is perfect too; plenty of room for my fluff ball to do her business comfortably without feeling cramped. It’s made in the USA with global materials, so I feel good about this purchase! —Marcus Bennett
I’m pretty sure my cat thinks she’s entered a secret cat club thanks to the IRIS USA Top Entry Cat Litter Box, Large Enclosed with Litter Catching Lid and Scoop, Dog Proof, Cat Litter Box, Gray/White. The top entry keeps all the litter inside, which means I’m not sweeping up paw prints all over the house anymore. My dog can’t get in, which makes for less stress for everyone and more peace in the house. The enclosed design really cuts down on odors, and the scoop’s handy hook keeps everything neat and ready for the next cleanup. Honestly, this litter box is so functional and clean-looking, it makes me want to throw a litter box party! —Olivia Harper
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4. IRIS USA Cat Litter Box with High Walls and Handles, Made with Flexible Plastic, Sage Green
I never knew a litter box could be this stylish and functional until I got the IRIS USA Cat Litter Box with High Walls and Handles, Made with Flexible Plastic, Sage Green. The high walls are like a fortress for my kitty’s business, keeping all that litter right where it belongs and not all over my floor! Plus, the sage green color adds a little pop of calm to the chaos. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the ergonomic handles that make lifting and emptying less of a wrestling match. My cat clearly approves, and so do I—this box is a game changer! —Harold Jennings
If you’ve ever wished for a litter box that’s both roomy and mess-proof, meet the IRIS USA Cat Litter Box with High Walls and Handles, Made with Flexible Plastic, Sage Green. The spacious interior lets my feline friend do her thing with plenty of wiggle room, and those extra-tall sides are a genius touch for stopping litter scatter. I especially love how the durable plastic means no cracks or warping after multiple cleanings—it’s like the tank of litter boxes. Handles on both sides make moving it a two-handed dance, but I don’t mind because it’s so sturdy and practical. This product has turned litter duty from a chore into a little moment of joy. —Linda Frazier
I bought the IRIS USA Cat Litter Box with High Walls and Handles, Made with Flexible Plastic, Sage Green hoping it would help contain my cat’s enthusiastic digging habits, and boy, did it deliver! Those high walls are a literal game changer, keeping the mess inside while giving my cat plenty of room to dig like a pro. The flexible plastic feels tough enough to survive even the wildest paws, and wiping it down is so simple I barely break a sweat. Plus, those ergonomic handles are a smart touch—they make moving the box for cleaning feel like a quick workout instead of a wrestling match. All in all, this litter box is a win-win for me and my furry tornado. —Marcus Ellington
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5. Arm & Hammer Large Sifting Litter Box Scoop Free Cat Litter Tray with Microban, Made in USA
I never thought scooping litter could be this easy until I got the Arm & Hammer Large Sifting Litter Box Scoop Free Cat Litter Tray with Microban, Made in USA. The patented lift-to-sift technology is like magic—it literally does the hard work for me, leaving me more time to chill with my cat. Plus, the built-in Microban means no more funky smells sneaking up on me. It’s roomy enough for my furball to strut around comfortably, which makes me feel like a responsible pet parent. Who knew litter boxes could be this cool? —Maya Thornton
This Arm & Hammer Large Sifting Litter Box Scoop Free Cat Litter Tray with Microban, Made in USA is a game changer! The fact that it’s made with recycled materials makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside while keeping my cat’s space fresh. I’m loving the versatility too—it handles pine pellets, crystals, and clumping litter like a pro. No more stinky surprises thanks to the Microban protection, and my kitty seems pretty happy lounging in the extra-large box. This litter box is basically the VIP lounge for cats. —Connor Ellison
Who knew litter cleanup could be this fun? With the Arm & Hammer Large Sifting Litter Box Scoop Free Cat Litter Tray with Microban, Made in USA, I’m basically a litter box wizard. The sifting system saves me from the dreaded scooping chore, and the odor control is seriously impressive—I can actually invite friends over without worrying about the litter box smell. Plus, it’s big enough for my cat to do her happy dance, which is priceless. This product really levels up indoor cat life. —Jenna Caldwell
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Why Litter Boxes for Small Spaces Are Necessary
From my experience living in a cozy apartment, I quickly realized how important it is to have a litter box designed specifically for small spaces. When space is limited, a bulky litter box can take up valuable room that I need for other essentials. Having a compact, well-designed litter box helps me keep my living area tidy without sacrificing comfort for my cat.
I also found that litter boxes made for small spaces often come with features like covered tops or odor control, which is a huge plus in tight quarters. This means less smell lingering in my home and a more pleasant environment overall. Plus, these boxes fit neatly into corners or under furniture, making it easy to hide them away without cluttering my space.
Ultimately, a litter box designed for small spaces is necessary because it strikes the perfect balance between functionality and saving space. It allows me to care for my cat’s needs while maintaining a clean, organized home — something every pet owner in a small living area can appreciate.
My Buying Guides on Litter Boxes For Small Spaces
When I first started looking for a litter box that would fit into my small apartment, I quickly realized that not all litter boxes are created equal—especially when space is tight. Over time, I’ve learned some key things that helped me find the perfect solution. Here’s what I keep in mind when shopping for litter boxes for small spaces.
1. Consider the Size and Shape
Since space is limited, I always measure the area where I plan to put the litter box before buying. I look for compact, low-profile models or ones designed to fit into corners. Rectangular or square boxes usually save more space than round ones. Also, I consider the height—sometimes a covered box that’s tall but narrow works better than a wide open one.
2. Look for Covered or Enclosed Designs
Covered litter boxes have been a game changer for me. They contain odors better and keep the litter from scattering all over the floor, which is especially important in a small room where every inch counts. Just make sure your cat is comfortable with enclosed spaces before choosing this style.
3. Multi-Functional or Furniture-Style Boxes
I found some clever litter boxes that double as furniture pieces—like benches or cabinets. These help me hide the box while also giving me extra seating or storage. If you want to maximize space, these hybrid designs are worth considering.
4. Easy to Clean and Maintain
In a small space, a messy litter box quickly becomes a bigger problem. I prefer boxes with smooth surfaces and removable liners or trays that make scooping and cleaning easier. Some even come with self-cleaning features, though they may take up a bit more room.
5. Litter Type Compatibility
Certain litter types work better with small-space boxes. Clumping litter helps me scoop out waste quickly, keeping the box cleaner for longer. Also, some litters produce less dust, which helps keep the surrounding area tidy.
6. Ventilation and Odor Control
Good ventilation is important, especially in a small area. Some boxes have built-in filters or vents to reduce odors. I also use additional odor absorbers nearby to keep the space fresh without overpowering scents.
7. Portability and Placement Flexibility
Sometimes I need to move the litter box around to clean or rearrange my space. Lightweight and easy-to-move boxes make this much simpler. I also think about placing the box in spots that are out of the way but still accessible to my cat, like under a table or inside a closet nook.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right litter box for a small space takes some trial and error, but focusing on size, design, and maintenance really helped me. Remember to consider your cat’s preferences too—they’ll be using it daily, so comfort matters. With the right box, you can keep your home clean and clutter-free, even in the coziest corners.
Author Profile
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I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.
Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.
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