Is a Covered Litter Box Better?

Cats might rule the internet, but at home, they rule something far more important: the litter box. Whether it’s the stoic silence of your grey British Shorthair or the chaotic zoomies of a Bombay at midnight, one thing remains constant: litter habits matter. And here’s the hot debate among cat circles, are covered litter boxes better? Let’s just say, if Taylor Swift’s cat, Olivia Benson had her say, she’d probably demand a private suite.

This guide is your comprehensive, fluff-free (yes, pun intended) answer to the question. If you’ve ever typed “best litter box for cats” or debated open vs. covered litter boxes, you’re in the right place.

Why Covered Litter Boxes Deserve a Spot in Your Home

Covered litter boxes offer three core benefits: privacy, odor control, and cleanliness. These features appeal not only to cats (especially those who cherish a little me-time), but also to humans who enjoy a tidy and odor-free home.

The concept is simple. Imagine your cat as a private little creature who prefers enclosed, safe spaces. This behavior is hardwired: in the wild, cats are both predators and prey. Having a sheltered space to do their business helps them feel secure.

Think of it like this: You wouldn’t want your bathroom out in the open living room, right? Neither does Whiskers.

Let’s now take you through everything you need to consider, from hygiene and odor control to litter scatter and aesthetics to decide if a covered litter box is your cat’s throne or just another box.

Privacy and Comfort: Why Cats Feel Safer in Covered Boxes

Cats naturally seek enclosed cat litter boxes for the same reason they nap in cardboard boxes: comfort and seclusion. Covered boxes mimic dens: safe, quiet, and hidden.

Cats generally show no strong preference between covered and uncovered boxes, but those who do choose the enclosed ones for privacy. Covered litter boxes give them a sense of control, especially in homes with other pets or guests.

Bonus: The Refined Self-Cleaning Litter Box Cabinet doubles as modern furniture while offering your cat the cozy privacy they crave. A clean look for your home, and a clean space for your cat.

Odor Control: Keep Smells Where They Belong

If you’ve ever walked into a room and wondered who committed war crimes in the corner, it might be time to switch to a covered litter box with a lid. These boxes contain smells far better than their open counterparts.

Activated charcoal litter box filters, like those from The Refined Feline, trap odor molecules at the source, providing up to 90 days of odor control.

That means no more candles, sprays, or embarrassing explanations when guests visit.

Clean Floors, Happy Paws: Reducing Litter Scatter

An enclosed litter box isn’t just a containment system for odor, it also helps control litter scatter. Cats love to dig, but that shouldn’t mean you need a broom on standby.

The Refined Feline’s Wooden Litter Catch adds an extra layer of defense, catching stray litter right as your cat steps out. Bonus: it looks like designer furniture.

Aesthetic Upgrade: Say Goodbye to Plastic Tubs

Tired of ugly plastic trays that clash with your curated decor? Today’s covered litter boxes for small spaces and modern homes come in wood-paneled, minimalistic styles that double as end tables.

The Refined Litter Box Deluxe comes in finishes like Mahogany and Smoke Gray because your cat’s throne should match your coffee table.

Self-Cleaning Options: Tech That Scoops for You

Automation has entered the litter game. Self-cleaning covered litter boxes like the UBPET Pro with App & Camera not only eliminate scooping duties but also monitor your cat’s usage and weight.

Yes, that means you can track your cat’s bathroom habits from your phone. And no, your cat won’t hack into your Wi-Fi.

Pair it with the Refined Self-Cleaning Cabinet for an aesthetic, odour-blocking enclosure that hides the gadget and blends into your home.

Myth Busting: Are Covered Boxes Unhygienic or Stressful?

Some worry that covered litter boxes trap odor and make cleaning harder. Truth? Any box gets gross if you don’t clean it. Whether open or closed, hygiene is about your habits.

Add ventilation slots, like those in the Refined Feline cabinets, and you’re set. And if your cat needs adjustment time, try treats or catnip inside the new box.

Covered Litter Boxes for Small Spaces and Multi-Pet Homes

Living in a smaller apartment? You’ll appreciate that covered boxes contain mess and blend into tight spaces. Got dogs? A closed litter box helps keep canine noses out of feline business.

Covered litter boxes create safe, defined zones for your cat even when sharing space.

Easy Maintenance: Cleaning Doesn’t Have to Be a Chore

With self-cleaning covered litter boxes and thoughtful accessories like trap doors and removable trays, the idea that covered boxes are harder to clean is outdated.

Pair your litter setup with charcoal filters and a protective tray, and you’ll barely lift a finger.

The Refined Feline Brings to you No-Fuss Litter Boxes

From enclosed cabinets that match your interiors to self-cleaning cat litter boxes with odor-blocking filters and whisper-quiet motors, The Refined Feline has turned litter duty into a design choice.

• Hide your tech with the Refined Self-Cleaning Litter Box Cabinet
• Stop tracking litter with the Wooden Litter Catch
• Stay odor-free with Charcoal Litter Filters
• Automate cleanups with the UBPET Pro Self-Cleaning Box

Want a cleaner home and a happier cat? Switch to a covered litter box.

Browse the full collection at The Refined Feline.

Key Takeaways

• Covered boxes offer privacy and security for anxious or shy cats. 
• A cat litter box with lid reduces odor, especially with added charcoal filters. 
• Litter scatter is minimized thanks to enclosed sides and accessories like litter catches. 
• Covered litter boxes for small spaces look like stylish furniture and hide messes. 
• Maintenance is easier than ever with self-cleaning features and smart sensors. 
• Most cats adjust easily with the right box size, litter type, and positive reinforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are covered litter boxes better for odor control?

Yes, covered litter boxes are highly effective for odor control, especially when designed with tight-fitting lids and paired with charcoal litter box filters. The enclosed structure helps trap unpleasant smells inside, keeping them from spreading through your living space. That said, the key to true odor management lies in consistency. Even the best private cat litter box can’t hide the smell forever if it’s not cleaned daily. Weekly deep cleans and filter replacements (when applicable) are essential for keeping things fresh and feline-friendly.

2. Do cats like covered litter boxes?

It depends on your cat’s personality but many do appreciate the privacy. Shy, anxious, or older cats tend to gravitate toward enclosed litter boxes that make them feel safe while they go about their business. Cats generally have no major preference between open and covered boxes. However, when preference is shown, cats overwhelmingly leaned toward enclosed options, especially when placed in quiet, low-traffic areas. It’s always best to observe your cat’s behaviour before making the switch.

3. Are covered boxes harder to clean?

Not necessarily. While some traditional models can be a hassle to open or maneuver around, today’s easy-to-clean cat litter boxes are designed with user convenience in mind. Features like top-access panels, removable lids, and high-entry openings reduce the time and mess involved in daily scooping. Advanced options like the UBPET Pro Self-Cleaning Litter Box, which comes with a built-in waste separator and app integration, make the entire process nearly hands-free, especially useful for those who value cleanliness but hate the chore.

4. What’s the best covered litter box for small spaces?

In compact apartments or studios, space-saving design is everything. A great option is a covered litter box for small spaces that doubles as furniture like The Refined Feline’s Litter Box Deluxe Cabinet, which hides the box in a sleek, furniture-grade enclosure while offering easy access and internal odor control. It blends seamlessly with modern decor, saving you the visual clutter while giving your cat a stylish place to go. Bonus: the top can be used as an end table or display surface.

5. Can large cats use covered boxes comfortably?

Yes, as long as the interior is roomy enough for them to turn, dig, and exit comfortably. Look for a spacious cat litter box with high ceilings, wide entry doors, and durable materials that don’t flex or warp. The Refined Self-Cleaning Litter Box Cabinet, for example, offers ample space and a generously sized opening that accommodates bigger breeds like Maine Coons without cramping their style. Just avoid low-profile or small dome-shaped designs that limit movement.

6. Are self-cleaning litter boxes worth it?Absolutely! Especially if your top priorities are convenience, hygiene, and time-saving features. A self-cleaning covered litter box automates the scooping process, keeping the tray clean and odour-free without daily effort. Some, like the UBPET Pro, even come with camera and app capabilities to monitor waste output and detect behavioural changes, which is useful for early spotting of health issues. While they cost more upfront, they’re often worth it in the long run for the comfort they offer both cat and owner.