The Ultimate Guide To Buying a Self Cleaning Litter Box

Investing in a reliable self cleaning litter box can provide pet owners with the convenience of saving time and effort spent on managing their cat's litter box. With countless options on the market, finding the perfect self-cleaning litter box may seem daunting. Here is the ultimate guide to help you select the best self-cleaning litter box for your cat! Consider Your Cat's Size and Weight It is important to choose a self-cleaning litter box that can accommodate the size and weight of your cat. A smaller litter box will not be able to effectively handle bigger cats, while an extra large litter box may be too big and provide uncomfortable access for smaller cats. Before buying, measure your cat’s size and weigh to ensure that your chosen litter box is the right fit. Additionally, a litter box that is either too low or too tall for your cat can be difficult for them to get in and out of — leading to accidents outside the litter box. If you have an older cat it may be more comfortable to choose a litter box with a low entry point and side walls that are not overly high. And if your cat loves digging and pushing around the litter, select a jumbo-size box that can handle their digging activities. With proper measurements and research, you will be sure to find the perfect self cleaning litter box for your kitty. Types of Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes Self-cleaning litter boxes come in a variety of designs and features. Some are as simple as an ordinary litter box with a motorized rake that sifts the clumped waste into the waste tray 30 minutes after your cat leaves the box. Others use more complex mechanisms, such as raking the clean litter over the waste after each use and dumping it into the waste bin. Choose which type fits your needs and preferences! Automatic, self-cleaning litter boxes also come with a variety of features. Some involve the use of sensors that wait until your cat is finished using the box before they activate a cleaning cycle. Others feature automatic waste and litter bin refills, timers, and adjustable cleaning intensity. Some models are specifically designed for multiple cats or larger-scale households, while others are made to be used in smaller homes or apartments. If it’s important to you that the box be virtually silent during operation, look for a model labeled as ‘quiet’. Finally, some self-cleaning litter boxes can also be equipped with carbon filters to reduce odors around the area even further. Measure the Space for Placement Taking accurate measurements of the space where you plan to place the self-cleaning litter box will give you more options when shopping. Some models are relatively large and can’t fit in tight spaces, while others may not require much room at all. Consider also what type of power cords will be used - some use batteries, while others may need access to a power outlet or surge protector. Be sure to get measurements that encompass the entire unit rather than just the usable area for your cat's comfort. Note how much space you’ll need to comfortably fit the self-cleaning litter box, as well as room to maneuver it in and out when cleaning. You should also consider the amount of noise it will create, especially if it has a motor or fan. Self-cleaning litter boxes with automatic rakes tend to be quieter than other models that rely on air suction. Additionally, pay attention if there is an enclosed hood - this can contain any odours but may limit your pet's movement and access to the litter box. Examine the Features of Different Models When shopping for a self-cleaning litter box, the features offered by popular models can help you decide which one is ideal for your needs. Some common features to look for include adjustable height settings, multiple sifting and scooping functions, automatic litter changers, and a quiet motor. Think about which features are necessary or desirable in order to make the most of your purchase. Keep in mind that some of these options may add up as extra costs with certain models, so check what’s included beforehand. Also, be aware that some models may require more maintenance than others. For instance, while some require the use of a vacuum cleaner to empty the waste receptacle, others are built with an attached compartment that transmits it sometime into a grocery bag outside the house. Additionally consider the extra accessories and replacement parts available for your chosen litter box model so you don’t find yourself scrambling to purchase them separately down the line. Knowing what components come with each litter box is key to deciding which one best suits your lifestyle and budget. Cleaning and Maintenance Guidelines Maintenance is key when it comes to preserving the working condition of your self-cleaning litter box and ensuring that it continues cleaning properly. Empty the litter drawer as soon as it starts to brim, look for clogs, and clean out any visible debris from tracks and sensors occasionally. If you notice that your self-cleaning litter box isn’t functioning correctly, check for any blockages in tubes or move the unit back into its normal position if it has been moved. Staying on top of litter box maintenance will maintain its self-cleaning abilities and prevent bigger issues from arising. The same goes with checking for clogs; if something is caught in the tubes or tray, unplug the power immediately and either try to remove the item with your hands or uncurl a wire hanger to try and reach inside (if you’re careful). Finally, it’s important to check the manufacturers guidelines – this may include instructions on cleaning certain parts with special cleaners. If you do that, make sure you are using cleaners specifically designed for cat boxes, as some ingredients found in regular household cleaners can make cats ill.