As cat owners, we all know that owning a cat can be a little bit stinky from time to time. As much as we love them, anything that stops their litter box from spelling bad is always welcome! The market of cat tech products aiming to make ownership easier is growing every day. We’ve talked a lot about self-cleaning boxes here on TechnoMeow, yet there’s a special focus needed on the best cat litter box for odor control, especially for cats requiring additional odor management.
Bad smells are not only unpleasant for you and your home, but they can stress out your cat and put them off of using the litter box, leading to peeing and pooping outside the litter box and wreaking havoc on your home. Not to mention that a lingering smell means the box isn’t clean, which is bad for your cat’s health and wellbeing… and yours!
To help you out, we’ve made a list of the best cat litter boxes for odor control on the market, starting with the Litter Robot 4, followed by Leo’s Loo Too, and Tuft & Paw Cove Litter Box. Let’s take a closer look at our top picks and what makes them great, as well as some top tips on keeping your cat’s litter box odor under control.
Our Picks
- Best Overall – Litter Robot 4
- Runner Up – Leo’s Loo Too
- Best High-Sided Design – Tuft & Paw Cove Litter Box
- Best Budget Pick – PetSafe ScoopFree
- Best Subscription Litter & Box – Kitty Poo Club
Also in the article
Stop scooping cat litter, neutralize litter box odors, and give kitty a clean bed of litter every time with Litter-Robot 4. Elegantly designed to maximize comfort for cats of all sizes, Litter-Robot 4 features advanced litter-sifting technology, reduced litter tracking, and real-time monitoring of waste and litter levels, plus tracks your cat’s weight with SmartScale® in the Whisker app. Join 1 million pet parents who’ve upgraded to a smarter litter box.
Discover Leo's Loo Too, the advanced automatic cat litter box controlled via the Casa Leo app and compatible with Alexa or Google Voice Assistant. It features a three-layer safety system, a UV light for disinfection and odor control, and a larger capacity than its predecessor. Enjoy whisper-quiet operation at just 30 decibels and an innovative design with easily disassembled parts for quick cleaning.
This simple, beautiful, redesigned version of the classic litter box features an integrated scoop, dustpan, and hand brush. It’s compact for small spaces, but spacious enough for your cat’s comfort. The Cove is made out of thick matte plastic that’s easy to wipe clean and feels exceptionally sturdy. Cleaning the litter box will never be your favorite chore, but you can make the best of it with the Cove (no liners necessary)
Embrace hassle-free pet care with the ScoopFree® Clumping Self-Cleaning Litter Box. This advanced litter box automatically rakes away waste, locks in odors, and is perfect for households with one or more cats. Its compatibility with your cat's favorite clumping litter, combined with superior odor control and a simple maintenance routine of "Fill It, Leave It, Refresh It," transforms pet care.
The Kitty Poo Club subscription service is revolutionizing cat care with hassle-free, monthly litter box solutions. Choose from premium, fragrance-free litters for 30-day freshness and receive eco-friendly, recyclable boxes direct to your door, all with free shipping. Customize your order, switch litter types at anytime, and enjoy a cleaner, odor-free home without the traditional maintenance.
Quick disclaimer: If you decide to purchase one of these products, we would love you to use our referral links within the article. This helps our website maintain high-quality content, test cat products, and provide an honest expert opinion. Also, this is not a sponsored review but based on our tests and expertise.
Best Overall: Litter Robot 4
The Litter Robot 4 is the ultimate automated self-cleaning cat litter box. It’s very spacious with a waste drawer that features a tight seal and a carbon-filtered cover for effective odor control, as well as a sifting screen to reduce dust. What really makes it our top pick for this list is its OdorTrap feature which has customizable options for the utmost comfort tailored to your cat.
It’s super convenient and effective and has loads of great features for those who are interested in monitoring their cat’s health, as well as keeping their home odor-free.
Specifications: 22 x 27 x 29.5 inches
Key features:
- Arrived fully assembled
- Spacious design
- A clean bed of litter after each use
- Accompanying Whisker app provides comprehensive health insights
- OdorTrap feature & customizable options
- SmartScale™ technology
- MultiCat™ design accommodates up to four cats
- SafeCat™ technology for ultra-safe usage
- QuietSift™ technology ensures minimal noise
- Upgraded sifting screen reduces airborne and surface dust
What we like: The design is sleek and compact to not disrupt the style of your home. The accompanying Whisker app offers comprehensive insights into your cat’s litter box usage, waste drawer status, and health. It utilizes various patented technologies, such as SmartScale™, which offers real-time weight monitoring, and litter-sifting technology for a clean bed of litter after each use. The MultiCat™ design also accommodates up to four cats.
Its SafeCat™ system also enhances safety ensuring a secure environment and its QuietSift™ technology ensures minimal noise. The box also comes with a range of accessories, including a step, fence, ramp, door, Pet ID Tag, Scratcher, Camera Mount, WhiskerCam, Bag Holder, Mega Fence, Litter Hopper, and Bonnet.
What to consider: At $699, it’s pretty expensive, but it does come with an extensive amount of exclusive features. It’s also pretty big so it’s not ideal for cat owners who live in smaller homes and apartments. A few reviews report a part of the box that detaches after six months of use, too. Although the brand’s customer support was quick to help them out!
INSIDER INSIGHT: The Litter-Robot 4 wraps up the best of techy ease and a sprinkle of DIY fun, marking it as a true gem. However there can be some challenges including its capacity to adapt to multi-cat dynamics and the nuanced learning curve associated with optimizing its features for individual pet needs. That being said, we love it for our multi-cat household.
Full review: Read how the Litter Robot 4 is a game-changer. This automatic litter box cleaner isn’t just effective—it’s a must-have for multi-cat homes. Dive into the details of how the Litter Robot 4 makes daily routines simpler and why it’s the top choice for pet owners looking to streamline their litter box cleaning process. Check out our full multi-cat review of the the Litter Robot 4.
Shop now: If you are interested in the Litter Robot 4, you can buy it here on the official Whisker website.
Runner Up: Leo’s Loo Too
Leo’s Loo Too is made from high-quality, sturdy materials and has lots of innovative features, including its advanced odor control. The box features a quiet cleaning cycle and a programmable UV system for sterilization and deodorizing. It also comes with a mat, liners, and cat toys.
Specifications: 24 x 22 x 27.6 inches
Key features:
- Remote control via the Casa Leo app
- Cat activity monitoring & trend logs
- Compatibility with Alexa or Google Voice Assistant
- Triple-layer protection system for cat safety
- Programmable UV light for disinfection
- Whisper-quiet sifting technology (30 decibels)
- Modern and diverse color options
- Easy-to-disassemble parts for cleaning
What we like: It’s very easy to put together and the compact, modern design is available in multiple colors to fit into your home with ease. The large waste drawer is great for multiple cats. It’s also easy to clean and has advanced safety features including a protective wall, weight sensors, and an anti-pinch sensor. The Casa Leo app which accompanies the litter box is easy to use and the box can even be integrated with Alexa and Google Voice Assistant.
What to consider: While Leo’s Loo Too excels in various aspects, it’s pretty pricey and isn’t the most accessible, which isn’t ideal for senior cats or those with mobility issues. It’s also not the easiest to move as it doesn’t have handles.
INSIDER INSIGHT: While Casa Leo’s Loo Too has been a game-changer in keeping the home smelling fresher and reducing scooping duties, the issue of stuck clumps has been a notable hiccup. Yet, the overall convenience and cleanliness that Leo’s Loo Too offers seem to far outweigh the minor inconvenience of dealing with those pesky stuck clumps now and then.
Full review: With eight months of hands-on testing of Leo’s Loo in a household bustling with three cats, our full review doesn’t just skim the surface; it dives deep into the nitty-gritty of what makes Leo’s Loo Too stand out, from its top features to the minor drawbacks. Check out the Leo’s Loo Too review here.
Shop now: If you are interested in Leo’s Loo Too, you can buy it on the Casa Leo website.
Best Design: Tuft & Paw Cove Litter Box
The Tuft & Paw Cove Litter Box presents a minimalist yet innovative approach to cat litter management. Ideal for traditionalists seeking an upgrade, its combination of style with practicality is what sets it apart. It’s also a subscription service, so keep that in mind!
Specifications: 16 x 26 x 6.5 inches
Key features:
- Integrated scoop, brush, and pan
- Shelter accessory for waste containment
- Double-walled thick matte recycled plastics
- 100% toxin-free materials
- Silicone base for stability
What we like: The Tuft & Cove Litter Box has an integrated scoop, brush, and pan to streamline the cleaning process and keep things odor-free. It comes with an 8-inch removable wall partition “shelter” that enhances waste containment, ensuring a tidier litter box.
It’s constructed from double-walled thick matte recycled plastics that are 100% toxin-free and environmentally friendly. The silicone base also provides stability and prevents it from sliding about! The sleek, open design and monochromatic color scheme add a modern touch to the product, and its small size makes it super convenient and easy to transport.
What to consider: While the Cove Litter Box is much cheaper than the other litter boxes on our list, it’s not automated and more expensive than most other traditional litterboxes. However, it is very stylish and practical. It’s also not the product for those looking for a one-time purchase.
Shop now: If you are interested in the Tuft & Paw Cove Litter Box, you can buy it on the official website.
Full review: Check out our full review of the Cove Litter Box here.
Best Budget Pick: PetSafe ScoopFree
The PetSafe ScoopFree litter box series comprises of Complete, Complete Plus, and Complete Smart options, and aims to redefine the cat litter experience. They all offer superior odor control by trapping waste and unwanted odors in the covered waste bin and feature a detachable metal rake to remove waste, as well as high walls for minimal tracking.
Specifications: 4 x 20.6 x 10 inches
Key features:
- Scoop-free operation
- Advanced odor control
- Leak-proof design
- High walls
- Removable rake
- Easy to clean
- Works with most litter types
What we like: These litter boxes are super simple and easy to use and put together. The disposable box, pre-filled with PetSafe’s silica gel cat litter, eliminates scooping for a month, and the smart features include super sensitive safety mechanisms to keep your cat safe.
What to consider: While the initial cost may be reasonable, the continuous purchase of disposable litter boxes could accumulate costs over time. It’s also not ideal for multi-cat households and cats who produce smaller waste, and the high walls make it less accessible for older cats and cats with mobility problems.
Shop now: If you are interested in the PetSafe ScoopFree Litter Box, you can buy it on the official website.
Full review: Check out our full review of the PetSafe ScoopFree here.
Best Subscription Litter & Box: Kitty Poo Club
Kitty Poo Club is a subscription-based cat litter service that also comes with a recyclable box and promises hassle-free maintenance and effective odor control. The box comes in two sizes, as shown below, and both accommodate cats of up to 20 lbs. The subscription service offers a variety of litter types including diatomite, silica, fine-grain silica, clay, and organic soy, as well as free shopping.
Specifications: 19 x 15 x 10 inches (standard-sized), 22 x 18 x 10 inches (XL-sized)
Key features:
- Recyclable litter box
- Two size options for cats up to 20 lbs
- Free shipping
- Multiple litter types offered
- 3-week satisfaction guarantee
What we like: The subscription arrives complete with a biodegradable litter box and all necessary components, perfect for the eco-conscious consumer. It has exceptional odor control, ensuring no unpleasant scents throughout the home and keeping your cat keen.
Another standout feature of the service is the variety of litter types available. As we all know, cats can be fussy creatures, and it’s important to cater to their preferences to prevent litter box avoidance and bad behaviors. They also offer different types of litter beyond just the texture/material, such as dust-free, low-tracking, and odor-trapping for a more personalized service that well and truly meets your needs.
What to consider: While Kitty Poo Club offers a great service, it’s not necessarily the right fit for everyone. It’s a monthly subscription service, so it’s not the one for you if you’re looking to make a one-off purchase.
There are also more budget-friendly subscriptions out there, and some litter options are on the dusty side, which isn’t suitable for owners and pets with asthma. While the recyclable litter box is a positive feature, the need for assembly and disposal steps may be off-putting to owners looking for convenience.
Shop now: If you are interested in the Kitty Poo Club subscription service, you can get it at the official Kitty Poo Club website.
Full review: Check out our full review of Kitty Poo Club here.
Top Tips: Keeping Cat Litter Odor Under Control
To keep your cat’s litter box hygiene & odor under control, follow these top tips!
Hygiene
To prevent bad smells, you’ve got to keep your cat’s litter box clean. Traditional litter boxes should be scooped every day and washed more thoroughly with soap and water once a week. Self-cleaning or robotic litter boxes scoop themselves but still need to be cleaned by hand every 1-3 months, depending on the individual product.
As mentioned above, scented litter can encourage cats to use their litter boxes, so experiment to find out what your cat likes. Be sure to keep up with annual health check-ups with your vet to monitor your cat’s health and get advice on how best to tailor their lifestyle as they age.
Health
Of course, poop smells. There’s no way around that, but to minimize bad smells, make sure your cat eats a healthy, high-quality, and nutritiously complete and balanced diet with natural foods and drinks plenty of water to avoid dehydration. See our cat urine chart for more information on what your cat’s healthy urine should look like.
If your cat’s poop smells abnormally bad and you notice other strange symptoms or abnormalities in their poop or pooping habits, call your vet for advice, as it could be a sign of a health problem or stress.
Helpful products
Whilst most cats prefer unscented cat litter, scented litter can help with cats who produce particularly smelly poops, as well as automated cat litter boxes, like some of the products we have recommended on our list.
Good habits
To encourage good litter box habits and prevent bad behaviors and bad smells outside of the litter box, keep your litter box clean and make sure it’s appropriately placed and sized. It’s recommended that each cat within a home has a minimum of two litter boxes and that they should be placed somewhere quiet and private in the home.
FAQs
Why does my cat’s poop smell bad?
Seriously bad or sudden change in smell when it comes to cat poop can point to a health problem, so monitor them closely if you detect a problem and watch for any other symptoms or strange behaviors. Other signs of a health issue with poop include changes in color and consistency. Check out our poop guide for more info! If you’re concerned, contact your vet ASAP.
How often should I clean my cat’s litter box?
Traditional litter boxes require daily scooping and weekly cleaning, whilst automated or self-cleaning litter boxes, also known as robot litter boxes, don’t need scooping, but still need to be cleaned with soap and water every 1-3 months – even if it doesn’t smell bad!
What type of cat litter is best?
Whilst each cat can have different preferences, most prefer an unscented clumping litter with a fine texture. However, scented litter can also help with bad smells. You can also use health-monitoring litters to keep track of any changes in your cat’s body.
Final Thoughts About Best Cat Litter Box for Odor Control
If you struggle with a stinky cat, consider investing in one of our recommendations. Not only do they help to keep the home clean and more pleasant, but they also make life so much easier and encourage good litter box behaviors in cats. Our favorite is the Litter Robot 4, but all of our picks make great additions to any cat owner’s home.
If you’re still not sure which one’s right for you, take another look at the buying guide section to figure out which one would best meet your & your cat’s needs. Will you be trying one of them out? Let us know in the comments below!
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