mybest
Automatic Litter BoxesHelping You Find the Best
mybest
Automatic Litter BoxesHelping You Find the Best
5 Best Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Boxes  [Tested and Reviewed]

5 Best Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Boxes [Tested and Reviewed]

Self-cleaning cat litter boxes, also known as automatic litter boxes, clean up cat waste for you and are particularly useful in households with multiple cats. However, with an array of types and functions to choose from and multiple offerings from brands like Litter-Robot, PETKIT, and more, it's difficult to know which is right for you and your cat.

This time around, we gathered the top-ranked automatic cat litter boxes from popular manufacturers’ bestsellers and thoroughly examined them based on eight comparison points. We then ranked our recommended litter boxes from one to five.

At mybest, we think the best automatic cat litter box is a one that minimizes the burden of cleanup and allows you to easily check on your cat’s health. We will also explain the best way to choose a self-cleaning litter box, realized via our thorough review process, so you can use it as a reference when purchasing.

Last updated 03/25/2024
Sheri Rydyznski
Expert
Pet Care Service Provider
Sheri Rydyznski

Sheri Rydyznski is a professional pet care service provider who operates Fetch.Sit.Stay. Cincinnati. LLC. When she’s not busy providing care for clients, she is an avid audiophile, curious traveler, entertaining raconteur and content creator for @fetch_sit_stay. She lives in the Greater Cincinnati, OH area with her husband and spirited tortie, Mischief.

Sheri Rydyznski's Profile
…Continue reading
Maki Arakawa
Expert
Veterinary Nurse / Pet Nutritionist
Maki Arakawa

Maki is a lecturer in the Animal Clinical Nutrition Education Research Lab at the Yamazaki University of Animal Health Technology's Department of Veterinary Nursing. She specializes in the nutrition of dogs and cats, conducting research and educational activities on cat pet food, hydration, and urination behavior. Maki is affiliated with the Japanese Society of Veterinary Nursing and the Japanese Society of Pet Animal Nutrition and holds qualifications as a veterinary nurse and a pet nutritionist. She has been awarded three times for her presentations on veterinary nursing education and animal nutrition at academic conferences by the Japanese Society of Veterinary Nursing. She is also the author of "The Great Book of Good Things for Cats" (published by Shufu no Tomo).

Maki Arakawa's Profile
…Continue reading
Eiichi Ishikawa
Expert
Olfactory Measurement Operator
Eiichi Ishikawa

Eiichi Ishikawa is a first-generation olfactory measurement operator, which is nationally recognized in Japan, making him an expert on smells. Eiichi is also a licensed odor control advisor. After working at two companies specializing in odor control, Eiichi launched his own firm as an odor detective, working with various TV shows, magazines, and major companies to test the deodorizing properties of various products as well as provides technical guidance.

Eiichi Ishikawa's Profile
…Continue reading
Nanako Sekiguchi
Guide
Head of Pets at mybest
Nanako Sekiguchi

Since joining mybest, Nanako Sekiguchi has mainly overseen pet-related content. She has experience testing and comparing more than 350 pet products, from cat litter to pet strollers. Utilizing her own experience of living with dogs and cats, she strives to create content from both the perspectives of pets and their owners so that they can select products for a more comfortable and enjoyable life.

Nanako Sekiguchi's Profile
…Continue reading

How We Tested the Products

We gathered the 5 bestselling Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Boxes and put them through rigorous testing.
  1. Cleaning Performance

    1
    Cleaning Performance

    For ease of cleaning, we set the standard for user satisfaction as a product that accurately collects only the soiled litter, regardless of where the cat excretes.

  2. Ease of Maintenance

    2
    Ease of Maintenance

    We established the criteria for a product with excellent ease of maintenance as one that minimizes the burden required to significantly reduce daily cleanup.

  3. Health Monitoring

    3
    Health Monitoring

    We defined a product that makes health monitoring easy as one that is designed to accurately obtain all data on weight, number of visits, and duration of stay, enabling owners to notice any abnormalities immediately.

  4. Odor Control

    4
    Odor Control

    We defined the standard for a product to have excellent odor control as one that prevents the smell of cat waste to the point that it is not noticeable in daily life.

  5. Ease of Operation

    5
    Ease of Operation

    We set the standard for a product with excellent ease of operation as one equipped with convenient, easy-to-use features as well as user support, giving owners peace of mind.

  6. App Usability

    6
    App Usability

    We have defined the criteria for highly satisfactory products with excellent App Usability as "Those evaluated as more user-friendly by testers who have cat-raising experience and are attentive to their cat's health."

  7. Noise Level

    7
    Noise Level

    As products that provide sufficient quietness while in operation, the standard that users can be very satisfied with is defined as "products that have little operational noise no matter where they are placed, such as in a bedroom or workroom."

  8. Safety

    8
    Safety

    We set the standard for products that excel in safety and satisfy users as "products that function correctly with safety features and can be used without worrying about tipping over or concerns for cats."

All product tests
were conducted in-house at mybest

Company Facility
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.The mybest team independently conducts its own tests to rank products.

Table of Contents

What Do Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Boxes Actually Do? Is It Worth Buying One?

Automatic cat litter boxes can be expensive, so you may wonder whether they’re worth the price. Here, we will introduce the pros and cons of self-cleaning litter boxes.

The Main Benefit Is Reducing Daily Cleaning to Just Once a Week

The Main Benefit Is Reducing Daily Cleaning to Just Once a Week
    If you're struggling to keep on top of emptying your cat’s litter tray, buying an automatic one is definitely worthwhile, especially if you have more than one cat. Self-cleaning trays significantly reduce waste disposal frequency, from several times daily to just once or twice a week.
     
    Additionally, many products can now record various pieces of data about your cat and display it via an app. Being able to monitor your beloved kitty’s health is another major benefit, all while the device automatically takes care of cleaning.
     
    All the products we tested could properly dispose of used cat litter, and the built-in safety features functioned well. This means that even when you're out, you can let your cat use it worry-free.
     
    However, keep in mind that the maintenance required of self-cleaning litter boxes can be difficult, and being mechanical, there's a possibility of malfunctioning. Overall, we recommend buying an automatic litter box if you have more than one cat
Maki Arakawa
Veterinary Nurse / Pet Nutritionist
Maki Arakawa

All the products featured in this article come with safety features and performed well in our testsWe also didn't find any parts that might lead to injuries, so if you set it up correctly and follow the manufacturer's instructions, you can confidently use any of these litter boxes for your cats.

Sheri Rydyznski
Pet Care Service Provider
Sheri Rydyznski

Maintaining the box itself can be quite difficult, so if you're not certain you can clean it regularly, or if you only have one cat, a regular litter box may be better.

 
However, for those concerned about handling waste and odors, an automatic litter box can reduce the burden, making it worth considering.

How to Choose a Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box

Here are the points to keep in mind when choosing the best Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Boxes.

1

The Most Important Thing to Consider Is Ease of Maintenance

To maintain a hygeniec litter box, regular cleaning is essential. However, maintaining automatic litter boxes can be a chore due to their size and structure. Here, we will share the key features to prioritize to ensure easy maintenance.

Choose Boxes That Allow You to Remove Three Parts Tool-Free: The Dome, Litter Area, and Drainboard

Choose Boxes That Allow You to Remove Three Parts Tool-Free: The Dome, Litter Area, and Drainboard

The ease of maintaining an automatic cat litter box comes down to how easily you can remove the parts that get dirty. So, look for boxes that allow you to remove three key parts without tools: the dome, the litter storage area, and the drainboard.

 
The dome, where the cat enters, needs to be removed for cleaning. We recommend boxes that connect either magnetically or with hooks, as these are the easiest to take off and put back together tool-free.

 
Of course, the litter area itself also requires frequent cleaning. The drainboard or grate separates the soiled cat litter and feces from the unused litter, which dirt tends to stick to. Being able to remove and wash these parts makes it easier to prevent odors and dirt buildup.

Nanako Sekiguchi
Head of Pets at mybest
Nanako Sekiguchi

The general guideline for washing the main body is once a month, but ideally, you should clean it as soon as it gets dirty. Neglecting this can cause an accumulation of odor and dirt, making your cat hold its waste and potentially causing sickness. It's important to choose something easy to maintain not only for you but for your cat’s health and well-being.

Maki Arakawa
Veterinary Nurse / Pet Nutritionist
Maki Arakawa

Traditionally, cats do not like to use a dirty toilet again. The automatic litter box is an advantage to keep cleanliness at all times, but it would be a complete disaster if the box itself gets dirty. Regular maintenance should be considered.

Features That Completely Discard Litter Make Monthly Changes Easier

Features That Completely Discard Litter Make Monthly Changes Easier

Another feature that will make your life as a pet owner easier is one that completely disposes of the litter for you.

 
All you’ll need to do is set a garbage bag in the dust box and press a button on the app or the device to fully dispose of all the litter inside. Without this feature, you need to hold the dome and throw the contents away from the open part. Save yourself the hassle and check the detailed information in our rankings to choose a model with this feature.

 
Note that you should throw out and replace all the kitty litter once a month to maintain the hygiene of your cat's toilet environment.

2

The Best Automatic Litter Trays Measure Body Weight, Frequency, and Duration of Stay

While automatic litter boxes can also monitor your cat's toilet habits, the data they collect varies from product to product. Below, we will introduce three key elements you may want to measure and record, along with recommended products.

The Ability to Check Daily Data Helps Spot Any Changes in Your Cat’s Health

The Ability to Check Daily Data Helps Spot Any Changes in Your Cat’s Health

To detect changes in your beloved cat's health as soon as possible, choose a litter tray that can measure three things: weight, the frequency of excretion, and how long they spend inside.

 
Weight is a fundamental health parameter. With the ability to record your cat's weight every time it uses the litter box, it will be easier to notice any changes. Automatic litter boxes typically measure to the nearest 100 grams.

 
The frequency monitor records the number of times your cat enters the toilet. While you can't distinguish whether it's urination or defecation, if you know the average healthy frequency, you'll be quick to notice any abnormalities.


The dwell time records the number of seconds your cat spends in the litter box. Depending on the cat, this actually can discern whether it's urination or defecation, and an increase in dwell time could help you recognize signs of constipation or urinary tract disease.

 
Detailed information in the ranking indicates whether each feature is available, so be sure to check it out.

Nanako Sekiguchi
Head of Pets at mybest
Nanako Sekiguchi

During tests of the weight function's accuracy, we found that there can be some discrepancies depending on the product or measurement location. Additionally, occasional adjustments to the weight function may be necessary. Don't rely too heavily on the numerical values from automatic litter boxes, and be diligent in making corrections and managing if there are significant errors.

Sheri Rydyznski
Pet Care Service Provider
Sheri Rydyznski

The basic premise is that the most reliable sources are the pet owners themselves or health checks at the vet. It's fine to leave some parts up to the automatic litter box, but please routinely check your cat's weight and test the condition of the waste in the tray yourself.

PETKIT Lets You Track Each Cat’s Data From the Home Screen, Helping to Spot Long-Term Changes

PETKIT Lets You Track Each Cat’s Data From the Home Screen, Helping to Spot Long-Term Changes

The most appealing feature of PETKIT's PuraMax is the ability to easily understand each cat's excretion data on the home screen of the app. The color-coded graphs and usage history allow you to visually grasp the data for each cat. Moreover, long-term graphs are easy to view, enabling you to assess weekly, monthly, and annual data.

 
In tests for the app’s ease of use, we received feedback such as "It's convenient to be able to easily filter the data for each cat" and "The app functions are abundant, and it seems easy to use daily once accustomed".

 
Although there’s room for improvement, this is a relatively easy-to-use product among those available and the most convenient option for understanding your cat’s health status.

Nanako Sekiguchi
Head of Pets at mybest
Nanako Sekiguchi

The most important thing is that the pet owner finds it easy to use. Depending on the person, there might be too much information or the text might be too small, so please refer to the product images and choose according to your own preferences.

3

If You Want to Avoid Handling Waste, Look for Products With a Sealed Bag

While we love our pets, cleaning up after them isn’t always the most pleasant experience. In this section, we will introduce some key points to help those who would like to limit waste cleanup as much as possible.

Odors Are Contained and You Can Avoid Touching the Dirty Parts

Odors Are Contained and You Can Avoid Touching the Dirty Parts

If you want to handle waste as hygienically as possible, we recommend products that use sealed bags. This helps contain odors from the tray, limiting any unwelcome smells in the room.

 
Moreover, since the bag comes out sealed, all you have to do is tie it up and throw it in the trash. By eliminating the need to touch any dirty parts, you can clean up quickly without the risk of it getting on your hands.

 
Dustbins with non-sealing bags allow waste odors to rise as soon as you open them. Plus, the inside of the bag can get messy during the waste removal process, so you could end up dirtying your hands when tying up the bag.

 
Another option is to choose a dustbin equipped with an odor-eliminating fan or a compartment for deodorizers. However, bear in mind that these features may not have a significant effect.

Sheri Rydyznski
Pet Care Service Provider
Sheri Rydyznski

If you're hoping for deodorizing power, the best thing to do is change the cat litter. But keep in mind that it’s difficult to completely eliminate unpleasant odors from the litter box itself.

Nanako Sekiguchi
Head of Pets at mybest
Nanako Sekiguchi

The key to minimizing unpleasant smells and dirt is certainly thorough cleaning. Maintenance is indispensable in preventing dirt and odors from accumulating.

4

Choose Products That Emit Under 45 dB of Noise if Placing in the Bedroom

We’re sure many people considering a self-cleaning litter box are wondering how noisy they are. Here’s what to look for if you plan to put it in a quiet place, such as a bedroom or study.

Levels of Less Than 45 dB Are Barely Noticeable, Even When Trying to Sleep

Levels of Less Than 45 dB Are Barely Noticeable, Even When Trying to Sleep

A noise level of 45 dB can be likened to that in a quiet library or an inner city late at night. Therefore, automatic litter boxes that emit this near-silent level (or less) shouldn’t disturb you while you're sleeping.


Noise levels over 45 dB, meanwhile, are as loud as an air conditioner unit or quiet snoring, which can be bothersome to some people during rest or concentration periods. It’s best to avoid litter boxes in this range if you’re noise-sensitive or a light sleeper.


Fortunately, we didn't come across any excessively noisy products during our tests. So if you plan to place the box in the living room, utility room, or other space where you don't prioritize quietness, it shouldn’t be an issue.

Nanako Sekiguchi
Head of Pets at mybest
Nanako Sekiguchi

Most products have a sleep mode setting. If you're bothered by the noise, you can stop it from operating during the night.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

5 Best Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Boxes Ranking

Here are the best Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Boxes we found after testing them. We ranked them after weighting each of our testing specs.
Recommended
Price Performance
Sort
Filter
Odor Control
For Multiple Cats
For Senior Cats
Products
Image
mybest Score
Click to purchase
Key features
Main Score
Details
Cleaning Performance
Ease of Operation
Ease of Maintenance
App Usability
Health Monitoring
Odor Control
Noise Level
Safety
Width
Depth
Height
Weight
Entrance Height
Entrance Size
Dust Box Capacity
Recommended Number of Cats Per Box
Smartphone App
Compatible Cat Litter
Recommended Weight
Processing Type
Material
Weight Measurement
Records Potty Frequency
Records Potty Duration
Cat Identification Feature
Safety Features
Deodorizer Pocket
Dome Washable
Dome Dismantlable
Complete Litter Disposal
1

PETKIT

PuraMax

PETKIT PuraMax 1
4.62

mybest's Top Choice: Easy to Maintain and Use for You and Your Cat

4.90
4.50
4.50
4.40
4.55
4.70
4.63
4.68

24.4 in.

21.18 in.

21.73 in.

487.2 oz.

7.87 in.

10.03 x 7.87 in.

7 L

Up to 2 cats

Clumping mineral-based, Clumping soy-based

Up to 18 lb.

Dome vertical rotation type

ABS Plastic

2

PetSnowy

Snow+ Self Cleaning Litter Box white&brown

PetSnowy Snow+ Self Cleaning Litter Box white&brown 1
4.59

A Great Option for Odorless, Hands-Off Cleanup

4.65
4.39
4.75
4.30
4.55
4.80
4.41
4.55

29.5 in.

20 in.

25.6 in.

720 oz.

8.7 in.

8.7 x 8.7 in.

10 L

Up to 4 cats

Clumping mineral-based, Silica gel

3.3 - 20 lb.

Dome horizontal rotation

ABS

3

whisker

Litter-RobotLitter-Robot 4 Black

whisker Litter-Robot 4 Black 1
4.34

Easy to Maintain and Good for Larger Cats Thanks to Its Wide Opening

4.65
4.50
4.34
3.90
3.94
4.55
4.45
4.55

22 in.

27 in.

29.5 in.

384 oz.

15.75 in.

15.75 x 15.75 in.

12 L

Up to 4 cats

Clumping mineral-based

Min: 3 lb.

Dome horizontal rotation

unknown

4

MEEGEEM

Self Cleaning Cat Litter Box S1

MEEGEEM Self Cleaning Cat Litter Box  1
3.97

Simple and Stable, but Only Limited Data Tracking

4.34
4.42
3.88
4.10
3.09
4.50
4.04
4.78

22 in.

22 in.

26 in.

251.04 oz.

12 in.

9.84 x 8.66 in.

15 L

Up to 2 cats

Clumping mineral-based, Clumping wood-based, Clumping paper-based, Clumping soy-based

2.2 - 22 lb.

Dome horizontal rotation

unknown

5

Casa Leo

Leo’s Loo Too Avocado Green

Casa Leo Leo’s Loo Too  Avocado Green 1
3.90

Handles Cleanup Easily, but It’s Hard to Grasp the Cat’s Health Condition

4.90
4.09
3.63
3.90
3.00
4.45
4.04
4.73

22 in.

24 in.

27.5 in.

440 oz.

14.4 in.

9.05 x 9.05 in.

6 L

Up to 2 cats

Clumping cat litter

Max: 55 lb.

Dome horizontal rotation type

Plastic

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1
Top Choice Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Boxes
No.1 in Cleaning Performance
No.1 in Ease of Operation
No.1 in App Usability
No.1 in Health Monitoring
No.1 in Noise Level

PETKIT
PuraMax

mybest Score
4.62
Cleaning Performance
4.90
Ease of Operation
4.50
Ease of Maintenance
4.50
App Usability
4.40
Health Monitoring
4.55
Odor Control
4.70
Noise Level
4.63
Safety
4.68
View on Amazon
PuraMax 1
Lowest price
$599.00
Mid
Lowest price
$599.00
Mid
Width24.4 in.
Depth21.18 in.
Height21.73 in.
Entrance Height7.87 in.
Dust Box Capacity7 L
Complete Litter Disposal
Recommended Number of Cats Per Box
Up to 2 cats
Weight Measurement
Records Potty Frequency
Records Potty Duration
Cat Identification Feature

mybest's Top Choice: Easy to Maintain and Use for You and Your Cat

What we loved

  • Great safety features and satbility
  • Easy to remove and clean parts
  • Detailed app for all your cats' data

What we didn't love

  • Nothing in particular.

PETKIT is a brand dedicated to creating products with both smart design and great functionality. The PuraMax also offers the option to add a specially designed deodorizer, so if you're concerned about smells, check it out.


In the disposal tests, this product processed waste every time, no matter where it was. The safety function was also excellent, keeping the box stable even if jumped on. With no dangerous parts, you can use this box with peace of mind.


The dome can be easily removed using the magnetic cover and hooks, and both the litter storage area and grate are simple to remove and therefore keep clean. Since the litter box is at the front, it is easy to open, with a full discard function that makes it very user-friendly.


As for the app, the home screen is clear and intuitive, and its features are abundant. It offers data capture for weight, number of excretions, and duration, with individual graphs for each cat that make it easy to keep track of all your pets’ health. The scale is also very accurate, never exceeding 100 grams. However, some terms used are confusing, and the sheer amount of features may be overwhelming for some.


The odor emitted was barely noticeable a week after initial use, most likely because the opening is smaller than in other products. There was a faint smell during the emptying process, but not enough to be uncomfortable. Finally, with an operating noise of just 43.7 dB, this very quiet litter box won’t disturb you, even if placed in a bedroom or study.


Whether you have one cat or several, this is the best automatic cat toilet that is easy to use and keeps clean and hygienic

Weight487.2 oz.
Entrance Size10.03 x 7.87 in.
Smartphone App
Compatible Cat LitterClumping mineral-based, Clumping soy-based
Recommended WeightUp to 18 lb.
Processing TypeDome vertical rotation type
MaterialABS Plastic
Safety Features
Deodorizer Pocket
Dome Washable
Dome Dismantlable
View all
Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2
No.1 in Ease of Maintenance
No.1 in Health Monitoring
No.1 in Odor Control

PetSnowy
Snow+ Self Cleaning Litter Box white&brown

mybest Score
4.59
Cleaning Performance
4.65
Ease of Operation
4.39
Ease of Maintenance
4.75
App Usability
4.30
Health Monitoring
4.55
Odor Control
4.80
Noise Level
4.41
Safety
4.55
Lowest price
$699.00
High Mid
Width29.5 in.
Depth20 in.
Height25.6 in.
Entrance Height8.7 in.
Dust Box Capacity10 L
Complete Litter Disposal
Recommended Number of Cats Per Box
Up to 4 cats
Weight Measurement
Records Potty Frequency
Records Potty Duration
Cat Identification Feature

A Great Option for Odorless, Hands-Off Cleanup

What we loved

  • Easy-to-remove parts
  • Sealed waste bags for odor control

What we didn't love

  • Tall height is a concern for stability

If you’re still on the fence about an automatic litter box, consider the Snow+ Self Cleaning Litter Box from California-based PetSnowy, which offers a 30-day trial period.


During our tests, this litter box handled all solid cat litter without any problems. The safety features also worked well, and we found no potentially harmful parts. However, its taller height makes it somewhat unstable, causing concern that it could tip over if jumped on. This brought its score down in the evaluation.


The dome is easily detachable just by lifting it off, and the litter storage and grate can also be removed by hand. It's simple to manage accumulated waste thanks to the opening, plus it comes with the coveted full litter disposal function.


The app is user-friendly, with appealing colors, large icons, and all the information you need on the home screen. With a maximum error of only 100 g, even with movement, it’s safe to say that the scale accuracy is excellent. Also, since it allows you to monitor weight, frequency, and duration, managing your cat's health will be a breeze.


With a barely noticeable odor and a pre-sealed waste bag function, you can clean up quickly without unpleasant smells. The operating noise of 45.9 dB is relatively quiet, but it may bother people who are very sensitive to noise. You may want to avoid placing this one in the bedroom or office.


Overall, this is a great option to consider for those who are sensitive to odors or have a strong aversion to handling waste.

Weight720 oz.
Entrance Size8.7 x 8.7 in.
Smartphone App
Compatible Cat LitterClumping mineral-based, Silica gel
Recommended Weight3.3 - 20 lb.
Processing TypeDome horizontal rotation
MaterialABS
Safety Features
Deodorizer Pocket
Dome Washable
Dome Dismantlable
View all
No.3
No.1 in Ease of Operation

whisker
Litter-RobotLitter-Robot 4 Black

mybest Score
4.34
Cleaning Performance
4.65
Ease of Operation
4.50
Ease of Maintenance
4.34
App Usability
3.90
Health Monitoring
3.94
Odor Control
4.55
Noise Level
4.45
Safety
4.55
Lowest price
$699.00
High Mid
Width22 in.
Depth27 in.
Height29.5 in.
Entrance Height15.75 in.
Dust Box Capacity12 L
Complete Litter Disposal
Recommended Number of Cats Per Box
Up to 4 cats
Weight Measurement
Records Potty Frequency
Records Potty Duration
Cat Identification Feature

Easy to Maintain and Good for Larger Cats Thanks to Its Wide Opening

What we loved

  • Wide opening is good for larger cats
  • Highly accurate scale function

What we didn't love

  • Larger in size
  • App isn't very intuitive

The Litter-Robot 4 by Whisker has been meticulously designed for comfortable use by cats of all sizes. Besides self-cleaning litter boxes, the brand also sells automatic feeders and cat litter, so you can grab everything you need at once.

 
This product scored well in our tests for waste removal and safety, making short work of all used cat litter and offering fully functioning safety features. The wide opening also makes it easy to clean. Again, however, while the larger size is a plus, it’s less stable and thus a worry if your cat decides to jump on it.

 
Other plus points are that its dome is easily removable by simply pressing the side button, and it also comes with a full litter disposal function.


The app has good-sized icons and text, but some elements are difficult to use intuitively, as it takes a while to locate and access the functions you need. It’s also not ideal that it can only record weight and visit frequency. On the upside, it offers the desired maximum 100 g weight error.


It contained odors well, even after a week, but when you pull out the litter disposal the accumulated waste is exposed. This caused the smell to linger when cleaning up, which is a disadvantage. Finally, while the operating noise is fairly quiet at 45.5 dB, it could still disturb some people. This litter box functions well but is best placed in rooms where noise isn’t an issue. 

Weight384 oz.
Entrance Size15.75 x 15.75 in.
Smartphone App
Compatible Cat LitterClumping mineral-based
Recommended WeightMin: 3 lb.
Processing TypeDome horizontal rotation
Materialunknown
Safety Features
Deodorizer Pocket
Dome Washable
Dome Dismantlable
View all
No.4
No.1 in Safety

MEEGEEM
Self Cleaning Cat Litter Box S1

mybest Score
3.97
Cleaning Performance
4.34
Ease of Operation
4.42
Ease of Maintenance
3.88
App Usability
4.10
Health Monitoring
3.09
Odor Control
4.50
Noise Level
4.04
Safety
4.78
Lowest price
$399.99
Low
Width22 in.
Depth22 in.
Height26 in.
Entrance Height12 in.
Dust Box Capacity15 L
Complete Litter Disposal
Recommended Number of Cats Per Box
Up to 2 cats
Weight Measurement
Records Potty Frequency
Records Potty Duration
Cat Identification Feature

Simple and Stable, but Only Limited Data Tracking

What we loved

  • Very stable with good safety features

What we didn't love

  • Insufficient health monitoring features
  • A bit loud

MEEGEEM specializes in automatic litter boxes for cats. This model features a radar sensor that pauses operation when a cat approaches.


During our tests, it had no issues collecting waste, though we noticed litter can easily get underneath the dome. This was one of the best performers in safety tests, as it did not move an inch even with the weight of a cat jumping on it. With no worry about it tipping over and no unsafe parts, your furry friend won’t come to any harm.

 
As for maintenance, the grate and litter drawer can be removed by hand, but you’ll have to unscrew the dome for a full clean, which could soon feel like a hassle. Fortunately, the dust box is at the front for easy access and there’s a complete litter disposal function to make up for it.

 
The app is a mixed bag. While intuitive and user-friendly on first impression, it uses a strange combination of upper and lowercase letters and confusing function names like 'clean' and 'clearance'. It can also only record and display weight in kilograms and does not measure in 100 g units. For keeping track of your cat's health, this may be insufficient.


Although we couldn't detect much odor escaping from the dome, the litter box and accumulated waste were left exposed. The fact that smells easily linger during cleanup isn’t ideal. Additionally, the operational noise of 49.6 dB would be noticeable in a workspace or bedroom, so it won’t suit those placing it in these parts of the home. 

Weight251.04 oz.
Entrance Size9.84 x 8.66 in.
Smartphone App
Compatible Cat LitterClumping mineral-based, Clumping wood-based, Clumping paper-based, Clumping soy-based
Recommended Weight2.2 - 22 lb.
Processing TypeDome horizontal rotation
Materialunknown
Safety Features
Deodorizer Pocket
Dome Washable
Dome Dismantlable
View all
No.5
No.1 in Cleaning Performance

Casa Leo
Leo’s Loo Too Avocado Green

mybest Score
3.90
Cleaning Performance
4.90
Ease of Operation
4.09
Ease of Maintenance
3.63
App Usability
3.90
Health Monitoring
3.00
Odor Control
4.45
Noise Level
4.04
Safety
4.73
Lowest price
$649.99
Mid
Width22 in.
Depth24 in.
Height27.5 in.
Entrance Height14.4 in.
Dust Box Capacity6 L
Complete Litter Disposal
Recommended Number of Cats Per Box
Up to 2 cats
Weight Measurement
Records Potty Frequency
Records Potty Duration
Cat Identification Feature

Handles Cleanup Easily, but It’s Hard to Grasp the Cat’s Health Condition

What we loved

  • Sensors at the entrance activate the safety function on approach

What we didn't love

  • Grate requires unscrewing with tools
  • Narrow opening
  • Disappointing scale accuracy

A more style-focused option, Casa Leo’s Loo Too is available in a choice of four colorways: gray, blue, pink, and this smart avocado green.

 
This litter box earned good scores for waste removal, collecting all the used cat litter. But it really impressed in the safety tests. Thanks to the wide sensor positioning, the safety functions turn on as soon as a cat approaches. The risk of tipping over is also unlikely and there were no parts that could cause injury, so you can leave your cat home alone without worry.


Once you've removed the cover, you can easily lift off the dome. However, you'll need to unscrew the grate, and you can't remove the litter section. The opening is also narrow. Although the litter tray is conveniently located up front, there's no full disposal function, so you'll have to lift the dome and dispose of the soiled litter each time. All of these points will make it more of a hassle to clean and maintain.

 
The app is simple and intuitive, but there’s very little information available. For example, it only records weight, and this data isn’t shown in a graph. Also, the measured weight can vary by up to 1.76 lbs depending on your cat’s position, so its accuracy isn’t great either.

 
While the dome contained odors both immediately and a week later, the smell tended to linger when testers opened it for waste removal. If you’re looking for something with an undetectable smell, this won’t fit the bill. Finally, the noise level of 49.6 dB might be slightly annoying in bedrooms or workspaces.

Weight440 oz.
Entrance Size9.05 x 9.05 in.
Smartphone App
Compatible Cat LitterClumping cat litter
Recommended WeightMax: 55 lb.
Processing TypeDome horizontal rotation type
MaterialPlastic
Safety Features
Deodorizer Pocket
Dome Washable
Dome Dismantlable
View all

How We Tested the Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Boxes

Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Boxes Evaluation

mybest defines the best self-cleaning cat litter box as one that minimizes the burden of cleanup and allows you to check your cat’s health easily.


To find the best product, we collected five popular automatic cat litter boxes that were either top sellers or new releases from each manufacturer and used eight specific criteria to evaluate and rank them: 


  • Cleaning Performance

  • Ease of Maintenance

  • Health Monitoring

  • Odor Control

  • Ease of Operation

  • App Usability

  • Noise Level

  • Safety 

Products we tested

  1. Casa LeoLeo’s Loo Too Avocado Green
  2. MEEGEEMSelf Cleaning Cat Litter Box S1
  3. PETKITPuraMax
  4. PetSnowySnow+ Self Cleaning Litter Box white&brown
  5. whiskerLitter-RobotLitter-Robot 4 Black
1

Cleaning Performance

Cleaning Performance

For ease of cleaning, we set the standard for user satisfaction as a product that accurately collects only the soiled litter, regardless of where the cat excretes.

Scoring Method

The testers checked each product and marked them based on the following points, then converted their recommendation level into a score.

What We Checked

  • Collect only the wet part (hardened cat litter) and do not take excess cat litter

  • Does dirty cat litter get into places other than the tray?

  • Does it collect waste regardless of where the cat defecates?

2

Ease of Maintenance

Ease of Maintenance

We established the criteria for a product with excellent ease of maintenance as one that minimizes the burden required to significantly reduce daily cleanup.

Scoring Method

The testers checked each product and marked them based on the following points, then converted their recommendation level into a score.

What We Checked

  • The maximum weight of parts to be removed during cleaning (excluding the dome)

  • The weight of the dome itself

  • Whether the dome can be disassembled

  • The size of the litter tray

  • How the parts can be removed during cleaning

  • The entrance size

  • Ease of removing the grate

3

Health Monitoring

Health Monitoring

We defined a product that makes health monitoring easy as one that is designed to accurately obtain all data on weight, number of visits, and duration of stay, enabling owners to notice any abnormalities immediately.

Scoring Method

The testers checked each product and marked them based on the following points, then converted their recommendation level into a score.

What We Checked

<Obtainable Data>
  • Whether it records weight, visit frequency, and duration of stay

  • Ability to check visit time, frequency, and duration for multiple cats per day

  • Whether the data can be reviewed on a medium to long-term basis


    <Weight Function Accuracy>
  • Whether the values fluctuate depending on the location

  • Whether there is only a small margin of error

4

Odor Control

Odor Control

We defined the standard for a product to have excellent odor control as one that prevents the smell of cat waste to the point that it is not noticeable in daily life.

Scoring Method

Eiichi Ishikawa, an odor judge, checked the smell omitted from the main body and the smell during waste disposal under the following conditions, then scored each product based on his recommendation level.

Test Conditions

  • Use of cat pee diluted from used cat litter

  • Drizzle 30 ml of the solution into cat litter every 90 minutes

  • The same product is used for all cat litter

  • Smell 1 cm away from the dome and 30 cm away from the tray

What We Checked

    <Odor omitted from the dome>
  • Smell right after peeing

  • Odor 8 hours after peeing for 1 day (4 times)

  • Odor after 1 week of peeing for 1 week (20 times)


<Odor when changing the litter>

  • Odor when opening the litter box in which excrement has accumulated for one day (after 8 hours)

  • The smell of opening a dust box filled with a week's worth of excrement

No products were found to omit odor with the dust box closed
5

Ease of Operation

Ease of Operation

We set the standard for a product with excellent ease of operation as one equipped with convenient, easy-to-use features as well as user support, giving owners peace of mind.

Scoring Method

The testers checked each product and marked them based on the following points, then converted their recommendation level into a score.

What We Checked

  • Variety of cat litter available

  • Ease of setup

  • Availability of a cat litter disposal function

  • Litter tray location

  • Box specifications

  • Warranty period

  • Availability of support center

6

App Usability

App Usability

We have defined the criteria for highly satisfactory products with excellent App Usability as "Those evaluated as more user-friendly by testers who have cat-raising experience and are attentive to their cat's health."

Scoring Method

Our reviewers actually touched and tested both the apps and physical units of each product, and rated their intuitive usability. We then quantified our recommendation level for each product by giving it a score.

Test Conditions

  • Testers: Five men and women in their 20s to 40s who have experience raising cats, pay attention to the health of cats, and have no resistance to using smartphones
  • Unified method: Testers performed and evaluated several commands prepared in advance (e.g., registering cats, cleaning the unit, etc.)

What We Checked

  • Intuitive operation

  • Is it easy to understand in terms of language?

  • Are there any stressful parts when using it on a daily basis?

  • Is the size of the text and icons appropriate?

  • Are there any stressful areas in terms of colors or fonts?

7

Noise Level

Noise Level

As products that provide sufficient quietness while in operation, the standard that users can be very satisfied with is defined as "products that have little operational noise no matter where they are placed, such as in a bedroom or workroom."

Scoring Method

Using a noise meter, we measured the sound produced by the automatic cat toilet unit twice from a distance of 1m during operation and calculated the average value. We set the upper limit at 40dB, which is considered quiet enough not to disturb sleep. Quieter items are given a higher score as recommended products.

Test Conditions

  • Test Equipment: Sound Level Meter (Rion General Purpose Sound Level Meter NL-27)

  • Test Location: Measured in a room with approximately 38dB

  • Excluding the sounds of the cat litter moving and falling, only the operating noise was recorded

8

Safety

Safety

We set the standard for products that excel in safety and satisfy users as "products that function correctly with safety features and can be used without worrying about tipping over or concerns for cats."

Scoring Method

Maki Arakawa, a researcher who specializes in cat toileting habits and holds a veterinarian license, has checked the safety of various automatic cat toilets and scored the recommendation level for each product.

Test Conditions

  • Ensure that all products are set up properly with no problems

  • Check the manual in advance and understand the safety features described

What We Checked

  • Do the described safety features function properly?

  • Is there any danger of a cat jumping on it and falling over?

  • Are there any parts that could cause injury to the cat?

How to Get Cats to Use Automatic Litter Boxes

Buying an (often expensive) automatic litter box is pointless if your cat won't use it, right? Check out our tips to encourage your cat to use their new washroom below.

Patience Is Key: Let Your Cat Get Used to Its New Bathroom

Patience Is Key: Let Your Cat Get Used to Its New Bathroom

To help your cat get accustomed to its new litter box, follow these four tips.


1. Aside from replacing the box itself, ensure there are no other changes: 

Don’t change the location of its litter tray, and avoid changing the litter type or surrounding layout. Definitely avoid introducing a new litter box when moving home or redecorating, as this can cause stress for the cat.


2. Leave the toilet they used until now:

We understand you might want your cat to start using its new self-cleaning litter box straight away, but removing their current one can put them off using it at all. It's essential to leave your cat’s current litter tray in its usual place until they get used to the new one. Ideally, you should also provide one regular litter tray per cat, plus the new automatic one. 


3. Make sure it’s not too small:

It’s crucial to ensure that the litter box isn't too small for your cat. Automatic versions may look large, but the dome part where the cat enters can be surprisingly narrow. Be sure to check that your cat has enough room to enter comfortably. 


4. Observe for at least three weeks: 

Cats dislike change, so it’s perfectly normal for them to take time to get used to their new toilet. Never force them in, and observe their behavior for at least three weeks to a month.

 
To allow your cat to use its new bathroom comfortably and without stress, please be mindful of these points when introducing an automatic litter box.

Sheri Rydyznski
Pet Care Service Provider
Sheri Rydyznski

Whether a cat likes an automatic toilet or not largely depends on the individual. Generally, it's said that the younger the cat, the easier it is to get used to a new toilet. So if you're considering buying one, it's recommended to introduce it early.

Top 5 Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Boxes

No. 1: PETKITPuraMax

No. 2: PetSnowySnow+ Self Cleaning Litter Box white&brown

No. 3: whiskerLitter-RobotLitter-Robot 4 Black

No. 4: MEEGEEMSelf Cleaning Cat Litter Box S1

No. 5: Casa LeoLeo’s Loo Too Avocado Green

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

Most Viewed
Featured Rankings Similar to Automatic Litter Boxes

Cat Water Fountains

12 Best

Tested and Reviewed

Search by category

mybest

We connect users with the best tried and true products,
tested by our in-house guides and backed by expert insight.

Copyright mybest All Rights Reserved.