Cleaning your cat’s litter box isn’t exactly anyone’s idea of fun, particularly because of the constant scooping and lingering odors. If you’re a busy cat owner, there’s a high chance your cat silently judges you for leaving them with an imperfect cat toilet.
There’s now a smarter, more convenient, and more hygienic way to clean. This starts with embracing the promise of self-cleaning litter boxes. Modern robot cat litter boxes have revolutionized pet care by handling the least pleasant aspect of cat ownership. These smart litter boxes provide a more convenient way to clean and maintain your kitty litter box with no action on your part. It also allows you to focus on grooming and loving your feline friend without getting your hands dirty.
As with most pet products, a range of automatic cat litter boxes are available. However, picking the right one for your cat might be challenging. Fortunately, the Cybernews research team and I have conducted extensive research to help you make the best decision. Take a look at some of our top choices below.
Best automatic litter boxes – shortlist
- PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Pro – best overall and for odor-sensitive homes
- CATLINK Luxury Pro X – best for multi-cat households
- Neakasa M1 – best auto cat litter box for cat comfort
- Pet Zone – best for budget-conscious owners
- MeoWant – best for noise-sensitive cats
The best automatic litter boxes compared
Before diving into individual reviews, here’s a quick comparison of our top choices to help you understand what smart cat litter box features work best for you.
| Model Name | Rating | Dimensions | Weight | Power source | Size of entry | Odor control | Noise | Best For |
| PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Pro | 4.8 | 27.6 x 19.1 x 6.2 | 11.33lbs | Electric | Open-top | Yes | Low noise | Odor-Sensitive Homes |
| CATLINK (Luxury Pro X) | 4.6 | 23.62 x 23.62 x 27.95 | 22lbs | Electric | Front-entry | Yes | Quiet motors | Multi-Cat Households |
| Neakasa M1 | 4.4 | 23.23 x 20.67 x 20.2 | 22lbs | Electric | Open-top, low step-in | Yes | Quiet motors | Cat Comfort |
| Pet Zone | 4.3 | 26.5 x 16.88 x 7.63 | 10.6lbs | Electric | Open with high walls | Yes | Quiet motors | Budget-conscious owners |
| MeoWant | 4.1 | 20.87 x 20.47 x 21.85 | 28.7lbs | Electric | Low step-in | Yes | Ultra quiet | Noise-sensitive cats |
5 best automatic litter boxes – our detailed list
In this section, I will explore the best automatic litter boxes in 2025 while highlighting crucial features and cons to help you select the best option for your furry companion.
1. PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Pro – best overall and for odor-sensitive homes
| Dimensions | 27.6 x 19.1 x 6.2 |
| Weight | 11.33lbs |
| Power Source | Electric |
| Size of entry | Open-top |
| Odor Control | Yes |
| Noise | Low noise |
| Best For | Odor-sensitive homes |
The PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Pro is an all-in-one auto litter box ideal for busy cat owners who prefer an odorless home and want to reduce the time spent scooping and refilling the litter. It’s definitely one of the best litter robots for maintaining a clean, odor-free environment.
The crystal litter feature completely masks odors by absorbing and dehydrating waste, allowing your home to stay odor-free. Its self-cleaning system uses low-tracking crystals that are 99% dust-free, reducing the chance of your cat leaving a dust trail. The unit's built-in health counter tracks how often your cat uses the box, helping you monitor potential health issues by alerting you to changes in bathroom habits.
The PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Pro is perfect for single-cat households that want to reduce cleaning time and enjoy an odor-free home.
2. CATLINK Luxury Pro X – best for multi-cat households
| Dimensions | 23.62 x 23.62 x 27.95 |
| Weight | 22lbs |
| Power Source | Electric |
| Size of entry | Front-entry |
| Odor Control | Yes |
| Noise | Quiet motors |
| Best For | Multi-cat households |
The CATLINK Luxury Pro X is the best multi-cat-friendly robot cat litter box. It uses its four weight sensors to differentiate between your cats based on their weight and toilet habits and allows you to monitor their activities via the Catlink app.
It also has safety sensors that automatically halt cleaning operations once it senses a cat nearby. Its built-in carbon filter eliminates 90% of odor, while its easy-to-disassemble nature makes cleaning a breeze. This sealed waste compartment with activated carbon technology creates a multi-layer odor barrier that prevents smells from escaping.
3. Neakasa M1 – best for cat comfort
| Dimensions | 23.23 x 20.67 x 20.2 |
| Weight | 22lbs |
| Power Source | Electric |
| Size of entry | Open-top, low step-in |
| Odor Control | Yes |
| Noise | Quiet motors |
| Best For | Cat comfort |
The Neakasa M1 is an auto litter box with a 17-inch opening that allows your cat to climb in easily to answer nature’s call. It’s one of the best self-cleaning litter boxes for hands-off maintenance. The Neakasa M1 is an auto litter box with a 17-inch opening that allows your cat to climb in easily to answer nature’s call.
One notable feature is its pull-up and wrap system, which swiftly encloses waste in an odor-blocking bag you simply need to remove. This innovative system uses a mechanical arm to automatically pull waste into sealed bags, which are then wrapped and ready for disposal without any mess or odor exposure.
The Neakasa M1 provides convenience with up to 14 days of hands-free operation before requiring you to empty the waste compartment. It comes with a beginner-friendly app and is a good option if you want your cat to feel cozy and welcome.
4. Pet Zone – best for budget-conscious owners
| Dimensions | 26.5 x 16.88 x 7.63 |
| Weight | 10.6lbs |
| Power Source | Electric |
| Size of entry | Open with high walls |
| Odor Control | Yes |
| Noise | Quiet motors |
| Best For | Budget-conscious owners |
The Pet Zone self-cleaning litter box is an excellent option if you want innovative functionality without breaking the bank. This self-cleaning litter box has a built-in smart sensor that activates its self-cleaning program 30 minutes after use. This delay ensures your cat will be long gone, preventing any possible safety issues.
It has a basic outlook but gets the job done. It has a raking mechanism for cleaning after your cat and does so with minimal sound disturbance and efficiency.
5. MeoWant – best for noise-sensitive cats
| Dimensions | 20.87 x 20.47 x 21.85 |
| Weight | 28.7lbs |
| Power Source | Electric |
| Size of entry | Low step-in |
| Odor Control | Yes |
| Noise | Ultra quiet |
| Best For | Noise-sensitive cats |
If your cat is noise-sensitive, the MeoWant fits the bill. The smart litter box makes little to no noise when cleaning, at around 40 decibels, which is approximately the noise level you’ll hear in a quiet library.
The MeoWant also offers a cat parent’s top priority: safety. Its motion sensors immediately halt operations once they detect the movement of our feline friends. Its 147mm low entrance can accommodate all cats, from old to young to those with mobility issues.
The MeoWant also requires a 2.4 GHz connection to Wi-Fi to allow you to set up its MeoWant AirPet app for full functionality.
How did we select the best automatic litter boxes?
I considered the following factors when selecting the best self-cleaning litter boxes in 2025:
- Performance (40%). The Cybernews team and I evaluated various models, considering their efficiency, durability, and the reliability of their sensors and automation systems. I focused on models that performed optimally across different use cases.
- Customer feedback (30%). I read hundreds of reviews, searching for any recurring patterns. Whether positive or negative, it helped me determine if there were any common malfunctions or unexpected perks.
- Innovative features (30%). I considered noise level, waste disposal features, odor control, maintenance, and ease of cleaning.
After considering all these, I compiled my findings to devise the most reliable and effective solutions for you.
How do automatic litter boxes work?
Every auto litter box claims to clean up after your cat. Let’s examine how they achieve this.
- Motion sensors or timers. These built-in sensors detect when your cat has used the litter box or is close to it, and once your cat leaves, a timer often triggers the cleaning process.
- Scooping mechanism. Once the timer triggers the self-cleaning mechanism, the rake or rotating system removes waste and pushes it into the waste storage compartment.
- Waste storage. The litter box moves the clumped waste to this compartment and seals it to keep the smell and mess locked away.
- Odor control. Most automatic litter boxes use deodorizing gels, carbon filters, or product-specific technology to eliminate smells.
- Self-cleaning mechanism. Raking, rotating drums, and self-flushing mechanisms are widespread. The raking and rotating models push and roll items into the waste storage, while the self-flushing system flushes them out like a toilet.
The technology behind these devices continues to evolve, with newer models incorporating weight sensors to track your cat's health, app connectivity for remote monitoring, and even AI systems that learn your cat's habits. The most advanced robot cat litter boxes use sophisticated sensors to detect when your cat enters and leaves the box, differentiate between multiple cats, automatically order supplies when running low, and provide detailed health analytics.
What are the benefits of an automatic litter box?
Here’s why most cat owners are opting for this self-cleaning option.
- Convenience. These smart litter boxes clean up after your cat on your behalf, eliminating the need for daily scooping.
- Odor control. Most self-cleaning litter boxes have an odor-control mechanism to help minimize unpleasant smells. This mechanism could be deodorizing gels, sealed bins, or carbon filters.
- Better hygiene. An auto litter box reduces your direct contact with your pet’s waste, eliminating the risk of contact with harmful bacteria.
- Multi-cat friendly. Many models of self-cleaning cat litter boxes can serve multiple cats, thanks to more intelligent detection systems and larger waste compartments.
- Time-saving. If you’re always on the move or engaged in one activity or another, an automatic litter box is perfect for you, as it offers a hands-off solution.
How do you get cats to use an automatic litter box?
Cats are picky creatures, and introducing them to something new requires patience. Here are a few steps to make the process smoother for your feline friend.
- Gradual transition. Place the old and new kitty litter boxes side by side and let your cat examine the new one on its own terms. Over time, its curiosity will kick in, especially if you pay little attention to the old one.
- Familiar litter. To avoid overwhelming your cat, keep using the litter your cat is familiar with. Stick with the same texture and scent until it has gotten used to the new litter box.
- No sudden movements. You don’t want to spook your cat, so introduce it while the power is off. Try cleaning it manually for a bit, and then gradually start using the cleaning mechanism.
- Positive reinforcement. Try to ensure your cat associates the new litter box with good things. To do this, reward it immediately after it uses it.
Things to know about automatic litter boxes (type, features, size, price)
Before switching to a smart litter box, here are some key things you should know.
Types of automatic litter boxes
- Rotating or raking models. A mechanical rake gathers clumped waste into the waste storage while the rotating drum rotates in a wheely motion, allowing clumped waste to fall into a hidden tray.
- Flushable models. This type of smart cat litter box is directly connected to your home plumbing and immediately flushes waste with washable litter.
- Self-washing models. These models rely heavily on cleaning solutions and immediately wash the interior after use.
Key features to look for
- Odor control system. Ensure the litter box has deodorizing gels, carbon filters, or waste-sealing bags to keep your home smelling fresh.
- Litter compatibility. Most self-cleaning cat litter boxes can only work with specific types of litter. For example, self-washing models require washable granules rather than the usual litter.
- App connectivity. These litter box apps allow you to monitor your cat’s habits and usage and inform you when to clear or refill the box.
- Noise level. Choose one with a noise level under 45 decibels. This is the optimal level to avoid spooking your cat.
Size and space considerations
- Compact vs. large models. Compact smart litter box models are suitable for pet owners with small apartments and small cats, while larger models can accommodate all cats but require much more space.
- Multi-cat capacity. If you have many cats, pick an auto cat litter box that can recognize your cats and quickly clean up after each one.
Pricing and maintenance costs
- Upfront cost. Basic models using the rake system are often cheaper than those that offer advanced features like odor control or app control. The price increases for premium models using flushable systems or rotating drums.
- Replacement parts. If you get a flushable smart litter box, you must restock cleaning solutions and deodorizers. You can replace your filters and trays after a 2-4 week interval, depending entirely on usage. You may also occasionally need to repair sensors.
What to consider before buying an automatic litter box
Before making this big purchase for you and your cat, here are some things to consider.
- Size and capacity. Selecting a small litter box may cause your cat to avoid it, so checking for the model dimensions, weight, and overall design is important. Most cats need a minimum of 1.5 times their length in litter box space. For larger breeds like Maine Coons or multi-cat households, look for boxes with at least 20-24 inches in length and width.
- Type of litter compatibility. Some models only work with a specific type of litter, and using the wrong litter would lead to ineffectiveness.
- Odor control features. Whatever model you choose should prioritize odor control by including carbon filters, waste compartments, or ventilation systems.
- Ease of cleaning & maintenance. Find out if the model you want requires occasional or frequent manual cleaning.
- Noise level. Choose a device with low motors or ultra-quiet operations if you have a noise-sensitive cat.
- Waste disposal system. These include built-waste bins or flushable systems. Choose the one that suits you best.
- Price and long-term costs. Some models use brand litter only or waste cartridges. Find out how often you’ll need to replace them and how pocket-friendly they are.
Final word on the best automatic litter box
A smart litter box gives you a more convenient way to look after your pet. Choosing the right auto litter box depends on your budget, the features you want, and your pet's needs.
My extensive research has shown that the best automatic litter box in 2025 is the PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Pro. It is the best overall because it has the right balance of features and is budget-friendly. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a model that can cater to multi-cat households or noise-sensitive cats, respectively, choose the CATLINK Luxury Pro X or the MeoWant.
In any case, you won’t go wrong with any of the automatic cat litter boxes on our list. Whether you choose a basic self-cleaning model or an advanced robot cat litter box, your home will stay fresher, and your cats will enjoy a cleaner environment.
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FAQ
Do automatic litter boxes work with any type of litter?
No, automatic litter boxes do not work with any type of litter. Most self-cleaning litter boxes require a specific type of litter. For example, self-washing litter boxes use washable granules instead of regular litter, while models like the PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Pro use only crystal litter.
Are self-cleaning litter boxes safe for cats?
Yes, there are many pet-safe automatic litter boxes. These auto litter boxes have high-level motion sensors that can easily detect when the cat has left the box or when it's hanging around. This often triggers a halt in operations to prevent the risk of potential injury to your cat.
How often do I need to clean an automatic litter box?
This depends on the automatic litter box model you purchase. Some models give you more time to be hands-off, while others do not. The Neakasa M1, for instance, gives you up to 14 days of hands-free time before you need to pull out the waste enclosed in an odor-blocking bag.
Do automatic litter boxes eliminate odors completely?
No, not all automatic litter boxes eliminate odors completely. Most have carbon filters, deodorizing gels, or airtight waste bins to eliminate odor. However, models such as the PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Pro use its crystal litter to eliminate smells and odors from waste.
What is the best automatic litter box for multiple cats?
The best automatic litter box for multiple cats is the CATLINK Luxury Pro X. Its sensors can accurately distinguish between your cats based on their weight and usage habits and swiftly clean up after each cat to eliminate any hygienic concerns.
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