Millions of us have to deal with cat litter every day. That’s why upgrading to the best self-cleaning litter box or the best automatic litter box could make your life much easier and keep your cats happy, too.
A robot cat litter box or automatic litter box not only saves you time but also eliminates odor and maintains hygiene better than traditional litter boxes. The best self-cleaning litter boxes can efficiently clean themselves – perfect if you need the best litter box for multiple cats.
Together with the Cybernews research team, I’ve looked at the real-world performance, pricing, and automatic cat litter box specifications of dozens of top products. Only five made my list.
This guide takes a deep dive into how the best smart cat litter boxes work, and I’ll share important aspects you should consider before purchasing a self-cleaning litter box.
Best self-cleaning litter boxes – shortlist
- PetCove Self-Cleaning Litter Box – best self-cleaning litter box in 2025
- Pet Zone Smart Scoop Litter Box – affordable semi-automatic litter box with rake system for two-cat households
- Neakasa M1 Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box – premium smart litter box with open-top comfort and multi-cat support
- PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Pro Self Cleaning Litter Box – low-maintenance crystal litter box with good odor control
- MeoWant Fully Automatic Cat Litter Box – smart cat litter box with health tracking and ultra-quiet motor
The best self-cleaning litter boxes compared
Before I dive into my individual reviews, here’s a quick comparison table of the top self-cleaning litter boxes. It’ll help you see how each product differs from the rest.
| Model name | Dimensions | Weight | Power source | Size of entry | Odor control | Noise | Best for |
| PetCove Self-Cleaning Litter Box | 20.08" x 19.72" x 18.9" | 16lbs | Electric | Standard front-entry | Ozone filtration system | Quiet | Multi-cat households |
| Pet Zone Smart Scoop Litter Box | 26.5" x 16.88" x 7.63" | 10.6lbs | Electric | Open top, low front | Carbon filter | Quiet | Small spaces & 1-2 cats |
| Neakasa M1 Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box | 23.2" x 20.2" x 20.6" | 22lbs | Electric | Open-top, large entrance | Pull & wrap bag, odor-blocking | Relatively quiet | Multi-cat households |
| PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Pro Self-Cleaning Litter Box | 27.6" x 19.1" x 6.2" | 11.3lbs | Electric | Low-profile, open front | Crystal litter with tray | Quiet | Crystal litter users looking for a simple setup |
| MeoWant Fully Automatic Cat Litter Box | 20.5" x 20.9" x 21.85" | 28.7lbs | Electric | Low-entry (4.8") | Odor-control lid + gel | Ultra-quiet (40 dB) | Users looking for smart health tracking & app controls |
5 best self-cleaning litter boxes – our detailed list
I’ve reviewed the best self-cleaning litter boxes in 2025, evaluating their features, strengths, and ideal use cases. These reviews will help you find the perfect self-cleaning litter box to suit your home and your cats.
1. PetCove Self-Cleaning Litter Box – best self-cleaning litter box in 2025
| Dimensions: | 20.08" x 19.72" x 18.9" |
| Weight: | 16lbs |
| Power source: | Electric |
| Size of entry: | Standard front-entry |
| Odor control: | Ozone filtration system |
| Noise: | Quiet |
| Best for: | Large, multi-cat homes |
PetCove’s Self-Cleaning Litter Box is my top pick for 2025. As one of the best litter robots, it’s an automatic system with class-leading waste capacity. It comes with a bundle pack of three waste bags and a lifetime warranty.
It has 75L waste capacity and can hold up to 15 days of waste for several cats weighing up to 20lbs each. Safety sensors intelligently pause the cleaning cycle when your cat is inside so the moving parts don’t cause any injury.
It’s compatible with all clumping cat litter (regardless of texture or granule size). There’s an ozone filtration system that neutralizes smells more effectively than regular carbon filters or deodorizers.
Its integrated app shows usage, monitors cat weight, and schedules cleaning cycles remotely. Also, it supports 5GHz Wi-Fi networks – meaning a more stable connection to the app – unlike most smart litter boxes.
2. Pet Zone Smart Scoop Litter Box – best budget self-cleaning litter box for small homes
| Dimensions: | 26.5" x 16.88" x 7.63" |
| Weight: | 10.6lbs |
| Power source: | Electric |
| Size of entry: | Open-top, no lid |
| Odor control: | Carbon filter + covered waste compartment |
| Noise: | Quiet |
| Best for: | Small homes with 1-2 cats |
The Pet Zone Smart Scoop is an affordable, semi-automatic box with a rake-style system. It’s for owners of one to two cats who want to stop scooping. It’s not suitable for kittens under six months old.
Thanks to a sensor, its rake system activates 30 minutes after your cat finishes using it – enough time for the clumps to form, before cleanup. This model supports clumping, crystal, or pine litter – good flexibility at the price. Its high walls reduce scatter, while the waste is raked into a lined, covered receptacle with a replaceable carbon filter to stop odors.
Setup isn’t difficult (no app involved), and you can quickly disassemble it. However, it needs a helping hand to address the material that the rake can’t reach at the edges of the box.
3. Neakasa M1 Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box – ideal for large cats and multi-cat homes
| Dimensions: | 23.23" x 20.67" x 20.2" |
| Weight: | 22lbs |
| Power source: | Electric |
| Size of entry: | Open-top, wide access |
| Odor control: | Odor-blocking bag system |
| Noise: | Relatively quiet |
| Best for: | Large, multi-cat homes |
The Neakasa M1 is a premium self-cleaning litter box product compatible with most clumping litter types. It has an open-top design offering great comfort, hygiene, and smart convenience. It also has built-in kitten protection to pause the cleaning cycle for smaller or pregnant cats.
It’s got a spacious inner drum – great for larger breeds (up to 33lbs) and owners of multiple cats (and for cats that dislike confined spaces). Its “Pull and Wrap” waste system encloses clumps in odor-blocking bags (included) at the push of a button. It also comes with a soft entrance mat (included) that catches litter on paws.
This is a quiet smart litter box with multiple sensors for safety. The app shows litter levels, usage patterns, and your cat’s weight. However, the low drum lip can cause litter scatter. It also won’t fit neatly in standard enclosures due to its size.
4. PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Pro Self-Cleaning Litter Box – great for crystal litter lovers
| Dimensions: | 27.6" x 19.1" x 6.2" |
| Weight: | 11.33lbs |
| Power source: | Electric |
| Size of entry: | Uncovered, front entry |
| Odor control: | Crystal litter + covered waste trap |
| Noise: | Quiet |
| Best for: | Small, single-cat homes |
The PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Pro is an affordable crystal-litter-only automatic litter box. It uses a rake system that moves solid waste into a covered trap. It comes with one pre-filled disposable tray of crystal litter that absorbs moisture and dehydrates solid waste – reducing odor without creating clumps or dust.
It works best with PetSafe’s disposable trays (although some customers opt for reusable trays and off-brand crystal litter). Also, there’s an integrated health tracker that logs how often your cat uses the box – insightful for your cat’s health.
Maintenance is still required. You need to check the waste trap often, and the rake needs clearing. It’s also limited to cats under 15 pounds and isn’t the best for controlling odor after 48 hours of heavy use.
5. MeoWant Fully Automatic Cat Litter Box – near-silent litter box with advanced app feedback
| Dimensions: | 20.5" x 20.9" x 21.85" |
| Weight: | 28.7lbs |
| Power source: | Electric |
| Size of entry: | Front entry (low) |
| Odor control: | Sealed waste bin with automatic cover + scented gel |
| Noise: | Ultra-quiet |
| Best for: | Large, multi-cat homes |
The MeoWant Fully Automatic Litter Box is a premium litter box with a great app, silent operation, and a 360-degree design. It supports up to six cats (up to 18lbs) and has a low (4.8”) entry point – easier access for older or less mobile cats.
The MeoWant’s strength is its AIRPET app. There’s remote cleaning control, weight and bathroom activity monitoring, and long-term health trends.
For waste, it’s got a tightly sealed compartment with an automatic cover and gel deodorizer to stop smells. It also runs a self-check every cycle, plus 10 safety sensors to stop movement if your cat enters mid-clean.
The unit accepts most clumping litter under 15mm granule size (but avoid overfilling past the internal line). There’s also a mat to catch litter. Some customers report that placing a step or adding a deodorizer inside the bin improves overall functionality and minimizes odor further.
How did we select the best self-cleaning litter boxes?
The Cybernews team and I regularly test technology that genuinely makes life easier and more enjoyable. I selected my best self-cleaning litter boxes through in-depth research, analyzing official data, and reading through lots of real customer experiences. This is how I selected the best self-cleaning litter boxes for this article:
- Extensive research (40%): I examined official product specifications and official websites of each product to rate performance, durability, and value. Extensive research was critical for my selection process.
- Customer feedback (30%): Verified customer reviews helped me further pinpoint the good and the bad about each product. Customer feedback gave me crucial insights into real-world performance and reliability.
- Key features (30%): I compared app quality, noise levels, waste disposal designs, approaches to odor control, and litter compatibility to determine how well each product fits various owners and home setups.
Are automatic litter boxes safe?
Automatic litter boxes are generally safe for most cats. The models I reviewed have all the essential safety features you need, like motion and weight sensors that pause the cleaning cycle when a cat is detected.
Good-quality automatic litter boxes respond to as little as one pound of pressure, and many models provide additional protections like anti-pinch sensors. I only reviewed litter boxes that stay open during cycling, so your cat can jump out if a sensor fails.
Not all automatic litter boxes are built equally. Some poorly built models (those with Y-axis rotating doors) have caused injuries and even fatalities. No self-cleaning litter box is 100% risk-free, but reputable brands with open designs, sensor failsafes, and manual cleaning options are safe enough that you don’t have to worry.
How do you get cats to use an automatic litter box?
Most healthy cats will transition to a self-cleaning litter box, but you must be patient. Here are my tried-and-tested tips and tricks to ease the transition:
- Gradual transition: Set the automatic litter box next to your cat’s old box in an undisturbed area of your home where the animal can explore it. Leave it unplugged.
- Familiar litter: Use the same litter your cat is already used to. Transfer a small scoop of used litter into the new product for scent familiarity.
- No sudden movements: Only begin running cleaning cycles after your cat has thoroughly explored the box. Start with manual cleaning when your cat isn’t around to avoid creating anxiety.
- Positive reinforcement: Reward your cat with treats or praise whenever they use the new box. You can also try timed routines after meals or play to encourage use.
- Be patient: Most cats transition within 1-2 weeks. Don’t get rid of the old litter box until your cat fully trusts the automatic one. Remember, some cats won’t adjust due to anxiety, past trauma, or mobility issues.
Where should I put the self-cleaning litter box?
Correct placement of your self-cleaning litter box means your cat will use it consistently. Also, placement affects odor, noise, and access. Here are some tips on where to place your litter box:
- Quiet and private location: Peace means a lot for cats using the bathroom. Place the box in a low-traffic area like a guest bedroom, hallway closet, or an unused bathroom.
- Avoid busy zones: If you place the box in a busy kitchen or living room, your cat may become anxious. This may also cause the cat to avoid it.
- Well-ventilated space: Airflow is crucial to prevent moisture buildup and to eliminate lingering odors. Avoid placing the product in closed cabinets or enclosed spaces without ventilation.
- Accessible yet discreet: The litter box shouldn’t interfere with your own living space, or be difficult for your cat to reach. You can make use of litter box furniture, or corner placement in large rooms.
- Close to an outlet: All fully automatic litter boxes need power. Make sure there’s a wall outlet close to the box. Also, avoid placing the power cord where it could be chewed or unplugged.
How do self-cleaning litter boxes work?
Self-cleaning litter boxes automate the scooping process using sensors and built-in cleaning mechanisms. Most models use motion or weight sensors to detect when your cat enters and exits. After a short delay, a cleaning cycle begins – either automatically or on a schedule you set.
Rake-based systems use a motorized rake to sweep clumps into a waste bin. Rotating drum systems spin or tilt the inner chamber to sift clean litter from soiled waste. Some models use conveyor belts or flushable systems to transfer waste into a sealed container.
Waste is typically deposited into a lined, odor-sealed compartment, and many models include carbon filters or scented gels for extra odor control. Most units require clumping clay or silica litter for effective separation.
What to consider before buying a self-cleaning litter box
There’s a lot to think about before you buy a self-cleaning litter box, such as:
- Size and capacity: The litter box must be spacious enough for your cats’ movements. It should also be sturdy enough to support their combined weight.
- Litter compatibility: Although most models require clumping clay litter, some support crystal or silica-based litter. Pick your model based on the litter you prefer.
- Odor control features: Odor control varies between models. Choose sealed waste bins and ozone filtration for minimum odor.
- Ease of cleaning and maintenance: All litter boxes need emptying and cleaning at some point. Check if it’s easy to remove waste bins and wipe down components.
- Noise level: Most self-cleaning litter boxes are pretty quiet, but some models are nearly silent. Opt for the quietest motor possible in your price range for your cats’ comfort.
- Waste disposal system: Some boxes use disposable trays or bags, whereas others need manual bin emptying. For minimal upkeep, choose the former.
- Long-term costs: Consider not just the upfront investment but also potential ongoing costs for branded bags, replaceable filters, or refill cartridges.
Final word on the best self-cleaning litter box
Using a self-cleaning litter box makes life easier for both you and your cats. There are many great self-cleaning litter boxes on the market, but the PetCove Self-Cleaning Litter Box is my top choice. It’s reasonably priced with advanced sensors, a massive 75L capacity, and a professional app. It’s also the best automatic litter box for multiple cats in my lineup.
The recommendations in this guide were based on extensive research and user feedback. So if you are looking to purchase a top self-cleaning litter box, be sure to check my recommendations above to make an informed choice and choose the best litter box for you.
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FAQ
Do self-cleaning litter boxes work with all types of litter?
No, not all self-cleaning litter boxes work with all types of litter. Most support clumping clay litter, but some take silica or crystal litter. Pellet or non-clumping types usually won’t work properly.
Are automatic litter boxes worth the investment?
Yes, automatic litter boxes are worth the investment if you value less daily upkeep and better odor control.
How often do I need to empty a self-cleaning litter box?
How often you need to empty a self-cleaning litter box depends on the model and number of cats. For one cat, you’ll have to empty the waste bin every week. For multiple cats, every three days is more realistic.
Can multiple cats share the same self-cleaning litter box?
Yes, multiple cats can share the same self-cleaning litter box. Some models support multi-cat use.
What should I do if my cat refuses to use a self-cleaning litter box?
If your cat refuses to use a self-cleaning litter box, maybe the transition was too abrupt, or the cat doesn’t like it. Gradually transition by keeping the old litter box nearby, and letting your cat explore the new one first (unplugged). Using familiar cat litter helps. It may take multiple tries to get it right.
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