No one wakes up excited to scoop a litter box, no matter how much they love their cat. That’s why self-cleaning litter boxes have become all the rage for pet owners. A new one seems to hit the market every month, but one model has been the talk of the town lately. I’m talking about the Whisker Litter Robot 4.
With its promise of minimal mess, odor control, and built-in tracking for weight and usage, it sounds like the ultimate upgrade. But does it live up to these claims? My colleagues at Cybernews and I have put it to the test.
We’ve dug through expert Litter Robot 4 reviews and user testimonies and compared them against the top competitors. Join me as I break down our findings, covering everything from performance to potential drawbacks. Let’s find out if it’s the solution you and your cat have been waiting for.
Quick overview of Litter Robot 4
Before I dive into the details, here's a brief overview of Litter Robot 4 that covers everything from its design to its features. Check it out and consider whether it has what it takes to make your and your cat’s daily life more convenient.
| Color | Black, white (with bezels in multiple colors) |
| Size | Footprint: 22’’ x 27’’ Entryway: 15.75’’ x 15.75” |
| Weight | Yes |
| Litter trapping | Yes, with a fence and steps |
| Enclosed waste drawer | Yes |
| Wi-Fi connected smart mobile app | Yes, for iOS and Android devices |
| Real-time notifications | Yes |
| Multi-cat recognition | Yes, up to 4 cats |
| Larger capacity, tightly-sealed waste drawer | Yes |
What is Litter Robot 4, and how does it work?
Litter Robot 4 is the latest version of Whisker’s popular self-cleaning litter box. Coming from one of the biggest names in IoT pet products, it immediately made waves on the market. Thankfully, Whisker has loaded it with enough smart features to live up to the buzz.
This cat robot litter box is more compact than the previous version but still offers the same spacious entrance and waste drawer. Its OdorTrap™ System uses a carbon filter and a tightly sealed drawer to keep smells at bay, while the SafeCat™ System with OmniSense™ Detection ensures both safety and real-time tracking of waste and litter levels.
But how does the litter robot work? Despite all its advanced features, the mechanism is straightforward. Once you add litter and plug it in, it’ll be ready to go. Sensors will detect when your cat enters, does its business, and exits and then trigger the cleaning cycle.
The globe will rotate to separate the clumps from clean litter and drop waste into the sealed drawer below. When it's done, the globe will return to its original position with only clean litter left inside, ready for the next visit.
Pros and cons of Litter Robot 4
The Whisker Litter Robot 4 has its share of advantages and drawbacks, so I’ve broken everything down to help you make an informed choice about whether this robot litter box is right for your furry friend:
Key features of Litter Robot 4
Besides its sleek design, Litter Robot reviews rave the most about its many features. I listed and explored each one below so you know exactly what’s in store before buying this innovative gadget.
Advanced cleaning system
Reading through users' feedback has made it obvious that the cleaning system is the new Litter Robot’s best feature. It works based on the same sifting process Whisker patented a few years ago, only more efficiently.
Reviewers say the drum rotates smoothly and quietly, so there’s no annoying noise throughout the day nor extra dust to clean up. Plus, the machine can be programmed to give the litter enough time to clump after your cat exits (3-30 minutes), ensuring no waste is left behind once the cleaning cycle finishes.
Enhanced odor control
Another feature I’ve seen plenty of praise for is odor control. Thanks to the OdorTrap® System, this kitty litter robot has three lines of defense against foul smell:
- Its tight-sealed waste drawer lets no unpleasant odor escape the box after it’s been sifted.
- Its carbon filters trap all smells in their pores to neutralize them.
- Its OdorTrap® Packs rely on plant-based oils to trap and destroy odor molecules.
Note: OdorTrap Packs are optional and not included in the Litter Robot price.
Larger waste drawer capacity
While researching this automated litter box, my team and I came across countless comments about the size of the waste drawer.
Users say it’s much bigger than the one in the Litter Robot 3 but without making the entire unit too clunky. This means you’ll need to empty it less often, even with multiple cats – something every cat owner dreams of.
Wi-Fi connectivity and app integration
Litter Robot 4 is compatible with Apple mobile devices with iOS 13.0 or greater and Android devices 8.0 or greater. I found that it’s free to download and easy to set up. After a few clicks, you’ll be able to keep track of all things litter-related:
- You can check the litter and waste level (with visual illustrations) so you can stay on top of your emptying duties.
- You’ll be able to follow your cats' bathroom breaks and weight changes on a monthly basis, which makes keeping them happy and healthy easier.
The app already allows you to connect multiple litter robots for multi-cat households, and they’re working on adding cat recognition, which is a nice touch.
Improved sensor technology
Sensors seem to be a major improvement between Litter Robot 3 vs. 4, according to users. They are meant to detect anything heavier than 3 pounds, but users have found they work even when you put a hand in. Working within the SafeCat System with OmniSense™ Detection, they offer enhanced security and more precise litter and waste monitoring.
Litter Robot 4: user reviews
User experiences say more about a product than any spec sheet. That’s why I focused my research on popular community pages, pet forums, and manufacturer websites. Here are my key takeaways.
What users like:
The majority of Litter Robot 4 reviews praise its automated cleaning and odor control. My colleagues and I have found plenty of users saying it cuts their scooping down to every other week or so, even with multiple cats. They also claim you won’t smell a thing until it’s time to empty the waste drawer, so you can place it anywhere in your home without inconvenience.
Litter Robot 4 also gets a lot of love for its large waste basket and its apps’ real-time data trackers. Users say the absence of sensors and filters in the drawer makes cleaning easier, while the app helps them stay on top of their cat’s habits and health with minimal effort.
What users dislike:
A few reviews mention sensor malfunctions. Apparently, high sensor sensitivity has prompted accidental cleaning cycles for some users, which Whisker has acknowledged but not yet resolved. Naturally, many expected a more refined design at such a high price point, which is another common grievance.
There were also mentions of its bulkiness and the adjustment period for cats. However, looking at other similar products, I’d say these come with the territory.
Transitioning to Litter Robot 4
The new Litter Robot by Whisker is easy to use, whether you’re new to self-cleaning litter boxes or not. But if you want a little extra help, I’ve put together a simple step-by-step guide:
- Unboxing and setup. Start by finding the unit a spot near a power outlet where it won’t bother you but will be accessible to your cats. After that, scan the QR code to download the app – it requires tipping to the side, so you can’t do it after you add litter. Then, plug it in and explore the features through the app.
- Introducing your cat to Litter Robot 4. Do not turn on the litter bot right away. Let your cat inspect it and acclimate at its own pace. It might take days or even weeks, and that’s okay – cats are creatures of habit, and they need time to get used to changes in their space.
- Adjusting to the new litter. You can add a scoop of your cat’s old litter into the robot box or put its old litter box nearby to help with the process. Some treats and praise can also do wonders, depending on what your kitty is motivated by.
- Monitoring initial usage. Keep a close eye on how your cats interact with Litter Robot 4 at first. The app can help you track their usage, giving you insight into both their adjustment journey and the device’s performance.
Litter Robot 4: use and care
It’s not just your cats that need time to grow accustomed to the cat Litter-Robot 4 – you do, too. Learning how it works and how to maintain it will help you get the most out of your investment. I’ve compiled a couple of tips and tricks to get you started:
- Empty the waste drawer consistently. Keep up with the waste levels in your little robot through the app. Try to empty it at least once a week, depending on how many cats you have. Also, ensure you line the drawer with 8-13-gallon bags that are clear – users say dark bags can interfere with the sensors.
- Clean the unit regularly. Remove and give the globe a soak every three months to prevent litter from sticking where it shouldn’t. Skip washing the base to avoid damaging the electronics. Stick to a soft cloth to clean the sensors and drum.
- Replace the carbon filter. Change the carbon filter every month to keep odor levels low. You can do this through the app by selecting Replace Filter or holding down the Cycle and Empty buttons. Whichever you go for, make sure the globe is in the Dump position before you open the bonnet.
- Check the power source. Don’t plug your unit into just any power outlet in your house. This robotic litter box runs best on a power outlet with a consistent AC voltage between 110V and 220V. Check whether the outlet you’ve had in mind meets these requirements before you turn it on. This way, you will avoid performance issues and breakdowns I’ve read about in some user testimonies.
- Monitor app notifications. Activate notifications in the app to keep tabs on your Litter Robot’s performance. You’ll be alerted to maintenance needs and be able to address any issues as soon as they arise, just as the manufacturer intended.
By following these steps, you will prevent malfunctions, maintain efficiency, and ensure optimal performance and longevity of Litter Robot 4.
What’s the best litter to use for Litter Robot 4?
According to Whiskers, Litter Robot 4 doesn’t require a specific type of litter. It works well with any clumping litter as long as its crystals are small enough to pass through the screen in the sifting process.
Still, being picky can make a big difference in how well your unit runs, so here are a few things to consider when making your final decision:
- Aim for low dust litter. Expert Litter Robot reviewers claim that larger granules don’t track as much. Using them will keep your unit’s sensors from clogging and make cleaning easier. Plus, you won’t have to worry about allergies if you have sensitive pets.
- Consider the differences between pellet vs. clay litter. Many cat owners swear by pellets for their health benefits and eco-friendliness. However, loose-clumping, newspaper-based, and wood-based options won’t work with Litter Robot 4’s sifting system. If I were you, I’d stick to natural, high-quality clay-clumping litter instead, which Whisker recommends.
- Avoid Silica Gel Litter. Its beads tend to be either too large or too fine. In the first scenario, they can’t pass through the screen, which means the machine will dump them along with the waste, wasting your money. In the second, they can clog the system and cause performance issues.
Conclusion: is Litter Robot 4 worth the investment in 2025?
After thorough research, it’s easy to see why there are so many positive Litter Robot 4 reviews out there. My team and I found it to be a serious time-saver, handling litter cleanup automatically while also monitoring your cat’s health stats. It’s a well-rounded upgrade for anyone looking to make life with pets easier.
That said, no product is perfect. The price of Litter Robot 4 is on the higher side, and some users have reported sensor issues. But with the improvements Whisker has already made to past models, it’s safe to assume they’ll keep refining the design with the upcoming upgrades. So, if it’s within your budget, I’d say it’s a smart buy.
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FAQ
How often do I need to empty the waste drawer of the Litter Robot 4?
You’ll probably need to empty the Litter Robot 4’s waste drawer about once a week, depending on how many cats use it.
Can the Litter Robot 4 be used with multiple cats?
Yes, Litter Robot 4 is designed to accommodate up to four cats, although animal care experts recommend one litter box per cat plus one additional box.
Is the Litter Robot 4 difficult to set up?
No, Litter Robot 4 takes a few minutes to set up. All you need to do is scan the QR code to download and install the app, fill the unit with litter, and turn it on.
What happens if my cat refuses to use the Litter Robot 4?
Cats need time to adjust to a new litter box, so don’t rush the process. Try mixing in some of their old litter and keeping the former box nearby for a bit. You might also have luck encouraging them with treats or praise when they explore the Litter Robot.
How loud is the Litter Robot 4 during the cleaning cycle?
Litter Robot 4 is praised for being very quiet. Most users say they barely notice it, only hearing a soft sound while it sifts the litter.
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