Choosing the Right Cat Litter Tray: Top UK Recommendations

Finding the right cat litter tray can feel like a surprisingly complex task. A constant battle against scattered litter, lingering odours and a tray that’s just too small for your feline friend are common frustrations for cat owners across the UK. The ideal solution should be comfortable for your cat, easy for you to maintain and discreet enough to fit into your home.

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to help you navigate the options. This guide cuts through the marketing clutter to offer practical advice and highlight key features, helping you select a litter tray that genuinely meets the needs of both you and your cat.

Key Considerations Before You Buy a Cat Litter Tray

Choosing the right model goes beyond just picking a colour. Focussing on a few key functional aspects will ensure a more hygienic home and a happier cat.

1. Size and Depth: More Room, Less Mess

A common mistake is choosing a tray that is too small. Cats need enough space to turn around, dig and cover their waste comfortably. A good rule of thumb is to select a tray that is at least 1.5 times the length of your cat, from nose to the base of their tail. For larger breeds like Maine Coons or Ragdolls, a large cat litter tray is essential. A deep litter tray for cats also helps to contain digging and prevent litter from being kicked out.

2. Design: Open, Lidded, or High-Sided?

The design of the tray plays a significant role in cleanliness and your cat's comfort.

• High-Sided Trays: An excellent middle-ground, a high sided cat litter tray features raised walls that effectively block most litter scatter and can help contain urine spray from cats that don't squat low.
• Lidded Trays: A cat litter box with lid offers maximum containment and privacy. This can be a great odour control litter box as it helps to trap smells. However, some cats feel confined in enclosed spaces, so it's important to observe your pet's preference.
• Open Trays: Simple and accessible, these are often preferred by kittens, senior cats or felines who are anxious in enclosed spaces. Look for models with a detachable rim to provide some scatter protection.

3. Material: Plastic vs. Stainless Steel

The material of the tray impacts its longevity and how easy it is to clean.

• Plastic Cat Litter Tray: This is the most common and affordable option. Modern polypropylene plastics are durable and lightweight. However, over time, they can develop tiny scratches from your cat's claws, which may trap bacteria and odours.
• Stainless Steel Litter Box: A premium alternative, stainless steel is non-porous, meaning it won't absorb odours or stain. It is exceptionally durable, rust-resistant and very easy to sanitise, making it a fantastic choice for an easy clean cat litter tray.

Top Product Recommendations

Based on features that address common owner concerns like cleaning, odour and size, here are some standout options available on Joybuy.

Savic Iriz 50 Litter Tray + Rim White/Cold Grey

Why It Stands Out: This tray offers a practical balance of size and scatter control. Its generous 50-litre capacity provides ample room, while the detachable high rim effectively contains litter. The low entry point makes it accessible for cats of all ages.

Pros:

• Extra-large size suitable for most cat breeds.
• Removable rim helps prevent litter scatter.
• Low entry point is ideal for kittens and senior cats.
• Made from durable, non-porous plastic for easy cleaning.

Who is it for? This is an excellent choice for owners of a litter tray for large cats or multi-cat households seeking a functional, open-top design that simplifies cleaning and minimises mess.

VVM Stainless Steel Litter Box with Lid

Why It Stands Out: For those prioritising hygiene and durability, this stainless steel litter box is a leading contender. The material is naturally odour-resistant and won't scratch or stain. The overlapping high-sided lid provides excellent privacy and prevents any urine leakage.

Pros:

• 304 Stainless Steel construction resists odours and bacteria.
• Completely non-stick surface makes for an easy clean cat litter tray.
• High rim and overlapping lid prevent leaks and scatter.
• Extra-large capacity is well-suited for big cats or multiple pets.

Who is it for? This is for the house-proud cat owner who wants a long-term, hygienic solution. It's particularly effective for cats that spray or for households where odour control is a top priority.

Felight Cat Litter Tray

Why It Stands Out: This tray from Felight is a simple, no-fuss solution that gets the job done. It's made from lightweight yet durable plastic and features a high-back design to help reduce litter being kicked out behind the tray.

Pros:

• Affordable and pocket-friendly.
• Lightweight and easy to handle during cleaning.
• High-back design offers basic scatter protection.
• A straightforward, functional choice.

Who is it for? This is a great entry-level option for new cat owners, those on a budget or for use with kittens. It also serves well as a secondary tray in a larger home.

Looking for a Complete Odour-Control System?

A great litter tray is only half the battle. For a truly fresh-smelling home, efficient waste disposal is key. A dedicated cat litter bin seals away clumps and odours, making the daily scooping routine far more pleasant.

Explore our selection of cat litter disposal systems to find the perfect partner for your new tray.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How often should you completely change a cat litter tray? This depends on the type of litter used and the number of cats. As a general guideline, for clumping litter, you should aim to completely empty, wash and refill the tray once a week. For non-clumping litter, this may need to be done two to three times a week. Daily scooping of solid waste is crucial for all litter types.

2. Do cats prefer open or closed litter trays? Cat preferences vary widely. Some cats appreciate the privacy and security of a cat litter box with lid. Others, particularly larger or more timid cats, may feel trapped and prefer an open tray that offers a clear view of their surroundings. If you are unsure, an open tray with high sides is often a safe starting point.

3. Is a stainless steel litter box better than plastic? Each has its advantages. A stainless steel litter box offers superior durability and odour resistance because its non-porous surface doesn't harbour bacteria. A plastic cat litter tray is more affordable and lighter but can accumulate scratches over time that trap smells. The choice often comes down to your budget and how much you prioritise long-term hygiene and odour control.