Joybuy Insights

Choosing the Right Cat Litter Tray: Top UK Recommendations

Hello, I'm the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer. My role is to help you find practical products that genuinely meet your needs. Choosing a cat litter tray might seem simple, but the right one can make a significant difference to your home's cleanliness and your cat's comfort. A poorly chosen tray can lead to unpleasant odours, litter scattered across your floors and a stressed feline friend.

This guide is designed to cut through the clutter. We will explore the key features to consider and highlight a few standout options to help you make a confident choice for your home and your cat.

What to Look for in a Cat Litter Tray

Finding the ideal tray involves balancing your cat's preferences with your household's needs. Here are a few practical points to consider before you buy.

1. Type and Size: Open, Hooded, or High-Sided?

The most fundamental choice is between an open or a hooded cat litter tray. A covered cat litter box offers privacy, which many cats appreciate and is excellent for containing odours and preventing litter from being kicked out. However, some cats, particularly larger or more anxious ones, can feel cramped or trapped inside.

An open tray with a cat litter tray with rim is a good middle-ground, offering some scatter protection without a full cover. The size is also critical. A large cat litter tray is essential for bigger breeds like Maine Coons or Ragdolls and a deep litter tray is ideal for cats that love to dig. As a general rule, the tray should be at least 1.5 times the length of your cat.

2. Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance

Look for trays made from smooth, non-porous plastic, which resists odours and is easy to wipe clean. Models with rounded corners prevent waste from getting trapped. For ultimate convenience, you might consider a self-cleaning litter tray. These automatic cat litter box models handle the daily scooping for you, making them a popular choice for busy households or homes with litter box for multiple cats.

3. Material and Sustainability

While most trays are plastic, the quality can vary. Some models now use recycled materials, offering a more eco-friendly cat litter tray option without compromising on durability. Consider the long-term impact and look for sturdy construction that will withstand regular use and cleaning.

Recommended Cat Litter Trays

Here are a few recommendations that address common challenges faced by UK cat owners, from odour control to accommodating larger cats.

Rosewood Eco Line Plastic Cat Litter Tray with Hood

Rosewood Eco Line Plastic Cat Litter Tray with Hood

Why It Stands Out This hooded tray combines practical design with an environmental focus. Made in Italy from 64% post-consumer recycled plastic, it effectively tackles odour and mess. The hood features a swing door and a replaceable charcoal filter to help neutralise smells, while the extra-deep base and leak-proof rim keep litter contained.

Pros

  • Made from a significant portion of recycled plastic.
  • Hood, swing door and charcoal filter provide excellent odour control.
  • Deep tray design minimises litter scatter and leaks.
  • The door is removable, helping kittens or hesitant cats to adapt.

Who is it for? This is a great option for environmentally conscious owners who prioritise odour and mess control in a standard-sized tray.

Savic Iriz 50 Litter Tray + Rim White/Cold Grey

Savic Iriz 50 Litter Tray + Rim White/Cold Grey

Why It Stands Out For those needing more space, the Savic Iriz 50 offers a generous capacity suitable for larger cats or multi-cat homes. Its key feature is the removable high rim, which effectively stops litter from being kicked onto the floor. The low entry point makes it accessible for kittens and senior cats with mobility issues, while the durable, non-porous plastic ensures it is simple to clean.

Pros

  • Extra-large 50-litre capacity provides ample room.
  • Elevated, removable rim helps contain litter scatter.
  • Low entry height is suitable for kittens and senior cats.
  • Smooth, non-porous material for easy cleaning.

Who is it for? Ideal for owners of large cat breeds, enthusiastic diggers or households with cats of varying ages and mobility levels who prefer an open-style tray.

homerunPET Smart Fully Automatic Cat Litter Box CS106

homerunPET Smart Fully Automatic Cat Litter Box CS106

Why It Stands Out This is a premium, high-tech solution designed to minimise daily chores. As a fully automatic cat litter box, it handles cleaning and even litter replenishment. Its exceptionally large interior and 8L litter capacity make it suitable for cats up to 10 kg, including large breeds like Ragdolls and Maine Coons. The system automatically cleans after each use and can go up to 14 days before needing a litter refill, making it a game-changer for busy owners or multi-cat households.

Pros

  • Fully automated self-cleaning and litter replenishment system.
  • Very large capacity, suitable for multiple cats or large breeds.
  • Reduces daily scooping and maintenance.
  • Designed with safety features like an anti-squeeze mechanism.

Who is it for? This is geared towards tech-savvy cat owners, multi-cat households and those with large-breed cats who are looking for a convenient, low-maintenance litter solution.

Looking for More Options?

These recommendations cover some of the most common needs, but every cat and home is unique. If you're looking for different sizes, styles or features, there are many other choices available.

Explore our full range of trays, liners and scoops in the cat litter accessory category to find the perfect fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do cats prefer open or covered litter trays?

It truly depends on the individual cat. Many cats enjoy the privacy and security of a covered cat litter box. However, others may feel confined or prefer to have a clear view of their surroundings, making an open tray a better choice. If you are unsure, you could start with an open tray or a hooded one with the door removed to see how your cat responds.

Where is the best place to put a cat litter tray?

Cats prefer their toilet to be in a quiet, low-traffic area where they will not be disturbed. It should be easily accessible at all times and placed away from their food and water bowls. Avoid noisy locations like next to a washing machine or in a busy hallway.

How often should you replace the entire cat litter tray?

Even with regular cleaning, plastic litter trays can develop tiny scratches over time. These scratches can trap bacteria and odours that are difficult to remove. It is generally a good practice to replace a plastic cat litter tray every one to two years to maintain a high standard of hygiene.