Living with a feline companion brings immense joy, but managing their litter box can be a persistent challenge. From litter tracked across your clean floors to lingering odours, finding the right setup is key to a harmonious and hygienic home. With so many options available, choosing the correct cat litter tray can feel overwhelming.
This guide is designed to simplify your decision. We will walk you through the essential features to consider and present a selection of products that address common concerns for UK cat owners, such as cleanliness, odour control and ease of use.
Before looking at specific models, it helps to understand the key factors that determine whether a litter tray is a good fit for your cat and your home.
The most fundamental choice is between an open-style tray and a hooded cat litter tray. An open tray is accessible and often preferred by nervous cats or kittens who dislike confined spaces. To manage mess, look for a litter tray with rim, which helps prevent litter from being kicked out.
Conversely, an enclosed cat litter box offers privacy for your cat and excels at containing odours and scatter. They are a popular choice for owners living in smaller flats or for multi-cat households where odour control is a priority.
A common mistake is choosing a tray that is too small. A cat needs enough room to turn around and dig comfortably. As a general rule, the tray should be at least 1.5 times the length of your cat. If you have a Maine Coon or another large breed, a large cat litter tray is essential. Also, consider the entry height; older cats or those with mobility issues will benefit from a lower entrance.
An easy clean cat litter box will make your daily routine much simpler. Features like a pull-out litter tray allow you to remove waste without dismantling the entire unit. Smooth, non-porous plastic surfaces are also easier to wipe down and are less likely to retain odours over time. For ultimate cat litter scatter control, pairing any tray with a good cat litter mat is a highly effective strategy.
Here are our recommendations for products that offer practical solutions for a cleaner home.
Why It Stands Out: While not a tray itself, this mat is an essential accessory for any litter box setup. Its primary function is to trap litter granules from your cat's paws as they exit the tray. The large 77 x 60 cm surface area provides excellent coverage. The textured EVA material effectively captures stray litter, which can then be easily poured back into the box, reducing waste and saving you cleaning time.
Pros:
Who is it for? This is for any cat owner who is tired of finding litter tracked throughout their home. It is a simple, effective addition that works with any type of litter tray, whether open or enclosed.
Why It Stands Out: This enclosed cat litter box is designed with the owner's convenience in mind. The standout feature is its pull-out litter tray, which slides out like a drawer for quick and effortless scooping and refilling. The enclosed design provides privacy for your cat and helps contain odours, while the top grate allows any litter on your cat's paws to fall back into the box. The door is also customisable—it can be set to swing freely, allow one-way entry or be removed completely for timid cats.
Pros:
Who is it for? This is ideal for cat owners in flats or houses who prioritise odour control and a streamlined cleaning process. Its modern, two-tone grey aesthetic also helps it blend into contemporary home decor.
Why It Stands Out: Sometimes, a simple, well-designed solution is all you need. This large cat litter tray offers a generous amount of space, making it suitable for bigger breeds or cats that appreciate extra room. Its key feature is the removable rim, which acts as a shield to contain litter scatter when your cat digs. The low entry point makes it accessible for kittens and senior cats, while the smooth, non-porous plastic makes it very easy to wipe clean.
Pros:
Who is it for? This is a great choice for owners of large cats or for those whose cats dislike enclosed boxes. It provides a straightforward, effective way to manage litter while ensuring the cat feels comfortable and secure.
If the recommendations above aren't quite what you're looking for, there are many other styles and designs to consider. Explore our full collection of modern grey trays to find a functional and stylish fit for your home.
A: This depends on the type of litter you use (clumping vs. non-clumping) and how many cats you have. As a general guideline, with one cat using clumping litter, you should scoop solids daily and perform a full change—emptying, washing and refilling the tray—every 2 to 4 weeks. For non-clumping litter, a full change is typically needed once a week.
A: Cats prefer a quiet, low-traffic area where they feel safe and won't be disturbed. Avoid placing the tray near their food and water bowls. A corner in a utility room, a quiet bathroom or a spare room often works well. Ensure the location is always accessible to your cat.
A: Cat preference varies. Many cats appreciate the privacy and security of an enclosed cat litter box. However, some cats, particularly those that are large, elderly or anxious, may feel trapped and prefer an open tray. If you are introducing a new tray, it can be helpful to observe your cat's behaviour and, if using an enclosed box, temporarily remove the door to help them acclimate.