An artificial planter offers a subtle place for cat boxes. Mallory Crusta | Cats.com
Litter box management is one of the only undesirable parts of having cats. I don’t know anyone who would say they have the perfect setup for their litter boxes. There is always either too little space or too much odor. If you’re tired of that plastic eyesore dominating your space, there are some unique solutions out there.
Whether you’re looking to contain odors and messes with an attractive enclosure, or you’re more of a DIY-er, this lineup is a good place to start. Here are 10 simple ways to keep your cat’s litter box out of the spotlight.
1. Faux Planter Litter Box
Add a little green into your space with a litter enclosure designed to look like a houseplant. The Good Pet Stuff Hidden Litter Box is a winner for small spaces. Our head of content, Mallory Crusta, tested this litter box with her two cats, Wessie and Forest. While the 19-by-19 interior may be a tight squeeze for larger cats, it could work if your cat is more petite.
2. Furniture-Grade Litter Box Enclosure
Make a statement with your litter box enclosure. Rifiuti Litter Box Enclosure | tuft + paw
Pet retailers like Chewy carry a lot of furniture-grade litter enclosures that meld aesthetics with functionality. You can find a range of attractive pieces that will speak to different needs—from end tables to credenzas and benches to ottomans. There’s also a wide array of styles to match your decorative aesthetic, whether you’re into a mid-century modern look or prefer a more classic vibe.
One thing to keep in mind is that these pieces shouldn’t be expected to perform like regular furniture. Never place heavy or breakable items on top.
3. Litter Box Privacy Screen
For cats who dislike covered boxes, a “modesty” shield like the PetFusion Privacy Screen may be more their style. With multiple entry points and a slightly transparent surface, this option doesn’t make cats feel trapped. Plus, a privacy screen not only keeps the litter box out of sight but also helps prevent excess track and scatter. It might work best for cats who are particular about their litter box and are likely to struggle with a new enclosure.
4. DIY Privacy Screen
For a few dollars, you can make your own privacy screen. Liz Coleman | Cats.com
For those with a crafty side, you can easily recreate a screen with a three-panel poster board covered in fabric, wallpaper, or heavy-duty wrapping paper. For this simple approach, I covered a dollar store board with leftover wallpaper I had from a previous project. Easy-peasy.
Just one note: cardboard is lightweight, so there’s a risk of it falling and scaring your cat. This could discourage super anxious kitties from using their litter box in the future.
5.Top-Entry Litter Box
Keep messes out of sight with a top-entry box. Lightspruch | Shutterstock.com
Instead of going full incognito, why not try a top-entry cat litter box? If your cat will use one, these are about as unobtrusive as you can get. This is also a more dog-proof litter box.
6. Fabric Around an End Table
Liz Coleman | Cats.com
If you have a small table that can fit over your cat’s litter box (with enough room for them to comfortably access it), it could make a fine enclosure. There are different ways you can go about this. As for myself, I outfitted a simple IKEA table with tension rods and vintage linens. Just remember not to put anything fragile on top.
7. Cat Door to the Litter Box
A well-placed cat flap keeps the litter box behind closed doors. Monika Wisniewska | Shutterstock.com
If you have a laundry room or small closet that would work for a litter box, a cat door or cat flap gives your kitty access while the door stays shut. Along with keeping your kitty’s unsightly litter box concealed, this works well for keeping out dogs and curious toddlers too.
8. DIY Cat Door
Cat bathroom decals are sure to earn you some laughs. Liz Coleman | Cats.com
At my place, the previous homeowners carved a cat-sized entrance into the basement door. We were pleased with the convenience of this customization but felt it needed to be dressed up some. So we used fabric and cute decals for a unique look that signaled “this way to the cats-only toilets.”
9. Large Plastic Storage Tote
A simple storage bin offers an affordable solution. RJ22 | Shutterstock.com
It may not be the most glamorous option, but converting a large storage bin is an easy and affordable way to conceal your cat’s litter box. All you need is a 12-gallon tote and a box cutter to make a cat-sized cutout. Then, sand the edges for a smooth finish.
Alternatively, you could cut the hole on the lid for a top-entry enclosure. Both options are great for containing stray litter particles for the cat who likes flinging it around.
10. DIY Thrift Store Finds
Head to a thrift store or online marketplace for some DIY inspiration. With some updated fixtures and paint, you can transform items like toy chests, benches, and dressers into stylish litter boxes. For example, take a plastic set of drawers and fill the bottom shelf with litter. Then, provide easy access by removing the drawer above it. You’ll also get extra storage space with the top shelves for all your cat toys and accessories.
