Last Updated on 13/08/2025 by Liza Brits
Disclosure
We share trusted product recommendations through affiliate partnerships with leading brands. This means when you find something you love and purchase through our links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you.) It’s our way of keeping the lights on while helping you discover the best in smart pet tech. 🐶😺
Let’s be honest fellow cat lovers, scooping the litter box is one of the least glamorous parts of pet ownership. Well, what if you could eliminate that chore altogether? Discover the world of smart automatic self-cleaning litter boxes, one of the best innovations for us pet parents!
These groundbreaking devices automatically clean up after your feline friend, saving you from having to do the manual chore yourself.
The Undeniable Benefits of a Smart Litter Box
- ⏰ Time Saver Extraordinaire: This is the biggest perk! Imagine reclaiming those precious minutes (or even hours!) you spend scooping every week. With a self-cleaning litter box, you simply empty the collection tray every few days.
- 🤭 Odor Control Champion: Self-cleaning litter boxes often feature automated cleaning cycles that remove waste immediately, minimizing odors. No more lingering smells wafting through your home! Say hello to a fresher, more pleasant environment.
- 🏆 Hygiene Hero: These clever devices keep the litter box consistently clean, reducing the risk of bacteria and germs. This is not only good for your cat’s health, but also for your family’s well-being.
- 👑 Convenience is King (or Queen!): Let’s face it, life gets busy. Self-cleaning litter boxes offer unparalleled convenience, especially for those with hectic schedules, mobility issues, or multiple cats.
- 😺 Happy Kitty, Happy You: Cats are notoriously picky about their litter boxes. A consistently clean box can lead to a happier, healthier kitty, reducing the likelihood of accidents outside the box.
Ready to ditch the scoop for good?
I know what you’re thinking: “These sound amazing, but they must be expensive!” While some models can be a bit of an investment, there are options available for every budget. And trust me, the time and hassle you save are well worth it.
The Top 4 Automatic Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes in 2025
1. KITPLUS Open Top
✅ Features an open-top design with a spacious entrance to accommodate cats up to 34 lbs.
✅ The design promotes better airflow, reduces odors, and offers a well-ventilated environment, making it suitable for cats transitioning from traditional litter boxes.
✅ Spacious 10L waste bin that holds up to 14 days of waste for a single cat.
✅ Smart app control (2.4G Wi-Fi) for remote monitoring, recording health status, accessing operation logs and delaying cleaning time.
✅ Equipped with 3 pairs of infrared sensors and 4 precise weight sensors to detect your cat’s presence and automatically pause operation. Also features an intelligent anti-pinch roller system that will ensure cats don’t get pinched during the cleaning process.
✅ Quiet operation at under 20 dB, making it suitable for noise-sensitive cats.
✅ Removable and washable liner pad to reduce urine build up and keep the litter box odor free. Includes a litter mat to stop litter from spreading on the floor.
✅ Drum, liner pad and trash bin are removable and easy to clean.
❌ Cons.
- Only supports 2.4G Wi-Fi connectivity.
Reviews
“So, I have always wanted one of these automatic litter boxes but the ones I had looked into were very expensive for me even knowing that the investment would be worth it I couldn’t bring myself to spend a lot of money. I was a little nervous going for one that was a bit cheaper, but honestly I couldn’t be more satisfied with this product…”
“The PetPivot Autoscooper 11 works great! My cat has been using it for a week and I haven’t had to do anything to the litter box. No Smell at all. Not only does it take care of the scooping, It even levels the cat litter too. I love the simple design. I don’t have to worry with downloading an app. Just plug it in, pour in the litter and it’s ready to go. It comes with a mat that is awesome for keeping the litter from getting on the floor when the cat gets out…“
2. Pawstatic PAW101
✅ 68L capacity for cats weighing up to 24 lbs.
✅ Made from high-quality materials, including waterproof Oxford cloth and PVC, which prevent leaks.
✅ Smart app control with 2.4G Wi-Fi via the Tuya app. You are able to monitor your cat’s weight and litter box usage in real time. Supports up to 5 cats.
✅ Equipped with 15 sensors that detect your cat’s presence within 50m and immediately stop the cleaning cycle if they re-enter the box. The design also eliminates pinch points or “scissor angles,” further enhancing safety.
✅ Compatible with all types of clumping litter, including clay, tofu, and bentonite.
✅ Features a high-performance non-woven fabric mat that prevents sticky waste from adhering to the box, making cleanup even easier.
✅ The box includes 2 rolls of trash bags, and even DIY stickers for customization.
✅ Features a built-in exhaust fan to remove odors.
✅ Quiet operation of less than 32 dB.
✅ 10L waste drawer capacity, providing up to 15 days of worry-free operation for a single cat. For multi-cat households, you may need to empty it more frequently.
❌ Cons
- It is still quite an investment, although less than some other models.
- Only supports 2.4G Wi-Fi connectivity
Reviews
“I have three cats at home, and cleaning the litter box has always been a headache for me. It takes a lot of time to change and clean the litter box every time, but since I purchased this automatic litter box, all the problems have been solved easily! It has a very large capacity, capable of accommodating three cats and can last for 15 days without changing litter, making it very suitable for multi cat households.”
“This is my first time getting self cleaned litter box, I was worried about my cats cannot used to it at the first time, so i googled it that says use your old cat litter with their smells so they can change to used it step by step. Now by the time it proves, that really works! That means so much to me, me and my partner save so much time about cleaning it twice a day. And one more point is it has app so you can check their health conditions while you are not home, add cats in the profiles! If you have timid cats just turn off auto clean .”
3. Neakasa M1 Open-Top
✅ Features an open-top design that enhances accessibility and improves ventilation.
✅ Smart app control for real-time monitoring of your cat’s bathroom habits, litter levels, and waste drawer capacity.
✅ Sends alerts when it’s time to add litter or empty the waste drawer.
✅ Remotely control the unit’s operation modes.
✅ Equipped with 5 pairs of infrared sensors and 4 weight sensors to ensure your cat’s safety. These sensors detect your cat’s presence and immediately pause the cleaning cycle if they re-enter the box.
✅ The unit also features a Kitten Mode, which disables the self-cleaning function to ensure the safety of smaller or younger cats.
✅ “Pull and Wrap” waste system makes disposal quick, clean, and mess-free.
✅ Odor-seal electric door ensures odor control.
✅ The included soft mat helps minimize litter tracking, keeping your floors cleaner.
✅ Compatible with most types of clumping litter.
✅ The 11.23L waste drawer and 7.17L litter capacity allows for up to 14 days of worry-free operation for a single cat.
❌ Cons
- Size: The open-top design and large capacity make it bulkier than some models, which may not suit small spaces. Required space is 2.8ft².
Reviews
“It’s weird to say I love a litter box, but I love this litter box!! I tried the traditional automatic litter box (big circle) and it was a nightmare to clean, my cats stunk, and it wasted a ton of litter. This one is AWESOME and was so worth the extra money. It cleans really well and is quiet compared to the other one. It’s SO easy to take apart and wipe down…“
“There’s no smell after it cleans. And my cats took to it right away- 0 adjustment period. They don’t smell like pee all the time anymore from rubbing up on the inside of a litter box and I use 1/2 the litter I did before. I cannot recommend this one enough.”
“After about a month it started making noises when it going through the clean or leveling cycle. Emailed the company directly and they were great! I sent some videos, they sent back some trouble shooting but once those didn’t work they ended up sending a new base. It arrived within a few days and now works great. If you look through the Manuel it does state they have a 1 year warranty and even though I bought it here they still honored it!
Works great with regular clumping litter. It did take a few days for my cats to get use to it but they use it now.”
4. Litter-Robot 4 by Whisker (Bundle Offer)
✅ Accommodates cats weighing between 3 lbs to 25 lbs.
✅ Smart app control – The Whisker app allows you to monitor usage, adjust settings, and receive notifications. You can track how often your cat uses the litter box, which is helpful for monitoring their health. Supports up to 4 cats.
✅ The sensors monitor waste drawer levels and send notifications to your smartphone via the Whisker app when it’s time for emptying.
✅ The advanced super-quiet patented sifting process (QuietSift) automatically separates waste from clean litter and is nearly a silent process.
✅ The waste drawer requires emptying only once a week for a single cat.
✅ Advanced sensors detect when your cat enters and exits, ensuring the cleaning cycle only starts when it’s safe.
✅ Odor control: The sealed waste drawer and carbon filter keep smells at bay. The carbon filters (around $14 for 8 on Amazon) will need replacing around once a month. Using replacement waste drawer liners (around $35 for 50) is also recommended. This bundle offer includes 6 OdorTrap Refills, 25 liners an 30 cleaner wipes.
✅ Straightforward setup, though it’s a bit heavy (24 lbs), so you’ll want to place it in its final location before filling it with clumping litter.
✅ Easy to clean with removable waste drawer and globe.
❌ Cons
- Price: It is a significant investment.
Reviews:
“OMG. I love this item. It is a bit pricey but well worth the cost. It works like a dream and has literally changed my life. I now only have to worry about litter box changes once a week. It also eliminates all the smell from the litter box. In addition, it weighs your cat. My cat loves the litter box as well as the litter box is always clean.”
“So happy with my purchase. No bad smell, nothing to assemble already made and delivered, which is great, no hassle, so much money saving in the long run as the litter last much longer. My 4month old kitten went on it straight away and happy to use it. A big entrance made her to use it much easier. No cleaning until the App. telling me to change the bin liner. You are also notified when it’s used so you can monitor the activity.
I know it’s a bit pricy in the first place but I think it’s worth it.”
Comparison Table
| Feature | Litter-Robot 4 | Pawstatic Self-Cleaning Litter Box | KITPLUS Open-Top | Neakasa M1 Open-Top |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Automation | Fully automatic | Automatic waste sifting | Automatic waste sifting | Automatic waste sifting |
| Odor Control | Carbon filter | Built-in odor control | Odor control technology | Odor control technology |
| Size & Capacity | Large, suitable for multiple cats | Spacious, suitable for multiple cats | Large, open-top design | Large, open-top design |
| Noise Level | Quiet operation | Quiet operation | Low noise | Low-noise operation |
| Ease of Cleaning | Easy-to-empty waste drawer | Easy-to-clean waste drawer | Easy-to-clean disassembly | Easy-to-clean waste compartment |
| Power Requirement | Requires power | Requires power | Requires power | Requires power |
| Smart Features | App control | App control | App control | App control |
| Cost | Very High | High | Moderate | High |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is a smart litter box?
A smart litter box is an automated litter system that detects when your cat has used it and cleans itself afterward. Many models also track health data like weight and frequency of use.
How does a smart litter box work?
It uses sensors to detect when your cat has finished using the box, then automatically rakes or flushes waste into a sealed compartment. Some connect to a mobile app for tracking.
Are smart litter boxes safe for cats?
Yes, reputable models are designed with safety in mind. They include sensors to avoid cleaning while your cat is inside and typically have manual cleaning options too.
Do smart litter boxes require special litter?
Some do. For example, units like Litter-Robot work with clumping litter, while others might need specific types or brands. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
How often do I need to empty the waste compartment?
This depends on the number of cats and the unit’s size. For a single cat, many models can go 7–10 days before needing to be emptied.
Can I use a smart litter box for multiple cats?
Yes! Many smart litter boxes are rated for multiple-cat households. Look for models that can handle higher waste volume and have larger or multiple waste compartments.
Do they help control odor?
Definitely. Most smart litter boxes are sealed and have carbon filters or other odor control systems built-in to keep your home smelling fresh.
How much maintenance is involved?
Much less than a traditional litter box. You’ll still need to empty the waste drawer and occasionally clean the interior, but daily scooping is eliminated.
Are smart litter boxes worth the money?
For busy pet owners or those with multiple cats, they can save time and improve hygiene. If you’re tech-savvy and want more insights into your cat’s health, they’re a great investment.
Do smart litter boxes help track my cat’s health?
Yes! Some models provide data on your cat’s litter habits, weight, and frequency of use, helping you detect issues like urinary problems early.
What happens during a power outage?
Most models won’t operate, but your cat can still use it like a regular litter box. Some offer backup battery support.
Are they noisy?
Most are relatively quiet, though noise levels vary. Some models are designed to operate silently or with minimal disruption.
Do I need a mobile app to use it?
Not necessarily. While many models offer app support, basic functions like auto-cleaning work without it.
Can kittens use smart litter boxes?
Usually yes, but some models require your cat to be a minimum weight (often around 5 lbs) to trigger the sensors safely.
❗ 7 Self-Cleaning Litter Box Mistakes Cat Owners Make (And How to Avoid Them)
1. Using the Wrong Type of Litter
Most self-cleaning litter boxes are picky when it comes to litter. Clumping litter is usually required, and even then, some boxes perform better with specific brands or particle sizes.
✅ Tip: Always check the manufacturer’s recommended litter. Using the wrong type can jam the mechanism or prevent proper cleaning.
2. Not Giving Your Cat Time to Adjust
Cats are creatures of habit. Suddenly swapping their regular litter box for a buzzing, rotating device can freak them out.
✅ Tip: Place the self-cleaning box next to the old one and let your cat explore. Gradually transition over a few days to avoid litter box avoidance.
3. Skipping Regular Maintenance
Yes, these boxes clean themselves—but not 100%. You still need to empty the waste bin, clean the sensors, and wipe down the interior to keep things running smoothly.
✅ Tip: Set a reminder to check and clean the box weekly. A little upkeep goes a long way in preventing smells or mechanical issues.
4. Ignoring Safety Features
Some automatic litter boxes have sensors that pause cleaning when a cat is nearby. But if your cat is small or if sensors are dirty, they may not work correctly.
✅ Tip: Regularly check that safety features are functioning properly—especially if you have kittens or very light cats.
5. Putting the Box in a Noisy or High-Traffic Area
Cats like privacy when doing their business. Placing a self-cleaning box in a loud or busy room can make them anxious and lead to accidents elsewhere.
✅ Tip: Choose a quiet, low-traffic spot where your cat already feels comfortable.
6. Letting the Waste Bin Overflow
Just because the box is “automatic” doesn’t mean you can forget it exists. Letting the waste drawer overflow leads to smell buildup and performance issues.
✅ Tip: Most smart litter boxes come with alerts—use them! If yours doesn’t, check the bin every 3–5 days depending on usage.
7. Not Reading the Manual (Seriously)
It may not be fun, but the manual is your best friend. Every model is different, and not following setup instructions can cause long-term issues.
✅ Tip: Take 10–15 minutes to read the guide or watch a setup video. You’ll save yourself headaches later.
You might also like:
PetSmartify is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate programs. We may earn a small commission from purchases (at NO additional cost to you)
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publication and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon or any other retailer’s website at the time of purchase will apply.