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The best robot litter boxes: Top automatic litter boxes compared
We love our cats dearly. Playing, cuddling, and just spending time together are some of our favorite pastimes with our pets, but cleaning up after them isn't as fun. That's why a robot litter box can be the perfect solution for you and your feline companion.
Not all robot litter boxes are made the same, however, so it's important you invest in the best robot litter box that promises reliable performance for your household. We scoured the market to find the best robot litter boxes so you can quit scooping and automate your life instead. This is what we found.
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- Excellent odor control
- Automatic cleaning
- Eco-friendly
- Noisy
- Not recommended for multiple cats
Tech Specs: Dimensions: 19.25 x 17.5 x 21inches | Power: 120-volt AC | Weight: 35 pounds
If you're looking for the latest technology, the Catgenie AI Automatic Cat Box is it. It has a three-step process that includes flushing and washing after your pet before hot-air drying every time your cat uses it. To clean, simply choose between automatic or manual settings depending on your preferences. No litter is needed, and instead the device uses septic-safe Washable Granules that never have to be changed.
- More affordable
- Easy to use
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Limited warranty
- Not ideal for large cats
Tech Specs: Dimensions: 20 x 10 x 21 inches | Weight: 13.65 pounds
The Petsafe Simply Clean Cat Litter Box is an automatic, self-cleaning litter box that uses a rotation every hour and a half to stay fresh. Not only is it covered to help minimize odors, but it also contains a replaceable carbon filter that will reduce any foul smells in your home. Keep in mind that this litter box only accommodates cats up to 15 pounds.
- Convenient app
- Smart capability
- Variety of colors
- Limited money-back guarantee
- Narrow design
Tech Specs: Dimensions: 24 x 22 x 27.5 inches | Weight: 27.5 pounds
When you have a smart home, Smarty Pear's Leo's Loo Too is the best solution for your robot litter box. It allows you full control of the device with the mobile app, plus health tracking for your cat. It's self-cleaning, separating dirty litter from the clean to save you money. Plus, bamboo filters keep odors inside the waste drawer, so you don't have to worry about unfavorable smells.
- Spacious
- Less emptying
- Great for multiple cats
- May be too large for some spaces
- Not ideal for cats under 5 pounds
Tech Specs: Dimensions: 24 x 24 x 34 inches | Weight: 28 pounds
When you have a little more to spend, the Whisker Litter-Robot 3 is the best splurge for a robot litter box. The automatic sifting process removes dirty litter from the clean, keeping foul smells out of your home. You also have the option to control the litter box from your smartphone. Plus, this robot litter box comes with everything you need, like carbon filters, a ramp, and waste drawer liners.
- Automatic cleaning
- Suitable for multiple large cats
- Affordable
- Some complaints about durability
- Limited lifetime
Tech Specs: Dimensions: 27 x 18 x 10 inches | Weight: 14.11 pounds
The LitterMaid Multi-Cat Self-Cleaning Litter Box is ready to take on your cats, even if you have multiple cats over 15 pounds. This model is a 10-piece set that includes everything you need to get started. The paw cleaning ramp and automatic rake will take care of things from there, automatically scooping waste to keep things fresh. You won't have to worry about it again for up to seven days.
What is the best robot litter box?
The Catgenie AI Automatic Cat Box is the best overall robot litter box, thanks to its thoughtful design and smartphone capabilities. To see how it compares to the other options on our list, here's an overview of size and price.
Best robot litter box | Cost | Dimensions |
Catgenie AI Automatic Cat Box | $479 | 19.25 x 17.5 x 21 inches |
Petsafe Simply Clean Cat Litter Box | $130 | 20 x 10 x 21 inches |
Smarty Pear Leo's Loo Too | $550 | 24 x 22 x 27.5 inches |
Whisker Litter-Robot 3 | $699 | 24 x 24 x 34 inches |
Littermaid Multi-Cat Self-Cleaning Litter Box | $139 | 27 x 18 x 10 inches |
Which is the right robot litter box for you?
The best robot litter box for you depends on your preferences, number of cats, amount of space, and price point. Here we offer expert suggestions to help you find the right robot litter box for your budget and needs.
Choose this robot litter box... | If you want... |
Catgenie AI Automatic Cat Box | The best of smart technology |
Petsafe Simply Clean Cat Litter Box | The best value robot litter box |
Smarty Pear Leo's Loo Too | An innovative robot litter box that works with Alexa |
Whisker Litter-Robot 3 | A more affordable version of the Whisker Litter Robot 4 |
Littermaid Multi-Cat Self-Cleaning Litter Box | Something suitable for multiple cats |
How did we choose these robot litter boxes?
When choosing the best robot litter boxes, we kept a few factors in mind that can aid in your search.
- Size: Robot litter boxes can take up a large space in your home due to their oversized nature. Be sure to check measurements and consider the footprint that your robot litter box may leave.
- Sifting process: The best robot litter boxes incorporate an advanced sifting process that can separate dirty litter from the clean, saving you precious time.
- Budget: We keep cost at the forefront when weighing the best robot litter box. Not only is there an upfront investment in the machine itself but there are also maintenance costs like waste bags and litter.
What are robot litter boxes and how do they work?
Robot litter boxes, also known as automatic litter boxes, are a type of litter box for cats that uses technology to automatically clean and dispose of waste. They are designed to make the process of cleaning a cat's litter box more convenient and less time-consuming. They are also helpful for people who travel frequently, or for those who have physical limitations that make cleaning a traditional litter box difficult.
These litter boxes use sensors to detect when a cat has used the box, and then activate a cleaning mechanism, such as a rake or a scoop, to remove the waste and deposit it into a sealed compartment. Some models also have self-cleaning mechanisms, such as using UV light to sanitize the box. Some of the newer models also come with a phone app that allows you to monitor the box and schedule cleaning times.
How often should I clean my robot litter box?
Cleaning periods may vary from one machine to the next, so be sure to check the manufacturer's manual to see what kind of litter is recommended for your robot litter box.
Do robot litter boxes smell?
Even the best robot litter boxes are subject to foul odors, but many incorporate features to help reduce or eliminate bad smells, whether it's an advanced sifting process or a certain kind of litter that's used.
Are there alternative robot litter boxes worth considering?
In our search, we also found these great robot litter boxes that may also be worth a second look.
For more ideas, check out our expert picks for the best pet cameras and the best automatic pet feeders!