09/15/2025
Covered Litter Boxes – Pros and Cons
Covered litter boxes, also known as hooded or enclosed boxes, feature a top lid or cover that creates a private, enclosed space for your cat to do their business. These are popular with many cat owners for their clean look and odor-controlling potential—but do cats actually like them? Let’s break down the pros and cons.
Pros of Covered Litter Boxes
1. Odor Containment
One of the biggest advantages of covered boxes for humans is that they trap smells. The enclosed design helps contain unpleasant odors, especially in small apartments or homes with limited ventilation. Some even come with built-in carbon filters to reduce ammonia smells from urine.
2. Litter Scatter Control
Cats can be messy diggers. With a covered box, litter is more likely to stay inside, especially if your cat likes to fling it around when burying their waste. This means less sweeping for you and a cleaner floor around the box.
3. More Privacy for Shy Cats
Some cats, particularly those who are shy or easily startled, might appreciate the added sense of security a covered box offers. The walls can make them feel hidden and safe while they do their business—similar to how they might seek out covered spots to rest.
4. Visually Appealing for Humans
Covered boxes can be more aesthetically pleasing and blend better with your home decor. They also hide the view of the waste, which some people find more hygienic or easier to tolerate.
Cons of Covered Litter Boxes
1. Poor Ventilation and Odor Buildup
While covered boxes trap odors inside, they also trap moisture and ammonia. Without enough airflow, bacteria can multiply faster, making the inside of the box smell worse to your cat—who has a much more sensitive nose than you. This can discourage use and lead to litter box avoidance.
2. Too Small or Cramped for Some Cats
Some hooded boxes are too small, especially for larger cats or multi-cat households. Cats need enough space to turn around comfortably, dig, and find a clean spot. A cramped box can feel stressful or even painful to use, especially for senior cats or those with arthritis.
3. Trapped Feeling or Ambush Risk
In multi-cat homes or homes with dogs, a covered box may feel like a trap. There’s only one way in and out, which can make nervous cats feel cornered or vulnerable to sneak attacks while they’re using the box. This can lead to fear-based avoidance.
4. More Difficult to Monitor and Clean
It’s harder to see inside a covered box, which means you might miss signs of illness, such as diarrhea, blood in the urine, or lack of usage. Cleaning can also be more tedious because you have to remove the top each time.
Summary: Is a Covered Box Right for Your Cat?
While a covered box may seem cleaner and more appealing to you, it’s important to think like a cat. If your cat values privacy and isn’t bothered by enclosed spaces, it might work well. But for many cats, especially those sensitive to smell or anxious about ambush, an uncovered option might be more comfortable.
Uncovered Litter Boxes – Pros and Cons
Uncovered (or open) litter boxes are the traditional, no-frills option that many cats and behaviorists prefer. They’re simple, accessible, and easy to monitor—but they come with their own trade-offs. If you’re trying to decide whether this classic design is right for your cat and your home, here’s what you need to consider.
Pros of Uncovered Litter Boxes
1. Better Ventilation
One of the biggest advantages of uncovered boxes is that they allow for natural airflow. This helps moisture evaporate and prevents the buildup of ammonia odors, making the box less offensive to your cat’s sensitive nose. Cleanliness plays a huge role in feline litter box habits, and fresh air helps keep things tolerable.
2. Easier Access
With no lid or door to navigate, uncovered boxes are easier for cats to enter and exit—especially older cats, kittens, or those with mobility issues. This design supports a cat’s natural preference for open spaces where they can see threats and escape easily if needed.
3. Simple to Clean and Monitor
Uncovered litter boxes make it easier for you to spot when it’s time to scoop. They also allow you to monitor your cat’s bathroom habits, which can be critical for catching early signs of health issues such as urinary tract infections, constipation, or diarrhea.
4. Preferred by Many Experts
Many feline behaviorists and veterinarians recommend uncovered boxes. In fact, studies have shown that while some cats have individual preferences, there’s no universal feline love for covered boxes. An open box aligns better with natural feline instincts.
Cons of Uncovered Litter Boxes
1. Less Privacy
Some cats prefer privacy when they go—especially in busy households or high-traffic areas. An uncovered box may feel too exposed, which can make shy or nervous cats uncomfortable. This can sometimes lead to inappropriate elimination if they feel unsafe.
2. More Odor for Humans
While uncovered boxes help keep things fresher for the cat, they can make things smellier for humans. With no lid to contain the scent, strong smells can waft through your living space if the box isn’t cleaned frequently.
3. Increased Litter Scatter and Tracking
Without walls or a lid, litter can more easily be kicked out of the box when your cat digs or covers. This can lead to messier floors and more frequent sweeping or vacuuming, especially if your cat is a vigorous digger.
4. May Appear Messy
Since everything is out in the open, uncovered boxes can be an eyesore in living spaces. Some people dislike the visual appearance of waste in a communal area, especially if guests are visiting.
Summary: Is an Uncovered Box Right for Your Cat?
For most cats, an uncovered litter box is the safest and most instinctually comfortable choice. They can see their surroundings, breathe freely, and use the box without feeling trapped. However, if your cat is extremely shy or your home has high foot traffic, consider the placement or adding privacy panels to give them some coverage without compromising openness.
What Do Cats Really Prefer? (Based on Studies & Observations)
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Does my cat prefer a covered or uncovered litter box?”—you’re not alone. While humans tend to choose based on aesthetics or odor control, the real answer should come from your cat. And fortunately, science has a few insights to help guide us.
What the Research Says
Several studies have explored feline litter box preferences, and the results may surprise you. A widely cited 2013 study published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery looked at whether cats had a significant preference between covered and uncovered litter boxes. The outcome? Most cats didn’t show a strong overall preference for either type. However, individual preferences were observed.
Here are some key takeaways:
Cats prefer clean over covered. Regardless of box type, cleanliness was the single most important factor. A dirty covered box will be avoided faster than a clean uncovered one.
Preference can vary by personality. Some shy or anxious cats did better with the extra security of a covered box, while bold or territorial cats preferred the visibility and escape access of open boxes.
Cats often choose based on ease and space. If a covered box is cramped or dark, many cats will avoid it altogether.
So while there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, these studies support the idea that the right litter box is the one your cat actually uses willingly and regularly.
Observational Insights from Cat Behaviorists
Feline experts like Jackson Galaxy and veterinarians at the ASPCA consistently emphasize observing your own cat’s behavior:
Does your cat hesitate before entering the box? That could mean they feel vulnerable—especially in a covered box.
Is your cat eliminating outside the box? A potential red flag that the box type, cleanliness, or location isn’t working for them.
Does your cat linger inside the box? Some cats will hang out in covered boxes, which may indicate stress, boredom—or even medical issues.
Many behaviorists recommend starting with an uncovered box, especially for kittens, senior cats, or newly adopted cats. Once litter box habits are well-established, you can experiment with a covered version and see how your cat responds.
Bottom Line
Cats are individuals. While general trends and studies are helpful, the most reliable approach is to offer both types—covered and uncovered—side by side and see which one your cat gravitates toward over time. Let them vote with their paws.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Litter Box Type
Cats may not speak our language, but they’re constantly communicating through behavior—and when it comes to litter boxes, their preferences are shaped by more than just instinct. To pick the best option for your cat, you’ll need to factor in not just their personality, but also their age, health, living environment, and your own cleaning habits.
Here are the key elements to consider:
1. Your Cat’s Personality and Behavior
Is your cat bold and curious, or shy and easily startled? Confident cats may be fine with open boxes, while more anxious cats might prefer the perceived security of a covered one—especially if the box is placed in a high-traffic area.
Shy or fearful cats: May appreciate a covered box for added privacy.
Territorial or assertive cats: Often prefer uncovered boxes where they can survey their surroundings and avoid feeling trapped.
2. Household Dynamics (Multi-Cat Homes)
In multi-cat households, litter box politics become very real. Ambushes, territorial disputes, and competition over resources can all occur.
Uncovered boxes allow for multiple escape routes and reduce the chance of one cat blocking or ambushing another.
Covered boxes can become ambush traps, increasing stress and litter box avoidance.
General rule: One box per cat, plus one extra. Spread them out in different areas—not side by side.
3. Your Cat’s Size and Physical Condition
Not all litter boxes are created equal—especially when it comes to size and accessibility.
Larger cats may feel cramped in covered boxes and may prefer open, spacious boxes where they can turn around easily.
Senior cats or those with arthritis may struggle with tall sides or awkward entryways, especially on covered models with doors or steps. Low-entry uncovered boxes or front-entry designs work best.
4. Placement and Environment
Even the best litter box can fail if it’s in the wrong spot. Covered boxes can sometimes work better in open spaces if aesthetics matter, while uncovered boxes may need quieter locations for shy cats.
Avoid placing litter boxes near noisy appliances, in tight corners, or in areas with heavy foot traffic.
Ensure there’s enough light—some cats avoid using boxes placed in dark or dim corners, especially covered ones.
If odor is a concern in small living spaces, a high-quality open box with daily scooping is often more effective long-term than relying on covers to hide smells.
5. Your Cleaning Habits
Let’s be honest—if you’re not going to scoop daily, your cat will likely protest. Covered boxes may hide the visual evidence from you, but they won’t fool your cat’s nose.
Uncovered boxes make it easier to notice and address waste quickly.
Covered boxes may be better for people who scoop on a regular schedule and want to contain smells between cleanings—but only if cleaned thoroughly.
6. Trial and Observation
Cats can be picky, and their preferences may surprise you. If you’re unsure, try offering both types and observing which one your cat uses more often. Some cats may prefer one type for urination and another for defecation, which is a subtle but telling behavioral cue.
Summary: Matching the Box to the Cat (and the Home)
Ultimately, the “best” litter box depends on your cat’s needs and your home environment. The most important rule? Watch your cat. Their behavior will tell you whether they feel safe, comfortable, and clean—three things that are essential to happy litter box habits.
Tips to Encourage Litter Box Use (No Matter the Type)
No matter which litter box style you choose—covered or uncovered—what matters most is that your cat feels comfortable, safe, and clean when using it. A well-chosen box placed in the right environment and properly maintained can prevent most litter box issues before they begin.
Here are some essential tips to help ensure your cat actually uses the litter box you provide:
1. Keep It Clean—Really Clean
Cats are fastidious by nature. A dirty litter box is often the #1 reason for avoidance. Scooping daily is non-negotiable.
Scoop at least once a day, ideally twice for multi-cat households.
Do a full clean and litter change weekly (or every 1–2 weeks if using clumping litter).
Wash the box with unscented soap and warm water—avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or citrus cleaners, which may repel cats.
2. Use Unscented, Clumping Litter
Strongly scented litter may seem appealing to humans, but it can overwhelm a cat’s sensitive nose. Stick to unscented, clumping litter with a soft texture. Most cats prefer a sand-like feel that’s easy to dig and cover.
Avoid pellet-style or crystal litters unless your cat has already shown a clear preference.
Don’t change litter type abruptly—transition slowly if needed.
3. Provide Enough Boxes (And Place Them Wisely)
The general rule is: one litter box per cat, plus one extra. More importantly, space them out—don’t line them up in the same room.
Place litter boxes on different levels of the home and in quiet, low-traffic areas.
Avoid putting boxes near loud appliances, food/water dishes, or tight corners where escape feels difficult.
If using a covered box, ensure the entrance faces out into the room—not into a wall or corner.
4. Monitor for Changes in Behavior
If your cat suddenly stops using the litter box, it could be due to a change in the box, stress, or an underlying medical issue.
Watch for signs like frequent urination, straining, or going outside the box.
Rule out physical issues with a vet before assuming it’s a behavioral problem.
Changes in routine (new pets, guests, rearranging furniture) can affect litter habits too.
5. Avoid Punishment—Use Positive Reinforcement Instead
Never scold or punish a cat for accidents. It will only increase stress and make the problem worse.
Instead, praise and reward your cat (with treats, toys, or affection) when they use the box correctly.
Make off-limits areas less attractive by cleaning thoroughly, covering with foil or scent deterrents, and removing triggers.
6. Let Your Cat Decide When Possible
If you’re introducing a new box type, offer both covered and uncovered boxes side by side for a week or two and see which one your cat naturally chooses. Let them “vote” with their paws.
This is especially helpful for newly adopted cats or when transitioning from one environment to another.
Also pay attention to where they like to go—location matters as much as box type.
7. Customize for Special Needs
Senior cats, kittens, or cats with arthritis or mobility challenges often require special accommodations.
Use low-entry boxes for easy access.
Consider boxes with larger surface areas so they don’t feel cramped.
Avoid covered boxes with swinging doors or narrow openings if mobility is a concern.
Final Thought: Respect Their Preferences
Cats aren’t trying to be difficult—they’re just communicating what works for them. The best way to ensure consistent litter box use is to tune into your cat’s behavior and make adjustments as needed.
Conclusion
When it comes to the debate of covered vs uncovered litter boxes, there’s no universally correct answer—only what works best for your individual cat. While covered boxes may offer privacy and odor control, uncovered boxes tend to win when it comes to comfort, visibility, and ease of use. Research shows that most cats don’t have a strong preference as a species, but each cat may have their own unique likes and dislikes.
The key takeaway? Let your cat’s behavior be your guide. Test both options if you’re unsure. Watch how your cat responds. Are they confidently using the box—or hesitating, avoiding, or going elsewhere? Make gradual changes, keep the box impeccably clean, and ensure it’s placed in a quiet, accessible spot.
A well-chosen litter box setup leads to better hygiene, fewer behavioral issues, and a happier, healthier cat—and that means a cleaner, more peaceful home for you.
Take Action: What To Do Next
Scoop daily and deep-clean weekly
Offer both covered and uncovered options if you’re unsure
Use unscented clumping litter for best results
Place boxes in quiet, low-stress areas
Watch for changes in behavior—they’re always telling you something
Whether your cat is a curious explorer or a privacy-seeking introvert, the perfect litter box is the one they’ll use consistently and confidently. Respect their instincts, and you’ll both come out on top.
Ready to Find the Perfect Litter Box?
Choosing between a covered or uncovered litter box is just the beginning. The real magic happens when you pay attention to your cat’s cues and create a setup that’s clean, comfortable, and stress-free.
