Cat Litter Box

Choosing the Right Cat Litter Box: A Complete Guide for Australian Pet Owners

Keeping your home clean and your cat comfortable starts with the right Cat Litter Box. Whether you live in a small apartment, a busy family home, or you have multiple cats, the type of litter box you choose makes a huge difference in hygiene, odour control, and behaviour. At Total Pet Supplies, we stock a range of practical, durable, and easy-clean litter solutions designed for Australian cat owners who want convenience without compromise.

Understanding which litter box best suits your cat’s needs can eliminate common issues like odours, mess, tracking, and even behavioural problems such as refusing to use the tray. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about choosing the best unit, how to maintain it, and which features to look for when shopping at www.totalpetsupplies.com.au

Why the Right Cat Litter Box Matters

Choosing a Cat Litter Box isn’t just about convenience—it’s about your cat’s overall wellbeing. Cats are naturally clean animals, and the wrong setup can lead to stress, avoidance, or inappropriate toileting around the home. A good litter box encourages healthy habits and makes life easier for both you and your feline friend.

Hygiene and Odour Control

The biggest advantage of a well-designed unix is effective odour control. Covered designs, deeper bases, and raised sides can help reduce the spread of smells in small spaces. At Total Pet Supplies, we stock options that pair perfectly with high-quality clumping and natural litters for even better results.

Comfort and Accessibility

Cats should feel safe and comfortable when using their litter box. Senior cats benefit from low-entry trays, while larger breeds (like Maine Coons or Ragdolls) need spacious boxes with room to turn around.

Reduced Mess and Tracking

Some Cat Litter Boxes feature built-in anti-tracking grates, high walls, or enclosed designs to keep litter inside the tray and off your floors. If your cat loves to dig, choosing the right shape and depth is essential.

Different Types of Cat Litter Boxes

Not all boxes are created equal—each style suits different cats, homes, and lifestyles. At Total Pet Supplies, we offer several varieties to help you match your pet’s needs.

Open Cat Litter Boxes

These are the simplest and most widely used trays. They offer easy access, great visibility for cleaning, and plenty of ventilation to reduce ammonia build-up.

Best for:

  • Kittens learning to use a tray

  • Senior cats

  • Cats who dislike confined spaces

  • Owners who prefer quick daily cleaning

Open litter boxes are also easy to pair with litter mats, scoops, and odour-reducing pellets available at Total Pet Supplies.

Enclosed or Hooded Litter Boxes

Hooded designs give cats privacy while containing odours and mess. This is ideal in households where the litter box must be placed in a visible or high-traffic area.

Best for:

  • Multi-cat homes

  • Apartments

  • Cats who prefer privacy

  • Owners who want better odour control

Enclosed boxes are popular because they prevent litter flicking—especially useful for cats who dig aggressively.

Sifting Cat Litter Boxes

A sifting Cat Litter Box features a multi-layer system that separates clean litter from waste, making cleaning faster and more hygienic.

Best for:

  • Busy pet owners

  • Owners who want lower maintenance

  • Cats using clumping litter

This is one of the easiest systems for daily cleaning and reduces the amount of litter wasted.

High-Wall Litter Boxes

If your cat tends to kick or spray, a high-sided litter box may be essential. The added height keeps everything contained while still giving cats enough room to move.

Best for:

  • Active diggers

  • Messy cats

  • Male cats

  • Multi-cat households

Total Pet Supplies offers durable, thick-plastic high-wall trays designed for long-term use.

What Size Cat Litter Box Should You Choose?

A general rule is: the litter box should be at least 1.5 times the length of your cat. A cramped box can lead to discomfort or refusal to use it.

For Kittens

Choose a shallow, open tray they can easily climb into. As they grow, you can upgrade to a hooded or high-wall design.

For Adult Cats

Medium to large boxes work best. Many adult cats prefer more space than expected, so spacious designs are ideal.

For Large Breeds

Choose an oversized Cat Litter Box with extra height and width. Enclosed units with wide door openings are also helpful.

Where Should You Place the Litter Box?

Even the best Cat Litter Box won’t work well if it’s placed in the wrong spot. Cats prefer a clean, quiet area with easy access.

Avoid High-Traffic Zones

Busy areas increase stress and may discourage use.

Keep It Away From Feeding Areas

Cats don’t like their food and bathroom area close together.

Ensure Easy Access

If you have a multi-story home, place one box on each level.

Provide Multiple Boxes in Multi-Cat Homes

The golden rule: one litter box per cat, plus one extra. This helps prevent territorial issues.

How to Maintain a Cat Litter Box (and Reduce Smells)

Regular cleaning does more than keep your home fresh—it encourages healthy toileting habits.

Daily Scooping

Remove clumps and waste at least once a day. This prevents ammonia build-up and keeps your cat happy.

Full Litter Change

Depending on your litter type, replace all litter every 1–2 weeks.

Scrub the Box

Use warm water and mild detergent to wash the tray before refilling. Avoid strong chemical cleaners.

Add Odour Control Accessories

At Total Pet Supplies, you can find:

  • Activated charcoal filters

  • High-quality clumping litters

  • Litter mats

  • Non-toxic deodorising pellets

These keep your space fresh—even if your litter box is placed inside your living area.

Common Cat Litter Box Problems and How to Fix Them

Even well-trained cats may develop issues if their needs aren’t met.

Refusing to Use the Box

Possible causes:

  • Litter that’s too scented

  • Box too small

  • Unclean conditions

  • Box placed in a noisy area

Start by cleaning more often, changing the location, or upgrading to a more spacious litter box.

Excessive Tracking

Choose:

  • A high-wall Cat Litter Box

  • A hooded design with a front grate

  • A litter mat to trap debris

Strong Odours

Switch to:

  • Odour-control litter

  • Enclosed litter boxes

  • Activated charcoal filters

Spraying or Over-Digging

High-sided trays or enclosed boxes help contain this behaviour.

Cat Litter Box Options Available at Total Pet Supplies

Your website offers practical, well-built litter solutions, including:

  • Spacious open litter trays ideal for daily cleaning

  • Hooded and enclosed boxes for odour control

  • High-wall designs to prevent scatter

  • Durable plastic trays in multiple sizes

  • Easy-sift systems for quick waste separation

  • Litter mats, scoops, and accessories to complete your setup

All products are selected for quality, durability, and comfort—perfect for Australian homes.

Final Tips for Choosing the Perfect Cat Litter Box

  • Prioritise comfort and space

  • Keep the box in a quiet, accessible area

  • Use high-quality litter

  • Clean daily

  • Choose a design suitable for your cat’s behaviour and age

A good Cat Litter Box setup keeps your home cleaner, reduces stress for your cat, and makes maintenance easier for you.

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