Covered or not covered – which litter box should I choose?  So many box design choices are available these days.  Deciding whether your cat’s box should come with a lid or not is just one consideration.  This one serves purposes other than just appearance.  Your cat probably won’t notice if you attach racing stripes or a sun roof to her litter box, but she will most likely care whether there are 4 high sides and a top.  Some cats prefer relieving themselves discretely, while others feel somewhat claustrophobic if asked to relieve themselves in a covered box. 

Your decision becomes more important when other cats live in the same household.  If a box has only one entry and exit point (created by a covered box) and another kitty household member approaches the box while it’s occupied, the occupant will have to be quite comfortable passing the waiting cat when she exits.  She’ll also have to trust that the other cat won’t force her out of the box by squeezing in with her.  When a box is clearly visibly occupied (no cover on the box) the approaching cat can quickly re-direct himself to another nearby litter box. 

One more point to consider when making your decision is – how do I put this politely? – whether your cat will FIT into a litter box with a cover or not.  Lids do restrict the comfort zone.  If your cat is on the hefty side, she may not feel comfortable relieving herself in a covered box.  And you know what happens when a cat does not feel comfortable using her litter box.  Yep, she’ll find somewhere else more comfortable to “go.” This is definitely one area where you’ll want to consider your cat’s comfort over yours.

Next week: the benefits and drawbacks of “self-flushing” litter boxes. 

Today’s blog author is Marie Tripton. Marie is the senior behavior/training specialist at the Richmond SPCA. Call the Behavior Helpline at (804) 643-SPCA.

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