A clean litter box is the single biggest reason a cat keeps using it. Cats are fastidious, and a dirty box is one of the most common reasons they start going elsewhere. The good news: keeping it clean is simple once you have a routine. Here is how to do it right.
Scoop every day
Scoop out clumps and solids at least once a day — twice is even better in a multi-cat home. Daily scooping is the most important habit for odor control and for keeping your cat happy to use the box.
Do a full change and wash regularly
Every so often, empty the box completely, wash it, and refill with fresh litter. With clumping litter, most owners do a full change every couple of weeks; non-clumping litter needs it more often. If the box smells even after scooping, it is time.
Wash with mild, unscented soap
Clean the box with warm water and a mild, unscented dish soap. Avoid bleach, ammonia and strongly scented cleaners — the harsh smell can put a cat off the box entirely, and ammonia smells like urine to them. Dry it before adding new litter.
Use the right amount of litter
Aim for about two to three inches of litter — enough for your cat to dig and cover, but not so much that it spills over the sides. Too little and clumps stick to the bottom; too much ends up on the floor.
Cut down on tracking and mess
A litter mat under the box catches stray litter before it spreads across your floor. Choosing the right litter box for your cat — high-sided for diggers, top-entry to cut scatter — also makes cleanup much easier.
Get the location and number right
The rule of thumb is one box per cat, plus one extra, each in a quiet, easy-to-reach spot away from food and water. If your cat is avoiding the box despite a clean setup, see our guide on getting a cat to use the litter box.
FAQ
How often should I clean the litter box?
Scoop daily, and do a full empty-and-wash every couple of weeks with clumping litter (more often with non-clumping). Scoop twice a day in multi-cat homes.
What should I clean a litter box with?
Warm water and mild, unscented dish soap. Skip bleach, ammonia and heavy fragrances — strong smells can drive a cat away from the box.
How do I stop litter tracking everywhere?
Put a litter mat under the box, and consider a high-sided or top-entry box to contain scatter.
