Do Cats Prefer Open or Closed Litter Boxes? The Surprising Truth
We independently research, review, and recommend the best products—If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
As a cat owner, you want to do everything you can to ensure that your furry companion is happy and well-treated. One aspect that often causes a headache is what type of litter box to use. So, what do cats actually prefer?
To answer this question, we need to consider the natural behavior of cats. In the wild, cats usually bury their waste to cover up the scent and protect themselves from potential predators.
Domestic cats have retained this instinct, which is why they prefer to use a litter box. Yet, there are differences between open and closed litter boxes that may affect a cat’s preferences.
open litter box vs closed litter box
Open litter boxes
Open litter boxes are simply boxes with no top or sides. Some people prefer them because they are easier to clean.
One potential downside is that they do not offer much privacy for the cat. Some cats may feel exposed and vulnerable when using an open litter box. This can lead to stress and may cause the cat to avoid using the litter box altogether.
Covered litter boxes
Covered litter boxes, on the other hand, have a larger profile than open litter boxes with an access opening for the cat. Some people prefer them because they offer more privacy and containment for their cats.
One potential benefit is that they may help reduce the amount of litter tracked around the house. They also do a great job at containing odors.
But at the same time, some cats may feel unsafe while using a covered litter box. These are the same cats that like to have a clear vision of their surroundings all the time to escape any potential threat.
Do cats prefer open or closed litter boxes?
The answer depends on your cat’s preferences. A study was conducted and published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery regarding this subject. The main objective was to assess whether cats had some preference toward a certain type of litter box (open vs. closed).
Surprisingly, only 8 of the 28 cats in this study displayed a preference (4 for covered and 4 for uncovered litter boxes). The rest of the cats showed no preference in this regard. This shows that it’s entirely up to your cat to determine what type of litter box it prefers.
Final Note
Some cats prefer the privacy and containment of a closed litter box, while others feel more comfortable using an open litter box. One way is to experiment with both types of litter boxes and observe your cat’s behavior. If your cat seems to prefer one type over the other, you may want to stick with that type.
