Low Litter Boxes, High Mess: The Real Cost of Poor Design

introduction

You love your cat, but you probably don’t love the trails of litter across your floor or the mysterious smell coming from under the table. Much of that mess might not be your cat’s fault — it could be the litter box itself. Many standard litter boxes are too low, too shallow, or poorly designed to contain daily use.

Low-sided boxes might seem more convenient at first glance, especially for kittens or older cats, but they often invite litter scatter. Every time your cat digs, steps out, or just stretches their legs, litter comes flying. Over time, that means more sweeping, vacuuming, and disinfecting for you — not to mention the risk of bacteria spreading around your home.

In some cases, especially with male cats, low boxes don’t contain urine properly either. This can lead to urine spraying onto nearby walls or furniture. The smell is hard to get out, and the frustration is real.

Our Recommendations:

• Switch to a high-sided or top-entry litter box to contain scatter

• Use a non-slip litter mat that traps debris before it spreads

• Place the box in a corner or low-traffic area to minimize mess zones

• Consider adding pee shields or splash guards for male cats

• If possible, invest in a covered or self-cleaning litter system

High-sided boxes, top-entry litter boxes, or enclosed designs can solve many of these problems. Pair them with a high-quality litter mat to trap loose particles before they hit the floor. The result? Less cleanup, fewer odors, and a happier living space for you and your feline friend.

Sometimes the solution isn’t cleaning more — it’s choosing smarter.