Arthritis is mostly common among 3 in 10 senior cats and in many cases goes unidentified by caregivers. Younger cats can also exhibit signs of arthritis but it is not very common.
Cats hide their pain very successfully and so it is important to observe your cat for showing signs of arthritis.
One big sign of this condition is eliminating outside the litter box as it may pose as painful and uncomfortable. Lack of movement, weight gain or loss of balance are symptoms to look for too.
Using a litterbox with features like low access point, high sides, and a large space to make my arthritic cat feel comfortable did wonders for me.
I have worked for over six years as a vet with senior cats with all sorts of health problems. Since arthritis can only be managed, Choosing the best senior cat litter boxes will offer ease of movement and accessibility, keeping your cat pain-free.
My personal recommendation is the Amazon Basics, Hooded Litter Box as it is a hit among many cat owners and is one of the best litter box for arthritic cats.
- Lowered Entrance
- Removable Lid
- Large Size
This senior cat litter box features a lowered circular lip which provides easy access to your cat in and out of the box. Moreover, the hooded design helps contain the litter inside the box for cats and keeps your house clean. It not only helps your arthritic cat but its lid can be easily removed too, for your convenience. Moreover, the large size helps your cat adjust and move around according to its comfort.
After a long period of research with many patient reviews, I have come up with a list of the best litter box for arthritic cats. Find a good fit for your cat according to its special needs.
This Article Will Explain & Discuss:
- Signs Your Cat Needs A Senior Cat Litter Box
- Detailed Reviews On 8 Best Litter Boxes For Senior Cats
- Guide To Buying The Best Litter Box For Arthritic Cats
- FAQs For More Clarity
Our Quick Comparison On The Best Litter Box For Arthritic Cats
| Image | Product | Features | Shop On |
|---|---|---|---|
TOP PICK |
| Amazon | |
BEST BUDGET  |
| Amazon | |
BEST PREMIUM  |
| AmazonChewy | |
BEST AUTOMATIC  | PetSafe ScoopFree, Front-Entry Hood Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box |
| AmazonChewy |
BEST FOR LARGE CATS  |
| Amazon | |
BEST COVERED  |
| AmazonChewy | |
BEST WITH RAMP  |
| Amazon | |
BEST LOW ENTRY  |
| AmazonChewy | |
ALTERNATIVE LITTER PADS  |
| Amazon | |
ALTERNATIVE: UNDER BED STORAGE BOXES  |
| Amazon |
Signs That Indicate I Should Change the Litter Box Setup for My Arthritic Cat:
Your arthritic cat’s comfort and litter box habits can be substantially enhanced by recognising the signals that it’s time to get senior cat litter boxes. Watch out for certain signs that point to a need for change.
Pooping Outside All Over the House
The existing setup may no longer be satisfactory if you find your arthritic cat routinely pooping outside the litter box. It’s essential to take care of this problem right away for the sake of your cat’s health and the cleanliness of your home.
When Having Difficulty Entering or Exiting
If your cat has arthritis and struggles to access or exit the litter box, this may be a clue that your litter box needs to be updated. Any hesitancy or discomfort during such movements is a sign that changes are required to accommodate their mobility issues.
Unable to Maintain Balance or Avoid the Litter Box Completely
It is crucial to review the present arrangements of the litter box, if your arthritic cat cannot maintain balance while using the litter box or if they deliberately avoid using it completely. These actions indicate that your cat may not be getting the accessibility or comfort they require from the litter box.
Understand the Sudden Changes
Your cat’s behavior in the litter box may suddenly alter if they feel uncomfortable or unsatisfied with the litter box. By keeping an eye out for these adjustments, you can better understand their requirements and adjust the design and arrangements of the litter boxes as necessary.
Our Detailed Reviews On 8 Best Litter Box For Arthritic Cats
I am always looking for ways to provide the best possible care for my furry patients, especially when it comes to arthritic cats. Here is a roundup of some of the best litter box for the best litter box for arthritic cats.
1. Amazon Basic, Hooded Corner Cat Litter Box
- Brand: Amazon Basic
- Dimensions: 26″L x 23″W x 20″H
- Key Feature: Hooded, Corner
Why Is It The Best Litter Box For Arthritic Cats?
The Amazon Basic Hooded Corner Cat Litter Box is one of the best litter box solutions for arthritic cats and was used by myself for a long time as well. It has been well-reviewed by many of my patients and cat-fellows. The accessibility was easier for my cats due to the lowered lip design. This made it easier for my cat to get in and out of the box.
This hooded litter box contains all the litter inside it for arthritic cats with bad aim to avoid any litter scatter. And the triangular design easily fits in any corner which saves a lot of space in my room. Its big size helped my cat have a big space for urination. It also keeps litter inside the box.
The smell filter on the top is great. There is no smell even when the door is open. This litter box provided a clean, fresh environment for my cat.
It is easy to clean. The lids lift up easily for cleaning. Clips on the cover extended on both sides of the litter pan stops any liquid coming out of the pan.
- Hooded Design
- Smell Filter On Top Of Box Controls Smell
- Corner Placement Saves Space
- It's Shape Makes It Difficult To Clean
2. IRIS USA, Large Open Top Corner Cat Litter Tray
- Brand: IRIS USA
- Dimensions: 20.75″L x 16.25″W x 7.5″H
- Key Feature: Allergen Free, Corner
The IRIS USA, Large Open Top Corner Cat Litter Tray is a good option for arthritic cat owners who like to stay in a budget. It is also useful for multiple pet parents who require more than one litter box.
Your cat can easily go in or come out of this litter tray as the entrance has been lowered for ease. It is also very accommodating for small cats with short legs. The tray is open-top for ease of use and cleaning.
Moreover, the high sides keep your cats from making a litter scatter or spraying all over your home. This can also be a great senior cat litter box if you have a high spraying cat.
With open top litter pans you can even observe and monitor your cat’s bathroom habits. The big size helps to adjust cats according to their need without putting pressure on their sensitive joints.
Corner trays take up lesser space and keep your room free of obstacles. The tray is also allergen free to keep your cat from facing allergies.
- Lowered Lip
- High Sides
- Corner Placement Saves Space
- It's Shape Makes It Difficult To Clean
3. Purina Tidy Cats, Non-Clumping Litter System
- Brand: Purina Tidy Cats
- Dimensions: 29.25″ x 19.15″ x 15.25″
- Key Feature: Low Entry
Ever since I tried the Purina Tidy Cats Litter System, I don’t have to worry about my arthritic cats having issues when going to use the litter box. With its low entry point Tom, my cat who has an issue with his back leg, can easily use the litter box.
It is highly absorbent and leak-proof. This is particularly beneficial for my cats that have had increased urination or incontinence issues. It helps to control odors and reduce the need for frequent litter changes when I am too tired from work.
It is easy to clean. The litter system’s simple setup and disposable tray system make cleaning and maintenance hassle-free for older and arthritic cat owners. The tray can also help in spotting health issues with your cats as it saved one of mine when I spotted bloody urine and a timely test and surgery gave her several years with us.
It excels in odor control, which is essential for older cats as they may produce stronger-smelling waste. This litter system’s advanced formula effectively neutralizes and eliminates odors, ensuring a fresh and clean environment for your arthritic cat.
- All In One Litter System
- Low Entry Point
- Disposable Tray
- Disposable Tray Fills Up Very Fast
4. PetSafe ScoopFree, Front-Entry Hood Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box
- Brand: Petsafe
- Dimensions: 22.44″ x 19.69″ x 18.31″
- Key Feature: Covered
I use the PetSafe ScoopFree cat litter box at the clinic for cat patients. Its unique benefits and features have significantly improved both my cat patients’ comfort and the clinic’s convenience, making it the best litter box option for arthritic and senior feline companions.
The self-cleaning feature of the litter box is a godsend for arthritic cats and in a muti-cat environment. It automatically rakes and scoops the waste into a covered compartment, eliminating litter scatter and the need for manual scooping. This not only saves the janitor time and effort but also ensures a consistently clean litter box.
The disposable litter trays are easy to replace, eliminating the need for constant scooping and cleaning. We simply replace the tray every few weeks, which is a quick and hassle-free process. This convenience is particularly valuable working in a clinic which has many arthritic cats who may have mobility issues or require a litter box that requires minimal effort to maintain.
Its open design provides ample room for older cats to move around comfortably and find the preferred spot. The larger size accommodates needs, especially if the cat requires more space to maneuver or has specific posture preferences.
- Disposable Litter Trays
- Self Cleaning System
- Open Design
- May Be Difficult To Get Refills
5. PetFusion, BetterBox Large Litter Box
- Brand: PetFusion
- Dimensions: 22.6″ x 18.1″ x 8″
- Key Feature: High Sides
The spaciousness of the PetFusion cat litter box ensures that arthritic cats have plenty of space to maneuver comfortably and find the perfect position for their needs. This is especially important for cats with mobility issues or arthritis, as they need extra space to adjust their posture and move comfortably. The generous dimensions of the litter box ensure that they can do so without feeling confined or cramped.
The high sides provide privacy from cats and containment of litter scatter. They prevent litter and waste from being scattered outside the box, reducing the need for frequent cleanups. This feature is particularly beneficial for older cats who may have changes in their litter box habits or less control over their movements. The high sides offer a sense of security and ensure that the litter box area remains clean and hygienic.
It is constructed with high-quality ABS plastic that is built to last. The strong and sturdy design ensures that this senior cat litter box can withstand regular use without leakage or breakage. This is especially important for arthritic cats with weight gain who may require a litter box that can support their weight and withstand any accidental scratching or digging.
The is also designed with practicality in mind. It features a low entry point, making it easily accessible for cats with mobility limitations. The low front allows them to enter and exit the litter box without having to climb or jump, reducing strain on their joints.
- High-Quality ABS Plastic
- Low Entry Point
- High Sides
- May Take Slightly More Space
6. IRIS USA, Jumbo Enclosed Cat Litter Box
- Brand: IRIS USA
- Dimensions: 21″L x 18.75″W x 17″H
- Key Feature: Enclosed With Flap
The IRIS USA, Jumbo Enclosed Cat Litter Box is a good option if you are looking for a large litter pan with the added bonus of a hood and flap. The large box helps arthritic cats from moving a lot and squeezing which might put strain on their joints. Contrastingly, it provides spacious comfort for litter time.
A slightly lowered lip provides comfort to the cat in easily getting in and out of this senior cat litter box without having to jump. Arthritis causes inflammation in the joints which can make such activity painful.
The flap contains the litter odor while the hood helps give privacy to your cats. The hood also maintains cleanliness and keeps any sprays from coming out. A stress free private environment hels your cat keep safe from litter problems and also prevents accidents around the house.
A very small but cute convenience that I find in this design is an added hook on the side of the hood which can be used to hang the scoop which comes with it.
- Enclosed box
- Lowered Lip
- Large Size
- Loose Top Can Come Off Too Easily
7. Petmate Clean Step, Cat Litter Box Dome
- Brand: Petmate
- Dimensions: 22.5” x 22.5” x 19”
- Key Feature: Step Design
Petmate Clean Step, Cat Litter Box Dome has become my go-to recommendation for senior or arthritic cat patients, who need a luxurious litter time. The dome design offers privacy and seclusion, which is essential for older cats who may prefer a quieter and more peaceful environment.
The large size provides ample space for older cats to move around comfortably and find a preferred spot. The extra room is particularly beneficial for cats who develop arthritis and need more space to adjust their posture while using the litter box.
As cats age, their waste odor can become stronger. However, this senior cat litter box effectively contains potential litter scatter and neutralizes odors inside it, keeping your home fresh and pleasant.
One of my patients had the constant complaint that his cat would use litter boxes with her butt hanging out. With the gradual ramp that allows the cat her own easy access litter space, he is relieved to be no longer scrubbing the floor. The enclosed space also prevents litter tracking, ensuring that stray particles stay contained within the box.
- Enclosed Dome Design
- Gradual Ramp
- Odor Neutralizer
- May Take More Space In Your Home
8. IRIS USA, Large High-Back Cat Litter Tray
- Brand: IRIS USA
- Dimensions: 19.68″L x 15.51″W x 10.63″H
- Key Feature: High Back
IRIS USA is a good open-top luxurious litter box for senior arthritic cats. It has a diagonal slanting design which provides both easy lowered access as well as a high back to refrain from accidents during litter time. These are both such features essential for arthritic cats to relieve them from pressure on their joints and limbs.
This senior cat litter box features a medium size for small breed cats and also does not take up much space in you room. It is also a very sturdy option to last a long time.
I recommend open top litter boxes for people whose cats have newly developed arthritis. This helps caregivers to monitor their activity and observe litter behavior.
Luscious glossy finish also looks good to the eye. The colors and design are quite modern which go well with the interior of your homes.
- Sturdy
- High Back & Low Access
- Curved Design
- Not Ideal For Very Large Cats
Alternative Products
If you are looking for something other than a common litterbox, one of these options might suit you.
9. LITTER PADS: Purina Tidy Cats, BREEZE Pads
- Brand: Purina Breeze
- Dimensions: 11.65” x 5.7” x 3”
- Key Feature: Absorbent
Why Is It The Best Alternative For Arthritic Cats?
Purina Tidy Cats, BREEZE Pads can be a good alternative to traditional litter boxes for arthritic cats who completely refuse to use them. Sometimes the condition of arthritic cats can get so worse that they can completely to climb in and out of a box.
These pads can be used with the litter systems that contain litter pellets or by themself. Such litter systems are good for such cats who require softer litter particles. If they are used by themself then the pad can be placed on a surface easily reachable by the cat, where the cat goes about its business. Later, these pads can be discarded and replaced.
The pads should be placed in the same place every time in order for your cat to find it conveniently. Breeze pads are super absorbent and can hold a good amount of liquid. It also keeps the surface underneath dry so you do not have to worry about bad smells and leaked urine.
- Highly Absorbent
- Easy To Clean
- Scented
- Urine May Get Under Pad From Sides
10. UNDER BED STORAGE BOXES: IRIS USA, Under Bed Plastic Storage Container
- Brand: IRIS USA
- Dimensions: 28.5″L x 18.06″W x 6.25″H
- Key Feature: Water Resistant
IRIS USA storage boxes are for such pet parents who cannot afford or do not want to use traditional litter boxes due to any reason. These storage boxes are a good alternative and feel just about the same as a traditional litter box. However they may need to be replaced more often.
IRIS USA provides such storage boxes that are water absorbent and have low rims which will help your arthritic cat go in and come out with ease. They can be filled with litter like usual and you’re good-to-go.
- Water Resistant
- Easy To Clean
- Low Sides
- May Need To Be Replaced More Frequently
Guide to Buying the Best Litter Box for Arthritic Cats & Making Them More Comfortable
Though many litter boxes are available in the pet market for arthritic cats, finding the best litter box for arthritic cat can be confusing. So, what features should you look for?
Entry Point and Height
The litter box you should choose for your arthritic cat must have a low entry point and high sides so that your cat can feel safe and comfortable.
The ability of arthritic cats to get in and get out of their litter boxes is the most critical aspect of litter boxes. Making frequent movements like going in and out from a difficult entry point becomes more painful for arthritic cats.
Size & Ease of Using
The size of the litter box must be ample enough to provide space for your arthritic cat.
It’s critical that your cat feels at ease utilizing the litter box area. Cats are prone to put on weight due to increased mobility issues. To ensure cats have no trouble using the litter box, getting a large size of the litter box is important.
Price
Although special litter boxes for arthritic cats may be a little more expensive than normal litter boxes, they are worth investing in for your cat’s comfort.
Also, if it is still out of budget, finding a normal litterbox with features that would keep your arthritic cat comfortable during litter time would be suitable.
Automatic/Non-Automatic
Although it may be more costly and noisy, it is definitely more hygienic and provides ease to the cat owners.
An automatic litter box will initially cost more than a straightforward plastic tray. You may also need to purchase disposable trays for some of these automatic litter boxes. Both cats and cat owner may find the cleanup procedure after your cat uses the restroom to be a bit noisy. But it still seems to be worth purchasing.
FAQs: More Clarity on Best Litter Box for Arthritic Cats
Are There Any Specific Litter Box Features That Are Beneficial for Arthritic Cats?
The specific litter box features include ease of use and comfort, a ramp for easy entry and exit, enough space to ensure painless movement, high sides for more privacy, and a smooth surface to minimize joint strain. These specific features are beneficial to arthritic cats.
What Types of Litter Are Suitable for Arthritic Cats?
The arthritic cats feel more comfortable in those litter boxes with softer textures to minimize discomfort, finely ground silica crystals, which tend to be softer on the paws, and well-maintained and cleaned litter boxes.
How Can I Help My Arthritic Cat Access the Little Box More Easily?
You can place the litter box at an accessible location that has no obstacle in its way. You can also help your arthritic cat access the litter box more easily by placing multiple litter boxes around your house so they don’t have to walk, especially with arthritis.
Are There Any Additional Tips for Managing Litter Box Issues in Arthritic Cats?
You must keep the litter box in a quiet and peaceful place to minimize stress and clean it regularly. Consult a vet for further help with your cat’s arthritis symptoms.
Should I Consider an Automatic Self-cleaning Litter Box for My Arthritic Cat?
An Automatic Self-cleaning litter box can be a convenient option for your arthritic cats because it automatically removes waste to eradicate manual scooping. Initially, introduce it to your cat slowly and ensure it is not startled by the self-cleaning mechanism.
Are There Any Alternatives to Litter Box Options for Arthritic Cats?
Yes, alternative options to traditional litter boxes can benefit arthritic cats, such as wee wee pads, low-sided trays, outdoor enclosures, and hydroponic grass pads.
How Should I Transition My Senior Cat to A New Litter Box?
Start by putting the new litter box close to the old one so your cat can become used to it. Gradually relocate the litter box to the new place, ensuring your cat can still easily reach it.
What If My Cat Refuses to Use the New Litter Box as Well?
Ensure the new litter box satisfies your cat’s cleanliness, size, and type requirements. Place some of your cat’s waste or old litter inside to make the new box more familiar.
Why is My Senior Cat Laying in the Litter Box?
Your cat may use it to relieve stress, regulate body temperature, or as a resting place. A vet should be consulted to rule out any potential medical conditions if the litter box behavior is persistent.
Our Verdict
There are a few key factors to consider when choosing the best litter box for arthritic cats. Look for a litter box with low entry points or ramps, making it easy for your cat to access without having to strain its joints. Additionally, opting for litter boxes with high sides can help contain litter and waste, preventing messes and accidents unless your cat prefers a low-sided box.
Such litter boxes can provide your cats with a comfortable and stress-free litter experience. You are sure to find a suitable one from the list of litter boxes above.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands and types until you find the best fit for you and your cat. But to save you from that hassle. For me Amazon Basic, Hooded Corner Cat Litter Box works best.
You can also check out IRIS USA, Large Open Top Corner Cat Litter Tray for an affordable option. While Purina Tidy Cats Litter System is the one for cats used to luxury.
- Lowered Entrance
- Removable Lid
- Large Size
Related Articles:
