Cats have firm views about where and how they go to the toilet, and a tray that doesn't suit them is one of the commonest reasons a cat starts going elsewhere. Research has looked at what cats prefer in a tray, what they'll put up with, and what makes them walk away. Getting the setup right keeps the floors clean and does a lot for a cat's peace of mind.

The Perfect Box for Your Perfect Cat

The Perfect Box for Your Perfect Cat

If cats chose their own trays, most would go for something bigger than we tend to buy. The covered-or-open debate runs and runs among owners, but studies suggest size matters more than either. A tray at least one and a half times the length of the cat gives room to turn around and dig properly.

Older cats and those with stiff joints find a tray with low sides much easier to climb into, while keen diggers do better with high sides that keep the litter where it belongs. A covered tray works for many cats as long as it's roomy enough to move about inside without touching the walls.

Even what's under the tray makes a difference. Some studies found cats preferred a tray standing on a soft surface to one on a cold, hard floor, and a bath mat underneath is a cheap way to find out whether yours agrees.

Cats have even stronger opinions about what goes in the tray...

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Research rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 of 5). Last updated 25 August 2026.

Sources

  • Kasbaoui, N.; Marcet-Rius, M.; Bienboire-Frosini, C.; Menuge, F.; Monneret, P.; Descout, E.; Cozzi, A.; Pageat, P. A Feline Semiochemical Composition Influences the Cat's Toileting Location Choice. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12070938
  • Tateo, A.; Ricci-Bonot, C.; Felici, M.; Zappaterra, M.; Nanni Costa, L.; Houpt, K.; Padalino, B. Litter Management Practices and House-Soiling in Italian Cats. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13142382
  • Barcelos, A.M.; McPeake, K.; Affenzeller, N.; Mills, D.S. Common Risk Factors for Urinary House Soiling (Periuria) in Cats and Its Differentiation: The Sensitivity and Specificity of Common Diagnostic Signs. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2018.00108