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A litter tray is not exciting, but it is one of the most important cat products in your home. The wrong tray can lead to mess, tracking, odour problems or a cat that avoids using it.
For most cats, a simple open litter tray or high-sided tray is the safest starting point. Hooded and top-entry trays can reduce mess, but not every cat likes enclosed spaces.
Quick picks: best cat litter trays UK
| Best for | Tray type | Compare options |
|---|---|---|
| Most cats | Open litter tray | Open litter trays |
| Messy diggers | High-sided tray | High-sided trays |
| Odour control | Hooded tray | Hooded litter trays |
| Small homes | Corner litter tray | Corner litter trays |
| Less scooping | Self-cleaning tray | Self-cleaning litter boxes |
Best litter tray for most cats
An open tray is usually the easiest first choice because it is simple, visible and easy to clean. It also avoids the problem of some cats refusing hooded or enclosed trays.
Hooded vs open litter trays
Hooded trays can reduce scatter and make the tray look tidier, but they can also trap odour inside. Some cats dislike entering a covered tray. If your cat is nervous, start simple.
What to check before buying
- Tray size: your cat should have room to turn.
- Entry height: older cats may need a lower entrance.
- Cleaning access: simple trays are easier to wash.
- Scatter control: high sides can reduce mess.
- Cat preference: avoid forcing enclosed trays if your cat dislikes them.
My recommendation
Start with a large open or high-sided tray. Add a hooded or top-entry option only if your cat is confident and you need stronger scatter control.
Related guides
FAQs
What type of litter tray is best?
For most cats, a large open or high-sided litter tray is the safest starting point.
Are hooded litter trays better?
They can reduce scatter, but some cats dislike enclosed trays and odour can build up inside.
How many litter trays do I need?
Many behaviour experts suggest more than one tray in multi-cat homes, especially if cats do not like sharing.
Last updated: 1 July 2026
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