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A good litter tray should be easy for your cat to use, easy for you to clean and large enough for your cat to turn around comfortably. The best choice depends on your cat’s size, age, mobility and whether litter tracking or odour is your biggest issue.
Best cat litter trays UK: quick answer
For most cats, the best litter tray is a large open tray with enough room to turn, dig and cover comfortably. High-sided trays can help with kicked litter, while covered boxes may suit some cats but are not accepted by all.
Quick picks: cat litter trays
| Best for | Tray type | Why it helps | Compare options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Most cats | Large open tray | Simple and easy for cats to access. | (Ad) Compare large trays |
| Kicked litter | High-sided tray | Helps contain digging and scattering. | (Ad) Compare high-sided trays |
| Odour and tidiness | Covered litter box | Can contain mess, if your cat accepts it. | (Ad) Compare covered boxes |
| Kittens or older cats | Low-entry tray | Easier to step into. | (Ad) Compare low-entry trays |
How to choose a litter tray
This guide compares cat litter trays by practical factors such as size, entry height, side height, cleaning, litter tracking, odour control, cat acceptance and whether an open or covered design suits your home.
Unless stated otherwise, products have not been hands-on tested by Cat Costs UK. Always check current product dimensions, cleaning instructions, return policies and customer feedback before buying.
Best overall: large open litter trays
A large open tray is usually the safest starting point because most cats understand and accept it. Choose a tray that gives your cat enough room to turn around rather than squeezing into the smallest option.
(Ad) Compare large cat litter trays on Amazon.
Best for kicked litter: high-sided trays
High-sided trays can help if your cat digs strongly or kicks litter over the edge. Make sure the entrance is still low enough for your cat to access comfortably.
(Ad) Compare high-sided cat litter trays on Amazon.
What to check before buying
- Size: your cat should be able to turn and dig comfortably.
- Entry height: lower entries help kittens and older cats.
- Side height: higher sides can reduce kicked litter.
- Cleaning: avoid awkward shapes that are hard to scoop.
- Cat preference: some cats dislike covered boxes.
- Placement: choose somewhere quiet and accessible.
- Health changes: speak to a vet if your cat suddenly avoids the tray or changes toilet habits.
My recommendation
Start with a large open litter tray and add a litter mat. If kicked litter is the main issue, try a high-sided tray. Use covered boxes only if your cat is comfortable with enclosed spaces.
Related guides
- Best Cat Litter Mats UK
- Best Covered Cat Litter Boxes UK
- How to Stop Cat Litter Tracking Through the House
- Best Cat Litter for Odour Control UK
FAQs
What type of litter tray is best for cats?
A large open tray is best for many cats because it is simple, accessible and easy to clean.
Are covered litter trays better?
They can help contain mess, but not every cat likes enclosed trays. Cat preference matters more than appearance.
How many litter trays do I need?
A common rule is one tray per cat plus one extra, but the right setup depends on your home and your cats.
Plan the wider cat setup
The product is only one part of the decision. Use the calculator to estimate the wider monthly budget, then browse the product hub for related essentials before you buy.
Last updated: 8 August 2026
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