Large cats require special considerations, and their litter box is no exception. Besides being spacious enough for your big kitty to move around comfortably, it needs to be appealing and accessible for them to feel content with their bathroom set up.
With automatic litter boxes being a hot topic this year, we took a look at the various automated systems available. From testing and reviewing these products, we discovered which ones are best suited to larger fur babies.
Whether you have a beautiful large-breed or a snuggly, heavy-set kitty, these self-cleaning litter boxes will meet the needs of your feline.
Traditional Rotating Systems: Aimicat
The majority of automatic litter boxes on the market today, such as the Aimicat, use a traditional rotating mechanism to clean up cat waste. As the globe rotates, the litter filter removes all dirty particles and transfers them to a separate compartment below. Here, the carbon filters rapidly neutralize all odors.
The futuristic, high-tech design of the Aimicat is a hit with cats of all ages and sizes. The globe shape invites felines to explore the litter box, making it one of the most comfortable self-cleaning litter boxes for cats to adopt.
The almost silent operation also aids in fast acclimation, making sound no louder than a computer running in the background.
The Aimicat measures 24.6 (H) x 20.2 (W) x 19.5 (D), providing enough space for larger felines to stand up and turn around while inside. The dome entrance is 12.1 x 8.9 inches meaning even large breed kitties won’t have to squeeze themselves through.
Unfortunately, the entrance is relatively high off the ground, so if you have a large cat with mobility issues, they may not take to the Aimicat so well. Another point to consider is the lid cannot be taken off, so for cats who don’t like to feel confined, this automatic litter box might not be the best choice.
Pros
- ● Large size providing plenty of space
- ● Attractive design that cats love
- ● The super-quiet operation helps cats acclimate quickly
- ● Uses carbon filters to eliminate odors completely
Cons
- ● The entrance is high off the ground, so it is not the most accessible unit
- ● You cannot remove the lid
Horizontal Raking Systems: AutoEgg by ChillX
Raking systems like the ChillX AutoEgg utilize a horizontal rake to gently sift through the litter. The process removes all waste particles and then dumps them in the odor concealed waste compartment below.
The cleaning mechanism is generally safer than rotating systems as it moves at a slower pace. It cleans at gradually with no risk of your fur baby’s paws or tail getting caught in amidst the action.
The AutoEgg does have a max load limit, but at 44 lb. (20 kg), even the largest of cat breeds can use it. That being said, to maximize comfort, ChillX does recommend the box for cats up to 15.4 lb. (7 kg).
The AutoEgg features a compact design, which makes it a brilliant space saver. Despite this, it is still spacious at 30.3” (H) x 18.1 (W) x 17.7 (D). You can also remove the hood to create additional room for your big kitty if needed.
Size aside, the AutoEgg is one of the most accessible litter boxes available thanks to its ultra-low entryway, which is just 6 inches off the ground. Overweight cats and senior cats with reduced mobility will find this automatic litter box the most comfortable to use.
As well as being accessible, cats find the box-shaped design to be an inviting and intriguing cat product. There are some automatic litter boxes that cats take a while to adapt to, but this is not one. The arched hood appeals to a kitties’ curiosity and draws them to it immediately.
Pros
- ● 20kg max load limit
- ● The most accessible choice for old and overweight cats
- ● You can remove the hood for extra space
- ● The box-like design makes it easy for cats to adapt to
Cons
- ● It is not the biggest option on the market
Alternative Systems: CatGenie
The rotating and raking systems are the most common self-cleaning systems you will come across in the market. However, there are some models available that use an alternative method. One example is the CatGenie, which uniquely disposes of waste by flushing it down the drain just like a toilet.
The innovative system cleans and reuses the washable litter granules. As the waste gets cleaned and flushed, there is no waste drawer for the owner to empty. This is a plus for large cat owners as the bigger the cat, the more waste they produce. For those with multiple large breed fur babies, the CatGenie is an ideal choice.
As well as functioning as a drainage system, it looks almost like a mini toilet. The circular-designed self-cleaning litter box has no weight limit and features an open-top design. The litter bowl has an 18” circumference, providing plenty of space for large breeds and overweight felines.
For bigger cats who desire more privacy, you can purchase a hood. 4-inch Genie sidewalls are also available for the messy large-breed cats who like to use their giant paws to kick litter out of the box.
The one downfall to the CatGenie is the higher entryway. At 9 inches off the ground, it could be a bit of a struggle for large senior cats with limited mobility to access the box. However, large cat breeds will find the CatGenie comfortable to use if mobility is not an issue.
Pros
- ● The waste flushes down the drain – No waste drawer to empty
- ● No weight limit
- ● Open-top style
- ● Spacious 18” circular design
- ● Hood and sideways can be purchased if needed
Cons
- ● The high entryway could make access difficult for seniors
Our Verdict
Although all three of these self-cleaning litter boxes are ideal for large cats, we feel the AutoEgg offers a well-rounded approach for all felines.
While it’s not the biggest unit on the market, it’s accessibility and easy to adapt design makes it the most comfortable solution for large breeds and overweight kitties. With a customizable hood that can be removed within 5 seconds, we can’t find a reason not to love it! Check out ChillX’s website to learn more about the AutoEgg.