The covered cat litter box can be the ideal solution for those furry ones who are a bit rough when they go to relieve themselves, since it is an accessory that really turns out to be very practical by preventing the sand from getting out of it. But, to what extent is it a good idea to buy one for our furry ones?
There are some who are shy, but there are others who find it difficult to get used to using this type of sandbox. So let's know what are the advantages and disadvantages of the covered litter box for cats.
Advantages
Let's start with the advantages first, since at the end of the day they are the ones we want to know first 🙂. The covered sandbox is an accessory that, on many occasions, fulfills its function very well, but let's know why it is a good idea to buy one:
- Prevents sand from ending up on the ground: Cats, once they go to relieve themselves as soon as they enter the litter box, dig a little, and when they have finished they cover the urine or feces they have expelled. In doing so, much of this sand usually ends up outside, something that is avoided if the sandbox is covered.
- Help shy cats to be calmer: If we have cats that are shy, they will like this type of litter box as it will help them feel more relaxed.
- Minimize odor: although this function should be fulfilled by the arena and not the sandbox, the truth is that the latter if it is covered also helps a lot so that the room does not smell bad.
- It is easy to clean: Of course, it is not as much as if it were a sandbox without a lid, but it does not take much longer to clean it either. To give you an idea, I usually take about 5 minutes.
Drawbacks
The disadvantages are also there and it is important to know them to make the decision that suits us best:
- Cats usually have a hard time getting used to: if they are more adults. Therefore, it is necessary to start without putting the door on, and after a few weeks (or when you see that they come and go without hesitation) put it on.
- It is more expensive than one without a cap: the cheapest ones are worth 10-12 euros, but the tray is cheaper (I have seen them for 2-3 euros in a Chinese bazaar, and even a normal tray -not specific for cats- can cost less money in those stores).
The truth is that the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages, but the fact that it is usually difficult for them to get used to it can make more than one doubt. Therefore, you can go testing: buy an inexpensive tray, and put a box on top of it, turned upside down, which you will have previously made an entrance hole. Stick it to the tray with tape, and wait to see how your furry reacts 🙂.
Yes, I know that the design is not exactly elegant, but it can help you to know if your cat will like the covered litter box.
I hope it has been useful to you.