I live in a rental and want to set up a small closet for multiple litter boxes. One of my cats is a bit hefty and sometimes leaves a mess behind. The other cat is picky and pees outside the box if it isn’t clean enough. We usually keep the boxes tidy, but sometimes the smell from the litter genie triggers her. I need a solution to make cleaning easier and prevent odors.
I’ve tried using plastic shower curtains to cover the walls and floor, but it’s tough to find one long enough. Cleaning litter off the floor is hard too; a broom pulls the curtain and a vacuum just picks it up.
I’m looking for ideas to keep litter from getting stuck in corners and protect the walls, while also making it easy to clean spills and loose litter. Anyone have any suggestions?
Having multiple boxes isn’t just about how much litter there is. It creates separate spaces for the cats, so they can’t guard the box from each other. It also lets them choose their preferred spot.
If you put all the boxes in a small area, you lose the benefit of having extra boxes.
For protecting the walls and floors, consider using products made for painters like tarps or drop cloths.
@Phoenix
I’ve been thinking about where to put the litter boxes. Spreading them out is probably best for our cats. I’ll keep planning to see what rooms can be changed for them.
Great idea about the tarps! I don’t know why I didn’t think of that. Thanks for your help!
I had an older cat that always peed near her box. I used XXL dog pee pads on the floor and painter’s tape to protect the walls. It helped a lot, but it can still be a hassle. At least you can just throw the pads away.
Have you thought about getting or making XXL litter trays? Bigger trays can help picky cats since they often need a clean spot to dig in. I agree with the dog pads for extra protection too.
For DIY trays, you can use large plastic under-bed storage containers. They need minimal changes, or you can use big storage crates with a hole cut out for easy access.
@JamesHenry
I’ve been using the biggest litter boxes I can find, and it’s helped a bit, but not completely. The under-bed container idea is genius! I can make a much bigger box that way. I think I’ll use this idea.
You could use a large piece of linoleum for the floor. Measure it to overlap a foot up the walls and cut corners to make it snug. Don’t glue it; just let it sit there, and it’ll protect the floor. You can pull it up later when you move.
I have four cats, and we use two hooded litter boxes and two big storage bins. The high sides stop litter from flying everywhere and give them room to move.
Ridley said:
I put one of those plastic mats under my litter box to make it easier to clean up. I also use a plastic tote as a litter box.
I hadn’t thought about those plastic mats! That’s a fantastic idea.
I’m considering a mixed approach: keep the shower liners and maybe use a floor tarp to protect the hardwood, then add a plastic mat on top so I can vacuum easily and clean spills.