🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Cats

What to Buy: Best Litter Box for Maine Coon Cats

Find the best litter box for your Maine Coon cat. Learn why extra-large is essential and why the Petmate Giant Litter Pan tops our list for comfort and cleanliness.

ProPawPicks Editorial Team

ProPawPicks Reviewer

Updated

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★ Top Pick: Petmate Giant Litter Pan

25+ lbs

Average Maine Coon Weight

40 inches

Maximum Length

24 inches

Minimum Box Length Recommended

8 inches

Minimum Side Height for Litter Containment

⚡ Key takeaways

Best Overall: Petmate Giant Litter Pan. Extra-large 24 x 18 x 8 inch pan with low front entry, ideal for large Maine Coons.
Best High-Sided: IRIS Open Litter Box with High Back. High back and sides prevent litter scatter while open front allows easy access.
Best Hooded: Catit Jumbo Hooded Litter Box. Spacious hooded design with a charcoal filter for odor control and a clear swing door.
Best Budget: Nature's Miracle High Sided Litter Box. Affordable, high-sided box with non-stick surface for easy cleaning.
Best Design: Modkat Flip Litter Box. Modern, high-sided box with a flip-top lid for easy scooping and a reusable liner.
Best for Odor Control: PetFusion BetterBox Large Litter Box. Large, covered box with a carbon filter and a no-splash design.

Quick answer

Top 3 picks: 1. Petmate Giant Litter Pan (best overall for size), 2. IRIS Open Litter Box with High Back (best for high-sided containment), 3. Catit Jumbo Hooded Litter Box (best for privacy with hood).

What to consider for a Maine Coon cat

Maine Coons are one of the largest domestic cat breeds, often weighing 10 to 25 pounds and measuring up to 40 inches in length. Standard litter boxes are too small, causing discomfort and mess. Look for extra-large pans (at least 24 inches long), high sides to contain litter, and low entry for easy access. Covered boxes can help with odor but ensure adequate interior space. Consider materials that are easy to clean and durable.

How we picked

We evaluated litter boxes based on interior dimensions, entry height, side height, material quality, and customer reviews from Maine Coon owners. We prioritized boxes that accommodate large cats without being cramped, feature splash guards or high backs, and are easy to scoop and maintain. We also considered hooded vs. open designs to suit different cat preferences.

For more details on caring for your Maine Coon, visit our Maine Coon Cat Complete Guide.

At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Product	Best For
Petmate Giant Litter Pan	Best Overall	Check price →
IRIS Open Litter Box with High Back	Best High-Sided	Check price →
Catit Jumbo Hooded Litter Box	Best Hooded	Check price →
Nature's Miracle High Sided Litter Box	Best Budget	Check price →
Modkat Flip Litter Box	Best Design	Check price →
PetFusion BetterBox Large Litter Box	Best for Odor Control	Check price →

Why this matters

Maine Coons require extra-large litter boxes due to their size; standard boxes are often too small, leading to discomfort and mess. Prioritize length and entry height.

The Options

Types Explained

Open Litter Pans

Simple, uncovered trays with low or high sides. Easy to clean and preferred by cats that dislike hoods.

Best for: Maine Coons that prefer open spaces and owners who prioritize easy maintenance.

Hooded Litter Boxes

Covered boxes with a door or opening, offering privacy and odor control. Ensure adequate interior height.

Best for: Cats that like privacy and owners wanting to contain litter and odors.

High-Sided Litter Boxes

Open boxes with tall walls (often one side lower). Great for containing mess from large cats.

Key Buying Factors

Size and Dimensions

The box must be large enough for your cat to turn around comfortably. Aim for at least 24 inches long and 18 inches wide.

Entry Height

Low entry (4-6 inches) is crucial for senior or arthritic Maine Coons. Some boxes have cut-out fronts for easy access.

Side Height

High sides (8-12 inches) help contain litter and urine, especially for male cats that may spray.

Material and Durability

Sturdy plastic is common; avoid thin, brittle materials that can crack under a heavy cat.

Ease of Cleaning

Look for non-stick surfaces, rounded corners, and removable lids or liners to simplify scooping and washing.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Daily Scooping

Scoop solid waste and clumps at least once daily to keep the box fresh and reduce odors. Maine Coons are sensitive to dirty boxes.

Weekly Deep Cleaning

Empty all litter, wash the box with mild soap and water, and dry thoroughly before refilling. Avoid harsh chemicals that can deter your cat.

Litter Depth and Type

Use 2-3 inches of clumping, unscented litter. Consider larger granules to reduce tracking. Some Maine Coons prefer finer textures.

Pro tip

Place the litter box in a quiet, low-traffic area away from food and water. Maine Coons appreciate privacy and a clean environment, which encourages consistent use.

Frequently asked questions

What size litter box is best for a Maine Coon cat?

Choose a box at least 24 inches long and 18 inches wide. The entry should be low (4-6 inches) for easy access, with high sides (8+ inches) to contain litter.

Should I get a covered or uncovered litter box for my Maine Coon?

It depends on your cat's preference. Many Maine Coons like open boxes for space, but covered boxes offer privacy and odor control. Ensure the covered box is tall enough (at least 16 inches interior height).

How often should I clean a Maine Coon's litter box?

Scoop daily and deep clean weekly. Maine Coons are large and produce more waste, so frequent cleaning prevents odors and keeps your cat happy.

Can I use a self-cleaning litter box for a Maine Coon?

Yes, but ensure it is extra-large and has a weight limit of at least 20 pounds. Some self-cleaning boxes may be too small for Maine Coons.

What type of litter is best for Maine Coon cats?

Clumping, unscented litter is generally recommended. Large-grain litters reduce tracking, but some Maine Coons prefer finer textures. Avoid scented litters that may irritate sensitive noses.

How can I prevent my Maine Coon from kicking litter out of the box?

Use a high-sided or top-entry box, place a litter mat outside, and ensure the box is large enough. Some owners use a box with a lid or a splash guard.

A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.

Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Cats, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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