🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Cat Care Products

Cat Litter Box for Long Haired Cats: What to Look For

Long haired cats need a litter box with sides at least 8 inches tall but an entrance under 5 inches to prevent fur dragging. See our top pick, the Frisco High Sided Box.

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ProPawPicks Editorial Team
ProPawPicks Reviewer
Updated

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Frisco High Sided Cat Litter Box, Large, Gray ★ Top Pick: Frisco High Sided Cat Litter Box, Large, Gray Check Price on Amazon →
8 inches
Minimum side height to contain scatter
5 inches
Ideal entrance height for long-haired cats
24 x 18 inches
Recommended box footprint for comfort
1.5 times
Number of boxes per cat to reduce competition
⚡ Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: Frisco High Sided Cat Litter Box, Large, Gray. This box features high walls (8 inches) to contain litter scatter and urine spray, with a.
  • Best Odor Control: PetSafe ScoopFree Ultra Self-Cleaning Litter Box. This self-cleaning box automatically rakes waste into a covered compartment, locking in sm.
  • Best Low-Dust: Arm & Hammer Sifting Litter Box System. This system uses a sifting tray that separates clumps without scooping, reducing dust expo.
  • Best Multi-Cat: World's Best Cat Litter Multiple Cat Unscented. Made from whole-kernel corn, this litter clumps tightly and controls odors effectively in.
  • Best Natural: Dr. Elsey's Precious Cat Ultra Unscented Clumping Clay Cat Litter. This unscented clay litter offers superior odor control with hard clumping that doesn't cr.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

ProductBest For
Frisco High Sided Cat Litter Box, Large, Gray Best Overall Check price →
PetSafe ScoopFree Ultra Self-Cleaning Litter … Best Odor Control Check price →
Arm & Hammer Sifting Litter Box System Best Low-Dust Check price →
World's Best Cat Litter Multiple Cat Unscented Best Multi-Cat Check price →
Dr. Elsey's Precious Cat Ultra Unscented Clum… Best Natural Check price →

Quick answer

The Frisco High Sided Cat Litter Box is our top pick for long-haired cats. Its high walls trap litter scatter and urine spray, while the low cut-out entrance accommodates cats with long fur. For odor control in multi-cat homes, the PetSafe ScoopFree Ultra Self-Cleaning Litter Box is a strong runner-up. Budget-conscious owners should consider the Arm & Hammer Sifting Litter Box.

What to consider for Cat Litter Box For Long Haired Cats

Long-haired cats often track litter outside the box and may have difficulty turning in small spaces. A box with high sides (at least 8 inches) helps contain scatter, while a wide, open top prevents fur from rubbing against dirty lids. The entrance should be low (under 6 inches) to avoid matting and discomfort. Non-stick surfaces or liners reduce cleaning time, as fur can trap moisture and odors. Avoid hooded boxes that can trap ammonia fumes and stress cats with limited visibility.

What to look for in a cat litter or litter-area product

Strong clumping and odor control are essential to keep the box fresh between cleanings. Low-dust formulas protect feline airways, especially for long-haired breeds prone to respiratory issues. Low-tracking litters with larger granules or pellet designs reduce mess tracked onto floors. For multi-cat households, choose a litter that handles multiple users without losing effectiveness. Unscented options are best for sensitive cats, as artificial fragrances can deter use.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated side height and entrance design for long-haired cat needs.
  • Reviewed customer feedback on durability and ease of cleaning.
  • Considered litter compatibility and odor control performance.
  • Checked for safety features like rounded edges and non-toxic materials.
  • Assessed value for price, including long-term costs.
  • Prioritized products from reputable brands with consistent quality.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • Heavily scented litters that can put cats off using the box.
  • High-dust clay litters that aggravate breathing issues in long-haired cats.
  • Boxes that are too small or too few for the number of cats in the home.
  • Sudden litter changes; always transition gradually over a week.

For more advice, explore our cat guides, cat food, and cat care products sections.

Why this matters

Long-haired cats benefit from litter boxes with side heights of at least 8 inches to contain scatter, but the entrance should be no higher than 5 inches to prevent fur from dragging through waste.

The Options

Types Explained

Standard Open Box

A simple, uncovered tray with high sides. Offers easy access and ventilation, but litter scatter can be higher.

Best for: Cats that dislike confined spaces and owners who prefer minimal setup.

Hooded Litter Box

A covered box with a door or opening. Provides privacy and reduces scatter, but can trap odors and limit airflow.

Best for: Cats that prefer privacy, but may not suit long-haired cats prone to fur matting against the hood.

Self-Cleaning Litter Box

Automatically rakes or sifts waste into a sealed compartment. Reduces daily scooping but requires electricity and ongoing tray costs.

Best for: Busy owners or multi-cat homes needing consistent odor control.

Sifting Litter Box

Uses a perforated tray to separate clumps when lifted. No scooping needed, but the sifting action can be messy.

Best for: Owners who want a low-cost, low-dust alternative to scooping.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
Frisco High Sided Cat Litter Box, Large, Gray
Best Overall

Frisco High Sided Cat Litter Box, Large, Gray

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This box features high walls (8 inches) to contain litter scatter and urine spray, with a low cut-out entrance (5 inches) that long-haired cats can step over without dragging fur. The large size (24 x 18 inches) gives ample room to turn. One limitation is that the plastic can absorb odors over time, requiring thorough cleaning.

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#2
PetSafe ScoopFree Ultra Self-Cleaning Litter Box
Best Odor Control

PetSafe ScoopFree Ultra Self-Cleaning Litter Box

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This self-cleaning box automatically rakes waste into a covered compartment, locking in smells for up to a week. Its high sides and hood reduce scatter, and the disposable tray minimizes contact with soiled litter. However, the hood may feel confining for some long-haired cats, and replacement trays add ongoing cost.

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#3
Arm & Hammer Sifting Litter Box System
Best Low-Dust

Arm & Hammer Sifting Litter Box System

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This system uses a sifting tray that separates clumps without scooping, reducing dust exposure. The low-dust litter formula is gentle on feline airways. The box has moderate side height (6 inches) and a low entrance. A trade-off is that the sifting mechanism can be messy if not handled carefully, and the plastic may warp over time.

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#4
World's Best Cat Litter Multiple Cat Unscented
Best Multi-Cat

World's Best Cat Litter Multiple Cat Unscented

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Made from whole-kernel corn, this litter clumps tightly and controls odors effectively in multi-cat homes. It is low-dust and flushable, reducing waste. The natural formula is safe if ingested. One limitation is that it tracks more than heavier clay litters, requiring a mat to catch stray granules.

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#5
Dr. Elsey's Precious Cat Ultra Unscented Clumping Clay Cat Litter
Best Natural

Dr. Elsey's Precious Cat Ultra Unscented Clumping Clay Cat Litter

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This unscented clay litter offers superior odor control with hard clumping that doesn't crumble. It is low-dust and free of fragrances, ideal for sensitive long-haired cats. The fine granules may track slightly, but the performance is excellent. A drawback is that it is heavier than plant-based litters, making disposal more laborious.

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Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Side Height and Entrance

High sides (at least 8 inches) prevent litter and urine from spilling out, while a low entrance (under 6 inches) allows easy access for long-haired cats without dragging fur through waste.

02

Size and Space

A box should be at least 1.5 times the length of your cat from nose to tail. Long-haired cats need extra room to turn and dig without touching dirty sides.

03

Litter Type

Choose a low-dust, unscented clumping litter to protect respiratory health. Natural options like corn or walnut are biodegradable but may track more; clay clumps tightly but is heavier.

04

Ease of Cleaning

Non-stick surfaces, liners, or self-cleaning mechanisms reduce the effort of scooping. Sifting boxes simplify waste removal but require careful handling to avoid mess.

05

Odor Control

Look for litters with activated charcoal or baking soda. Self-cleaning boxes seal waste in a carbon-filtered compartment. Avoid heavily scented products that may deter cats.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Daily Scooping

Remove solid waste and clumps at least once a day. For long-haired cats, check for fur stuck to clumps or the box walls. Use a slotted scoop to minimize dust.

Weekly Deep Cleaning

Empty all litter, wash the box with mild dish soap and warm water, and dry thoroughly. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach that can leave residues. Refill with fresh litter.

Monthly Box Replacement

Plastic boxes can develop scratches that harbor bacteria and odors. Replace the box every 6 to 12 months, or sooner if you notice persistent smells or stains.

Pro tip

Place a large, textured mat outside the litter box to catch litter and fur that clings to your cat's paws, reducing mess around the house.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I change the litter for a long-haired cat?
For a single long-haired cat, scoop daily and do a full litter change every 2 to 3 weeks. If you use a clumping litter, you can extend the interval by adding fresh litter as needed. However, long-haired cats may track more debris, so monitor the box for fur buildup and change more frequently if odors develop.
Is clumping or non-clumping litter better for long-haired cats?
Clumping litter is generally better because it forms solid clumps that can be removed easily, keeping the box cleaner and reducing odor. Non-clumping litter absorbs moisture but doesn't isolate waste, leading to ammonia buildup. For long-haired cats, clumping litter also reduces the risk of wet fur sticking to waste.
Can dust from cat litter harm my long-haired cat's airways?
Yes, high-dust litters can irritate feline airways, especially in long-haired cats that may already have respiratory sensitivities. Dust particles can also cling to fur and be ingested during grooming. Choose low-dust or dust-free litters, such as those made from corn, walnut, or paper, to minimize respiratory risks.
How can I control odor from my cat's litter box?
Scoop waste daily, use a litter with activated charcoal or baking soda, and place the box in a well-ventilated area. For long-haired cats, consider a self-cleaning box that seals waste. Avoid scented litters that may mask odors temporarily but can deter cats. Deep clean the box weekly with mild soap.
What is the best litter box setup for multiple long-haired cats?
Provide one litter box per cat plus one extra, placed in separate quiet locations. Use a large, high-sided box to accommodate each cat's size and reduce territorial issues. Choose a multi-cat litter formula that handles higher waste loads. Scoop at least twice daily to keep boxes inviting.
Are there low-tracking litter options for long-haired cats?
Yes, litters with larger granules or pellet shapes track less than fine clays. Examples include pine pellets, paper pellets, or crystal litters. However, some cats may not accept the texture. Placing a textured mat outside the box can catch loose granules before they spread.
Should I use scented or unscented litter for my long-haired cat?
Unscented litter is strongly recommended because cats have a sensitive sense of smell and may avoid heavily perfumed boxes. Long-haired cats are also more prone to allergies, and fragrances can cause sneezing or skin irritation. Stick to unscented, natural litters for the best acceptance.
My long-haired cat is peeing outside the box. What should I do?
First, rule out medical issues with a veterinarian. Then check the box size, cleanliness, and location. Long-haired cats may avoid boxes with high sides that are hard to enter or boxes that are too small. Ensure the box is scooped daily and placed in a quiet, accessible area. Try a larger, open box with a low entrance.
How do I transition my long-haired cat to a new litter box?
Place the new box next to the old one for several days. Gradually move the old box away while keeping the new one in the same spot. Use the same litter type initially to reduce confusion. If your cat hesitates, sprinkle a small amount of used litter from the old box into the new one to transfer scent.
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 Cat Care Products, 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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