It’s time to get creative with your cat by making your own litter box for your furry friend. Here are 5 DIY litter boxes that anyone can make. And why stop there? Read on for some extra hints on how to make your own homemade litter.
These project ideas can be simple, fancy or a work of art if you really want to make a litter box that is maybe Instagram-worthy.
How to Make Homemade Cat Litter for Your Feline Friend
Make your own kitty litter and save a ton of money and time!
One aspect of a feline’s well-being is providing them with a clean and comfortable litter box. However, store-bought cat litter can be expensive and harmful to the environment. The good news is that you can make your own homemade cat litter using simple and sustainable materials such as sand and shredded paper.
To make homemade cat litter, you can start by gathering materials that are safe for your feline friend. Sand is an excellent option as it is absorbent and easy to clean. You can also use shredded paper, which is biodegradable and can be easily composted. Avoid using materials such as clay or scented products as they can be harmful to your cat’s health.
Sand Homemade Cat Litter
To make sand-based homemade cat litter, start by choosing a fine-grained sand that is free of debris. You can sterilize the sand by baking it in the oven at 200°F for 15 minutes. Once cooled, you can fill your litter box with the sand and scoop out any waste as needed. You may need to replace the litter every few weeks depending on the frequency of use.
Shredded Paper Homemade Cat Litter
If you prefer a more eco-friendly option, shredded paper can make a great homemade kitten litter.
This is my favorite option and I have tried it before, using shredded paper from my office shredder. I honestly don’t think my cat Finnegan would use it, but when I had Abigail, she did appease me.
Simply shred paper into thin strips and place them in the litter box. You can add baking soda to help control odors. When the litter box is full, you can compost the paper or dispose of it in the trash.
Making homemade cat litter is a sustainable and cost-effective solution for cat owners. With the use of materials such as sand and shredded paper, you can provide your feline friend with a clean and healthy litter box. Remember to choose materials that are safe for your cat and avoid using harmful products. Your cat will thank you for it!
| Litter Box Name | Description |
|---|---|
| The Basic Box | A simple and affordable option is a cardboard box lined with plastic and filled with litter. It’s easy to make, cost-effective, and mostly recyclable. |
| The Every Day Box | This idea involves using a plastic box filled with litter, which can be cleaned and reused for a long time. Consider buying several to make it even more convenient for your cat. |
| The Recycled Cupboard Box | Roam around local secondhand stores or garage sales to find an old small cupboard that can accommodate a plastic or cardboard box. Get creative by painting, sanding, and revamping the cupboard. Keep the doors open to create a recycled and stylish cat box. |
| The Lit Litter Box | Purchase a nice wooden box and stencil cool text on the side to personalize your cat’s litter box. It can be your cat’s name or simply the word “cat.” Line the box with heavy-duty plastic and add the litter. |
| The Work of Art Box | For those with carpentry and artistic skills, this option allows you to create a truly unique litter box. Build an enclosed box and add an enclosure inside. Consider incorporating a cat head cutout on the door for added artistic flair. |
The Basic Box
A cardboard box lined with plastic and filled with litter is the most basic cat litter box that anyone can make. This one is easy, affordable and mostly recyclable.
The Every Day Box
A plastic box filled with litter is another basic idea that can be cleaned and reused for a long time. Buy several if you want to make life even easier for your pet kitten or cat.
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The Recycled Cupboard Box
This is a cool and funky idea that can be completed after a bit of roaming around local secondhand stores or garage sales. Find an old small cupboard that is big enough to fit a plastic or cardboard box inside. Get creative with painting, sanding and revamping the cupboard, put the enclosure inside and fill up the litter. Keep the doors open all the time and you have a recycled, stylish cupboard cat box so kitty can do poops in private.
The Lit Litter Box
Buy a nice wooden box and stencil some cool text on the side of it to make your cat a personalized litter box that will make all the other cat owners in your neighborhood envious. Text could be your cat’s name or simply the word “cat” on the side. Line it with heavy duty plastic and add the litter.
The Work of Art Box
If you have some skills in the carpentry department and also an artistic streak, then you could build your cat a litter box that is truly a work of art. And here the DIY possibilities are endless. You can make an enclosed box and put the enclosure inside. Our favorite one is this version with a cat head cut out of the door. You can get step by step instructions with photos at the link in the title above.
There you have it – 5 DIY litter box ideas anyone can make.
Effort levels range from low to high depending on how fancy you want to be. Have fun creating your cats new litter box and here are some homemade litter recipes if you want to make your own.
Mix newspaper, water, dish soap and baking soda. Shred the paper and add the water and dish soap. Drain it, rinse and add the baking soda, then crumble and dry.
Alternatives that are cheap and effective in hiding the ammonia smell that comes from the cat’s urine are wood shavings, sawdust, sand or soil.
BONUS: Additional DIY litter box ideas!
| Litter Box Name | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Storage Bin Box | A simple and affordable option is to repurpose a large storage bin. Cut an entry hole in one side, and the lid can be used for easy cleaning and odor control. |
| 2. Cardboard Box | An easily customizable option is to use a cardboard box. Cut a low entry hole, and line the box with a plastic bag or a disposable litter tray for easy cleanup. |
| 3. Bookshelf Litter Box | Convert a small bookshelf into a hidden litter box. Remove the shelves, line the bottom with a litter pan, and add a curtain or door to conceal the litter area. |
| 4. Cabinet Litter Box | Transform a cabinet into a discreet litter box. Install a cat door on one side for entry, and place a litter pan inside. The cabinet doors can be closed to hide the litter box when not in use. |
| 5. Plant Pot Litter Box | Use a large, decorative plant pot with a removable top as a litter box. Place the litter pan inside the pot and cover it with the top, which doubles as a plant stand or additional seating. |
| 6. Under-Bench Litter Box | Utilize the space under a bench or coffee table by placing a litter pan and adding a decorative curtain or fabric panel to create privacy and hide the litter box. |
| 7. DIY Sandbox Litter Box | Repurpose a child’s sandbox as a litter box. Fill it with litter, and place a lid or cover to prevent spills or unwanted digging. It provides a spacious area for your cat. |
| 8. Dresser Drawer Litter Box | Empty a dresser drawer and line it with a plastic liner or litter tray. Cut a cat-sized entry hole in the front or side of the drawer and place it in a convenient location. |
| 9. Suitcase Litter Box | Convert an old suitcase into a litter box. Remove the top and line the bottom with a litter pan. The suitcase’s design can add a unique touch to your home decor. |
| 10. Shower Pan Litter Box | Use a shallow shower pan as a large litter box. Its low sides make it easy for cats to enter, and the smooth surface simplifies cleaning and prevents odors from lingering. |
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on DIY Litter and Litter Box Ideas
1. Can I use any type of litter for DIY litter boxes?
Yes, you can use various types of cat litter for DIY litter boxes. Common options include clay litter, clumping litter, silica gel crystals, recycled paper litter, and natural alternatives like pine or wheat litter. Choose a litter that suits your cat’s preferences and consider factors such as dust levels, odor control, and ease of cleaning.
2. Are there any litter materials I should avoid using?
Avoid using clumping litter in litter boxes with kittens under four months old, as they may ingest the litter, causing potential health issues. Additionally, avoid litters with strong scents or artificial additives, as some cats may be sensitive to them.
3. How often should I clean DIY litter boxes?
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain a hygienic environment for your cat. Scoop the litter box daily to remove solid waste and clumps. Depending on the number of cats using the box, empty and thoroughly clean the litter box at least once a week.
4. What are the advantages of DIY litter boxes over commercial options?
DIY litter boxes offer several advantages. They are often more affordable, allowing you to save money. Additionally, DIY options provide flexibility in terms of size, design, and customization, enabling you to create a litter box that suits your cat’s preferences and fits well in your home.
5. Can I use any type of box for a DIY litter box?
Yes, you can use a variety of boxes for DIY litter boxes. Common options include storage bins, cardboard boxes, plastic containers, repurposed furniture, and creative alternatives like suitcases or plant pots. Just ensure the box is sturdy, has enough space for your cat to move comfortably, and can be easily cleaned.
6. How can I minimize litter tracking with DIY litter boxes?
To reduce litter tracking, place a mat or rug outside the litter box to capture any loose litter on your cat’s paws. Consider using litter mats specifically designed to trap litter particles. Additionally, using litter with larger granules or opting for litter boxes with high sides or covered designs can help contain the litter.
7. Is it necessary to provide privacy for my cat’s litter box?
While not all cats require privacy, some prefer a secluded area for their litter box. If your cat prefers privacy, consider using DIY options that provide a cover or enclosure, such as repurposed cabinets or creative furniture designs. You can also create privacy by placing the litter box in a quiet, low-traffic area of your home.
8. Are there any specific safety considerations for DIY litter boxes?
When creating DIY litter boxes, ensure that the materials used are non-toxic and won’t harm your cat if ingested. Avoid using materials with sharp edges or small parts that could pose a choking hazard. Regularly inspect DIY litter boxes for wear and tear, ensuring they remain safe and sturdy for your cat’s use.
9. Can I train my cat to use a DIY litter box?
Cats are generally adaptable to different litter box setups. When introducing a new DIY litter box, place your cat in the box and let them explore. If they are hesitant, you can gradually transition them by placing some of their old litter or waste in the new box. Monitor your cat’s behavior and make adjustments as needed to ensure their comfort.
10. Can I use DIY litter boxes for multiple cats?
Yes, DIY litter boxes can be used for multiple cats. Ensure that the litter box is large enough to accommodate all your cats comfortably and provide multiple litter boxes if necessary. It’s important to maintain cleanliness and offer enough litter box options to prevent territorial issues and promote good litter box habits among your cats.
This post is all about DIY cat litter boxes and homemade cat litter.
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Lisa Illman is the Founder of Kritter Kommunity, LLC. She has a tuxedo adult cat and has had him since he was a baby kitten. Before her cat Finnegan, Lisa had had two FIV-positive cats for over a decade. They inspired Lisa to invent a cat enclosure and a portable catio so they could safely sit outside and enjoy fresh air and sunshine. Lisa had a Poodle and a parakeet growing up. She currently loves to pet-sit for her neighbors’ dogs and cats.
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Our mission at Kritter Kommunity is to promote happy and healthy lives for pets and their owners. We specialize in Barkitecture and designing tips for pet-friendly homes, utilizing the natural instincts of cats, dogs, and small critters to create a home life that pets and people love. From tips on pet care to reviews on pet toys and furniture, we are a go-to source for all things cats, dogs and small critters. Join us in celebrating the joys of pet ownership and providing the best possible lives for our furry friends.
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