The Best Places to Keep Your Litter Box in a Small Apartment

 

Whether it’s a tiny house or a small apartment, finding space for your own stuff is hard enough, let alone a litter box. But it’s important to get it right. Choosing the right location for the litter box can make a big difference in maintaining a clean, odor-free environment.

The best place to put a litter box is one that’s both out of sight and easy to reach. Your cat needs to find the litter box when needed, and you need to clean the litter with ease. While it sounds simple, some people try to hide the litter box or place it out of sight, which often leads to more trouble. Let’s dive into how you can make the most of your small space without compromising on cleanliness or convenience.

In this guide, we'll explore the best places to keep your litter box in a small apartment, discuss what type of litter can help maintain freshness. We’ll also cover common mistakes to avoid when deciding where to put the litter box in an apartment, so you can create a comfortable and functional living space for both you and your feline friend.

 

Where to Put the Litter Box in a Small Apartment

Finding the perfect spot for your cat's litter box in a small apartment requires creativity and thoughtful consideration. Here are several practical and discreet locations to place the litter box, ensuring it’s both accessible to your cat and minimally intrusive in your living space.

1. Next to the Toilet in the Bathroom

One of the most convenient places to keep a litter box in a small apartment is next to the toilet in the bathroom. Bathrooms are naturally designed for waste management, and the close proximity to water and cleaning supplies makes it easy to maintain the litter box. Plus, the bathroom is often a private space where your cat can have some peace while using the litter box. Ensure that the box is placed in a corner where it’s out of the way of foot traffic, and consider using a kitty litter mat or ramp to catch any stray litter that might get tracked out.

2. In a Corner in the Laundry Room

The laundry room is another excellent option for placing a litter box. It’s a low-traffic area where your cat can have some solitude. Placing the box in a corner ensures that it’s out of the way, and if your laundry room has a door, you can even install a small pet door to allow your cat easy access while keeping the area closed off. Just be sure that the vibrations from the machines don’t disturb your cat, and that there’s ample ventilation to keep the area fresh.

3. Inside a Cabinet Under the Kitchen Sink

For those looking to hide the litter box completely, consider placing it inside a cabinet under the kitchen sink. This option keeps the litter box out of sight, and if you install a small pet door or cut an opening in the cabinet door, your cat can easily access it. Be mindful of what else you store under the sink—ensure there are no hazardous chemicals or sharp objects that could harm your cat. Lining the cabinet with an easy-to-clean mat can also help manage any spills or stray litter.

4. By the Sliding Door

If you have a sliding door leading to a balcony or outdoor space, placing the litter box nearby can be a smart choice. The area near a sliding door often has good ventilation, which helps keep odors under control. Plus, the box is somewhat out of the way while still being easy for your cat to access. Just ensure the box is placed in a corner or against the wall to minimize its visibility and prevent it from being in the direct path of the door.

5. In the Kitchen

The kitchen can be an unconventional but effective spot for a litter box, especially if you have limited space. Consider placing the litter box in an unused corner or under a kitchen counter where it can be discreetly tucked away. If you have a kitchen island or a piece of furniture with open shelving, you can place the litter box underneath to make it a little less seen while still providing easy access for your cat. Just be sure to keep the area clean and free from food-related items to maintain hygiene.

6. The Bottom of a Multiple Tiers Storage/Shelf Bin

If you’re looking for a space-saving solution, consider placing the litter box at the bottom of a multi-tier storage or shelf bin. This setup allows you to use the upper tiers for storing cat supplies, household items, or decorative elements, while the bottom tier discreetly houses the litter box. It’s a practical way to make the most of vertical space in a small apartment. Ensure that the storage unit is stable and provides enough clearance for your cat to comfortably enter and exit the box.

7. Under a Piece of Furniture

Another clever way to hide the litter box in a small apartment is by placing it under a piece of furniture, such as a side table or a bench. Some furniture is specifically designed with hidden compartments for litter boxes, or you can repurpose a piece of furniture to create a custom litter box enclosure. This solution keeps the box out of sight while utilizing the available space efficiently. Just ensure that the furniture is stable and provides enough clearance for your cat to comfortably enter and exit the box.

8. In the Hallway

If your apartment has a hallway, this can be a less obvious place to keep a litter box. Positioning it at the end of the hallway or in a nook along the wall keeps it out of the main living areas, while still being accessible to your cat. You can use a small screen or curtain to partially conceal the box and help it blend in with the surroundings.

9. In a Multi-Functional Room Divider

For those with open-concept spaces, consider integrating the litter box into a room divider. This creative solution not only separates different areas of your apartment but also provides a hidden spot for the litter box. Look for room dividers with built-in storage or customize one to include a litter box compartment. This way, the box is both out of sight and serves a dual purpose in your living space.

10. In a Corner of the Living Room

If space is really tight and none of the above options work, you can place the litter box in a corner of the living room. While it might not be ideal to have the litter box in a more public area, choosing a corner that’s out of the main traffic flow can make it less noticeable. Consider using an enclosed litter box or a self-cleaning litter box to help reduce odors.

By strategically placing the litter box in one of these locations, you can maintain a clean and odor-free apartment while providing your cat with a comfortable and private place to do their business. The key is to find a spot that balances discretion with accessibility, ensuring that both you and your cat are happy with the arrangement.

 

Maintaining Freshness: Using Good Clumping Litter in Small Spaces

Good clumping litter plays a vital role in maintaining this freshness by effectively managing waste and minimizing unpleasant smells.

Clumping litter is designed to absorb moisture and form solid clumps around your cat’s waste. These clumps are easy to scoop out, which helps remove the source of odors quickly and efficiently. By trapping the waste in tight clumps, this type of litter prevents urine from seeping to the bottom of the litter box, where it can cause lingering smells and make cleaning more difficult. The result is a cleaner litter box and a fresher-smelling apartment.

Not all clumping litters are created equal, so it’s important to choose a quality clumping litter like Neakasa mineral cat litter that meets the needs of both your cat and your living space. Look for a litter that clumps quickly and firmly, making scooping easier and more effective. Additionally, quality clumping litters tend to produce less dust and are often gentler on your cat’s paws, making the litter box a more inviting place for them. If odor control is a top priority, consider a litter with added deodorizers or a formula specifically designed for multi-cat households.

Tips for Maintaining Freshness with Clumping Litter:

To get the most out of your clumping litter and keep your small apartment fresh, it’s important to establish a regular cleaning routine. Scoop the litter box at least once a day to remove clumps and prevent odors from building up. Consider using a litter mat or cat litter step outside the box to catch any stray litter and prevent it from being tracked around your apartment. Additionally, make sure to replace the entire contents of the litter box and clean the box every few weeks, or as needed, to maintain overall cleanliness.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Placing a Litter Box in a Small Apartment

When placing a cat litter box, the first principle is to avoid placing it near your cat’s food or water bowls. Cats are naturally clean animals and dislike the idea of eating near their toilet area. If the litter box is too close to where your cat eats or drinks, they may ignore it and look for another, more suitable spot to relieve themselves.

The litter box should be placed in a quiet area where your cat feels safe and secure. While cats prefer privacy when using the litter box, it’s important not to hide it completely out of sight. As a cat owner, it’s crucial to observe your cat’s bathroom habits, as changes in their behavior can be early signs of health issues. Being able to monitor their litter box usage allows for early detection and treatment of potential problems.

It’s also important not to move the litter box frequently. Once your cat is familiar with the location, changing it abruptly can confuse them and lead to accidents around the house. If you need to move the litter box, introduce your cat to the new location gradually, ensuring they are comfortable with the new environment.

In a multi-level home, consider placing a litter box on each floor, especially if you have a senior cat. This makes it easier for them to access the box without having to navigate stairs, reducing the risk of accidents.

Finally, if you have other pets, like playful dogs, make sure the litter box is placed in a spot that is out of their reach. You might consider using a covered litter box or placing it behind a barrier, ensuring that your cat has a private and undisturbed area to do their business.

 

Conclusion

Finding the perfect spot for your cat’s litter box in a small apartment can make all the difference in maintaining a clean, comfortable, and odor-free living space. By choosing a location that balances privacy for your cat with accessibility for you, you’ll create a happier environment for both of you. Don’t let limited space limit your options—explore these placement ideas and take the first step toward a more harmonious home. Ready to optimize your small apartment? Start by trying out these litter box placement tips today!