Best Litter Box Sizes for Extra Large Cats: A Buying Guide

Updated 2026-06-20 · 1 Tier Finds

If you own a Maine Coon, a Ragdoll, or just a genetically blessed house cat, you know the struggle. Standard litter boxes are designed for the average 10-pound cat; for a 15-to-20-pounder, those boxes are essentially shoe cartons. When a cat feels cramped, they either stop using the box or spend half their time digging litter onto your floor because they can't fit inside.

Finding the best large litter box for big cats isn't about finding the most expensive gadget; it's about surface area and wall height. If your cat can't do a full 360-degree turn without hitting a wall, the box is too small.

Sizing Basics: The 1.5x Rule

The most common mistake owners make is buying a "large" box that is only a couple of inches bigger than a standard one. For extra-large breeds, follow the 1.5x rule: the length of the box should be at least one and a half times the length of your cat from nose to base of tail.

Look for dimensions that hit at least 20-24 inches in length. If your cat is particularly long, don't be afraid to look outside the "cat" category. Many owners of giant breeds find that high-walled plastic storage bins (with a hole cut in the side) provide a better experience than retail boxes because they offer the necessary volume for a large cat to stretch and scratch.

Open Top vs. Covered: The Big Cat Dilemma

Covered boxes are great for hiding odors and litter tracking, but they are often the enemy of the big cat. Most hoods are too low, forcing a large cat to hunch over while they do their business. This leads to "out-of-box" accidents.

If you insist on a cover, ensure the interior height is significant. However, for most XL cats, an open-top high-sided box is the superior choice. It provides plenty of ventilation and removes the ceiling restriction. If you're worried about tracking, pair an open box with a heavy-duty litter mat rather than trapping your cat in a plastic cave.

Price Tiers for the Best Large Litter Box for Big Cats

Depending on your budget and how much you hate cleaning, you'll find three main tiers of gear in the Cat Supplies category:

• Budget ($20–$50): Basic high-walled plastic pans. These are durable and easy to bleach, but offer zero automation. Great for those who don't mind scooping daily.
• Mid-Range ($60–$150): This includes specialized XL bins with built-in sifting trays or oversized top-entry boxes. You're paying for better plastic quality and ergonomic designs.
• Premium ($200–$600): Automatic self-cleaning boxes. These are a luxury, but be careful—many "automatic" boxes are too small for Maine Coons. If you go this route, check the internal drum dimensions specifically.

You can check the current options and pricing for these tiers on Amazon to see which dimensions match your cat's specific length.

Materials and Maintenance

Avoid cheap, thin plastics that flex when your cat steps in them. A 20-pound cat putting all their weight on one corner can crack low-grade plastic over time. Look for heavy-duty polypropylene.

Maintenance is where most people fail. Large boxes require more litter to maintain a 3-inch depth, which is necessary for big paws to dig effectively. To keep odors down, avoid the "deep clean' once a month approach. Instead, scoop twice daily and do a full scrub with mild soap and water every two weeks. Avoid ammonia-based cleaners, as the scent can trigger cats to mark outside the box.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Don't get blinded by "aesthetic" boxes. Many modern, furniture-style enclosures look great in a living room but create a cramped, smelly environment for a large cat. If the enclosure is 20 inches wide but the actual box inside is only 15 inches, your cat will hate it.

Also, avoid "small-footprint" boxes. If a box is wide but very short, your big cat will accidentally kick litter across the room every time they cover their waste. Higher walls are essential for containment, but they should be sloped or have a low entry point so an older, larger cat with arthritis can still get in easily.

FAQ

Can I use a plastic storage tub as a litter box?

Yes, and for very large cats, it's often the best solution. Buy a heavy-duty tote, cut a U-shaped opening in one of the long sides about 6 inches from the bottom, and sand the edges smooth. It's cheaper and larger than most retail options.

How much litter should I put in an XL box?

Aim for 3 to 4 inches of litter. Large cats have more powerful digging instincts and larger paws; if the litter is too shallow, they'll end up scratching the plastic bottom, which can be noisy and irritating for them.

Do automatic litter boxes work for extra-large breeds?

Only if the internal globe or drawer is specifically rated for XL cats. Many standard automatic boxes are too narrow, which can be dangerous if the cleaning mechanism triggers while a large cat is still partially inside.