Litter-Robot 5 & Pro: Cycle interrupted

If your Litter-Robot 5 or Litter-Robot 5 Pro incorrectly displays a Cat Detected notification on the LCD screen or a Cycle Interrupted notification in the Whisker app, and the unit won’t cycle, the cat detection system has likely been triggered. This guide will help you identify the cause, clear false detections, and restore normal operation.

Before you begin

Make sure:

• Your unit is plugged in.

• Your unit is connected and online.

• Your firmware is up to date. (If he app does not show an update option, you already have the latest version.)

How cat and motion detection work

Litter-Robot 5 uses OmniSense® detection, which integrates optical and weight sensors to ensure both safety and accurate monitoring.

• A curtain sensor, located in the bezel at the top of the globe entrance, detects motion near or inside the globe.

• SmartScale® weight sensors, located in the base, detect when your cat enters or exits the unit.

When the Cat Detected or Cycle Interrupted notification is displayed, it means:

• A cat (or motion) was detected in or near the globe, or

• The unit thinks a cat has entered but not exited.

The robot will wait before cycling to ensure your cat’s safety. You’ll also receive a notification in the Whisker app.

Troubleshooting false detections

If the Cat Detected or Cycle Interrupted notification persists after your cat has exited, follow these steps to clear false detections:

1. Check that the litter level is up to the raised MAX fill line. Overfilling can cause inaccurate weight readings.

2. Short press the Cancel button if the globe paused mid-cycle. From the Home position, short press the Cancel button to zero the SmartScale.

Important: Any time you affect the weight or placement of the unit (including emptying the waste drawer, adding or removing litter, or cleaning or moving the unit), press the Cancel button to ensure the weight sensors will detect your cat and cycle properly. Do not rest on the unit while pressing Cancel, or your weight may affect calibration.

3. Once complete, short press the Cycle button to run a Clean Cycle.

 Successful: The unit returns to Home and displays a solid white light.

Unsuccessful: If the error persists, continue below.

Clean the curtain sensor

Dust, fur, or debris can cause false motion or cat detections.

The curtain sensor is located in the bezel at the top of the globe entrance.

To clean:

1. Gently wipe the curtain sensor with a soft, dry, clean microfiber cloth to prevent scratching or damaging the components.
   
   

   Important: The bezel contains sensitive electronic components. To prevent damage, do not use water, liquids, disinfectant wipes, or damp cloths when cleaning. Avoid using a vacuum or compressed air as well, since this may interfere with the sensors.
   
   

2. Then, run a test cycle:

• Short press the Cancel button to clear any notifications.

• Short press the Cycle button to run a Clean Cycle.

Successful: The unit returns Home with a solid white light.

 Unsuccessful: Continue to the next step.

Check for obstructions

Let’s check for anything that could interfere with the sensor system. The curtain sensor needs a clear field of view to function properly.

1. Make sure the unit is in the Home position.

2. Press the Power button to turn the unit off, then unplug it.

3. Use the handles on both sides of the bonnet to lift and rotate it upwards to its open position.

4. If you have a fence or other accessories installed, remove them from the bezel.

5. Lift the globe by the handle while holding the globe key in place to keep it from falling into the waste drawer. Set both aside.

6. Inspect the base for:

• Fur or debris on the seal strips around the waste port.

• Clumps or litter in or around the waste port opening that could block the sensor’s view.

Reinstall the globe and bonnet

1. To reinstall the globe, ensure that the globe key is installed in the back of the globe and oriented with the rectangular opening facing up.
   
   

2. While holding the key in place, lift the globe and place it back into the base. The key must drop down into the pocket completely.

3. Keep the globe handle and waste port oriented toward the top to ensure the globe is close to the Home position.

4. The large black gear on the rear of the globe should easily engage with the smaller drive gear in the base.

5. Rotate the bonnet downward over the globe until it automatically latches into place. Press on top to confirm it’s secure.

6. Plug the unit in and power on.

7. Short press the Cancel button to zero the SmartScale.

8. Short press the Cycle button to allow the unit to complete a Clean Cycle.

Successful: The light displays solid white, indicating the unit is ready for use.

Unsuccessful: Continue to the next step.

Update your firmware

Firmware updates can correct sensor calibration issues or false detections.

• Confirm your firmware is up to date in the Whisker app.

• If no update option is available, your unit already has the latest version.

Successful: If your Litter-Robot displays a solid white light, the issue is resolved.

Unsuccessful: If the error persists, there may be an issue with the laser sensor board or base.

Need more help?

If you are still experiencing a Cat Detected or Cycle Interrupted notification, please contact Whisker Customer Experience for further assistance.