As much as we love our cats, their litter tray isn’t exactly the highlight of home décor. That’s where a litter box enclosure, or litter box furniture, comes in. Whether you’re trying to reduce cat litter odours, give your cat a little more privacy, or just want to keep things looking neat and stylish, a litter box enclosure can be a game-changer, especially if you’re using a larger unit like Litter-Robot automatic litter boxes.
In this guide, we’ll cover the benefits of litter box enclosures, what to look for when choosing one, how to DIY your own, and some of the best options for every kind of cat household.
In this article
What is a litter box enclosure?
A litter box enclosure is exactly what it sounds like: a piece of cat furniture (or furniture-style housing) that conceals your cat’s litter tray. It can be anything from a cabinet or side table to a large credenza, and many are designed to blend in seamlessly with your home’s aesthetic.
Benefits of a litter box enclosure
- Hides the litter tray: Enclosures keep the tray out of sight while still accessible to your cat.
- Controls odours: Some offer better airflow or additional cat litter odour control by enclosing the area and keeping litter contained.
- Gives cats privacy: Some cats prefer to do their business without an audience.
- Doubles as furniture: Many enclosures function as benches, cabinets, or even TV stands.
- Keeps dogs (and toddlers!) out: If you have a curious pup or a crawling baby, an enclosure adds an extra layer of protection.
What to look for
- Easy access for your cat: Make sure there’s enough room for your cat to comfortably get in and out.
- Durability: Look for sturdy materials, especially if you have a large cat litter box or if it is heavy.
- Style: Choose a design that matches your home’s look and feel.
- Ease of cleaning: The enclosure should be simple to open or disassemble for quick cleanups.
DIY litter box enclosure ideas
Feeling handy? Making your own litter box enclosure is easier than you think, and it’s a great way to customise a solution to fit your style and space. Repurpose an old cabinet, nightstand, or storage tub by cutting out an entry hole and adding a curtain or door flap.
A few tips:
- Line the inside with waterproof contact paper or a plastic mat to protect surfaces.
- Add ventilation holes or small fans if airflow is a concern.
- Use magnetic closures or soft-close hinges for quiet, cat-friendly doors.
Pinterest is full of inspiration for hidden litter box hacks, especially for smaller spaces or modern interiors.
Litter-Robot enclosures (for Litter-Robot 4 & 3 Connect)
If you use a Litter-Robot, a standard litter box enclosure probably won’t cut it. These automatic litter boxes are larger and need more clearance, proper airflow, and easy access to the waste drawer.
DIY or flat-pack hacks for custom Litter-Robot enclosures
If you’re more hands-on, a custom DIY enclosure can be tailored to fit your exact needs and space. Many cat parents have hacked flat-pack furniture (such as IKEA’s Besta or Havsta ranges) into clever Litter-Robot cabinets with doors, vents, and even motion-sensing lights.
DIY design tips:
- Interior size: at least 76 cm W x 64 cm D x 76 cm H
- Include proper airflow (cutouts, fans, or mesh panels)
- Use doors that open fully for waste drawer removal
- Waterproof the base in case of litter spills
Other litter box enclosures worth checking out
Here are a few standout categories for different needs and budgets — availability varies by retailer, so check current UK stock at outlets such as Amazon.co.uk, Pets at Home, or Zooplus:
Decorative bench-style litter box cover
- Price: ~£70–£90
Pros: Doubles as a bench, typically available in neutral finishes, fits most standard litter trays.
Cons: May be too small for very large boxes like Litter-Robot.
Cat washroom-style bedside cabinet
- Price: ~£60–£100
- Pros: Stylish, often available in multiple colours, and includes an extra storage shelf.
- Cons: Assembly takes time; doors may not stay shut if not aligned correctly.
Decorative planter-style hidden litter box
- Price: ~£45–£70
- Pros: Looks like a decorative planter, ideal for corner placement, great for small spaces.
- Cons: Smaller interior space, not suited for Litter-Robot or larger boxes.
Eco paperboard litter box enclosure
- Price: ~£60–£70
- Pros: Made from sustainable board material, easy tool-free assembly, and lightweight.
- Cons: Not as durable as wood or MDF, best for calm, lightweight cats.
Litter box enclosure vs. enclosed litter box
An enclosed litter box is typically a standard litter tray with high sides and a cover or lid that offers your cat more privacy while helping to trap odours inside. These types of boxes are ideal for cats that tend to kick litter or prefer a quieter, more private space to do their business.
Whether or not a cat will enjoy using an enclosed box really depends on their individual preferences. Some cats appreciate the extra security, while others may feel more comfortable with the open layout of a traditional tray. If your cat is used to an open tray, try transitioning slowly with access to an open tray as a back-up option.
If you're in the market for the best enclosed litter box, Litter-Robot stands out as a top choice. The fully enclosed globe and automatic sifting system keep odours under control and reduce litter tracking, while giving cats a clean, private place to go.
Bonus: Designed with multi-cat households in mind, Litter-Robot also features a sealed waste drawer, optional carbon filters, and easy-to-clean surfaces, making it a favourite for both cats and their people.
Whether you're hiding the litter tray inside a stylish credenza or leaving Litter-Robot out in the open, your home — and your cat — will thank you.
