Where is the best place to put a cat litter box?

By Ashley Berry

Where is the best place to put a cat litter box?

 

Let’s talk about one of the most underrated parts of cat ownership: where to place the litter box.

It may not seem like a big deal at first. I mean, it’s just a litter box, right? Wrong. Ask any seasoned cat parent (or their cat), and they’ll tell you: location absolutely matters. 

The right placement can mean the difference between a clean, odor-free home and a stinky mystery mess behind the couch. Bad litter box placement can also lead to behavioral issues like litter box avoidance.

Here’s everything you need to know about litter box placement.

 

 

Why Litter Box Placement Matters

Cats are picky. They like things a certain way, and if their bathroom setup doesn’t meet their standards? Well, they’ll let you know.

Key Takeaways:

  • Put litter boxes in quiet, low-traffic spots for privacy and less mess

  • Bad placement = more smells, tracked litter, and skipped scooping

  • Make sure kittens, seniors, and less mobile cats can get to it easily

  • Have multiple boxes (and spread them out) if you’ve got more than one cat


 

 

The Best Places to Put a Litter Box (And Why They Work)

Here are tried-and-true locations that both cats and humans can agree on.

1. A Quiet, Low-Traffic Area

Think guest bathroom, spare bedroom, or a corner of the hallway that doesn’t get much foot traffic.

Why it works:

  • Reduces stress from noise and interruptions.

  • Offers a sense of safety and privacy.

Pro tip: Make sure it's not too isolated—your cat still needs to feel like they’re part of the household action.

 

 

2. Bathrooms (Yup, Just Like Us)

They’re easy to clean and relatively private.

Things to keep in mind:

  • Make sure the door stays open or install a pet door.

  • Avoid placing it next to the toilet if your cat startles easily from flushing sounds.

 

 

3. Bedrooms (If You Don’t Mind)

Some cats love sleeping in your room and doing their business there. If you’re not sensitive to smell and keep things clean, it’s a great option.

Just be cautious:

  • Choose a corner with low visibility.

  • Consider a litter box and litter with great odor control. BoxiePro litter is great for long lasting odor control.

 

 

4. A Designated “Cat Room”

Have the space? Create a little cat haven—maybe a converted closet or nook with their food, toys, and litter box.

Benefits:

  • Keeps cat stuff centralized.

  • Reduces the chances of accidents elsewhere.

 

 

Places to Avoid Putting the Litter Box

Not all locations are created equal. Some are just plain no-gos, even if they seem convenient.

  1. Near the Food or Water Bowls

Cats have strong instincts against doing their business where they eat. Respect this and give some separation between dining and bathroom areas.

  1. Next to Loud Appliances (Washer, Dryer, Furnace)

Noisy machines can terrify cats and cause them to associate fear with the litter box. That’s a fast track to unwanted behaviors.

  1. In Tight, Hard-to-Reach Spots

Sure, it might be out of sight for you—but if it’s hard for you to reach, it’s probably hard for your cat, too. Plus, if it’s tough to access, you’re less likely to clean it regularly.

How Many Litter Boxes Should You Have?

Quick rule of thumb: One per cat, plus one extra.
 So if you have two cats, aim for three boxes.

And if you live in a multi-level home? At least one box per floor.

Other Tips for Litter Box Success

  • Try different types of litter: Some cats have preferences for clumping, non-clumping, scented, or unscented litter.

  • Scoop daily: This can’t be overstated. A clean box is a used box.

  • Use a mat: A litter-catching mat outside the box helps reduce tracking.

  • Experiment: Not every cat is the same. What works for one might not work for another.