Cats are domestic animals that have a number of basic needs. Although there is a false belief that they are the most independent pets and the least demanding in their daily care, there is one detail that we must pay attention to above all so that our cat lives comfortably at home: the litter tray.
Both the type of sand we put inside the tray and the container itself must be adapted to the use and needs of each cat. There are as many types of litter trays as there are cats with different personalities and it is not so complicated to find the balance if we know how to achieve it.
Today we look at the two main types of litter trays on the market: the open tray and the litter box. Find out about their respective features, pros and cons, and choose the model that best suits the personality of your cat according to the advice given by animal health experts.
Pros and Cons of Litter Trays
Litter trays are the most basic option but that doesn’t mean worse qualities for our pets. It is a square or rectangular tray, with a wide base and high walls, in which you put the cat litter that will be used by your cat every time it needs to relieve itself.
This type of litter tray is perfect for cats that need to keep track of everything going on around them while they go to the toilet. If your cat gest easily scared and you notice it’s always alert and looking everywhere, this could be the perfect litter box for your cat.
It has the advantage of being more economical and very practical when placed in a ventilated place. As a disadvantage, we emphasise that it can sometimes give off odours, as it is much easier for the cat to spill sand out of tray after each use.
If you don’t want it to become a nuisance in your home, it is essential to find the perfect place for it, such as an open or well-ventilated area. Regular cleaning is necessary so that your cat is comfortable using its litter tray and no odours build up in your home.
Pros and Cons of Litter Boxes
Some cats don’t feel safe going to the toilet in an open space. There are cat litter boxes on the market with lids, in extremely sophisticated models that are capable of controlling odours better, while providing a safe and comfortable spot for these pets.
Many families decide to train their cats as kittens for this type of litter box, which is very useful if there are small children in the house, because they do not have easy access to the sand. This also prevents sand from spilling over the litter box and odours from escaping it after your cat has used it.
However, we must bear in mind that these litter boxes do not offer the same ventilation as open litter trays. When the sand is very dirty the cat may refuse to use it, requiring more frequent cleaning.
To avoid these inconveniences and to make litter boxes useful for both your pet and your home, you have the option of investing in a self-cleaning litter box with odour filters. There are more and more advanced and economical models on the market, which are very practical for pets.
Don’t forget to combine your cat’s litter tray with good quality litter adapted to your pet’s needs. At Sepicat, we have the best types of cat litter, with the perfect composition to control humidity, odours and to make your cat feel more comfortable every time it has to answer the call of nature.