Last updated: April 2026
A litter box is a necessity, but in a small apartment it can feel like it takes over whatever room it’s in. The good news is that compact, well-designed litter boxes have come a long way — and there are options that are genuinely discreet without being impractical.
What to Look for in a Compact Litter Box
Size is the starting point but it isn’t everything. A smaller box needs to still be large enough for your cat to turn around comfortably inside — especially for larger breeds. As a rule, the box should be at least one and a half times the length of your cat.
Enclosed options are worth considering for small spaces. A hooded or top-entry litter box contains mess and odor better than an open tray, which matters more when you’re living in a smaller home.
Top-entry boxes in particular have a very small footprint and do a good job of keeping litter from being tracked across your floor.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall — Modkat Top-Entry Litter Box
A sleek, compact design with a top-entry lid that minimizes tracking and contains odor well. The small footprint makes it easy to tuck into a corner. One of the most popular choices for apartment cat owners.
Best Budget Pick — Van Ness Enclosed Cat Pan
A simple hooded litter box at an affordable price. Nothing fancy but it does the job, contains odor reasonably well, and the compact size suits smaller bathrooms or utility areas.
Best for Multiple Cats — Petmate Top Entry Litter Pan
Slightly larger than the Modkat but still compact enough for apartment use. A good option if you have more than one cat sharing a box.
Best Hidden Option — Merry Products Cat Washroom Bench
A litter box disguised as a piece of furniture. Fits into a living space without looking out of place. More expensive but a genuine solution for very small apartments where the litter box is in a visible area.
Tips for Placing a Litter Box in a Small Apartment
Bathrooms are the obvious choice but not always practical if space is tight. A corner of a hallway or a dedicated spot in a utility area works well. The key is choosing a location that’s accessible to your cat at all times but out of the main living space.
Avoid placing the litter box near your cat’s food and water — cats instinctively avoid this and may stop using the box if it’s too close to their feeding area.
Final Thoughts
A compact litter box doesn’t have to mean a compromise on hygiene or your cat’s comfort. Focus on top-entry or enclosed designs, keep the footprint small, and clean it regularly — daily scooping makes a significant difference in a smaller home.
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