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Most litter boxes sold in stores are simply too small for big cats. A Maine Coon, Ragdoll or large mixed-breed cat can hang over the edge, kick litter everywhere or pee over the side, and some start avoiding a cramped box altogether. The best litter boxes for large cats are long and wide enough to turn around in, have high sides to catch scatter and spray, and still offer an easy way in. Below we compare five roomy boxes on Amazon and explain how to size one for your cat.
Our Quick Picks
- Best OverallIRIS USA XX-Large High Sided Litter BoxCheck Price on Amazon
- Best ValueSmart Paws Extra Large Jumbo Litter BoxCheck Price on Amazon
- Best Odor-ResistantStainless Steel Extra Large Litter BoxCheck Price on Amazon
Short on time? These are our top choices. Full reviews and comparisons are below.
Best Litter Boxes for Large Cats Compared
| Litter Box | Style | Standout Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| IRIS USA XX-Large High Sided | Open, very high sides | About 30 x 20 in, scatter shield | Best overall for big cats |
| Smart Paws Jumbo Litter Box | Open, high-sided | Jumbo size for Maine Coons | Best value XL box |
| Stainless Steel XL Litter Box | Open, 6 in sides, metal | Won’t scratch or hold odor | Odor-conscious owners |
| IRIS USA XX-Large Side Entry | Side-entry, extended length | Low side entrance | Seniors and sprayers |
| Petmate XL Litter Box | Open, deep pan | Classic, affordable | Budget and multi-cat |
1. IRIS USA XX-Large High Sided Litter Box — Best Overall
At roughly 30 inches long, 20 inches wide and 14 inches tall, this open IRIS box gives big cats real room to turn and dig. The high scatter shield catches kicked litter and cats that pee high, while the open top keeps airflow good and makes scooping easy. It is one of the largest mainstream litter boxes you can buy.
- Very large interior
- Tall scatter shield
- Open top for airflow and easy scooping
- Good for multi-cat homes
Worth knowing: Check the entry height if your cat is elderly or has stiff joints.
2. Smart Paws Extra Large Jumbo Litter Box — Best Value
Smart Paws designed this jumbo open-top box with Maine Coons in mind. High sides reduce scatter and splash, and the size suits big cats and multi-cat households. It is a simple, sturdy plastic pan that gives large cats space without a premium price.
- Jumbo size for large breeds
- High anti-splash sides
- Open top, easy to clean
- Good value
Worth knowing: Measure your floor space; jumbo boxes need a lot of room.
3. Stainless Steel Extra Large Litter Box — Best Odor-Resistant
Plastic litter boxes develop scratches over time that trap urine and odor. A stainless steel box does not scratch the same way, cleans easily and can last for years. This XL model has 6-inch sides and a non-stick surface, suiting big cats and multi-cat homes.
- Won’t absorb odors like old plastic
- Easy to clean
- Very durable
- 6-inch high sides
Worth knowing: The sides are lower than the tallest plastic boxes, so it may not stop cats that spray high.
4. IRIS USA XX-Large Side Entry Litter Box — Best for Seniors
This IRIS box keeps the extra length big cats need but moves the entrance to the side at a lower height, so older or arthritic cats can step in without climbing. The tall walls elsewhere contain scatter and spray. It is a smart choice for large cats with stiff joints.
- Low side entrance
- Extended length for big cats
- Tall walls contain scatter
- Multi-cat friendly
Worth knowing: Place the entrance side where your cat can approach easily.
5. Petmate XL Cat Litter Box — Best Budget
The Petmate XL is a classic, affordable open pan with a deep, high-capacity design. It is not as enormous as the IRIS or Smart Paws boxes, but it is a noticeable upgrade from standard sizes and a good extra box for multi-cat homes. It also features in our main litter box guide.
- Affordable
- Deep, high-capacity pan
- Simple to clean
- Easy to find
Worth knowing: Very large cats may still prefer one of the bigger boxes.
How We Chose These Boxes
We looked for boxes large enough for cats over about 12 pounds or 18 inches long, with high sides, easy entry and easy cleaning, from brands with plenty of owner reviews on Amazon. We compared interior size, wall height, entry height, material and price level. We do not list prices because they change; use the buttons to check current prices.
How Big Should a Litter Box Be?
A common guideline is that a litter box should be about one and a half times the length of your cat, measured from nose to base of tail. For a large cat that is often 25 to 30 inches or more, which is far bigger than most standard boxes.
| Cat Length (nose to tail base) | Minimum Box Length |
|---|---|
| 16 in | About 24 in |
| 18 in | About 27 in |
| 20 in | About 30 in |
| 22 in and up | 30 in or larger, or a storage-tote box |
Tips for Big Cats and Their Boxes
- Choose open over covered for most large cats; hoods can feel cramped and trap odor.
- High sides, low entry: the ideal box contains scatter but is easy to step into.
- Keep litter 2 to 3 inches deep; big cats dig more.
- Use a good litter: see our best cat litter for odor control.
- Catch tracking with a mat; see our cat litter mats guide.
- Enough boxes: one per cat plus one, in different quiet spots.
Care and Cleaning
Scoop daily and wash the box with mild, unscented soap during full litter changes. Avoid harsh or strongly scented cleaners, which can put cats off. Replace plastic boxes when they become heavily scratched, or switch to stainless steel for a longer-lasting option. If your cat suddenly stops using the box or strains, contact your vet.
Our Verdict
The IRIS USA XX-Large High Sided box is the best litter box for most large cats. Choose the Smart Paws Jumbo for the best value, the stainless steel XL for long-term odor resistance, the IRIS Side Entry for seniors, and the Petmate XL as a budget upgrade. For automatic options, see our self-cleaning litter boxes guide.
Related Guides
- 5 Best Cat Litter Boxes in 2026: Open, Covered, High-Sided and Top-Entry
- 5 Best Cat Litters for Odor Control (That Actually Work)
- 4 Best Cat Trees for Large Cats in 2026: Sturdy, Tall and Compact Picks
- 4 Best Cat Litter Mats in 2026 to Stop Litter Tracking
- How Many Litter Boxes Do You Need Per Cat? (The N+1 Rule Explained)
Frequently Asked Questions
What size litter box does a Maine Coon need?
Most Maine Coons need a box at least 25 to 30 inches long. Aim for about one and a half times your cat’s body length.
Are covered litter boxes good for large cats?
Many large cats find covered boxes cramped. Open boxes with high sides usually work better and are easier to keep clean.
Why does my big cat pee over the side of the box?
The box may be too small or the sides too low. Try a larger box with high sides or a scatter shield.
Is a stainless steel litter box better?
Stainless steel does not scratch like plastic, so it holds less odor and lasts longer. It usually costs more upfront.
How many litter boxes do I need?
The common rule is one box per cat plus one extra, placed in quiet, easy-to-reach spots.