Being a pet parent to both canines and felines can come with a few challenges—like when dogs eat cat poop. Yuck. They’re animals and it is unfortunately something that happens, but it can be prevented.
If you’re struggling to keep your canine out of your cat’s deposits, there’s good news. There are several litter box options that can help keep the area safe from your sniffing canine’s nose. Your headaches can be saved by investing in a self-cleaning litter box or other dog-proof solutions. We’ll explore how this type of litter box can keep your cat happy while keeping your dog at bay.
How does a dog-proof litter box work?
Dogs and litter boxes do not always mix. Dogs do not understand the boundary, and they do not understand why it is gross that they are eating feces. A dog-proof litter box works by simply keeping your dog out of your cat’s business.
Depending on the size of your dog, you might find a top-entry litter box to be a great solution. However, if you have large breeds, that might not be enough. A self-cleaning litter box is designed to cycle out the cat’s waste and place it in a separate drawer. The poop is hidden from the dog and you are back to welcoming all their slobbery kisses.
What is a dog-proof litter box?
A dog-proof litter box is a great solution for pet parents who have both dog and cat companions. While there are several options to choose from, they all have one thing in common: keeping the dog out. Dog-proof litter boxes come in all shapes and sizes. Depending upon your needs, you can find a self-cleaning litter box or a durable enclosed litter box. Either way, the dog-proof litter box will prevent your pup from reaching the poop they are trying to eat.
How do I keep my dog from eating cat poop?
There are numerous techniques that you can use to keep your dog from eating cat poop—purchasing a dog-proof litter box is one of the top ways! If you’re looking for other tricks without spending extra money, the first thing you can do is scoop the litter box immediately after your cat is finished with their business. If the litter box is clean, there will be no poop for the dog to sniff out.
Additionally you can train your dog with “leave it” commands or find other ways to keep your dog busy.
How to keep dogs out of the litter box
If your dog is raiding the cat’s bathroom, it’s time to consider tricks to keep them out of the litter box. A dog-proof litter box will be a valuable investment if you’re sick of shooing your pooch out of the litter.
You can also install a pet gate to keep the dog out of the room where the litter box is located. These are typically incredibly affordable and easy to install, but the entire room will then be off limits to your pup.
One last thing to consider is taking a trip to the vet. While occasionally snacking on your cat’s poop might not be anything to worry about, if your dog is always into the litter box it might be an indicator of a nutrient deficiency. Your vet can do a full check-up to see if your dog needs any nutrients added to their diet.
What makes a good dog-proof litter box?
While keeping your dog out might be your main priority for your new dog-proof litter box, you should consider keeping your cat happy as well. Finding a good dog-proof litter box that is cat-approved will make your life as a pet parent much easier. Consider looking for litter boxes that have the following features.
Cats enter from the top
A top-entry litter box is a great solution. Instead of your cat entering from the front (or an open top box), they enter from the top. It is a great way to keep smaller dogs out of the litter box, and even larger dogs will have a harder time searching for a “snack.”
Self-cleaning functionality
A self-cleaning litter box will not only keep your pup out of the cat’s poop, it also saves you time and helps reduce odors. After your cat makes his deposit, the self-cleaning function goes to work to remove any remnants into a hidden compartment. Your dog will be none the wiser!
Comes with a door or cover
Using a litter box that has a door or cover will slow down any sneaky pooch! The cat will be able to get into the box, but it will not allow larger dogs to pop in.
Great design aesthetics
Let’s face it—not all litter boxes are created equal. And just because you have pets does not mean everyone who visits wants to see an open box. A good litter box design will provide your cat with plenty of space to move around comfortably, while keeping your dog out of their business.
Works with litter box furniture
You can also consider using litter box furniture to hide the box, adding one extra preventative layer to keep your dog out. Be sure to choose a piece that provides your cat with easy access to their bathroom and (bonus) looks stylish in your home—like a Coastal Credenza.
The best dog-proof litter box
Now that you know what to look for, we have provided our recommendation for the best dog-proof litter boxes. It’s important to remember that your personal needs might be different from others. Depending upon the number of pets you have and your budget, this option may not be viable.
Litter-Robot 3 Connect
Litter-Robot 3 Connect has a patented sifting system that automatically separates your cat’s waste from the clean litter. Your dog sticking his nose in will no longer be a problem since Litter-Robot is self-cleaning. You can set the unit to clean as quickly as 3 minutes after kitty leaves the globe. Litter-Robot models are the best choice for a self-cleaning solution, as other self-cleaning litter boxes often utilize rake mechanisms that get jammed or clogged.
Best for: Self-cleaning solutions
Benefits:
- Automatically cleans, leading to greatly reduced mess and smell
- No contact with cat waste
- Monitor and control from the app
- Perfect for multiple cats
- Globe enclosure gives cats privacy
Disadvantages:
- Larger than other units
Rating: 10
Litter-Robot 4
Like Litter-Robot 3 Connect, Litter-Robot 4 automatically separates kitty’s waste from the clean litter—as quickly as 3 minutes after your cat exits. Litter-Robot 4 features extra quiet cleaning cycles and enhanced odor control with its sealed waste drawer and carbon filter or OdorTrap™ Packs. Pet parents can track litter and waste drawer levels in real-time, as well as monitor kitty’s activity and weight through the app.
The only downside is that Litter-Robot 4 features a wider opening than Litter-Robot 3 Connect—this is great for kitty, but theoretically offers easier access for your pup, as well.
Best for: Smart home enthusiasts, multi-cat households
Benefits:
- Tightly sealed waste drawer leads to greatly reduced smell
- Track litter & waste drawer levels plus kitty’s weight in real-time
- Automatically cleans, no contact with cat waste
- Whisper-quiet cleaning cycles
- Perfect for multiple cats
Disadvantages:
- Wider opening (slightly easier access for doggy)
Rating: 9
Runner-up: Stainless Steel Litter Box + Litter Box Bench
A traditional litter box enclosed in a custom piece of furniture provides a cheaper alternative to a self-cleaning litter box while still offering excellent dog-proofing capabilities. Choose a large, easy-to-clean litter box like the Stainless Steel Litter Box from Litterbox.com. This litter box fits perfectly inside the stylish Litter Box Bench.
Best for: Traditional solutions making the best use of space
Benefits:
- Hides the litter box
- Provides kitty with easy access and privacy
- Helps reduce litter box odors
- Easy assembly
- Functional piece of furniture
Disadvantages:
- Pet parents must still scoop the litter box
Rating: 8
Keeping your dog out of your cat’s business
Having both a cat and a dog, or multiples of each, can become a challenging experience. While you expect there to be the occasional mess, you try to avoid troublesome situations. Having a dog that is constantly sniffing out your cat’s poop can become a daily struggle. Instead of being frustrated, consider utilizing a dog-proof litter box, especially a self-cleaning solution like Litter-Robot. It will keep your pooch searching for snacks elsewhere while providing your feline the privacy they deserve.
Finally, help your dog relax with a comfy modern dog crate like the Barrister Dog Crate or Barn Door Dog Crate!
