How to make the best litter box using a storage bin

[@naomiholliday3863]

I made a similar box. I heated a box cutter blade with a candle. Works so much better than the hair dryer. I would sand those sharp edges on the box. Thanks for sharing this great idea.

[@DrSallyJFoote]

you are welcome.

[@amandac3362]

yea im worried about the sharp edges ----how do you sand them? what do you do exactly/more specifically /can you explain how do do that/smooth them out so they don't hurt my cats?

[@zirquera28]

i thought this vid was made in the 80's. lol great vid and awesome help! :)

[@Jyromi]

i though it was from the 50's

[@sallyjfootedvm5371]

@@Jyromi no video in the 1950's

[@Bikedueder]

@@sallyjfootedvm5371 video cassette's began in 1956, but there were film cameras long before that. I was thinking 60's, but not many plastic tubs in flexible plastic. Plastic was more brittle and didn't last as long.

[@teresahaugen3974]

I've been doing this for many years. 2 of my cats insist on backing up to the side of the box and peeing down the side of it. Boxes have to be scrubbed when you have that going on. I use storage totes as they have no seam for the urine to run out. It's a simple fix. The totes are very inexpensive and can be replaced easily. Also I can buy any size tote and since 3 of my cats are very, very large it's a win-win for us

[@pinkvegan77cali65]

The blow drier was genius. It cut so easy.

[@amandac3362]

agreed

[@user-dm1zs3xr5u]

Comparing a used litter box to an unflushed toilet is probably the best thing I've heard in awhile.

[@sallyjfootedvm5371]

yes, that is when clients get it about hygine.

[@amandac3362]

@@sallyjfootedvm5371yea i didnt get it until you said that!

[@carolynclark1995]

I used this idea but used a heating pad to warm up the plastic before cutting. Thank you for the advice.

[@amandac3362]

did that work well?

[@adamy323]

That’s a good idea using the hair dryer

[@ekaterinalexiescanln9105]

This was one of the best ones on KZbin. I have a larger flame point that pees higher on the wall when I don't jump up to get him breakfast. Thank you for posting!

[@amandac3362]

its crazy how they train us-it seems your cat pees on the wall as a reverse training technique so you feed him or her... for example )my one cat just beats up the smaller cat when he wants food and I'm late to give him breakfast or dinner-thats how he reminds me-its terrible bc everytime I break them up and give him food after it reinforced that behavior that beating up the other cat gets me to respond immediately and ultimatatly fed quickly-i started separating them and not just giving them food because i don't want him to associate beating up the other cat with being his way to get me to feed him-but it sadly works and even if i separate them-i know that its happening bc he wants and needs his food so i do feed him and the other cat if not immediately shortly after-it works and i cant even get too mad- i mean i get upset every time -but i don't even blame him because if i was better at feeding him at a consistent time maybe it wouldn't happen ? and they cant use words and rely on us for survival so they're only other option is to try to do various things and see which ones get our attention and then keep doing that when they need something

[@donnah.7346]

I'm still surprised they don't make a cheap litter box that is shaped like a tote. A litter box is always too short with a lid and they can pee over the side under the lid if they want. Totes always have weird groves in the bottom and are never flat like a litter box. It's so annoying I can't find a good size tote that has a flat bottom. I cut a box almost exactly like you did with a tote just like the one you showed. I used an electric hot knife though. It was still difficult. The hair dryer was a great idea. Thanks for trying to help us.

[@Jjangbunbun]

i know i hate the grooves!

[@karengeyer6816]

They do...almost the same size Hooded Litter Pan X-Large however, I don't think the sides were tall enough? So I replaced mine with this storage bin.

[@sallyjfootedvm5371]

yea, I think we can just do the best we can with what is available. with the small amount of litter I find it is not that difficult to scoop around the groves.

[@karengeyer6816]

Well doctor, I did exactly what you recommended and made my Freddie (19-21 yrs ?.) a litter box just like the picture. He has some arthritis in back legs & just takes medicine for hyperthyroidism; (so we do see the vet.). Anyway, Freddie loves the new litter box so much, that he uses it as his new home. I'm guessing he gets out of it when he needs to poop? maybe a little senile? LOL

[@-.-4]

Before starting to cut, drill a few holes especially the corners to get the knife started.😊

[@LogansRun314]

This is great, thanks! To get it to heat faster, cover the lid(as much as you can, at least) while using the blow dryer.

[@donaldstephens11]

You should use "Feline Pine" cat litter (the pellet kind). It's the best cat litter on the market. Eliminates odor like you wouldn't believe. And a little of it goes a long way.

[@ILkaterlyn]

Clear boxes also are helpful to monitor problems.

[@donnah.7346]

If you have a cat that digs at the opening when he's done a clear box is more likely to crack and break. It happened to me. I don't cut into the clear containers anymore. The colored plastic is more flexible. I will use a clear one and let the cat jump over the whole container instead. A cat can jump it no problem. Just make sure if your cat is old, sick or a baby you have one that has an opening like what she shows. It wouldn't hurt to have both kinds just in case.

[@YesLes44]

I know what I am doing today! My cats and I thank you!

[@sallyjfootedvm5371]

you are welcome!

[@loverlyme]

The hair dryer tip is great. I had thought about using a heat gun on the cutting area before cutting just to make the plastic more malleable but a hair dryer would work just as well.

[@gepkadutch6808]

Best litter box ever!!

[@DrSallyJFoote]

absolutely

[@imatvbaby]

Thank you! My kitty is a high pee-er and I hear this was a solution but had no idea how to start.

[@sallyjfootedvm5371]

you are welcome!

[@donaldstephens11]

You should use "Feline Pine" cat litter (the pellet kind). It's the best cat litter on the market. Eliminates odor like you wouldn't believe. And a little of it goes a long way.

[@bettyboop1524]

I use clear storage boxes so my kitties can see what is going on and I would never put a lid on it. Too enclosed and no ventilation or light - just my opinion and what works for us.

[@DrSallyJFoote]

as long as that works for you that is great

[@susiemont697]

Cats actually seem to like a bit of pribacy when going to the loo!

[@Anna-tc6rz]

@@susiemont697 I know I wouldn't want anyone peeking in!

[@mzlww]

Was in this camp until we got out fearful cat. Wish we had the lid, at least in the bedroom one!

[@dreamcatcherjulie1]

i READ CANTS DON'T LIKE A LID IN A BOOK. i WOULD LOVE A LID BUT SINCE i READ THAT YEARS AND YEARS AGO I DO NOT BUY BOXES WITH LIDS FOR THE CATS. i LIKE THE HAIR DRYER IDEA...

[@ltvanburen8555]

Thank you for showing me how to do this with item I already have at home: A hairdryer and a box cutter.

[@ILkaterlyn]

I use large tubs and a pan inside, with wood pellets which easily slip out, I try to change in the morning and at night. I buy aluminum pans from Costco or sams club, or wallpaper trays, which fit very nicely into small garbage bags for emptying.

[@DrSallyJFoote]

Glad this works for your cats. Not many cats like wood pellets - but if yours do fine. Any large tub will do - this is just one commonly accepted litter box design

[@learnjcbskidsterchickensga7594]

Animal shelter in Princeton IL (Friends of Strays) have used it for years......I read about it in Animal Sheltering...I'm told it's a nice wood smell....all my cats use it very well.............ferals as well as domestic.....in the heated barn and in the house..........it's so much cleaner than clay.............to clean up and also , could heat outside greenhouse with the wood pellets perhaps...or burn instead of putting in garbage...

[@scharris99]

@@learnjcbskidsterchickensga7594 Burning cat urine soaked wood pellets? I hope you don't have any neighbors nearby!

[@Magnetis0101]

can also make a cat carrier from one, thought to cut the side faster with the blow dryer in it I'd use a hand soldiering tool to burn the plastic, it will keep the plastic edges from being somewhat sharp to the touch. Thanks for the idea i hope my cats will feel better about using the litter box.

[@DrSallyJFoote]

good points - I have used the soldering tool, but not everyone has one.

[@donnah.7346]

If you use it as a cat carrier you better drill lots of holes in the sides for air. It also won't have a handle on the top. You'd be better off buying a carrier instead.

[@ElvisCat59]

Once again, whenever I see these homemade boxes, with cut outs, no one ever mentions about sanding the cutout itself..We don't want our cats to get cut or irritated walking in, and this hard plastic has to have roughness after being cut out....Please remind people to sand the opening well...Not sure about our five cats using this type of box, but, will consider it..

[@grateful9181]

Marie Weems nail file

[@brayslays2362]

For my cat I use styrofoam to cover up all those dangerous bits that she could get cut on. No super glue or anything.

[@Anna-tc6rz]

@@brayslays2362 a pool noodle would work great,I just used a lighter

[@tropezando]

True. I covered my sharp edges with decorate tape. You could also try a layer of hot glue or melt the edge with a wood burner/soldering iron if, for some reason, you had those and not a file or sandpaper.

[@DrSallyJFoote]

@@tropezando the utility knife with the warmed plastic does not cause any jagged edges. I have made numerous boxes and warming the plastic is the key to smooth edges.

[@Choppini]

Some air vents along/around the top edge of the bin? And maybe a few small holes in the lid for perfect air flow. The opening in the purple one looks like it is just supposed to be there. I cut plastic always with an extremely sharp and narrow paring knife, it lives in my tool box for many years.

[@leanderian]

That wallpaper!!!

[@beegee22]

Good idea. Less pricey than many big litter boxes. If height is an issue why not just leave the top off?

[@terrieross3051]

Also, for those who may not know, EACH cat should have a box. They'll decide who gets which - lol - & they may use each other's but it's important that there is a 1 to 1 ratio. Oh, & not next to each other! (Thought that may not need mentioning but..) 😽

[@DonnaAskins]

This I did not know. Why not next to each other? Thank you.

[@terrieross3051]

Donna Askins. They like their privacy. Seriously. I mean if you don't have enough room, they'll 'live' but preferably not close. I'm no vet but, I know cats too. 😸

[@DonnaAskins]

Many thanks!

[@terrieross3051]

Donna Askins. You're more than welcome 😸

[@barbh6987]

I currently have 5 stainless steel litter boxes for 10 cats. It's fine, just keep them clean.

[@ripley275]

Nice' idea, but only one inch of litter isn't enough. Should have 31/2-4 inches litter, so that when kitty pee's, it clumps before hitting the bottom which will eventually cause the plastic to hold onto the urine smell and permeate the air. Anytime urine or feces get on the bottom or side, should be cleaned with bleach diluted with water, 30-1, thirty parts water, 1 part bleach. I used a clear plastic storage box, cut a hole in the end and left the lid off. Scoop waste at least twice a day, I have 3 cats, and with the generous amount of litter and using the litter Genie, there's no longer any smell, even when standing next to the box.

[@urspendy]

you can set it outside in the sun for an hour or so and then blowdry the wall, its waaay softer

[@tmafi1962]

Can we have the exact size of this box?

[@DrSallyJFoote]

listen to the video - I think the bottom is 16 inches wide by 21 inches long.

[@terrieross3051]

hopefully we can learn from one another... 1) I'm not a vet or Jackson (lil joke 😁) 2) In nature, cats 'go' where they can see around them (use CLEAR containers, quiet area) 3) No lid! They can see more; the odor inside - does that need explaining? Cats in the wild don't go in caves nor in the same spot so give them as much comfort as possible 4) Using less than approx 3" of litter leads cats to dig more than necessary as they're trying to COVER their messes as best they can 5) Clean twice/dy at LEAST! For their HEALTH & comfort (AND yours), if possible.

[@Shahlaa78]

you are SOOOOOO right!!!

[@sallyjfootedvm5371]

I tend to prefer clear yet for some bully cats, they can see the other cat in the box and may body block. It is all a balance of what you can purchase, and what your cats do and like. The biggest benefit is the low opening, the high walls and lots of room.

[@Nyx773]

My cat loves to dig a hole to China. I don’t understand why this video and others recommend only an inch of litter. It then gets sticky

[@evelynaponte7782]

Hole on top to place a round "0D0R ELIMINATOR" or on the side.. For Ragdolls a much longer, taller bin is helpful... also, to mitigate the grooves at the bottom and odor infusing in plastic going to see if I find metal or aluminum (turkey type) pans at the bottom, clear bin with eucalyptus pinned between the metal pan and the plastic bin (on inside) might even give it a really pretty look through a glazed white/clear bin --- hmmm wondering if a thick industrial carpet on top can also double up as a extra scratch post- time to get creative and make one of these really look nice and multifunctional.

[@lydiab823]

Eucalyptus is toxic to cats. I would recommend avoiding its use around your kitts.

[@deborahcarson2654]

Where get purple one?

[@she_sings_delightful_things]

Great idea, but the hole is far too low. One inch of litter is not proper and having the opening so low creates more litter outside of the box....I know because I made that same mistake trying this the 1st time.

[@daniellehuntington0112]

{{{{Ké Bay}}}} I thought the same thing, my cat likes at least 2-3 inches of litter bit he's a big guy too so maybe that has something to do with it.

[@lindateate9011]

I need a very low entry for my senior cat with arthritis

[@garlictyme2472]

I agree. My cat tossed litter out the hole first thing. Should of made it 3.5 inches instead of 3 inches. I'm going to try to sit regular metal litter box inside it later and see if that works. I used a 30 gallon bin.

[@lindastevenson4857]

1 of my cats pee over the side of the regular litter box so I would need a higher hole. So that’s why I’m looking for something different I can use. Something with higher sides

[@joisnor7906]

I know this is an old post, but I'm having issues with one of my cats overshooting the litter box, no matter how big of a box I get. I'd like to try to. I have two cats. Would one of these be enough, or do I have to plan on having two? My space is kind of limited and the cats are tiny (each about 9-10lbs.

[@DrSallyJFoote]

if you clean this out twice daily start there. Please take my course " 5 simple rules for keeping your cat in the box" and be sure you are following the rules for both cats. - handouts, on demand and repeatable content focused on feline behavior and health. www.drsallyjfoote.com/shop/webinar/vet-professional/5-simple-rules-for-keeping-your-cat-in-the-box/

[@sakurakitsunestar]

I have a Maine coon mix who I think is too large for a standard box he keeps having problems and peeing over the side of his going to try this...

[@Ollie7707]

These work great but I would make the opening higher

[@DrSallyJFoote]

if you make it higher, then it is more difficult for the cat to use. keep it low and use less litter

[@Jyromi]

My male cat refuses to go to bed when I turn the lights off and starts meawing very loud so I dragg the litter box inside my room where they sleep and he then surrenders.😹😽

[@emptyaccount2520]

Problem is shape of the bottoms never is conducive to scooping. You can't scoop the little corners. Anyone care to enlighten me how they deal with this?

[@donnah.7346]

I use a heavy duty metal scoop so they don't break. It's still hard to scoop the bottom but I use quite a bit of litter so it helps my cat doesn't dig so far down. I don't cover the box with a lid either so it doesn't matter how much litter is in the box.

[@terrieross3051]

I still think an uncovered (no lid) box! No matter how often you clean, even cats don't like odor.

[@June-rb1nx]

Thanks....! My cat ( 15 months old male, "Mason" ) is pretty particular about having his box cleaned "3-4" times per day. I actually think I am to blame for this. His box is in our main bathroom in the house and I will clean his box 3-4 times per day when I am in there. I issue with the little box I have now is that he will knock off the "extra" plastic around the pan and then scoop out "litter" I think he does this just to mess with me....he never throws feces or clumps of urine out of the box...just loose litter. I have decided to put his new "box" that I am going to make like the one you just showed above on the bottom of a set of built-in shelves in the bathroom ( originally these shelves had a "door" on them, but the previous owner of this house removed the door years ago, to use the shelves for towels etc. Anyway...thanks for the HAIR DRYER TIP.....some people who have made similar boxes have also taken a little piece of sandpaper and softened the "hole" that was cut....although I don't think that would be necessary....I don't think any cat would cut themselves.

[@Shahlaa78]

yes, they can definitely cut themselves , so i think would be necesary. Hope Mason is happy with the new litter box.

[@glavsgirl]

4 times a day? I understand keeping the kitty box clean is important, but it should it consume your life?

[@AngelHeart1971]

This is cheeper than official cat boxes an bigger too. Than you! Home of 11 cats!

[@terrieross3051]

Remember - ONE box PER cat!

[@Wistfu1Stargazer]

I thought that it was suppose to be 'ONE box PER cat, PLUS ONE box!' At least that is what I was told when we adopted our cats back in 2003. Both of those furry sweetie pies are gone now... but they were happy with our efforts, you know? =D

[@glavsgirl]

OK, Terrie. Chill.

[@davidwayne9982]

Every DAY?? HA-- I have 3 and they ALL DEMAND that I do it BEFORE and AFTER each use!!! I'm in there scooping a LOT!! ha. Actually I'm converting to wood pellets in a few days-- when I get all the stuff.. (KILN DRIED pine).. $5.99 for 40 pounds- which with my 3 boys will do about 2 months.. compared to less than 2 weeks with $15.98 clay- that is BAD for them AND ME (I have breathing issues anyway)..

[@lindamorgey6736]

I have done very similar with Woodglut designs.

[@paulathompson4643]

Cats don't like to be in covered boxes, they need to see around them when doing their business.

[@jradrukkuz2778]

Sucks... buy two plastic tubs cut/drill holes in the top tub and cut it in half so you can put it in a second tub with a door in it and now you have an easy sift system instead of this dumb as fuck litter box