If you’re asking yourself, “Are hooded cat litter trays good?” – you’re definitely not alone. Choosing the right litter tray is one of those small but surprisingly important decisions that can impact both your cat’s happiness and your home’s cleanliness.
As cat owners ourselves, we’ve tested the top products, spoken to feline behaviourists, and gathered real-world insights to bring you this no-fluff guide to hooded cat litter boxes. Let’s break down the pros, cons, and how to tell if they’re the right fit for your feline friend.
In This Article:
What Is a Hooded Cat Litter Tray?
A hooded cat litter tray (also called a covered or enclosed litter box) is essentially a standard cat litter tray with a lid or “hood” on top. This creates a more private, enclosed space for your cat to do their business – something many felines instinctively prefer.
These trays come in a variety of styles:
- Standard models with removable lids
- Corner trays to save on floor space
- Jumbo-sized boxes for larger cats or multi-cat households
- Odour-filtered trays with built-in carbon filters
- Swing-door designs for added privacy
So, are hooded cat litter trays good? Let’s dive into the details.
The Perks of Hooded Cat Litter Trays
1. More Privacy for Your Cat
Cats are naturally private creatures when it comes to toileting. The enclosed space of a hooded tray gives them a sense of security – especially for shy, anxious, or easily startled cats. If your kitty often sneaks off to quiet corners to do their business, a hooded tray could be a great fit.
It’s a bit like offering them their own little bathroom away from the noise and hustle of the household.
2. Serious Odour Control
One of the top reasons cat owners switch to hooded trays? Smell control.
The covered design helps contain those not-so-pleasant odours that tend to linger with open trays. Many models also come with carbon filters that neutralise bad smells before they drift into your living room.
If you live in a smaller flat or have guests over regularly, this feature alone can make a world of difference.
3. Less Litter on Your Floors
Fed up with litter tracking through the house? Hooded trays can seriously cut down on mess.
The high sides and covered top help trap litter flung around by enthusiastic diggers, meaning you’ll spend less time sweeping up after your cat.
4. A More Discreet Look
Let’s be honest – litter trays aren’t the prettiest part of pet ownership. But hooded trays often look tidier and are easier to blend in with your home decor. Some modern designs even double as furniture or come in stylish colours, making them less of an eyesore.
The Downsides: When a Hooded Tray Isn’t Ideal
1. Not All Cats Love Them
Some cats simply don’t like enclosed spaces, especially if they feel trapped or vulnerable. This can be particularly true for:
- Kittens just learning litter habits
- Senior cats with mobility issues
- Very large cats who need more space to turn around
- Cats with respiratory sensitivities
If your cat hesitates to enter or avoids the box altogether, it could be a sign that an open tray is a better option.
2. A Bit More Work to Clean
While a hooded tray does a great job hiding the mess, it can be slightly more awkward to clean. You’ll usually need to remove the lid to scoop thoroughly, and lower-quality models can have fiddly clips or crevices that trap dirt and smells.
3. Some Designs Are… Not Great
Not all hooded litter boxes are created equal. Watch out for models with:
- Flimsy lids or unstable bases
- Poor seals that let wee leak out
- Thin plastic that absorbs odours over time
- Bad ventilation that traps humidity
It’s worth spending a bit more for a well-built model that lasts.
What to Look for When Buying a Hooded Litter Box
If you’re convinced a hooded tray might be right, here’s what to look for:
✅ Size Matters
Make sure your cat can easily turn around, dig, and squat comfortably. As a rule of thumb, the box should be 1.5x your cat’s length (excluding the tail).
✅ Easy Access
Older cats or kittens may struggle with high entrances or swing doors. Look for low-entry trays or removable flaps if mobility is a concern.
✅ Ventilation & Filters
Opt for models with carbon filters, ventilation grids, or even antimicrobial materials. Just be careful not to overdo scent-masking – cats rely on smell to identify their toilet.
✅ Simple to Clean
Look for quick-release clips, smooth interiors with no awkward corners, and sturdy construction that holds up to regular scrubbing.
Is a Hooded Litter Tray Right for Your Cat?
Here’s a quick guide:
✅ Best For:
- Shy or easily startled cats
- Messy diggers
- Multi-cat homes with high foot traffic
- Cats used to outdoor toileting
❌ Might Not Work For:
- Curious kittens
- Senior cats with arthritis or stiffness
- Giant breeds (like Maine Coons) who need extra space
- Claustrophobic or nervous cats
If you’re unsure, try offering both styles and see which one your cat naturally prefers.
How to Introduce a Hooded Litter Tray the Right Way
Don’t just spring a new litter box on your cat overnight. Here’s a simple 4-step method:
- Place the new tray (without the lid) next to the old one.
- Use the same litter type your cat is already used to.
- Once your cat uses it regularly, add the lid—but leave the door flap off.
- Only add the door flap once your cat is fully confident with the hooded setup.
Watch for signs of reluctance—if your cat starts eliminating outside the box, go back a step and reintroduce slowly.
Top Hooded Litter Trays Worth Trying
🏆 Best All-Rounder
Spacious, sturdy, and easy to clean. The draw with a handle makes scooping & changing painless, and most cats take to it easily. It comes with a mat (to catch litter) & scoop included.
🐱 Best Price:
Generous dimensions, front and top access for your cat, comes with a scoop and drawer for easy scooping. Bargain at just £18.
🎨 Best Design:
Disguise your cats litter tray as a plant pot. Faux Monstera plant, impressive ventilation system and great measurements, this is a great design for owners who want their litter tray to fit in more with the aesthetic of their home.
Final Verdict: Are Hooded Cat Litter Trays Good?
Yes – but only if your cat agrees.
For many households, hooded trays offer real advantages: less mess, better smell control, and a more private loo for your cat. But they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution.
The most important thing is that your cat uses the tray confidently. Their comfort always comes first.
Still wondering “are hooded cat litter trays good?” Try offering both styles, observe your cat’s behaviour, and let them choose their preferred bathroom setup. That’s how you find a solution that truly works—for both of you.
