Hidden Litter Box Solutions for Small Spaces
Living in a small apartment or home with a cat is wonderful, but finding a good spot for the litter box can be a real challenge. No one wants the litter box to be the centerpiece of their living room, but in a compact space, it feels like there are no good options. The good news is that you don’t have to sacrifice your style or precious floor space to keep your cat happy.
With a bit of creativity, you can tuck the litter box away so cleverly that your guests will never even know it’s there. This guide is packed with stylish and practical hidden litter box solutions perfect for small spaces. From furniture that pulls double duty to clever DIY projects, you’ll find the perfect way to keep the litter box out of sight and out of mind.
Why Hide the Litter Box?
Let’s be honest: a litter box isn’t the most attractive piece of decor. Hiding it helps maintain the look and feel of your home, keeping your space tidy and stylish. For your cat, a hidden litter box can provide a sense of privacy and security, which can reduce their stress. A well-placed, enclosed solution also does a better job of containing odors and tracking, making your small space feel fresher and cleaner for everyone.
Furniture That Conceals and Complements
One of the best ways to hide a litter box in a small space is to use multi-functional furniture. These pieces are designed to look like regular home decor while secretly housing a litter box inside. They blend in seamlessly, saving space and solving a major design dilemma.
Litter Box Enclosure Benches
An entryway or hallway bench is a practical piece of furniture, and it can also be the perfect hidden litter box. Many companies now design beautiful benches with a hollow interior and a discreet side opening for your cat. You get a place to sit and put on your shoes, and your cat gets a private, enclosed bathroom. It’s an elegant solution that keeps the litter box completely out of view.
Side Tables and Nightstands
A stylish side table or nightstand can easily be converted into cat-friendly furniture. Look for designs with a cabinet door. You can either remove the door for easy access or cut a small opening in the side or back for your cat to enter. Inside, place a litter pan. This keeps the box hidden next to your sofa or bed, and you still have a surface for a lamp, books, or a plant.
Custom Cabinets and Credenzas
If you have a bit more room, a low-profile cabinet or credenza offers a fantastic hidden litter box solution. Dedicate one section of the cabinet to the litter box, creating an entry point in the side panel. The remaining cabinet space can be used for storing litter, scoops, and other pet supplies. This keeps everything organized in one spot while looking like a chic piece of storage furniture.
Creative DIY Litter Box Ideas
If you enjoy a hands-on project, a DIY hidden litter box can be a fun and affordable way to create a custom solution that fits your space perfectly.
The Ikea Hack
Ikea furniture is famous for its hackability, making it perfect for DIY projects. A simple cabinet like the “SMÅSTAD” or “BESTÅ” can be easily transformed. Build the cabinet according to the instructions, but cut a cat-sized hole in one of the side panels before final assembly. Place the litter pan inside, and you have an instant, modern-looking litter box enclosure that costs very little.
The Storage Tote Solution
For a super simple and budget-friendly option, use a large, opaque plastic storage tote with a lid. Turn the tote on its side and use a box cutter to carefully cut an entrance in what is now the front panel. The high sides of the tote do an excellent job of preventing litter scatter, and the lid keeps odors contained. You can place it in a closet or a discreet corner.
The Plant Stand Disguise
This is a brilliant trick for integrating a litter box into your decor. Find a large, attractive planter that is big enough to hold a small litter pan. Place the pan inside. Then, get a faux plant with a wide base (or create a false top with cardboard) and position it over the opening of the planter. The leaves and branches will help obscure the view, and your cat can slip in and out underneath. It just looks like a lovely piece of greenery in your home.
Smart Placement Strategies
Even with the best enclosure, placement is key. The right spot will be convenient for you to clean, comfortable for your cat, and discreet.
Look for Unused Corners
Every home has an awkward corner or two. These spots, often too small for regular furniture, are prime real estate for a hidden litter box. A corner enclosure can fit snugly into the space, turning an unused area into a functional one.
Under the Stairs or in a Closet
If you have a closet with some floor space to spare, consider dedicating the bottom portion to the litter box. You can install a cat door in the closet door for easy access. The space under a staircase is another often-overlooked area that can be converted into a perfect, out-of-the-way litter den.
Bathroom or Laundry Room
The bathroom and laundry room are natural choices for a litter box, as these areas are already associated with hygiene and are typically out of the main living space. A small litter box enclosure can often fit neatly beside the toilet or under a utility sink.
Living stylishly in a small space with a cat is entirely possible. By using multi-functional cat-friendly furniture or trying a fun DIY litter box project, you can create a solution that keeps your home looking beautiful and your cat feeling secure.
