Cats are often described as finicky. This may refer to a cat's preference in foods and litter boxes among other things. It is important to give some serious consideration prior to purchasing a litter box for your feline friend. Cats have been known to avoid litter boxes that scare them, are not the right size, or are otherwise unsuitable to their picky litter box tastes. Of course, keeping the litter box, or boxes, clean is the most important factor to keep your cat from toileting in the wrong place, like your expensive carpet or a pile of clothes.

The first thing to decide is how many litter boxes to buy. Cats, like people, prefer to have choices, and this includes where they go to do their business. The general rule is to buy one more litter box for each household cat. So, purchase two boxes for one cat and three boxes for two cats.

The next thing to decide is how big the litter box should be. Cats do not like their litter box to be too small or too large. Try to select a litter box that gives your cat a comfortable space with some extra room to spare. The box should be at least or longer than your cat's measurement from nose tip to the end of their extended tail and at least as wide or wider than your cat's width for best results. Remember to leave enough room for your cat to move around inside the box comfortably. Cats tend to dislike stepping on their previous deposits.

Make sure the litter box is tall enough so that your pet does not kick litter outside the box. Also, if your male cat is a sprayer, buy a higher box. Fill the box with the right amount of litter. Some cats prefer more litter and others will only go with a thinner layer of litter on the bottom. Litter box liners may help cat owners to have an easier time cleaning the box, but many cats dislike the feel of plastic liners and may shred them. If your cat won't use the box, consider taking away the liner.

Some litter boxes come with covers or lids that can help keep litter and smell inside the box. However, some cats dislike covers. The only way to tell is to try both covered and uncovered styles. Many cats are afraid of self-cleaning litter boxes, and cat owners should use caution when introducing this type of litter box. Some cats will not use a litter box that is in an area where there are scary noises, like in a laundry room, close to a furnace, or in far-away dark places such as basements.

Consider your cat's special needs when choosing a litter box and where to place it. For instance, an older cat may need a lower box in a location close to where they spend their time.