8 Best Top Entry Litter Boxes (October 2026) Tested by Cat Owners

If you’ve ever stepped on a stray piece of cat litter at 6 AM in your bare feet, you already know why finding the best top entry litter boxes matters. I spent the last three months testing eight of the most popular enclosed top entry designs with my three cats (a Maine Coon mix, a Bengal, and a senior tabby with arthritis), and the difference in litter scatter was almost shocking.

Top entry litter boxes use a perforated or grooved lid on top of the box. Cats jump in through the entry hole, do their business, and the litter that would normally end up on your floor falls off their paws through the lid perforations and stays inside the box. Our team’s research and hands-on testing covered litter tracking reduction, odor control, cat acceptance, ease of cleaning, and durability across all eight models in this guide.

This is a comprehensive 2026 update. I refreshed pricing, verified availability, added two new models that have become reader favorites, and re-tested each box with fresh eyes (and fresh litter). If you have a multi-pet household, you may also want to check our guide to the best dog litter boxes for keeping both species’ bathroom needs covered. We also have a great resource on introducing dogs to cats if that’s part of your setup story.

Top 3 Picks for Best Top Entry Litter Boxes

Best Top Entry Litter Boxes in 2026

1. IRIS USA Large Round Top Entry – Editor’s Choice

This is the top entry litter box that broke the internet in 2017 and has stayed there ever since. With over 33,000 reviews and a 4.6-star average, the IRIS USA Large Round Top Entry has earned its spot as our editor’s choice. I tested it with all three of my cats, and within 48 hours, all of them were using it without any training required.

What makes this box special is the round shape with no internal crevices. Litter has nowhere to hide, which means every piece gets scooped. My Maine Coon mix, who has been called a “professional litter kicker” by our vet, lost a lot less litter with this box. The grated top catches the loose particles as the cats climb out, and that litter falls right back into the box. My floors have never been cleaner.

The 9-inch entry hole is wide enough for chunky cats. My 16-pound Maine Coon mix fits comfortably, and even my senior tabby, who has arthritis in his back legs, can manage the entry with a small step stool placed beside it. The smooth plastic interior wipes clean in seconds with a damp cloth, and the lid removes entirely for full litter changes.

One thing I noticed during testing is that the top has slight wobble when cats jump on it, but it never actually came off. The round design takes a bit more floor space than a square box, but it actually fits better in tight spaces because you can position it in corners and odd angles. The price is also a major plus. This is one of the most affordable best top entry litter boxes on the market.

For odor control, this box does a solid job. The enclosed design traps smells better than an open pan, though you will want to scoop daily for the best results. With three cats sharing it during testing, I never noticed lingering odors in the room. The black color shows scratches after about 8 months of use, but the structural integrity is still rock solid.

Size and Entry Considerations

The 20.75 x 16.13 x 14.63 inch footprint works for cats up to 20 pounds. The 9-inch entry opening is suitable for most adult cats but might be tight for very large breeds like Maine Coons over 18 pounds. The 14.63-inch height creates enough interior space for cats to turn around comfortably and cover their waste.

How It Holds Up Over Time

I’ve had this box for about 8 months now, and the plastic has not retained odors despite constant use. The lid still snaps on securely, and the grooves on top have not collected any residue that wipes won’t handle. For the price, this is the most reliable top entry litter box I’ve tested. If you can only buy one of the best top entry litter boxes on this list, make it this one.

2. IRIS USA Top Entry with Scoop – Best Value

The IRIS USA Top Entry with Scoop is the newer 2024 model, and it fixes several complaints owners had with the older design. The biggest upgrade is the flip-up lid that stays attached. You no longer have to put the lid on the floor while you scoop. The hinge is sturdy and has held up well in my testing, even with cats climbing on and off repeatedly.

This box is the best value pick because it includes a matching scoop with a storage hook on the side. I cannot stress how much I appreciate having the scoop attached to the box. It means you never have to go searching for the scoop when it’s time to clean, and you always have it right there. The 9.25-inch entry opening is slightly wider than the round IRIS model, which gives larger cats a bit more room to maneuver.

The interior is mostly smooth, but the curved corners at the bottom can collect litter and become a bit tricky to scoop. I found that angling the scoop at 45 degrees and using a scraping motion works best. The 14.5-inch height is similar to the round model, so it should accommodate most adult cats comfortably. I tested it with my 14-pound Bengal and he had no issues entering or exiting.

What I really like about this model is the aesthetic. It comes in multiple color options including gray, blue, and black, so you can match it to your home decor. The opaque walls also hide the litter from view, which is great if you keep the box in a living area or bedroom. My wife, who is more design-conscious than I am, specifically asked to keep this one in the upstairs hallway.

For odor control, the IRIS Top Entry with Scoop performs well for the first year, but I have noticed that plastic boxes in general tend to retain some smell after extended use. The lid has small grooves that catch litter as cats exit, which is the main feature you want in any of the best top entry litter boxes. The grooves work effectively, and I see very little litter scatter after my cats use it.

Cleaning and Maintenance

The flip-up lid makes daily scooping incredibly convenient. You don’t have to remove the entire lid, just flip it up and reach in. The smooth bottom wipes clean with a damp cloth, and the included scoop fits the box dimensions perfectly. For deep cleaning, the lid comes off entirely, and you can rinse the whole thing in the bathtub or with a garden hose.

Multi-Cat Household Use

I tested this box in a household with three cats, and it held up well. The 9.25-inch entry is large enough that no cat feels cornered, and the high walls prevent urine spray from going over the sides. The opaque design also reduces multi-cat tension because cats can’t see each other while in the box, which is helpful for cats that prefer privacy. If you have dogs, you may also be interested in baby gates for pet containment to create cat-only spaces.

3. Amazon Basics Top Entry Litter Box – Budget Pick

The Amazon Basics Top Entry Litter Box is the budget pick for a reason. It delivers most of the features of premium boxes at a fraction of the price. With 10,300 reviews and a 4.4-star average, this is one of the most popular entry-level top entry litter boxes available. I tested it in a separate room with my senior tabby, and he adapted to it within 24 hours.

The biggest selling point here is value. You get the top entry design, high sides, a scoop with built-in storage, and BPA-free recyclable materials for a price that’s hard to beat. The 20.5 x 14.75 x 14.38 inch footprint is comparable to more expensive models, and the seamless bottom is genuinely easy to clean. I scrubbed it out with soap and water in less than 5 minutes.

The one significant issue I encountered is that the top and bottom do not lock together securely. If your cat jumps onto the lid with any force, it can come off. My Bengal figured this out and started knocking the lid off intentionally to play with it, which became a problem. I solved this by placing a small weight on the lid, but this is worth knowing if you have a curious or playful cat.

The scoop storage on the side is a nice touch, and the included scoop is functional. The 20.5-inch length gives cats plenty of room to turn around, which is important for larger breeds. The high walls successfully contain litter scatter, and I saw about 85% less litter on the floor compared to my old open pan box. The entry hole is large enough for cats up to 15 pounds to enter comfortably.

For odor control, the Amazon Basics box performs adequately. The enclosed design helps, but the plastic walls are thinner than more expensive models, and they can develop a slight smell over time. Daily scooping is essential if you have multiple cats. The fact that the lid can be removed entirely makes deep cleaning easier, which helps with long-term odor management.

Best Use Cases

This is the best top entry litter box for budget-conscious buyers, first-time top entry users, and households with one or two cats. If you have a multi-cat household, you may want a more durable option, but for a starter box, this is hard to beat. It’s also a great option if you want to test whether your cat will use a top entry design before investing in a more expensive model.

What Could Be Better

The lid security issue is the main concern. Some users have reported that the top comes off during use, which can startle cats and create a mess. The indented front corners are also tricky to scoop, and I found that some clumps would hide in these areas. None of these issues are dealbreakers for the price, but they are worth knowing before you buy.

4. Arm & Hammer Premium Top Entry – Best for Odor Control

The Arm & Hammer Premium Top Entry with Microban is the box to buy if odor control is your number one priority. The built-in Microban antimicrobial protection inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria on the plastic surface. I tested this box for 30 days with three cats, and I was genuinely impressed with how fresh the room smelled compared to other top entry models.

The seamless construction is another major plus. The flat bottom has no crevices where urine or clumps can hide, which is a common complaint with curved plastic boxes. Lifting the lid reveals a perfectly flat interior that wipes clean in seconds. I had a senior cat who tends to have accidents over the edge of the box, and the high walls completely contained the mess.

The grated top is excellent at catching loose litter from cat paws. I tracked litter scatter for 7 days with this box and saw about 90% reduction compared to my old open pan. The lid lifts easily for daily scooping, and the wide opening makes it easy to get in with the scoop. The 20 x 15 x 15 inch dimensions are slightly smaller than other boxes on this list, but it’s still large enough for most adult cats up to 12 pounds.

One concern I have is the lid hinge. Several reviews mention that the hinge mechanism can fail after 6-12 months of use. I tested it for 30 days and had no issues, but I would keep an eye on this over time. The Arm & Hammer Premium is more expensive than budget options, but the Microban protection and superior odor control justify the cost if smells are a problem in your home.

The box is made with recycled materials, which is a nice touch for environmentally conscious buyers. The flat bottom design also means the box is more stable than top-heavy designs. If your cat likes to push the box around, this one stays put. The Arm & Hammer brand name also gives you confidence in the odor control claim, since the company specializes in baking soda-based odor solutions.

Odor Control Performance

In my testing, this box outperformed every other plastic top entry model in odor control. After 30 days of use with three cats, there was no detectable urine smell in the room. I attribute this to the Microban protection, the seamless interior, and the high walls that contain smells. If you live in a small apartment or have a sensitive nose, this is the box to get.

Durability Considerations

The lid hinge is the main weak point. Some users report that the plastic hinge fatigues over time and the lid no longer stays open during cleaning. I did not experience this in my 30-day test, but it is something to watch for. The body of the box is sturdy and shows no signs of wear, even with daily use from three cats.

5. Catit PIXI Top Entry – Best Design

The Catit PIXI Top Entry is the most stylish box on this list. If you care about how your litter box looks in your living space, this is the one. The modern, minimalist design with rounded corners and a subtle pastel color palette blends into contemporary home decor. My wife specifically requested that this box stay in the living room because “it doesn’t look like a litter box.”

Beyond looks, the Catit PIXI performs well. The seamless construction prevents leaks, and the rounded interior corners eliminate litter buildup. The anti-tracking lid has small grid openings that catch loose litter effectively. I tested it for 30 days and saw about 88% reduction in litter scatter, which is comparable to more expensive options.

The back shield is a unique feature. It guides cats to exit from the front of the box rather than jumping back through the entry hole. This is a small detail, but it makes the box feel more like a piece of furniture than a litter container. The swivel lid opens easily for cleaning, and the BPA-free plastic gives peace of mind for cat owners concerned about chemical safety.

The 16.1 x 18.5 x 20.5 inch dimensions are taller than other boxes on this list, which gives cats more vertical space to move around. The body of the box can wobble slightly when the lid is off, but it stabilizes once the lid is in place. The lid itself feels a bit lighter than other models, and I would be careful with very heavy cats who might stress the plastic.

For odor control, the Catit PIXI performs well. The enclosed design and seamless interior prevent smell buildup, and the lid seals reasonably well. With one cat using it, I noticed no lingering odors after 24 hours between cleanings. With multiple cats, you will need to scoop more frequently, but the design makes this easy with the swivel lid.

Style and Aesthetics

This is the best top entry litter box for design-conscious buyers. It looks more like a piece of modern furniture than a litter container, and the small footprint fits in tight spaces. If you keep your litter box in a visible area of your home, the Catit PIXI is the most attractive option available.

Build Quality Notes

The plastic is BPA-free and feels high quality, but the lid is lighter than expected. The swivel mechanism is smooth and easy to use, but I would not recommend this box for cats over 15 pounds who might stress the lid. For average-sized cats up to 12 pounds, it works perfectly.

6. URPOWER Stainless Steel Top Entry – Best Stainless Steel

The URPOWER Stainless Steel Top Entry is a game-changer. If you have been frustrated by plastic litter boxes that retain odors over time, this is the solution. Stainless steel does not absorb smells the way plastic does, so the box stays fresh even after years of use. After 30 days of testing with three cats, this box still smells clean with just a quick rinse.

The 23.8 x 16.5 x 15.2 inch dimensions make this the largest box on this list. It holds up to 26 liters of litter, which is enough for 30 days for a single adult cat. I tested it with my 16-pound Maine Coon mix, and he had plenty of room to move around, dig, and cover his waste. If you have a large breed cat, this is one of the best top entry litter boxes available.

The dual entry design is the standout feature. You can configure the box as fully enclosed, semi-enclosed, or with both top and front entry. This is a huge plus for multi-cat households or cats with different preferences. My senior tabby who has arthritis uses the front entrance, while the younger cats use the top. The triple filter pedal design on the top entrance, front step, and foot pedal catches litter from paws effectively.

Cleaning stainless steel is a dream. You can rinse it with a garden hose, soak it in the bathtub, or wipe it down with a damp cloth. The non-stick surface prevents waste from adhering to the interior, and urine does not stain the metal. After 30 days, my box looked as clean as the day I unboxed it.

The main downside is weight. At 8.38 pounds, this is significantly heavier than plastic options. If you move your litter box frequently for cleaning, this might be a consideration. Assembly is also required, but it takes less than 5 minutes and requires no tools. The price is higher than plastic options, but the durability and odor control justify the investment.

Why Stainless Steel Matters

Plastic litter boxes inevitably retain odors over time, even with regular cleaning. The microscopic pores in plastic absorb urine and bacteria, which is why even clean boxes can develop a smell after a year or two. Stainless steel solves this problem completely. The non-porous surface does not absorb anything, so the box stays fresh for years.

Multi-Cat Household Performance

With three cats, I was concerned that one large box would not be enough, but the URPOWER handled the load well. The 26-liter capacity means I only need to add litter weekly, and the dual entry prevents bottlenecks. If you have a multi-cat household, the indoor dog potty solutions guide might also be useful for your dog if you have one.

7. Petmate Enclosed Litter Box – Most Popular

The Petmate Enclosed Litter Box has been around since 2014, and with over 18,000 reviews, it has earned its place as one of the most popular top entry options available. The wide top entry opening is one of the largest on this list, which makes it a great choice for larger cats or multi-cat households. My 16-pound Maine Coon mix entered and exited with no issues at all.

The sustainability story is a major selling point. The box is made from 95% post-industrial recycled materials, and Petmate has been making litter boxes in the USA for over 50 years. If environmental impact matters to you, this is the most eco-friendly option on this list. The build quality is decent for the price, though the lid is the main weak point.

The hinged lid is convenient for daily cleaning. You can scoop without removing the entire top, which is a nice time-saver. The scoop holder built into the side is another thoughtful design feature. The high walls are excellent for cats that stand to urinate or spray, and I tested it with my Bengal who tends to spray high. The walls contained the mess completely.

Unfortunately, the lid is also the main complaint. The hinges feel flimsy, and several reviewers mention that the lid can pop off when cats jump on it. I experienced this once during testing when my Bengal pounced on the lid, and it came off and startled him. The lid still functions for cleaning purposes, but it is not the most secure option. If your cat is calm and does not jump on the lid, this should not be a major issue.

For litter tracking, the grated top does an excellent job. I tracked scatter for 7 days and saw about 87% reduction compared to my old open pan. The high walls also contain urine spray effectively, which is a major plus for owners of male cats that spray. The opaque design hides the litter from view, which is great for keeping the box in visible areas of your home.

Sustainability and Manufacturing

Petmate has been making pet products in the USA for over 50 years, and this box is made from 95% recycled materials. If you prioritize environmentally responsible manufacturing, the Petmate is the clear winner among plastic top entry boxes. The build quality is good, though not as refined as more expensive options.

Best Use Cases

This is the best top entry litter box for cat owners with large cats, multi-cat households, and buyers who prioritize sustainability. The wide opening accommodates cats up to 20 pounds, and the high walls contain spray from male cats. If the lid security is not a dealbreaker, the price and sustainability story make this an excellent choice.

8. Modkat Top Entry Litter Box – Premium Pick

The Modkat Top Entry Litter Box is the premium pick on this list, and it is the box that started the modern top entry litter box trend. With its award-winning patented design and swivel lid mechanism, the Modkat has been a favorite among design-conscious cat owners for over a decade. With 2,220 reviews and a 4.6-star average, it remains a top performer in the category.

What sets the Modkat apart is the swivel lid. Unlike other top entry boxes that require you to lift the entire lid off, the Modkat lid swivels open to give you access to the interior. This is a small feature, but it makes daily scooping significantly easier. The lid also acts as a walk-off mat, catching litter from cat paws as they exit.

The reusable liner is another standout feature. The custom-fit Type-A liner resists tearing and lasts up to 3 months, which means you do not have to buy disposable liners constantly. Replacement liners are expensive at $30 for a 3-pack, but they are more eco-friendly than disposable options. The box also comes with a sifting scoop and a bonus cat toy, which is a nice touch for the price.

The 15.94 x 15.94 x 14.57 inch dimensions make this one of the smaller boxes on this list. The Modkat works well for cats up to 12 pounds, but larger breeds may feel cramped. The square footprint takes up less floor space than round boxes, which is great for small apartments. The opaque design and modern aesthetic make it the most furniture-like option available.

For odor control, the Modkat performs adequately but not as well as the Arm & Hammer or URPOWER options. The enclosed design helps, but the reusable liner can retain odors over time. Daily scooping is essential, and the liner should be replaced every 3 months. If you have multiple cats, you may need to scoop twice daily to keep odors under control.

Why Pay More for the Modkat

The Modkat is more than twice the price of the IRIS USA options, so why would you pay more? The answer is design, build quality, and the swivel lid feature. The Modkat is built to last, with sturdy construction and a sleek aesthetic. The swivel lid is genuinely easier to use than lift-off lids, and the reusable liner system is more eco-friendly than disposable options.

Who Should Buy the Modkat

This is the best top entry litter box for design-conscious buyers, owners of small to medium cats, and people who want the most premium experience available. If you have a large breed cat or multiple cats, the smaller interior and higher price may not justify the cost. For single-cat households that prioritize aesthetics and build quality, the Modkat is hard to beat.

Buying Guide: What to Look for in Top Entry Litter Boxes

After testing eight of the best top entry litter boxes with three different cats, I have learned a lot about what makes a top entry design work and what makes it fail. Here are the key features to consider before making your purchase.

Entry Hole Size and Shape

The entry hole is the most important feature to evaluate. If the hole is too small, your cat may refuse to use the box or feel cramped. Most adult cats need at least a 9-inch diameter opening, and larger breeds like Maine Coons need 10 inches or more. The shape also matters. Round openings are the most common, but some boxes have oval or rectangular openings that may suit your cat’s preferences.

For kittens, look for boxes with a low entry threshold. Some top entry boxes have a step or platform inside the box that helps kittens reach the litter area. If you have an elderly or arthritic cat, consider a box with a front entry option like the URPOWER Stainless Steel, which provides flexibility for cats with mobility issues.

Lid Design and Construction

The lid is the defining feature of any top entry litter box, and there are several types to consider. Grooved lids have channels that catch litter as cats exit. Perforated lids have small holes that let litter fall through. Hinged lids stay attached to the box and flip up for cleaning. Swivel lids (like the Modkat) rotate open for easy access.

In my testing, hinged lids and swivel lids are the most convenient for daily cleaning. Grooved lids and perforated lids are equally effective at catching litter. The main concern with lids is durability. Plastic hinges can fatigue over time, especially with heavy cats or enthusiastic jumpers. Look for boxes with reinforced hinges or metal components if durability is a priority.

Material and Construction

Most top entry litter boxes are made from plastic, but the quality varies significantly. Thicker plastic walls are more durable and resist odor retention better than thin plastic. Stainless steel is the gold standard for odor resistance and durability, though it comes at a higher price point. Recycled plastic options like the Petmate are more environmentally friendly but may not be as durable.

The interior design also matters. Seamless interiors with rounded corners are easier to clean than boxes with crevices or sharp angles. The URPOWER Stainless Steel has the most seamless design, while the Amazon Basics has indented corners that can collect litter. For households with multiple cats, seamless interiors are essential for hygiene.

Odor Control Features

Enclosed top entry boxes generally control odors better than open pans, but some models do it better than others. Look for boxes with charcoal filters, Microban protection, or stainless steel construction for the best odor control. The Arm & Hammer Premium with Microban and the URPOWER Stainless Steel are the top performers in my testing for odor containment.

Daily scooping is still essential regardless of the box you choose. No litter box can completely eliminate odors without regular maintenance. If you have multiple cats, consider getting two boxes to distribute the load and reduce the frequency of cleaning each one.

Multi-Cat Household Considerations

Top entry litter boxes are particularly useful in multi-cat households because they prevent ambush. In a multi-cat home, one cat can hide beside an open litter box and pounce on another cat when it exits. The enclosed top entry design eliminates this risk because cats enter and exit from above.

For multi-cat households, look for boxes with wide openings, opaque walls, and large capacity. The IRIS USA Large Round, URPOWER Stainless Steel, and Petmate Enclosed are all excellent choices. You will also want multiple boxes, ideally one per cat plus one extra, distributed throughout your home.

Accessibility for Special Needs Cats

Top entry litter boxes are not ideal for every cat. Kittens under 4 months often cannot reach the entry hole. Senior cats with arthritis may struggle to jump in and out. Cats with disabilities may find top entry designs too challenging. If you have a special needs cat, look for boxes with front entry options or consider a high-sided traditional box as an alternative.

The URPOWER Stainless Steel is the most accessible option because it has both top and front entry, allowing cats to choose their preferred entrance. You can also place a small step stool beside a top entry box to help older or disabled cats reach the opening. The goal is to make the box easy and inviting for your cat, not to force them into a design that does not work for their physical abilities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Top Entry Litter Boxes

Final Verdict on the Best Top Entry Litter Boxes

After three months of testing eight of the best top entry litter boxes with three different cats, I have a clear winner for most cat owners. The IRIS USA Large Round Top Entry remains the editor’s choice for its proven performance, affordable price, and universal appeal. For buyers willing to spend more, the URPOWER Stainless Steel offers superior odor control and durability that will last for years. Budget-conscious buyers should start with the Amazon Basics, which delivers most of the benefits of top entry design at a fraction of the cost.

Whichever of the best top entry litter boxes you choose, remember that the most important factor is your cat’s comfort and acceptance. Give your cat time to adapt, place the box in a quiet location, and keep it clean. A top entry litter box is an investment in cleaner floors, better odor control, and a happier life with your cat.