Adopting or buying a cat is already a very important and sometimes stressful step. But as a new owner, you can get caught up all the different kinds of litter mats that are being produced and advertised nowadays. Maybe you haven’t thought as far as training your cat and you’re completely at a loss.
In today’s article, I’ll summarize the extensive research I have done on the topic. Whether you’re a new or seasoned cat owner, you may already know cats are not the easiest to train. This often results in frustration. The issue is that you might not be well informed about what type of automatic litter box (read more here http://catnapstore.com/automatic-cleaning-litter-box/) to use, or other supplementary products (e.g. training mats) which will control the area around your cat’s box.
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What is a Litter Mat
Take this scenario: you come home from work, go into the bathroom and notice that your cat has kicked all the litter out of the tray, and now you have the pleasure of both stepping on it and cleaning it!
Been there, done that. Whether you’ve been through this scenario in the past or maybe even today, there is light at the end of the tunnel: litter mats. Although some of you might not be bothered by having to clean up cat litter, others might find it a chore, another source of stress. A litter mat is a piece of rubber, PVC, or other material which allows you to place it under your cat’s litter box.
Types of Cat Litter Mats
Among the types of litter mats available on today’s market, you can choose between the following:
PVC Litter Mats
Featuring PVC based mesh, they are cheaper than other mats, coming in unique and quirky designs which can fit your personality or indoor space. The downside is that they can become easily stained or damaged, trapping undesirable smells inside them.
Rubber Litter Mats
This second type is quite effective at locking in unwanted smells, whilst not requiring as much maintenance as the PVC alternatives. Unfortunately, they are not very fashionable, so if you’re not put off by the dark colours they have, than this product might just be for you.
What to Look For
Affordability. Either you’re a first time cat owner or already have a couple of kittens currently cuddling up with you, I’m sure you’ll look for products which you can afford. Read my post about litter box training kittens. Although some companies try to charge an arm and a leg for their special litter mats, don’t get trapped by that idea. Usually the most basic materials, such as the ones mentioned above, do the trick, so there is no need to go all-out for this specific product.
Durability. This point goes hand in hand with the first idea I’ve put across, as despite you not spending a big chunk of your savings, you’re still making an investment which is supposed to last for more than just a couple of days.
Aesthetics. To many of you appearance might not make much of a difference, however other owners might be proud of their surroundings, and want to integrate any new item they bring into their home. If you’re buying something to put it in your house, how would anyone expect you to settle for something that you wouldn’t enjoy looking at?
Water Resistance. Although quite a few litter mats are water resistant, others may not be like that, but if you want a higher quality mat I would recommend going for one that is.
Best Cat Litter Mat 2019
Easyology Premium Cat Litter Mat
Check price and more details here
This stylish cat litter mat comes in a variety of colors, making it easy for any owner to complement their own indoor design. Measuring 35″ by 23″, this is a great option if your cat is a professional litter kicker! Easyology says it traps 37% more cat litter. I’m not sure how accurate this is but it’s pretty effective.
Why Its So Popular:
– Durable, long-lasting PVC material
– 3/8″ thickness
– Large design (35″ by 23″)
– Different colours and styles
Keep In Mind:
– Can sometimes stain
– Traps undesirable smells if not cleaned properly
iPrimio Cat Litter Trapper with Urine and Odor Repellent Plastic Layer
Check price and more details here
This cat litter mat is designed in black, and it’s made so as to have a waterproof layer that prevents urine from soaking in the bottom. Made from a light and easy to handle material, its holes are designed to be extra large. It’s very lightweight with a very smooth and comfortable surface that your cat will love.
Why It’s So Popular:
– Repels urine and odor
– Incorporates extra-large holes where the litter can fall through/easier to clean
– Waterproof
Keep In Mind:
– Smaller design (30” by 23”)
– Foam material and not rubber
Blackhole Cat Litter Mat by Moonshuttle
Check price and more details here
Featuring durable EVA foam rubber, this non-toxic and light mat is not going to put a lot of pressure on you in terms of cleaning. Its special honeycomb design is unique and can really hold little pieces of cat litter. It’s super effective in this way. I love how easy it is to empty with its dual layer design.
Why It’s So Popular:
– Comes in two sizes (standard- 23″ x 21”) or super-size (30″ x 23”)
– Non-toxic and durable material
Keep In Mind:
– More pricey than others
Pawkin Phthalate Free Cat Litter Mat
Check price and more details here
This mat is durable and long-lasting with a special Litter Lock Mesh technology. Additionally, the manufacturers back the product entirely. They have a 100% money back guarantee if you don’t enjoy it so there’s really nothing to lose. Best of all, this mat is really soft and comfortably for your cat to walk on. It’s also super easy to vacuum. Since it’s really tough and hardy, you won’t have to worry about damaging it.
Why It’s So Popular:
– Non-toxic material
– Large design (35″x23″)
– Non-slip backing
– Stylish design
Keep In Mind:
– Sometimes hard to clean due to the wire pattern
Smartcatcher Contemporary Cat Litter Box Mat Bullseye Collection
Check price and more details here
Featuring an attractive and interesting design, this litter mat uses advanced scraper technology for high performance litter trapping.
Why It’s So Popular:
– Claims to trap 72% more litter than regular litter
– The premium vinyl it uses make it 3x stronger
– Non-slip backing
Keep In Mind:
– May absorb unwanted smells
Final Verdict
To sum up, because there are so many different brands in today’s marketplace. I’ve decided to pick the top 5 which I feel really work. As with anything, there is no one-size-fits-all. You need to take into consideration all the factors I mentioned above when choosing a litter mat for your cat.
Happy hunting!
