In this guide
Maine Coons, Ragdolls, Norwegian Forest Cats and other big cats often end up in boxes that are simply too small. A cat that can’t turn around may perch on the edge, go over the side, or start avoiding the box altogether. Here’s how to size a litter box for a large cat and two extra-large options.
Quick answer: measure your cat and get a box at least 1.5 times its length. The IRIS USA XX-Large (30 x 20 x 14 in) is open-top with high walls and a lower curved entry. The WoofiGo XL (23.62 x 15.75 x 12.01 in) has a stainless steel pan, but it’s shorter, so it suits medium-to-large cats better than the very biggest ones.
The 1.5x rule (and how to measure)#
International Cat Care recommends a tray at least 1.5 times the length of your cat, measured from the nose to the base of the tail. The AAHA/AAFP feline guidelines use the same 1.5x factor but measure to the tip of the tail, which gives a bigger number.
How to apply it:
- Measure your cat while it’s stretched out relaxed, nose to base of tail.
- Multiply by 1.5 for the minimum box length (International Cat Care).
- If you can fit a box sized with the AAHA/AAFP method (including the tail), even better.
For example, a cat measuring 20 in from nose to base of the tail needs a box around 30 in long under the International Cat Care rule.
The AAHA/AAFP guidelines also note that large storage containers can work when commercial boxes are too small.
Other things large cats need#
- Uncovered is usually better. Cornell says most cats prefer uncovered boxes, and a hood makes the usable space even smaller.
- High sides, low entry. Tall walls contain scatter and spraying; a lower entry keeps it easy to step in.
- Stability. A heavy cat jumping in needs a box that won’t slide or tip.
- One box per cat, plus one, in quiet, separate spots.
The boxes we picked#
Quick comparison (data from the listings cited below, checked Oct 19, 2026):
| Box | Size (L x W x H) | Material | Top | Rating at check |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IRIS USA XX-Large | 30 x 20 x 14 in | Plastic | Open, 6.5 in curved entry | 4.6 (4,007) |
| WoofiGo XL | 23.62 x 15.75 x 12.01 in | Stainless steel pan + ABS walls | Open, high sides | 4.6 (4,197) |
Swipe the table sideways to see every column.
Best for very large cats
IRIS USA XX-Large High Sided Cat Litter Box
Who it’s for: very large cats and multi-cat homes with the floor space.
What the listing says (checked Oct 19, 2026):
- 30 x 20 x 14 in (76 x 51 x 36 cm); marketed for breeds like Maine Coons, Ragdolls and Savannahs.
- Open top, with 14 in walls and a 6.5 in curved entrance.
- Smooth interior with minimal crevices for easier cleaning.
- Plastic, 4.3 lb. 4.6 out of 5 from 4,007 ratings at the time we checked.
Heads-up: at 30 in long, this box fits a cat of about 20 in nose-to-tail-base under the 1.5x rule. Measure your floor space first.
Check current price on Amazon Specs at the source
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Stainless steel pan
WoofiGo Stainless Steel Cat Litter Box, XL
Who it’s for: medium-to-large cats, and owners who prefer a metal pan that doesn’t scratch like plastic.
What the listing says (checked Oct 19, 2026):
- 23.62 x 15.75 x 12.01 in; stainless steel pan with an ABS high-wall enclosure attached by buckles.
- Includes a scoop. 4.6 out of 5 from 4,197 ratings at the time we checked.
Heads-up: the listing is inconsistent: one bullet title says “5.98 in high-sided” while the body says 12.01 in, and the spec table classifies it as a “Covered Litter Box” although it’s described as open top. Confirm the entry height before buying for an older cat. At 23.62 in, it fits a cat of about 15.75 in nose-to-tail-base under the 1.5x rule — smaller than many large breeds.
Check current price on Amazon Specs at the source
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Bottom line#
For a large cat, length comes first: aim for at least 1.5x your cat’s length, uncovered, with high sides and an easy entry. The IRIS USA XX-Large is the roomier pick; the WoofiGo XL adds a stainless pan in a smaller footprint. If neither is big enough, a large storage container is a recognized alternative. Odor still depends on the litter and routine — see our guide to the best cat litter for odor control.
Frequently asked questions
How big should a litter box be for a large cat?
At least 1.5 times your cat's length. International Cat Care measures from the nose to the base of the tail; the AAHA/AAFP guidelines measure to the tip of the tail. For a large cat, many commercial boxes are too small.
Is a storage container a good litter box for big cats?
It can be. The AAHA/AAFP guidelines mention large storage containers as an option when commercial boxes are too small. Cut a low, smooth entry and keep the box uncovered.
Covered or uncovered for a large cat?
The Cornell Feline Health Center says most cats prefer uncovered boxes. High sides can contain litter while keeping the top open.
My large cat is older. What should I look for?
A low entry. High walls help with scatter, but an older cat with stiff joints needs an easy way in. Look at entry height, not just wall height.
Sources
- International Cat Care — Choosing a litter tray for your cat
- AAHA/AAFP Feline Life Stage Guidelines — General Litter Box Considerations
- Cornell Feline Health Center — Feline Behavior Problems: House Soiling
- Amazon.com — IRIS USA XX-Large High Sided Cat Litter Box (ASIN B0CVZRYCPW)
- Amazon.com — WoofiGo Stainless Steel Cat Litter Box, XL (ASIN B0C5XR973C)
Links open in a new tab. Specs, availability and prices can change after publication — always check the product page before you buy.