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Last updated on October 2, 2026
The best top entry cat litter box can help with two common problems: litter tracking and dogs getting into the box. When a cat exits through the top, some of the litter on its paws can fall back into the box before it reaches the floor.
Top entry boxes aren’t the right fit for every cat. Because cats have to jump in and climb out, they may not suit cats that have difficulty jumping or climbing, including some senior or mobility-limited cats. For cats that use the top opening comfortably, a top entry box can be an effective way to reduce tracking.
Quick Picks
Best Overall: IRIS USA Large Top Entry with Litter Catching Lid
Best for Large Cats: WoofiGo Large Top Entry Stainless Steel
Best for Looks: IRIS USA Square Top Entry
Best for Homes With Dogs: Arm & Hammer Premium Top Entry
Best Stainless Steel With Front or Top Entry: KITCATY XXXL Stainless Steel
| Product | Best For | Material | Scoop Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| IRIS USA Large | Most homes | Plastic | Yes |
| WoofiGo Top Entry | Large cats, about 15 in overall | Stainless pan, ABS enclosure | Yes |
| IRIS USA Square | Living areas, small spaces | Plastic | Yes |
| Arm & Hammer Premium | Homes with dogs | Plastic | No |
| KITCATY XXXL | Front or top entry flexibility | Stainless steel | No |
Why Top Entry Litter Boxes Reduce Tracking
The exit path makes the difference. A cat leaving a side-entry box walks straight onto the floor. A cat exiting through the top has to climb up, so some of the litter can fall off before it reaches the floor. Most top entry lids also have a grooved or textured surface that catches more litter as the cat steps across it.
One reviewer estimated roughly 90% less litter on the floor after switching from an open tray to a top entry box.
Who Should Skip a Top Entry Litter Box
Top entry boxes require cats to jump in and climb out. They may not suit cats that have difficulty jumping or climbing, including some senior or mobility-limited cats. If your cat needs an easy step in, see our guide to the best litter box for senior cats or our low entry litter box picks.
Best Overall: IRIS USA Large Top Entry Cat Litter Box with Litter Catching Lid
Why It Stands Out
The tracking evidence is unusually specific. One reviewer estimated roughly 90% less litter on the floor than with her previous open tray, and a follow-up review 18 months later confirmed the same large cat was still using it comfortably. One owner who has used eight different boxes specifically praised this design for avoiding the tray-to-wall seam she’d had with other boxes.
A three-cat household with a vigorous digger reported that the lid stopped virtually all litter scatter.
Possible Downsides
One reviewer noted the opening may feel tight for very large cats. Like any plastic box, it can scratch over time.
Best For
Most cat owners who want a top entry box with well-documented tracking reduction and long-term durability.
Best for Large Cats: WoofiGo Large Top Entry Litter Box for Big Cats
Why It Stands Out
A stainless steel pan sits inside a tall ABS top-entry enclosure, giving you metal where the litter sits and high walls for containment. It stands about 15 inches high overall, and reviewers in two countries credit the design with containing standing and spraying pee. The stainless steel pan resists scratching better than plastic and is less likely to retain lingering odor, and the rounded square corners make scooping easier.
Possible Downsides
At roughly 23.5 by 16 inches, it’s one of the larger boxes here, so measure your available space first.
Best For
Large cats, cats that spray or stand while peeing, and homes where containment and odor resistance matter most.
Best for Looks: IRIS USA Square Top Entry Litter Box
Why It Stands Out
A clean design that blends into a room rather than looking like a standard litter box, and one reviewer bought a second unit just for its appearance. Multiple reviewers say the grooved lid catches enough litter that they no longer use a floor mat.
One reviewer reports that a cat over 20 pounds uses it comfortably, and another uses it in an RV. The four-piece removable design allows thorough cleaning.
Possible Downsides
The compact footprint means less interior space than larger competitors, so it’s not ideal for very large breeds.
Best For
Owners who want a top entry box that looks good in a living area, with strong tracking control in a small footprint. See our guide to the best litter boxes for small bathrooms for more space-saving designs.
Best for Homes With Dogs: Arm & Hammer Premium Top Entry Litter Box
Why It Stands Out
Multiple reviewers say it kept their dogs from getting into the litter, and reviewers report it working for large cats at 13, 17 and 18 pounds. The square sides also give you a straight edge for scraping stuck clumps from the scoop.
The square shape also fits flush against a wall or corner. One owner solved a senior cat’s habit of peeing behind the box by pushing it flush against the wall.
Possible Downsides
No scoop is included, and the filter is an ongoing purchase if you replace it regularly.
Best For
Homes with dogs, large cats, and owners who want square sides for corner placement and easier scooping.
Best Stainless Steel With Front or Top Entry: KITCATY XXXL Stainless Steel Litter Box with Lid
No products found.Why It Stands Out
You can set it up for front or top entry, with a raised footrest and a modular lid that works open, semi-enclosed or fully enclosed. A 25-pound cat is confirmed comfortable using it, and one reviewer says the footrest catches extra litter as cats climb out.
The front-or-top choice is the practical difference. If your cat later finds jumping harder, the same box converts to front entry without replacing it.
Possible Downsides
The large footprint needs more floor space than compact options.
Best For
Owners who want stainless steel with the flexibility of top or front entry.
How to Help Your Cat Adjust to a Top Entry Box
Some cats take to a top entry box right away, while others need time. Keep the old box in place and introduce the new one alongside it, so your cat can explore at its own pace. Keep both available until your cat is using the new box reliably.
Leave the top opening fully accessible during the switch. If your cat still won’t use the new box after giving it a fair chance, a top entry design may simply not suit them. Some cats prefer side-entry boxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are top entry litter boxes good for cats?
For cats that comfortably jump in and climb out, they can work well. The top exit can reduce tracking, especially when the lid has grooves that catch litter from paws. They may not suit cats that have difficulty jumping or climbing.
Do top entry litter boxes really reduce litter tracking?
Often, yes. One reviewer estimated roughly 90% less floor litter after switching from an open tray. Climbing out through the top knocks litter back into the box, and the grooved lid catches what’s left on paws.
Are top entry litter boxes good for keeping dogs out?
They can help. The top opening makes the litter harder for many dogs to reach, and multiple owners of the boxes above report that their dogs stopped getting into the litter. For all manual litter box types, see our best cat litter box guide.
What size top entry litter box do I need?
The opening should be big enough for your cat to get in comfortably, with room to turn around inside. For large breeds, look for a wide opening and a roomy interior. The IRIS USA Large and the WoofiGo are both confirmed for cats over 15 pounds.
Can senior cats use top entry litter boxes?
Some can, but top entry boxes may not suit senior cats that have difficulty jumping or climbing. A box like the KITCATY that converts to front entry is one option. For easier access, see our guide to the best litter box for senior cats.
