Self-cleaning litter boxes can make your life a lot easier: less scooping, less odor, and a happier cat. Yet, some users experience frustration, often unnecessarily. That's because there are a few common beginner mistakes you can easily avoid. Below, you'll find the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Wrong cat litter
The first mistake is choosing the wrong litter. Not all automatic litter boxes work with every type of litter. If you use the wrong litter, the cleaning system won't work properly, or at all. Therefore, always check the manufacturer's recommendations. An absolute must when choosing litter: clumping litter. Only then can the automatic systems properly detect and filter feces from the litter box. If you don't use clumping litter, wet spots will remain, the odor will still spread, and your cat will still have dirty paws.
2. Not giving your cat time to adjust
A second mistake is ignoring your cat's habituation. Cats are creatures of habit. If you simply switch from a traditional litter box to an automatic one, your cat might refuse it. A good introduction, for example, by using both litter boxes side by side for a while, prevents a lot of hassle. Let your cat discover at its own pace that this futuristic device is actually quite nice.
3. Forgetting that 'automatic' is not the same as 'maintenance-free'
A self-cleaning litter box isn't a magic bullet that never requires attention. You still need to:
* Empty the waste bag regularly (how often depends on the number of cats),
* Clean the container thoroughly every now and then (consider the smell and hygiene),
* And check whether everything still works as it should.
4. Closing waste bags incorrectly
This may seem like a minor detail, but it happens more often than you think: the waste bag isn't sealed properly, causing odors to escape or the system to malfunction. Make sure you secure and seal the bag correctly.
5. Leave the app alone
Just like Culina litter boxes, many modern automatic litter boxes have a handy app that connects to your self-cleaning litter box. Super convenient, but... you have to use it! Take a moment to install and configure the app correctly; it will save you time and hassle later. The app not only lets you receive notifications about when to empty the litter box or when maintenance is required, but it also provides valuable insights into your cat's health.
For example, the Culina app records:
* Your cat's weight – useful for quickly noticing changes.
* The frequency of toilet visits – ideal for monitoring whether your cat suddenly urinates or poops more or less often.
These are signs that can indicate things like kidney problems, a bladder infection, or other health issues. So you not only get a clean litter box, but also an extra pair of digital eyes on your cat's well-being.
6. Skipping the manual
Yes, we know: manuals aren't the most exciting reading material. But with automatic litter boxes, it's definitely wise to read the instructions. Each model works a little differently, and with a few helpful hints, you can avoid common mistakes. The Culina litter box comes with a clear manual containing all the necessary information. Still have a question? Feel free to contact us.
Common Mistakes When Using Automatic Litter Boxes (and How to Avoid Them)
