Is an Automatic Litter Tray Right for My Cat?

While seemingly convenient, automatic cat litter trays can pose safety risks and may not be suitable for all cats. Some models even have a history of causing harm or death. 
Here's a breakdown of why you might reconsider buying one:

Safety Concerns:

Cat Entrapment/Crushing:
Some automatic litter tray designs, particularly those with a rotating mechanism or a door that closes, can trap or crush cats if the sensors malfunction or fail to detect their presence. A Reddit user describes a specific model that has caused harm or death to cats

Poor Sensor Function:
Sensors may not reliably detect a cat's presence or location, allowing the tray to operate while the cat is inside, potentially causing harm.

Design Flaws:
Some designs, like those with a ball that spins upwards to clean, have been linked to incidents where cats have been caught in the entryway and injured or killed. 

Other Issues:

Health Concerns: 
The cat owner will not be able to correctly monitor the cat’s urination and defecation daily. This can lead to life-threatening health issues.

Litter tray Avoidance:
Some cats may become fearful of the sounds, movements, or appearance of an automatic litter tray, leading them to avoid it altogether. 

Odour Control:
While designed to clean, automatic litter trays may not effectively eliminate odours, especially if the litter itself is not odour-controlling or if the waste is stored for extended periods. 

Maintenance:
Automatic litter trays can be more complex to clean and maintain than traditional ones, requiring regular cleaning of the mechanism and sensors. 

Cost:
Automatic litter trays are often more expensive than traditional ones, and the cost of replacement parts or repairs can add up. 

Not for all cats:
Some cats may not be comfortable with the automatic features and may not use the litter tray at all.