Petmate Large Hooded Litter Pan

October 21, 2010 8:33 pm | By Zootoo Editor CynthiaLo

For a long time I've sworn that the people who designed the common hooded litter box never actually had to clean one on a regular basis. If they had, cat owners would not still be dealing with urine-coated, hard-to-flip latches, or filthy pan and hood lips.

Petmate's high-backed litter pan – featuring a translucent hood that locks in place without latches – might finally be a step in the right direction for the basic box owner on full-time scoop duty.

The pan comes in selection of playful shades – blue, orange, or pink – and is sold in two sizes. The product is made from 25% recycled material and features Microban®, a continuous antimicrobial protection. I chose the “Jumbo,” which measures 21.8" L x 18" W x 18.3" H, to accommodate my jumbo Maine coon tomcat.

For the cats, using this pan must feel a lot like when humans shower behind a frosted glass door. The translucent hood is not too transparent. It allows light into the box, while keeping the cat's modesty intact, and protects surroundings from accidental overspray. The pan also keeps others outside the facilities from suffering from too much information.

When offered a choice of two identically-sized, hooded litter pans, my cats opted for the translucent-hooded twice as often. I base this finding on the impressive amount of evidence left in the Petmate facility every day. The hood's no-latch lock is sited a few inches higher than ordinary latches and I am thrilled to say mine has yet to be hit by urine.

This litter pan is an inexpensive bathroom makeover that will cheer up both cats and the people who clean up after them.

Pros: Inexpensive but effective; prevents accidental overspray; creates a light-filled but private environment.

Cons: None.