10 Easy DIY Litter Box Ideas for Multiple Cats
If you have more than one cat, you already know the struggle. The litter box situation can quickly turn into a smelly, messy, and stressful part of your daily routine. Cats are picky creatures, and when they share a bathroom, things can get complicated fast.
But here’s the good news: you don’t need to spend a fortune on fancy furniture to fix this. With a little creativity and some basic supplies, you can build smart, stylish, and super functional litter box setups that your cats (and your nose) will love. I’ve rounded up ten of my favorite DIY ideas that have saved my sanity—and my floors. Let’s dig in!
1. The Double-Duty Storage Bin Hideaway
This is my absolute go-to for a two-cat household. Grab a large, clear storage bin with a lid—the kind you use for holiday decorations. Cut a circular hole in the side big enough for your biggest cat to step through comfortably. Sand the edges so they’re smooth and safe.
Flip the lid upside down and snap it onto the base. The lid’s recessed area becomes a perfect catch-all for litter that clings to paws. This keeps everything contained and makes scooping a breeze because you can just pop the top off entirely.
Pro tip: Use a bin that’s at least 18 inches tall. This gives your cats enough privacy while preventing over-the-top spraying. You can even place two bins side by side for a super simple multi-cat station.
2. The Curtain-Covered Table Solution
I love this one because it hides the mess in plain sight. Find a simple wooden table or a sturdy TV stand with a lower shelf. Place your litter boxes underneath—you can fit two or three if they’re the low-profile kind.
Hang a cute shower curtain or a piece of fabric from the table’s edge using clip rings. Use tension rods if the table has no lip. This creates a private “cat cave” that looks like a stylish piece of furniture from the outside.
The best part? You can just push the curtain aside to scoop. It’s not only practical but also hides the smell visually, which is huge when you have guests over. Just make sure the fabric is breathable so the ammonia doesn’t get trapped inside.
3. The DIY Wooden Crate Bench
This one is a bit more of a weekend project, but it’s so worth it. Take two or three wooden wine crates or sturdy fruit crates. Stack them side by side and screw them together for stability. You can paint them or leave them rustic.
Cut a hole in the side of each crate for entry. Place a litter box inside each one. Then, top the whole unit with a piece of plywood cut to size. Add a cushion on top, and you have a functional bench for your mudroom or hallway.
This is perfect for a narrow space. It gives each cat their own private bathroom while giving you extra seating. It’s a great conversation starter, too—nobody will guess what’s hiding inside!
4. The Giant Storage Ottoman
If you’re short on space but need a big litter area, this is the hack for you. Buy a large, flat-topped storage ottoman—the bigger the better. You want one that’s wide enough to fit a jumbo litter box inside.
Cut a hole in the back or the side of the ottoman. Make sure it’s low enough for your cats to step through easily. Place the litter box inside. The lid acts as a perfect hidden entry point for you. Just lift it up, scoop, and close.
This works wonders for multiple cats because you can fit two boxes inside a long ottoman. The thick fabric also does a great job of absorbing odor. Your living room will smell fresh, and your cats will feel like they have a secret clubhouse.
5. The Simple-IKEA-Hack Cabinet
I love an IKEA hack. Grab a simple sideboard or cabinet with doors, like the IKEA Besta or a similar budget brand. Remove the back panel and cut a hole in the side for a cat flap. You can buy a cheap cat door insert to make it look clean.
Place your litter boxes inside. You can fit two or even three if you use the slim, corner-shaped ones. Use a plastic bin as a liner to protect the wood floor of the cabinet from accidents.
The doors make scooping super easy. Just open them up, do your business, and close them. This makes your entryway or hallway look super tidy. It’s a clean, modern look that doesn’t scream “cat house.”
6. The Elevated “Catwalk” Litter Station
If your cats are agile, they’ll love this setup. Build a simple wooden shelf at a height of about 2 to 3 feet off the ground. Make sure it’s wide and deep enough to hold a large litter box securely.
Cut a hole in the top of the litter box or use a top-entry box. This forces your cats to jump up and then hop down inside. This is a game-changer for households with dogs because the dog can’t get to the litter.
It also helps with litter tracking because the cats have to jump, which shakes off the litter before they land. I added a small step stool made of a stack of pavers for my older cat. It’s a cool, modern look that saves floor space.
7. The Two-Box Murphy Cabinet
This is a beautiful solution for a laundry room or bathroom. Find a tall, narrow cabinet. You know, the ones for brooms or cleaning supplies. Remove the shelves and the bottom panel.
Place two litter boxes on the floor inside, side by side. Cut a small hole in the side at the bottom for them to enter. Or, you can simply leave the door slightly ajar with a hook to keep it open just enough for them.
This gives your cats separate boxes that are close together. It’s perfect for cats that like to have options but don’t want to travel far. It keeps everything out of sight and looks like a closet door from the outside.
8. The Repurposed Dresser Drawer
Don’t throw out that old dresser! Take a low dresser and remove the top two drawers. Keep the bottom drawers intact for storage. Place your litter boxes in the empty slots where the drawers used to be.
You can leave the drawers out entirely for an open look, or you can turn the drawer fronts into a swinging door. Attach hinges to the bottom of the drawer front and screw it to the frame so it swings open like a cat door.
This is a great way to add a rustic or farmhouse touch to your home. It makes the litter box look like a built-in feature. And the best part? The wood absorbs a surprising amount of odor compared to plastic.
9. The Extra-Large Storage Tote Duo
For big cats or multiple cats that love to sprawl, this is the easiest one yet. Buy two of those massive 50-gallon plastic storage totes. Cut a large, low entry hole in the front of each one.
Place them side by side. These huge bins are tall enough to prevent spraying and wide enough for even the biggest tomcat to turn around. They are also incredibly easy to clean because you can just hose them out.
I like to put a puppy pad under the litter box inside the tote. This catches any leaks and makes deep cleaning a two-minute job. It’s cheap, functional, and you don’t have to worry about ruining anything expensive.
10. The Under-the-Stairs Cat Closet
If you have a staircase, you probably have a weird, unused triangular space under it. That is prime real estate for a cat bathroom. Use a tension rod and a curtain to close off the space.
Place a few litter boxes inside. Because the space is large, you can fit three or four boxes easily. This is perfect for a multi-cat household where each cat wants its own spot.
You can even add a little shelf inside for them to hang out on. Just make sure the area is well-ventilated. I added a small, battery-operated air purifier at the back, and it keeps the area smelling neutral. It’s the ultimate hidden cat zone.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with multiple cats doesn’t have to mean dealing with a smelly, messy home. With a little bit of effort, you can create a setup that is both functional and stylish. Remember, the goal is to give each cat their own space to feel safe and secure.
Start with the simplest idea that fits your space and skill level. Even a basic storage bin upgrade can make a world of difference. Your cats will be happier, and your floors will thank you. Happy building!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many litter boxes should I have for multiple cats?
A: The general rule of thumb is one box per cat, plus one extra. So, for two cats, you should have three boxes. This prevents competition and gives them options.
Q: Why do my cats stop using a litter box when I add a new one?
A: Cats are creatures of habit. A new box might feel weird to them at first. Try placing the new box next to the old one, and gradually move it to your desired location. Also, make sure it’s clean and unscented.
Q: What is the best material to use for a DIY litter box enclosure?
A: Plastic storage bins are the most durable and easiest to clean. Wood is great for aesthetics but can absorb odors over time. Always use a plastic liner inside any wooden enclosure.
Q: How often should I clean a multi-cat litter box?
A: You should scoop solid waste at least once a day, but twice is better. A full dump and wash should happen every two to three weeks to prevent ammonia buildup.
Q: My DIY enclosure traps the smell. What can I do?
A: Ventilation is key. Cut a larger opening or add a small battery-powered fan to circulate air. You can also place a layer of baking soda under the liner to neutralize odors naturally.
