16 Affordable Hidden Cat Box Projects Under $100
Let’s be real—cat litter boxes are necessary, but they’re rarely pretty. I’ve spent years trying to hide that plastic box in plain sight without spending a fortune. The good news? You don’t need fancy carpentry or a big budget to create a stylish solution. I’ve rounded up 16 hidden cat box projects that cost under $100, and many of them use items you might already have at home.
These are all doable in a weekend, with simple tools and a little creativity. Whether you rent or own, there’s an idea here that will blend in with your decor and keep your cat happy. Let’s dive into the most clutter-free, wallet-friendly builds I’ve found.
1. Repurposed End Table with a Hidden Door
Find an old end table at a thrift store or garage sale for under $20. Remove the back panel and cut a cat-sized entrance on one side. Add a simple curtain or a hinged door on the front for access. The top still works as a side table for a lamp or plants.
You can paint it to match your room. If you want extra privacy, attach a small latch to keep the door closed but not locked. Your cat will love the dark, cozy space inside.
2. IKEA Cabinet Hack
An IKEA Kallax or Besta unit can become a litter box hideaway. Remove one of the lower shelves and cut a hole in the side or back for your cat. Use a tension rod and a cute curtain to cover the opening.
Keep the top shelves for storage or decor. This whole project costs under $70 if you buy the cabinet used. It’s one of the most popular hidden cat box ideas because it blends right into your furniture.
3. Storage Bench with a Secret Compartment
A basic storage bench from a big box store works perfectly. Just place the litter box inside and cut a small entrance on one side. The lid lifts for easy cleaning, and the bench provides extra seating or storage.
Look for a bench that’s at least 18 inches tall so your cat has room. You can add a cushion on top for a cozy reading nook. Total cost is usually around $80 if you buy new, less if you find one secondhand.
4. DIY Pallet Wood Enclosure
If you have access to free pallets, this project is nearly free. Dismantle the pallets and build a simple box with a hinged top or front. Leave a cat-sized opening on one side. Sand it down and add a coat of paint or stain.
Pallets give a rustic, farmhouse look that’s very Pinterest-friendly. You can also add a small plant on top. Just make sure the wood is untreated and safe for pets.
5. Curtained Console Table
Take a narrow console table and drape a fabric curtain across the front. Use command hooks or a tension rod to hold the fabric. The litter box sits underneath, completely out of sight.
Choose a fabric that complements your room. This is one of the quickest projects—no cutting or drilling required. It costs under $40 if you already have the table.
6. Upcycled Dresser Transformation
An old dresser with drawers can become a cat box cabinet. Remove one or two lower drawers and cut a hole in the back or side. The top drawers still work for storage. Paint or refinish the dresser to match your decor.
You can also leave the drawer fronts attached and just open them for cleaning. This gives a very clean, furniture-like look. Total cost is usually under $50 for the dresser and supplies.
7. Fake Plant Box with a Secret Opening
Build a simple wooden box with a hinged lid. Cut a cat door on one side, then place a large fake plant or a few small pots on top. The plant hides the box while the lid lifts for scooping.
Use birch plywood for a clean, modern look. This project costs about $60 in materials. It’s great for small spaces because the plant adds greenery without taking extra floor space.
8. Laundry Basket Hideaway
Take a large, tall laundry basket (the kind with solid sides) and cut a cat-sized entrance near the bottom. Place the litter box inside. The basket hides everything and has handles for easy moving.
You can cover the basket with fabric or leave it as is. This is a super cheap option—under $20. It’s also lightweight and portable, perfect for renters.
9. Bookshelf with a Cat Cave
Convert a small bookshelf by removing one or two shelves to create a tall cubby. Cut a hole in the back or side for entry. The remaining shelves hold books, plants, or decor.
Paint the inside of the cubby a dark color to make it feel like a cave. This project blends storage and functionality. A used bookshelf can be found for under $30.
10. DIY Crate Tower
Stack wooden crates (like milk crates or wine crates) in a tower. Use one crate at the bottom for the litter box, with its opening facing out. Stack other crates on top for storage or cat toys. Secure them together with screws or zip ties.
Paint or stain the crates to match your room. This is a modular, customizable project. Crates are often free or very cheap, making this a $20 project.
11. Fabric-Covered Cardboard Box
Use a large, sturdy cardboard box (like from a TV or appliance). Cut a cat entrance and cover the outside with fabric or decorative paper. Use adhesive spray or glue to keep it smooth.
You can also add a lid for easy cleaning. This is a temporary but very cheap solution—under $10 if you have the box. It’s great for kittens or as a quick fix.
12. Nightstand with a Cutout
Find a small nightstand with doors or a drawer. Remove the drawer and cut a hole in the back for the cat. The door hides the litter box, and the top holds a lamp or alarm clock.
This works well in bedrooms or small apartments. Look for a nightstand with a solid front so the smell stays contained. Cost is usually under $40 at a thrift store.
13. Simple Plywood Cabinet
Build a basic cabinet from a single sheet of plywood. Make it tall enough for the litter box and a shelf above for storage. Add a door with a cat flap or a curtain. Paint it to match your walls.
This project requires some basic sawing and assembly, but it’s very affordable—around $50 for plywood and hardware. It’s a custom piece that fits your exact space.
14. Woven Basket Hideaway
Get a large, round woven basket (like a laundry hamper) with a lid. Cut a cat-sized opening on the side. Place the litter box inside and close the lid. The basket looks like decor, not a litter box.
Choose a basket with a tight weave so litter stays inside. This is a stylish, boho-friendly option. Cost is typically under $40 for a good-sized basket.
15. Repurposed TV Console
Old TV consoles have deep, open compartments perfect for hiding a litter box. Remove the back panel and cut a cat entrance. The doors close to hide everything. Use the top for a TV or decor.
These consoles are often available for free or cheap on marketplace sites. With a little paint, it becomes a vintage-style piece. Total cost under $30.
16. DIY Fabric Tube Tunnel
Build a simple wooden frame and cover it with fabric to create a long tunnel that ends in a hidden box. The tunnel acts as a decorative element, and the box holds the litter. This is great for cats who like privacy.
Use PVC pipes or wood for the frame and stretch fabric over it. This project costs about $60 and looks like a piece of modern art. It also helps contain tracking.
Conclusion
Hiding your cat’s litter box doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. With a little creativity and some basic materials, you can create a solution that fits your home and your budget. Most of these projects take just a few hours and cost well under $100. Your cat will appreciate the privacy, and you’ll love the clean look. Pick one that matches your style and get started this weekend.
FAQ
1. Can I use these projects for multiple cats?
Absolutely. For multiple cats, you’ll need a larger enclosure or multiple boxes. Just scale up the size of your project. For example, use a larger cabinet or bench to fit two boxes side by side.
2. How do I keep the smell contained in hidden boxes?
Use a good quality litter and scoop daily. Add a small carbon filter or a baking soda box inside the enclosure. Ensure there’s some ventilation, like a small gap or a vent hole, so air circulates.
3. Will my cat use a hidden litter box?
Most cats adapt quickly. Place the box in a quiet, low-traffic area. Keep the entrance clear and make sure your cat can easily get in and out. If your cat hesitates, leave the door open for a few days.
4. Are these projects safe for kittens?
Yes, but make sure the entrance is small enough that kittens can’t get stuck. Avoid sharp edges or loose parts. For young kittens, use a simple cardboard box cover until they grow bigger.
5. How do I clean the hidden box easily?
Design your project with easy access in mind. A hinged top, a lift-off lid, or a removable front makes scooping simple. Some projects even allow you to pull out the entire litter box for deep cleaning.
