6 Best Cat Litter Mats, Tested and Reviewed for Clean and Tidy Spaces

Dealing with scattered litter around the litter box can be frustrating, but a litter mat can help contain the mess and make cleanup easier. Finding the right litter mat is crucial to ensure it effectively catches litter without disrupting your cat’s routine. Additionally, durability and ease of cleaning are important factors to consider.

The Pieviev Cat Litter Mat is recommended as a top choice. It features a honeycomb grid design that traps and collects litter, making it easy to dispose of or pour back into the litter box. The mat is designed to be durable and gentle on your cat’s paws, providing a comfortable experience for them. Furthermore, it is considered an affordable option, offering good value for its features.

When selecting a litter mat, consider the size and shape of the mat to ensure it fits well with your litter box setup. Look for mats that are made from high-quality materials and are easy to clean. Some mats may have additional features such as waterproofing or anti-slip bottoms, which can be beneficial depending on your specific needs.

Remember to regularly clean the litter mat to maintain its effectiveness in catching litter and reducing tracking. Vacuuming or shaking off the trapped litter is typically sufficient, but some mats may be machine washable for added convenience.

By using a suitable litter mat like the Pieviev Cat Litter Mat, you can minimize the spread of litter, keep your floors cleaner, and provide a more pleasant environment for both you and your cat.

Our top picks:

6 Best Cat Litter Mats

Best Overall – Pieviev Cat Litter Mat

The Pieviev Cat Litter Mat is a highly recommended choice for most litter box configurations. It features an innovative double-layer honeycomb design that effectively captures litter. The top layer allows litter to fall through, while the bottom layer stores it. The two layers can be flexed apart, making it easy to collect the litter and dispose of it in the trash or return it to the litter box.

Made from EVA foam, the same material used in flip-flops and foam clogs, the Pieviev Cat Litter Mat is durable and gentle on your cat’s paws. It is also non-toxic, as it does not contain any phthalates that may interfere with hormone production in humans and animals. The mat’s rubber-like squishiness ensures it can withstand scratching from your cat without getting damaged.

One drawback of the honeycomb construction is that wet messes can sometimes get stuck in the holes between the layers. However, the mat is waterproof, allowing for easy cleaning with a hose or in the sink.

The Pieviev Cat Litter Mat is available in three colors and two sizes, including an extra-large option measuring 30 by 24 inches.

Pros:

• Double-layer design effectively captures litter
• Durable and soft on paws
• Waterproof
• Affordable

Cons:

• Wet messes can be challenging to clean out of the honeycomb grid

Best for Multiple Cats – Cosyearn XL Cat Litter Mat

The Cosyearn Cat Litter Mat XL is specifically designed to accommodate multiple litter boxes, making it ideal for households with multiple cats. With its generous dimensions of 47 by 36 inches, it provides ample space for cats to walk on after using the litter box, effectively capturing more litter particles that may be stuck to their paws.

Featuring a coarse woven pile made from PVC vinyl, the Cosyearn Litter Mat XL has a scrub brush or door mat-like texture. It is resistant to stains and odors, as it doesn’t absorb them. Cleaning the mat is easy and can be done in a sink or with a hose. Most everyday litter spillover can be effectively removed with a vacuum. However, it is worth noting that the mat is not designed to retain water, so liquid may run off onto the floor or even pool beneath the mat.

The Cosyearn XL has a spongy, semi-carpet feel, which may entice your cat to lounge on it even when they’re not using the litter box. It is available in black, brown, and gray color options.

Pros:

• Extra-large size
• Durable construction
• Soft texture for cats’ paws

Cons:

• Liquid may run off onto the floor

Best for Wet Messes – PetFusion ToughGrip Cat Litter Mat

The PetFusion ToughGrip Litter Mat is a cat litter mat that performs well in containing loose litter and is relatively easy to clean. It utilizes long, wavy ridges instead of holes or fibers to capture litter, providing a more open format that is easier to maintain. The mat also features a raised lip around the border, which helps to contain standing liquid to some extent, although the small divots on the mat’s edges may allow some liquid to run off.

Constructed with waterproof silicone material, the ToughGrip Litter Mat is durable and can be easily wiped down or rinsed off for cleaning. It is soft on cats’ paws, ensuring their comfort while using the litter box.

The PetFusion ToughGrip Cat Litter Mat is available in two different sizes.

Pros:

• Durable construction
• Soft texture for cats’ paws
• Waterproof and easy to clean
• Ridges help contain liquid messes

Cons:

• May not be as effective as other designs in dealing with litter
• Still possible for liquid to run off the mat

Best Budget Mat – ANDALUS Cat Litter Mat

The ANDALUS Cat Litter Mat is an affordable option for cat owners, but it does have some limitations to consider. With dimensions of only 15.75 by 11.75 inches, it is a smaller mat that may be suitable for small cats, small spaces, or kittens. While it can provide a landing spot for your cat outside of the litter box, it may not catch as much litter as larger footprint mats.

The ANDALUS Cat Litter Mat is available in various color options, including brown, gray, navy, black, and beige.

Pros:

• Durable construction
• Soft texture for cats’ paws
• Very affordable price

Cons:

• Difficult to clean wet messes out of the mat
• Small size may not be sufficient for catching a significant amount of litter

Best Looking – Mighty Monkey Durable Easy Clean Cat Litter Box Mat

The Mighty Monkey Litter Mat is a cat litter mat that uses a carpet-like synthetic pile to effectively capture litter from your cat’s feet. This unique design gives it an appearance more similar to a rug than a rubbery mat. However, it is worth noting that the pile design can make it slightly more challenging to clean compared to other litter mats.

One of the standout features of the Mighty Monkey Litter Mat is the wide range of color choices it offers. With 13 different color options, including turquoise, forest green, pink, and navy blue, you have a variety of vibrant and stylish choices to match your home decor.

Pros:

• Durable construction
• Soft texture for cats’ paws
• Wide range of 13 color options for customization

Cons:

• The pile design can be tougher to clean than other litter mats

Best Novelty – Moonshuttle Headshaped BlackHole Litter Mat

The Moonshuttle Headshaped BlackHole Litter Mat is a unique and adorable cat litter mat in the shape of a cute little cat head. It utilizes the same effective dual-layer design as our best overall cat litter mat, with honeycomb holes that trap litter in a bottom layer, allowing for easy disposal.

Made from EVA rubber foam, the Headshaped BlackHole Litter Mat is soft, non-toxic, and durable. It provides a comfortable surface for your cat’s paws while effectively preventing them from spreading litter around the house. The mat is also waterproof, adding to its convenience.

One potential downside of this litter mat is its relatively small size and round shape, which might make it easier for your cat to dodge or walk around it, reducing its effectiveness in trapping litter. Additionally, the design may make it more challenging to clean wet messes compared to other litter mats.

Pros:

• Cute and unique cat head design
• Soft texture for cats’ paws
• Waterproof construction
• Dual-layer design for easy cleaning

Cons:

• Design may make cleaning wet messes more difficult
• Relatively small size and round shape

Read Also:4 Best Backpack Cat Carriers,Comfortable and Secure Transport

What to Look for in a Cat Litter Mat

When selecting a cat litter mat, there are several features to consider. Here are some key factors to look for:

1. Size and Coverage: Choose a litter mat that is large enough to accommodate your cat’s litter box and provide sufficient coverage around it. The mat should be able to trap litter effectively and prevent it from spreading onto your floors.
2. Material and Durability: Look for a mat made from durable and easy-to-clean materials. Rubber, silicone, or PVC mats are commonly used because they are waterproof, non-slip, and resistant to damage from scratching or digging. Avoid mats with materials that can easily fray or tear, as they may not withstand regular use.
3. Litter Trapping Capability: The primary purpose of a litter mat is to trap litter particles as your cat exits the litter box. Look for mats with textured surfaces or patterns that can effectively capture and hold the litter. Mats with deep grooves or raised edges are particularly effective in trapping litter and preventing it from scattering.
4. Easy to Clean: Choose a litter mat that is easy to clean and maintain. Mats that are waterproof or have a smooth surface can be easily wiped or rinsed clean. Some mats are even machine washable, which can save time and effort in cleaning.
5. Non-Slip Bottom: Ensure that the mat has a non-slip bottom to keep it in place and prevent it from sliding around when your cat steps on or off it.
6. Odor Control: Look for mats that have built-in odor control features, such as antimicrobial properties or activated charcoal. These can help minimize odor and keep your home smelling fresh.
7. Aesthetics: Consider the appearance of the mat and how well it fits into your home decor. There are various styles, colors, and patterns available, so choose one that complements your personal preferences.
8. User Reviews and Recommendations: Read customer reviews and recommendations to get insights into the performance and durability of the litter mat. Real-life experiences can provide valuable information and help you make an informed decision.

Remember that no litter mat is 100% effective at trapping all litter particles, but selecting a mat with the right features can significantly reduce tracking and make litter cleanup easier.

Why does my cat pee on the litter mat?

There can be several reasons why your cat is peeing on the litter mat instead of inside the litter box. Here are some possible explanations:

1. Litter Box Preference: Cats are creatures of habit and may develop preferences for certain litter box characteristics. If your cat finds the litter mat more appealing than the litter box itself, they may choose to pee on the mat instead. This could be due to factors such as the texture, cleanliness, or location of the mat.
2. Litter Box Issues: Your cat may be avoiding the litter box due to issues with it. It could be that the litter box is dirty, not cleaned frequently enough, or has an unpleasant odor. Cats are generally clean animals and may seek alternative spots, such as the litter mat, if they perceive the litter box as unsanitary.
3. Medical Issues: Urinating outside the litter box can be a sign of underlying medical conditions, such as urinary tract infections, bladder stones, or other urinary disorders. If your cat is consistently peeing on the litter mat or exhibiting other signs of discomfort or changes in behavior, it’s important to have them examined by a veterinarian to rule out any medical issues.
4. Stress or Anxiety: Cats can react to stress or changes in their environment by urinating outside the litter box. Factors such as a new pet, a move, changes in routine, or even the presence of outdoor cats near your home can trigger anxiety in your cat. In such cases, the litter mat may serve as an alternative target for their urination.
5. Territory Marking: Cats may urinate outside the litter box as a form of marking their territory. If they feel threatened or insecure, they may use their urine to assert their presence and mark specific areas, including the litter mat.

To address this issue, consider the following steps:

1. Ensure Cleanliness: Keep the litter box clean and odor-free. Scoop the litter box daily and change the litter regularly to maintain a clean and inviting environment.
2. Provide Multiple Litter Boxes: If you have multiple cats, provide enough litter boxes to accommodate each cat. Cats prefer having options and may avoid using a litter box that is already soiled or occupied by another cat.
3. Identify and Address Stressors: If stress or anxiety is a contributing factor, identify and address the underlying causes. Provide a calm and enriched environment for your cat, with hiding spots, vertical spaces, and interactive toys. Consider using pheromone diffusers or consulting with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist for further guidance.
4. Consult with a Veterinarian: If you suspect a medical issue, consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health problems and receive appropriate treatment if necessary.
5. Modify Litter Mat Placement: Experiment with different mat placements to discourage your cat from using it as a urination spot. Placing the mat closer to the litter box or even removing it temporarily may help redirect your cat’s behavior.

If the issue persists or worsens, it’s advisable to seek professional advice from a veterinarian or an animal behaviorist who can provide personalized guidance based on your cat’s specific situation.

How do you clean a cat litter mat?

Cleaning a cat litter mat is essential to maintain hygiene and prevent odors. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean a cat litter mat effectively:

1. Shake Off or Vacuum: Begin by shaking off the mat outdoors or using a handheld vacuum cleaner to remove loose litter, debris, and fur trapped on the surface. This step helps prevent clogging your sink or drain during washing.
2. Spot Cleaning: If there are any visible stains or spots on the mat, treat them with a pet-friendly stain remover or a mixture of mild soap and water. Gently scrub the affected area with a soft brush or cloth, then rinse thoroughly.
3. Hand Wash or Machine Wash: Check the manufacturer’s instructions to determine if the mat is machine washable. If it is, place it in the washing machine with a mild detergent. Use a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals that could damage the mat. If the mat is not machine washable, proceed with hand washing.
4. Hand Washing: Fill a sink or basin with warm water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Immerse the mat in the soapy water and use a soft brush or cloth to scrub the entire surface, paying attention to any grooves or textured areas where litter may be trapped. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
5. Air Dry: After washing, allow the mat to air dry completely before placing it back in its designated area. Hang it up or lay it flat on a clean surface, preferably in a well-ventilated area. Ensure it is completely dry to prevent mildew or odors.
6. Regular Maintenance: To keep the litter mat clean between washes, it’s helpful to shake it out or vacuum it regularly to remove any loose litter or debris. This helps minimize the amount of dirt and odors that accumulate over time.

Remember to follow the specific care instructions provided by the manufacturer for your cat litter mat, as materials and cleaning recommendations can vary. If in doubt, consult the product packaging or contact the manufacturer for guidance on the best cleaning methods.

By regularly cleaning your cat litter mat, you can maintain a clean and odor-free environment for your cat and your home.