Let’s be real: no one wants their litter box front and center. But when you live in a small apartment, your options are… limited. You want something discreet, accessible, and easy to clean—without making your cat feel like they’ve been banished to the worst corner of the house. The good news? With a little creativity, there are plenty of smart, stylish ways to work a litter box into tight quarters.
Let’s break down the best places to put a litter box in a small apartment—along with the spots you should definitely avoid.
What Makes a Good Litter Box Location?
Before we get into where, it helps to understand why certain spots work better than others. Your cat wants privacy, but not isolation. You want convenience, but not an eyesore.
The ideal spot is:
- Quiet, with low foot traffic
- Not too close to food or water bowls
- Easy for your cat to access anytime
- Well-ventilated
- Easy for you to clean
Now let’s look at apartment-friendly places that check those boxes.
1. Inside a Litter Box Enclosure (That Doubles as Furniture)
This is hands-down the most functional and stylish option for small spaces. Litter box furniture disguises the box as something else—like a side table, bench, or cabinet—while still giving your cat the privacy they need.
Best rooms:
- Living room
- Entryway
- Bedroom corner
Bonus: Some even come with odor control features and storage space for extra litter or cleaning tools.
2. Bathroom Corner or Beside the Toilet
If your bathroom has enough floor space, it’s a classic spot. It’s already a place associated with “business,” and the tile makes cleanup easier in case of accidents.
What to check:
- Is there room to comfortably scoop and clean the box?
- Will humidity from showers be an issue? (Leave the door open and use a fan to help.)
Avoid cramming the box into a tight space behind the toilet—it’s harder to clean, and your cat may not like the awkward access.
3. Inside a Closet or Cabinet (With Modifications)
Have a low-traffic closet or cabinet? You can easily convert it into a hidden litter box station. Cut out an entry hole on the side or install a pet door. Just make sure the space is ventilated and that your cat can get in and out without obstacles.
Great for:
- Hallway or utility closets
- Under-sink cabinets (if there’s enough space and airflow)
Tip: Place a litter mat just outside the entrance to reduce tracking.
4. Under a Bench or Window Seat
This is a great use of “dead space.” If you have a bench near a window or at the foot of your bed, you can store the litter box underneath and hang a curtain or use a DIY wood panel to hide it from view.
Works best when:
- The area is quiet and not too drafty
- Your cat can enter and exit easily
- You’re using a high-sided box to prevent scatter
5. Bedroom Corner (With a Divider or Curtain)
Not everyone’s favorite option—but in a one-bedroom or studio, it might be the most practical. If done right, your cat gets a private zone and you keep the box discreet.
How to make it work:
- Use a room divider, small screen, or even a tall plant for visual cover
- Consider a top-entry or covered litter box for better aesthetics
- Clean regularly to avoid any unpleasant odors while sleeping
Spots to Avoid
Some places seem convenient but can actually cause more problems for you and your cat.
❌ Near food or water – Cats won’t eat where they eliminate.
❌ Tight corners with poor airflow – Can lead to odor build-up and discomfort.
❌ Laundry rooms – Washers and dryers make sudden noises that scare cats.
❌ Closed cabinets without ventilation – Traps smells and heat.
❌ Anywhere they need to “work” to access – High shelves, steep steps, or cramped squeezes aren’t ideal.
Wrap-Up: Litter Box Placement Is Design + Strategy
In a small apartment, it’s not just where you put the litter box—it’s how you integrate it. With the right placement and a little creativity, you can keep your space clean, calm, and stylish—while giving your cat exactly what they need.
Looking for litter box furniture that blends into your apartment like it was meant to be there? Browse our curated selection of smart, discreet designs perfect for tight spaces.
