Top 25 DIY Cat Litter Box Ideas [Within Budget]

Creating a cat litter box can be both a fun and practical project for pet owners. With a DIY approach, you can customize the litter box to better suit your home decor and your cat’s needs. 

Whether you are looking to save money or want a specific design that you can’t find in stores, there are plenty of creative and easy ideas to explore. 

Let’s dive into it!

DIY Cat Litter Box Ideas

A well-designed cat litter box is essential for maintaining cleanliness and ensuring your cat’s comfort. 

Choose a box that is spacious enough for your cat to move around easily. It’s important to have one with high sides to prevent litter from spilling out. 

Regular cleaning is crucial to reduce odors and promote a healthy environment for both your cat and your home. 

Some litter boxes even come with covers for added privacy, making them a preferred choice for many cat owners.

1. Hidden Litter Box in a Cabinet

One great way to keep your cat’s litter box out of sight is by hiding it inside a cabinet. You can repurpose an old cabinet or buy a new one that fits your style.

Simply cut a hole on the side or back of the cabinet for your cat to enter and exit. Inside, place a litter box tray. 

This setup not only keeps the litter box hidden but also helps contain the mess. You can use the top of the cabinet for storage or decoration. 

It’s a perfect solution if you’re short on space or want to maintain a clean, stylish look in your home.

2. Litter Box Bench

A litter box bench is a multifunctional piece of furniture that provides a discreet place for your cat’s litter box while also serving as a bench. 

You can build one yourself or convert an existing bench by adding a hinged top for easy access. 

Cut an entrance hole on the side or front, and place the litter box inside. This design is perfect for placing in an entryway, hallway, or living room. 

It’s functional, and attractive, and keeps the litter box out of sight, all while providing extra seating or storage space.

3. DIY Litter Box Enclosure with Plant Stand

Combine functionality with style by creating a litter box enclosure that doubles as a plant stand. 

Start with a small cabinet or table that has enough space underneath for a litter box. Cut an entrance hole for your cat, and place the litter box inside. 

On top, you can display potted plants or other decorative items. This idea not only hides the litter box but also adds a touch of greenery to your space. 

It’s a win-win for both you and your cat, providing a private litter area and a stylish addition to your home.

4. Repurposed Dresser Litter Box

Turn an old dresser into a chic litter box enclosure. Remove the bottom drawers and cut an entrance hole on the side or back. 

Line the interior with a waterproof mat and place the litter box inside. The remaining drawers can be used for storage of cat supplies or other items. 

This project not only hides the litter box but also gives new life to an old piece of furniture. It’s a practical and stylish solution that blends seamlessly with your home decor.

5. Ikea Hack Litter Box

Ikea furniture is perfect for DIY projects, including litter box enclosures. One popular hack is using the Ikea Besta cabinet.

Simply cut an entrance hole, line the interior with a waterproof mat, and place the litter box inside. 

The sleek design of the Besta cabinet makes it a perfect addition to any room, and the customizable options allow you to match it to your decor. 

This hack is affordable, stylish, and functional, providing a hidden space for your cat’s litter box.

6. Outdoor Litter Box Shelter

For those with outdoor cats, creating an outdoor litter box shelter is a great idea. Use a weatherproof storage box or build a small wooden shelter. 

Cut an entrance hole and place the litter box inside, ensuring it’s protected from the elements. 

This setup keeps the litter box out of your home while providing a convenient place for your cat to go. It’s ideal for patios, gardens, or any outdoor area where your cat spends time.

7. Litter Box in a Closet

If you have an unused or underutilized closet, consider turning it into a litter box area. 

Install a cat door on the closet door for easy access. Inside, place a litter box on a waterproof mat and add shelves for storing cat supplies. 

This setup keeps the litter box hidden and contained, making it easy to clean and maintain. It’s a great way to make use of extra space and keep your home tidy.

8. DIY Litter Box with Ventilation

Proper ventilation is important for controlling odors in your cat’s litter box area. Build a litter box enclosure with built-in ventilation. 

Use a cabinet or large plastic bin, and install small vents or a computer fan to circulate air. This setup helps reduce odors and keeps the litter box area fresh. 

It’s a practical and effective solution, especially for smaller living spaces where odors can be a concern.

9. Decorative Screen Litter Box

Create a decorative screen to hide your cat’s litter box. Use folding room dividers or build a custom screen with wood or bamboo. 

Place the screen in front of the litter box to conceal it from view. This idea is simple yet effective, and you can choose a screen that complements your decor. 

It’s a versatile and stylish way to hide the litter box while still allowing easy access for your cat.

10. Upcycled Crate Litter Box

Turn a wooden crate into a rustic litter box enclosure. Find a crate large enough to fit a litter box and cut an entrance hole. Line the interior with a waterproof mat and place the litter box inside. 

It is perfect for adding a touch of rustic charm to your home. It’s an affordable and creative way to hide the litter box and keep your space looking neat and tidy.

11. Under-the-Sink Litter Box

Make use of the space under your bathroom or kitchen sink by placing the litter box there. Install a small cat door on the cabinet door for easy access. 

Inside, place the litter box on a waterproof mat. This setup keeps the litter box hidden and contained, and the space is easy to clean. 

It’s a practical solution for keeping the litter box out of sight and making the most of unused space.

12. DIY Litter Box with Sliding Door

Build a litter box enclosure with a sliding door for easy access. Use a cabinet or large plastic bin, and install a sliding door on the front or side. 

This design makes it easy to clean the litter box and adds a modern touch to your home. 

The sliding door keeps the litter box hidden while still allowing your cat to enter and exit comfortably. It’s a stylish and functional solution for any room.

13. Portable Litter Box Enclosure

Create a portable litter box enclosure using a large plastic bin with a lid. Cut an entrance hole on the side and place the litter box inside. 

This setup is perfect for those who travel with their cats or need a temporary litter box solution. 

The bin is easy to clean and transport, making it a convenient option for any situation. It’s a practical and affordable way to keep the litter box contained and out of sight.

14. Litter Box in a Laundry Room

If you have a laundry room, consider placing the litter box there. Install a cat door on the laundry room door for easy access. 

Inside, place the litter box on a waterproof mat and add a small rug to catch any stray litter. 

This setup keeps the litter box hidden and contained, and the laundry room is easy to clean. It’s a great way to make use of extra space and keep your home tidy.

15. DIY Litter Box with Storage

Combine a litter box enclosure with storage by using a storage bench or cabinet. Cut an entrance hole and place the litter box inside.

Use the remaining space for storing cat supplies or other items. This design is perfect for small spaces, as it provides both a hidden litter box and extra storage. 

It’s a practical and stylish solution that helps keep your home organized and clutter-free.

16. Drawer Litter Box Organizer

Transform a large drawer into a functional litter box organizer by removing the front panel and placing a litter box inside. 

This setup not only hides the litter box but also provides ample storage space for litter supplies or cat toys. 

It’s a practical solution for small spaces where every inch counts, keeping the litter area contained and easily accessible for cleaning.

17. Bookshelf Litter Box Cabinet

Convert a tall bookshelf into a discreet litter box cabinet by dedicating a lower shelf to house the litter box. 

This clever setup allows you to utilize higher shelves for books, plants, or decorative items, effectively camouflaging the litter area within your home decor. 

It’s ideal for creating a seamless blend of functionality and style, providing your cat with a private space while maintaining the aesthetic appeal of your living space.

18. DIY Hanging Litter Box

Optimize vertical space with a DIY hanging litter box made from a sturdy basket or container. 

Securely attach it to a wall at a height accessible to your cat, offering a unique solution that saves floor space. 

This innovative design keeps the litter box elevated and out of the way, making it easier to clean and reducing clutter on the floor.

It’s perfect for homes with limited floor space or for creating a cat-friendly environment in unconventional areas.

19. Vintage Suitcase Litter Box 

Give new life to a vintage suitcase by repurposing it into a stylish litter box enclosure. Remove the lid, line the interior with a waterproof mat, and place the litter box inside. 

Add a latch or strap to keep the suitcase closed and secure, blending functionality with a touch of retro charm. 

This upcycled solution not only hides the litter box effectively but also adds a unique decorative element to your home decor, making it a conversation piece.

20. Under-Stairs Litter Box Nook

Make use of the often-underutilized space under a staircase by transforming it into a cozy litter box nook for your cat. 

Install a small cabinet or shelving unit, and place the litter box inside with easy access for your pet. 

This setup keeps the litter area discreetly tucked away while maximizing space efficiency in your home. 

It’s a practical solution that seamlessly integrates into your existing layout, providing your cat with a private and comfortable space for their litter needs.

21. DIY Cat Litter Box Side Table

Create a dual-purpose furniture piece by converting a side table into a hidden litter box enclosure. Choose a table with a spacious interior where you can place the litter box.

Add a cat door on one side for easy access, and use the top surface for decorative items or as an additional storage space.

This design blends seamlessly into your home decor while keeping the litter box discreetly hidden.

22. Hidden Litter Box in a Closet Shelf

Utilize closet space effectively by transforming a closet shelf into a concealed litter box area. Install a cat door on the closet door for cat access. 

Place a litter box lined with a waterproof mat on the shelf, and use additional shelves to store litter supplies or other items. 

This setup keeps the litter box contained and out of sight, making it easy to maintain cleanliness in your home.

23. DIY Litter Box Ottoman

Craft a functional litter box ottoman by repurposing a large storage ottoman. Remove the lid and line the interior with a waterproof mat. 

Place the litter box inside and add a cat door on one side for access. The ottoman doubles as a comfortable seat or footrest while discretely concealing the litter box. 

It’s a space-saving and stylish solution for incorporating a litter box into your living room or bedroom.

24. Floating Shelf Litter Box

Install floating shelves at various heights to create a vertical litter box station. 

Place the litter box on one of the shelves, ensuring easy access for your cat. Use higher shelves for decorative items or plants to camouflage the litter area. 

It will maximize vertical space, keeping the litter box off the floor and maintaining a clutter-free environment in your home.

25. DIY Litter Box Cabinet with Drawer

Customize a cabinet with a built-in drawer to create a practical litter box solution. Remove the drawer front and place the litter box inside the cabinet. 

Install a cat door on the side for access and use the drawer for storing litter supplies or cat toys. 

This design keeps the litter box hidden and organized while providing additional storage space, making it ideal for small apartments or homes with limited space.