How Often Should You Clean a Manual Cat Litter Tray?

The Bothy enclosed self-cleaning litter tray in a studio view.

Direct answer: remove urine and faeces promptly, check the tray at least daily and wash it often enough to keep it clean without leaving a strong chemical residue. The exact full-change schedule depends on the litter and household.

The Bothy enclosed self-cleaning litter tray in a studio view.
The Bothy

Scoop and observe

Use the same routine each day so changes are easier to notice. Top up only to the depth appropriate for the litter and your cat; do not mask a dirty tray with fragrance.

Wash with the cat in mind

Move the cat away while cleaning, ventilate the area and follow the product label. Rinse and dry the tray as directed before refilling; never mix cleaning chemicals.

Keep enough trays available

In a multi-cat home, clean trays at different times so every cat retains an option. A sudden change in urine, faeces or tray use should prompt veterinary advice.

Where furniture helps: The Bothy may support this part of the routine. Check the live product page for current specifications and suitability; furniture does not replace veterinary or behaviour advice.

Sources and further reading