DIY litter box from storage container

Using a storage container as a litter box is actually a really smart idea — honestly, many plastic storage boxes make better litter boxes than the ones sold specifically for cats, because most commercial litter boxes are too small. Cats need a tray at least 1.5 times their body length to dig and turn around comfortably, and covered boxes — though tidier for us — often make cats feel trapped and get avoided. Before I point you in the right direction, tell me: how many cats do you have, roughly how big are they, and is there anything going wrong with litter habits right now?

You're not wrong at all — a storage box absolutely can do the same job, and often better. For an average adult cat you're looking at roughly 45–50cm body length, so you want a container at least 65–70cm long internally. The other thing to think about is entry height: too high a lip and older or arthritic cats struggle to get in, too low and litter goes everywhere. What's your current plan — were you going to cut a lower entry into one side, or just use it open-top as is?

An under-bed box is actually a perfect shape — long, wide, and usually pretty shallow sides which is ideal for easy entry. If it's a standard 70-litre under-bed style you're likely looking at around 70–80cm long, which is genuinely better than most £25 litter boxes. The only thing to check is the lip height — aim for around 8–10cm at the entry point. If it's taller, a quick cut with scissors or a craft knife on one short end sorts that in two minutes. That said, if you'd rather just buy something that's already the right size and shape without any DIY, the Catit Jumbo Hooded Cat Pan — used without the hood — is consistently the best value large open tray you can get, around £18–22 on Amazon UK. But genuinely, if your under-bed box fits those dimensions, use it. It'll work just as well.

Yes, it matters quite a bit. Most cats want at least 5–8cm of litter to dig in properly — shallow litter is one of the most common reasons cats start going outside the box. A bigger container actually helps here because you can fill it more generously without litter spilling over the sides every time she digs. If she's a vigorous digger, go for 8cm and you'll notice far less scatter. Clumping litter also makes a big difference — it's easier to scoop, stays fresher longer, and most cats prefer the texture. Worth every penny compared to non-clumping.

Sounds like a solid plan. Measure the internal length and check that lip height — if it clears 65cm long and the sides aren't too tall to step over comfortably, you've already got a better litter box than most people buy off the shelf. Good luck with it.