Cat litter scoops are an essential tool for any pet owner. After all, who wants to clean up a mess of cat feces every day? A good scoop can help make the process more efficient and less smelly.
And let’s be honest – there is nothing glamorous about shopping for a new scoop. You may be thinking, “Come on—it’s just a scoop.” But it’s so much more than that.
A scoop is actually one of the most important tools in your arsenal when dealing with cats and their waste management needs. If you choose the wrong one, it can mean hours spent cleaning up messes instead of cuddling up with your fuzzball for some binge-watching on a Friday night. But don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.
Best Cat Litter Scoops to Consider
Whether it’s odor control or just getting rid of those unsightly clumps, selecting the right litter scooper can make all the difference in keeping your feline companion happy and healthy. But with so many different types and brands to choose from, how do you select which one is best for your needs? Well, here’s the scoop — sorry, we couldn’t resist.
First off, consider what type of material your scooper should be made from. Plastic options tend to be more affordable, but they also may not stand up to regular use over time as well as metal varieties. Metal versions often come in stainless steel or aluminum and will last longer than plastic models making them worth considering if budget allows – plus, their sturdiness means less mess! On top of that, some even have antibacterial coatings on them, which provide an extra layer of protection against bacteria build-up in between cleanings; this could help reduce odors too.
Next, think about handle design: does it fit comfortably into your hand? Is there enough grip on it so that it won’t slip out easily during use? The better ergonomic designs incorporate elements like non-slip grips and contoured shapes specifically designed for comfort while still being able to reach into tight crevices effectively without damaging delicate areas around cats’ paws (or fingers). Look closely at available sizes, too — smaller handles can work better when maneuvering through tighter spaces, whereas larger ones might give easier leverage with bigger chunks.
Finally, take note of any additional features such as sifting screens or integrated dust pans attached directly onto scoops themselves– these additions make the cleaning job much easier by allowing you to scrape away debris quickly before needing to empty whole contents elsewhere later (a real time saver). Additionally, double check product descriptions/reviews online first prior to purchasing since not every model will offer the same level of quality. Or, you can simply look at our picks below.
Petmate Metal Litter Scoop
There are so many brands of litter scoops out there. It’s actually quite ridiculous. If you don’t feel like trudging through page after page of products, just stop here with Petmate’s cat litter scoop. It’s been a mainstay for over 20 years, and with good reason.
This strong but lightweight scoop consists of only one material — aluminum. Believe it or not, aluminum is a strong but lightweight metal durable enough to take on stubborn clumps and caked-in litter. Plus, this scoop won’t rust, even with everyday use.
While the entire scoop is 100% aluminum, the handle is wrapped in a soft ergonomic grip perfectly contoured for your fingers. Your hands won’t slip with this bad boy.
And you know how some scoops shovel up way too much litter? We just want our scoops to pick up the hard clumps and lumps. Well, we found that this scoop sifts through litter surprisingly well.
Pros:
- Waste doesn’t stick and is easy to clean
- Good price considering the quality
- Comfy handle and solid grip
- Durable and built to last
- Large scoop radius
- Rust-free
Cons:
- Scoop may be too large for smaller litterboxes
iPrimio Metal Cat Litter Scoop
Metal scoops purport to be strong and long-lasting. We don’t doubt this, but let’s face it — litter gets sticky. Whether it’s poop or urine, that gunk can cling to your scoop. That’s why we like iPrimio’s metal cat litter scoop. It manages to avoid this sticky predicament.
Chances are you own some non-stick pans. They’re nice, right iPrimio’s scoop uses a similar coating, which should reduce how frequently you have to clean this beauty. And when it comes time for a good scrub, it won’t take much effort. A good rinse will do.
However, one of our favorite features is how this scoop sifts. Clean litter effortlessly pours back into the box due to the well-spaced forks. All that’s left is discarded waste.
Convenience-wise, iPrimio’s scoop also includes a wall hanger. And if you’re wondering if you’ll have to drill yet another hole in your precious drywall, we’re happy to say you don’t. This hanger adheres to the wall with 3M sticky tape.
Pros:
- Non-sticky Teflon coating really works
- Designed to reach edges and corners
- Long, ergonomic handle
- Effortless to clean
- Excellent sifter
- Sturdy
Cons:
- Scooper has some weight to it
Petmate Litter Scoop for Cats
It’s not always worth spending an arm and a leg for a cat litter scoop, especially if you need them for several litter boxes. But does affordable mean cheaply made? Not always. Take Petmate’s scoop, for instance. It may be inexpensive, but we found this scoop to punch above its weight in terms of durability and quality.
The scoop is made primarily from eco-friendly resin. Its wide mouth and generous sift lines ensure you’ll maintain a clean litter box. What’s more, the durable material is also resistant to odors and stains. As far as sizes go, this scoop comes in three — large, giant, and jumbo. We are also pleasantly surprised to learn that Petmate’s scoop is made in the USA, a rarity these days.
There’s nothing revolutionary about Petmate’s cat litter scoop, but as the old saying goes, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” This budget-friendly buy proves there’s no need to reinvent the wheel.
Pros:
- Wide scoop covers a lot of ground
- Sturdy and easy-to-hold handle
- Excellent quality for the price
- Resin is quite powerful
- Very durable
Cons:
- Label is hard to peel off
Sand Dipper Square Cat Scoop
We really don’t like having to get on all fours to clean the litter box. Getting up close and personal with our kitty’s waste is not how we want to spend our time. Plus, it can do a number on the ol’ knees. Thankfully, the dark ages are over because of products like Sand Dipper’s adjustable cat scoop. This innovative tool lets you scoop away while standing — no kneeling required.
The square-shaped scoop uses a meshed design to sift through litter, leaving you only with the discarded clumps. Unlike plastic scoops, this wired material won’t attract static-induced dust.
Of course, the best feature of Sand Dipper’s scoop is its adjustability. It comes in two lengths, 29 and 41 inches. Whichever length you choose, rest assured that these sturdy extensions won’t bend.
There are also two non-adjustable scoop options available if you’d prefer that instead. On top of all that, Sand Dipper offers a comfortable handle with a firm grip. And while it may be made from metal, this scoop is incredibly lightweight.
Pros:
- Easy to adjust
- Works for chicken coops too
- Great option for the elderly and disabled
- Long handle prevents unnecessary bending
- Handle includes a convenient loop for hanging
- Scoop effortless scrapes corners and other hard to reach areas
Cons:
- Scooper’s shovel may be too small for some users
Kitty City Infinity Litter Scoop
Cat litter scoops tend to all look similar to each other. That’s not surprising. But, like most products, there’s always room for innovation. That’s why we were drawn to Kitty City’s Infinity Litter Scoop set.
Let’s start with the scoop. It’s deep, real deep. This thing picks up all sorts of clumps in one fell swoop while effortlessly sifting through clean litter. Moreover, the included storage tray can be used as a waste bin. Also, depending on how your litter box is laid out, this scoop set can hang on one of its four sizes.
If that’s not all, this set also comes with a brush. Our kitties may be cute, but they certainly are messy. Simply sweep all that stray litter into the waste bin and call it a day.
Pros:
- Unique design scoops up a lot of waste
- Doesn’t take up too much space
- Made from thick and sturdy plastic
- Litter doesn’t stick to this scoop
- Comfortable handle
Cons:
- Scoop could have a larger radius
Frequently asked Questions
How often should I use my cat litter scoop?
It is recommended that you use your cat litter scoop at least once a day. This will help to keep the litter box fresh and free from any waste or debris that could potentially harm your pet.
How should I clean my cat litter scoop?
The best way to clean your cat litter scoop is by using a mixture of warm water and soap, scrubbing it with an old toothbrush or similar device, then rinsing it off. You can also use a solution such as diluted bleach for more demanding jobs.
How frequently should I clean my cat litter scoop?
It is recommended that you clean your cat litter scoop at least once a week. If the scope accumulates debris quickly, it may be necessary to clean it more frequently.
Does a cat litter scoop work with all litter types?
Yes and no. Different types of litter may require different sizes or shapes of cat litter scoops in order to effectively eliminate waste and provide a clean environment for your feline friend.
Should I purchase more than one cat litter scoop?
Yes, purchasing more than one cat litter scoop can be helpful for a variety of reasons. If you have multiple cats or share the chore of cleaning out your cat’s litter box with someone else, having another scoop on hand will make it easier to keep the job going without interruption. Additionally, if one becomes lost or damaged over time, you’ll have an extra as backup.
Can I scoop litter while pregnant?
Yes, scooping litter while pregnant is typically considered safe. However, it is best to wear a face mask and gloves when handling cat litter as it may contain Toxoplasma gondii, which can be harmful during pregnancy.
What is Toxoplasma gondii?
Toxoplasma gondii is a single-celled parasite that can infect humans and other animals. It is spread primarily through contact with infected cat feces or by eating undercooked meat from an animal that has been infected. Symptoms of infection are typically mild, but more serious complications may occur in people with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and newborns.
WHY TRUST US
Since 2008, Cattime has served as a leading resource for millions of cat owners and pet lovers alike. Our goal is to give every cat and pet a happy, healthy home by providing owners with all information they need to be the best pet parents possible. Our experts share their insights and recommendations to make caring for your beloved pet a breeze.