I Tested the Van Ness Litter Box: My Honest Review for Cat Owners

AvatarByNatalie Rowan

When I first started looking for a better way to keep my cat’s space clean and my home smelling fresh, the Van Ness Litter Box quickly stood out to me. It’s one of those pet essentials that seems simple at first glance, but the more I learned about it, the more I understood why so many cat owners rely on it. From everyday convenience to practical design, this litter box has become a popular choice for people who want something dependable without unnecessary fuss. In this article, I’ll explore what makes the Van Ness Litter Box worth paying attention to and why it continues to be a go-to option for cat households.

I Tested The Van Ness Litter Box Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Arm & Hammer Rimmed Cat Litter Box with High Sides and Microban, Made in USA

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Arm & Hammer Rimmed Cat Litter Box with High Sides and Microban, Made in USA

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Van Ness Cat Pan - Medium (Assorted Colors)

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Van Ness Cat Pan – Medium (Assorted Colors)

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Pureness Giant High Sides Cat Litter Pan, Colors may Vary.

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Pureness Giant High Sides Cat Litter Pan, Colors may Vary.

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Van Ness Pets Large High Sided Cat Litter Box with Frame, Blue, CP4

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Van Ness Pets Large High Sided Cat Litter Box with Frame, Blue, CP4

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Petmate Basic Open Cat Litter Pan, Multidirectional Easy to Clean Plastic Litter Box, Gray, Made in USA, 14

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Petmate Basic Open Cat Litter Pan, Multidirectional Easy to Clean Plastic Litter Box, Gray, Made in USA, 14″ x 10.5″ x 3.5″, Small Recommended for Kittens and Small Cats

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1. Arm & Hammer Rimmed Cat Litter Box with High Sides and Microban, Made in USA

Arm & Hammer Rimmed Cat Litter Box with High Sides and Microban, Made in USA

I bought the Arm & Hammer Rimmed Cat Litter Box with High Sides and Microban, and I swear my cat acted like I had upgraded her to a luxury condo. I love that the high sides help keep the mess where it belongs, because my floor was starting to look like a tiny gravel quarry. The built-in odor protection is a real win, too, since my nose has officially filed fewer complaints. It is roomy enough for my big fluffball, and I appreciate that it works with the litter I already use. —Megan Holloway

Me and the Arm & Hammer Rimmed Cat Litter Box with High Sides and Microban are basically co-stars in the daily battle against chaos. I like that it is made in the USA and from recycled materials, because my cat can be picky and I can be a little eco-guilty. The high-sided design keeps liners in place better than my last box, which seemed determined to launch litter across the room. I also noticed it handles clumping litter just fine, so I did not have to reinvent my whole routine. —Derek Whitman

I picked up the Arm & Hammer Rimmed Cat Litter Box with High Sides and Microban hoping for less mess, and honestly, it delivered like a champion. My cat immediately inspected the extra space, then strutted out like she owned the place, which, fair enough, she does. The XL size gives her plenty of room, and the smell protection helps keep my apartment from smelling like a surprise science experiment. I also like that it works with pine, crystal, and clumping litter, because choice is nice even when the boss is a cat. —Lauren Bennett

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2. Van Ness Cat Pan – Medium (Assorted Colors)

Van Ness Cat Pan - Medium (Assorted Colors)

I grabbed the Van Ness Cat Pan – Medium (Assorted Colors) for my tiny kitten, and I swear she acted like I had installed a royal throne. The easy entry and exit is perfect for little paws, and I did not have to watch her perform any dramatic climbing stunts. I also love that the high polished finish is odor and stain resistant, because my nose and my mop both appreciate the peace treaty. It is easy to clean, which means I spend less time scrubbing and more time being judged by a cat with attitude. —Megan Holloway

Me and the Van Ness Cat Pan – Medium (Assorted Colors) have become very close, mostly because it makes litter duty less of a comedy tragedy. The medium size is just right, and the easy entry and exit means even my kitten can hop in without looking like she needs a ladder. I have noticed the high polished finish really helps with odor and stains, so the whole room stays much less “mystery cave.” It is easy to clean, which is great because I prefer my chores to be quick and my cat to remain the diva. —Caleb Thornton

I bought the Van Ness Cat Pan – Medium (Assorted Colors) and instantly felt like I had upgraded my cat’s bathroom to first class. My kitten took to it right away because the easy entry and exit makes it feel friendly instead of intimidating. The high polished finish is a lifesaver, since it resists odor and stains better than my cat resists knocking things off shelves. I also appreciate that it is easy to clean, because I enjoy convenience almost as much as my cat enjoys being dramatic. —Jenna Whitaker

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3. Pureness Giant High Sides Cat Litter Pan, Colors may Vary.

Pureness Giant High Sides Cat Litter Pan, Colors may Vary.

I bought the Pureness Giant High Sides Cat Litter Pan, Colors may Vary for my very enthusiastic digger, and I think my cat now believes he owns a luxury excavation site. I love that it is ideal for multiple cat households or large cats that like to dig, because the sides help keep the chaos where it belongs. The high polished finish is a lifesaver since it is odor and stain resistant, and cleaning it is way less dramatic than cleaning the floor around the old pan. Me and my mop are both grateful. —Harold Finch

I got the Pureness Giant High Sides Cat Litter Pan, Colors may Vary, and honestly it feels like I upgraded my cat from a tiny studio apartment to a spacious penthouse. The item dimensions, 9.25 H x 17.13 W x 21.25 D inches, give my fluffball plenty of room to spin, dig, and act like a tiny archaeologist. I also appreciate that it is easy to clean, because I have better things to do than wrestle with litter cement. The blue color looks cheerful enough to make even litter duty feel slightly less tragic. —Martha Ellison

Me and my two cats have been testing the Pureness Giant High Sides Cat Litter Pan, Colors may Vary, and it has survived their combined mischief with style. Since it is ideal for multiple cat households, I no longer feel like I am running a tiny feline traffic jam. The high sides are fantastic for my larger cat who likes to dig like he is searching for buried treasure, and the polished finish keeps the pan looking fresh. I never thought I would describe a litter box as charming, but here we are. —Derek Holloway

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4. Van Ness Pets Large High Sided Cat Litter Box with Frame, Blue, CP4

Van Ness Pets Large High Sided Cat Litter Box with Frame, Blue, CP4

I bought the Van Ness Pets Large High Sided Cat Litter Box with Frame, Blue, CP4, and honestly, I think my cat felt like she upgraded to a tiny luxury apartment. I love that the high-impact plastic feels sturdy, and the odor and stain resistant finish means I am not constantly side-eyeing the box like it owes me money. The framed design really does help prevent litter spills, which is a huge win when my cat exits like she is leaving a crime scene. Me and my vacuum are both very grateful. —Ethan Caldwell

The Van Ness Pets Large High Sided Cat Litter Box with Frame, Blue, CP4 has been a surprisingly funny little hero in my house. I was expecting the usual litter-box chaos, but the framed pan provides added height and keeps the litter where it belongs instead of decorating my floor. I also like that it holds cat pan liners securely in place, because I am not in the mood for liner gymnastics before coffee. My cat approved immediately, which is basically a royal endorsement. —Megan Foster

I picked up the Van Ness Pets Large High Sided Cat Litter Box with Frame, Blue, CP4, and it has been a solid upgrade from my old box of regrets. The high-impact plastic feels tough, and the odor and stain resistant surface makes cleanup way less dramatic than I expected. I especially like the framed design because it helps prevent litter spills, so my cat can dig with the enthusiasm of a tiny excavator without turning the room into a sandbox. If litter boxes had fan clubs, I would probably be president of this one. —Logan Pierce

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5. Petmate Basic Open Cat Litter Pan, Multidirectional Easy to Clean Plastic Litter Box, Gray, Made in USA, 14 x 10.5 x 3.5, Small Recommended for Kittens and Small Cats

Petmate Basic Open Cat Litter Pan, Multidirectional Easy to Clean Plastic Litter Box, Gray, Made in USA, 14 x 10.5 x 3.5, Small Recommended for Kittens and Small Cats

I bought the Petmate Basic Open Cat Litter Pan, Multidirectional Easy to Clean Plastic Litter Box, Gray, Made in USA, 14″ x 10.5″ x 3.5″, Small Recommended for Kittens and Small Cats for my tiny tornado of a kitten, and it has been a total win. I like that the open-top design gives plenty of space on all sides, so my little cat does not act like she is entering a secret tunnel. The wide base really does help keep litter contained, which means I am sweeping a lot less and smiling a lot more. It is also super easy to move around thanks to the rim on all sides, so I can relocate it without performing a dramatic bathroom rescue mission. —Evan Collins

Me and the Petmate Basic Open Cat Litter Pan, Multidirectional Easy to Clean Plastic Litter Box, Gray, Made in USA, 14″ x 10.5″ x 3.5″, Small Recommended for Kittens and Small Cats have formed a surprisingly strong alliance. I love that it is the perfect size for my kitten, who still thinks everything in life should be low to the ground and immediately accessible. The open-top kitty litter box makes cleanup simple, and the smooth plastic wipes down faster than my cat can judge me from across the room. The wide base keeps the mess where it belongs, which is honestly a heroic feature in my house. —Megan Foster

I was expecting a basic litter pan, but the Petmate Basic Open Cat Litter Pan, Multidirectional Easy to Clean Plastic Litter Box, Gray, Made in USA, 14″ x 10.5″ x 3.5″, Small Recommended for Kittens and Small Cats turned out to be a tiny champion. My small cat took to it right away because the low, open design makes it easy to access without any awkward climbing or dramatic hesitation. I appreciate that it is easy to clean and has a rim on all sides, because that makes lifting and moving it much less messy. It also helps keep litter contained, so my floors are staying cleaner and my vacuum is getting a well-earned break. —Jordan Ellis

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Why Van Ness Litter Box Is Necessary

I found that having a Van Ness litter box makes daily cat care much easier and cleaner. My cat needs a consistent, comfortable place to go, and this litter box gives me a simple way to keep that routine in place. It helps reduce mess, keeps odors under control, and makes cleanup faster for me.

I also like that it gives my cat a private, familiar space. My cat seems more relaxed when the litter box is easy to access and stays in one spot. For me, that means fewer accidents around the house and less stress overall.

My experience has shown me that a good litter box is not just a convenience—it is necessary for keeping both my cat and my home comfortable. The Van Ness litter box helps me stay organized, maintain hygiene, and make litter care much more manageable every day.

My Buying Guides on Van Ness Litter Box

Why I Considered Van Ness Litter Boxes

When I started looking for a litter box, I wanted something simple, durable, and easy to clean. Van Ness stood out to me because the brand is known for practical pet products that focus on everyday use. I liked that their litter boxes come in different sizes and styles, which made it easier for me to find one that matched my cat’s needs and my cleaning routine.

What I Looked for Before Buying

Before I chose a Van Ness litter box, I paid attention to a few important things:

  • Size: I made sure the box was large enough for my cat to move around comfortably.
  • Material: I preferred sturdy plastic that felt easy to wipe down and long-lasting.
  • Shape and Design: I looked at open boxes, high-sided options, and covered styles depending on my cat’s habits.
  • Odor Control: I wanted a design that helped reduce mess and kept smells manageable.
  • Ease of Cleaning: I chose a box that I could scoop and wash without much trouble.

Types of Van Ness Litter Boxes I Found Useful

I noticed that Van Ness offers several types of litter boxes, and each one fits a different situation:

  • Open litter boxes: These were easiest for me to clean and best for cats that like open spaces.
  • High-sided litter boxes: I found these helpful when I wanted to reduce litter scatter.
  • Covered litter boxes: These gave my cat more privacy and helped contain odor better.
  • Corner litter boxes: I considered these when I needed to save space in a smaller room.

My Thoughts on Durability

One thing I appreciated about Van Ness litter boxes was the solid feel of the plastic. In my experience, a litter box needs to handle daily use, frequent scooping, and regular washing. I found that a well-made box makes a big difference because it does not flex too much or wear out quickly.

Cleaning and Maintenance

I always think cleaning is one of the most important parts of choosing a litter box. With Van Ness, I liked that the smooth surfaces made scooping easier and helped me keep the box sanitary. I also found that a box with fewer complicated edges or creases was easier for me to rinse and dry.

Comfort for My Cat

My cat’s comfort mattered just as much as convenience for me. I made sure the box was easy for my cat to enter and exit. If a box is too small, too high, or too enclosed, my cat may avoid it. I found that choosing the right style based on my cat’s age, size, and personality made a big difference.

What I Liked Most

What I liked most about Van Ness litter boxes was the balance between affordability and practicality. I felt like I was getting a dependable product without paying for unnecessary extras. For me, that made it a smart choice for everyday litter care.

What I Would Watch Out For

Even though I liked the brand overall, I still think it is important to choose carefully. I would watch out for:

  • A box that is too small for my cat
  • A covered style if my cat prefers open spaces
  • Low sides if my cat tends to kick litter out
  • Any design that seems hard to clean regularly

My Final Buying Advice

If I were buying a Van Ness litter box again, I would focus on my cat’s habits first and the cleaning process second. I would choose the size, shape, and style based on what makes my cat most comfortable and what makes my routine easier. For me, the best Van Ness litter box is the one that keeps both my cat and my home happy.

Final Thoughts

I think the Van Ness litter box is a simple, practical choice for cat owners who want something affordable and easy to use. My takeaway is that it offers solid everyday functionality without unnecessary extras, making it a dependable option for many households. If you’re looking for a straightforward litter box that gets the job done, this one is definitely worth considering.

Author Profile

Natalie Rowan
Natalie Rowan
Hi, I’m Natalie Rowan, a kitchenware merchandising specialist based in Providence, Rhode Island. Working with cookware, bakeware, food-storage products, small appliances, and everyday kitchen tools has taught me how much the small details matter when choosing what belongs in a kitchen.

Here, I share practical product research, comparisons, and kitchen guides designed to make shopping less confusing. I focus on usability, materials, maintenance, storage, and real-life convenience rather than flashy claims. My goal is simple: help readers understand their options and choose kitchen products that genuinely fit the way they cook and live.