Cat Won't Use Hooded Litter Tray? Fixes That Work
By Ferplast U.K. | Published: 2026-11-01
Category: Tips & Care
Is your cat avoiding the hooded litter tray? Learn the common causes of enclosed litter box issues and practical steps to help your cat accept a covered tray.
Quick answer
Start by removing the hood for a few days and placing the tray exactly where your cat already eliminates. Once they use it reliably, reintroduce the hood gradually and keep the tray spotless.
Why some cats resist a covered tray
Cats are sensitive to enclosed spaces, especially if they feel trapped or if the tray smells strongly. A hooded box can also feel too small for larger cats, and the added cover may trap odours that put them off. If your cat is a senior or has mobility issues, stepping into a deep tray can be uncomfortable.
Before you blame the hood, rule out medical problems. If your cat strains, cries, or urinates outside the tray suddenly, see your vet first. Behavioural fixes won't help a urinary tract issue.
When the tray itself is the problem
If your cat consistently avoids the tray even without the hood, the size or design may be wrong. Most cats prefer a tray that is at least one and a half times their body length, and many dislike deep sides that make entry awkward. A hooded tray with a wide front opening and a carry handle, like the Prima Cabrio, can be easier to clean and reposition, but it still needs to be large enough for your cat to turn around comfortably.
If you've tried a smaller covered tray and your cat still refuses, switch to a larger open tray before investing in another hooded model.
Diagnose and fix: step by step
- Symptom: cat eliminates right next to the tray: Remove the hood and leave the base in the same spot for 48 hours. If your cat uses it immediately, the cover is the issue. Reintroduce the hood only after a week of consistent use, and latch it loosely at first. If the cat still avoids the open tray, the problem is location or litter, not the hood.
- Symptom: cat enters but exits quickly without digging: Switch to a finer, unscented clumping litter and fill the tray to about 3–4 cm deep. Clean solids out at least twice daily; a hooded tray holds odour, so scooping more often is essential. If the cat digs and covers after the litter change, the old litter was the deterrent.
- Symptom: cat only uses the tray when the hood is off: Try a hooded tray with a wide front opening, such as the Prima Cabrio, and leave the flap door off if it has one. Place the tray in a quiet corner away from food and noisy appliances. If your cat still refuses after two weeks with a wide-opening hood, keep the hood off permanently.
- When to stop or choose another option: If your cat is elderly, arthritic, or very large, a hooded tray may never be comfortable. Choose a large open tray with low sides instead. Also stop if you see signs of pain or blood in urine—see your vet before continuing any training.
Product facts
- PRIMA CABRIO: The Prima Cabrio has a wide front hatch and a carry handle. The wide opening makes cleaning quicker, and the handle lets you move the tray to a quieter spot without awkward lifting.
PRIMA CABRIO
