How to Turn a Standard Cabinet into a Kitty Litter Station
Cats make great companions, but the odor and mess of their litter box isn't always ideal. See how we turned a standard laminate cabinet into a kitty station complete with litter box containment, storage and an all-important nap spot.
A Place To Go
Those beautiful bosses that we call cats are just like the rest of us - when they need to go, they need a place to go. If you’re a cat owner, you might think litter boxes are just an unfortunate part of life.
Before
I’m here to tell you that they do not have to be a negative part of your design plan. There are some very creative solutions that will make your guests more comfortable and will make your cat feel like a VIP.
Layout the Design
Start with an inexpensive prefab cabinet. This project works best with a cabinet that has doors that open in the front, for easy cleanup and access to the litter pan. Look for a unit that might also double as an end table or bench. This particular cabinet has two sections. One will be where the kitty can do her business and the other section is where she can clean her feet before stepping back out into the kitchen. Once you’ve chosen your piece, simply disassemble its side door. You’ll now trace out an opening. You’ll want it to be big enough to accommodate your kitty, but no so big that you lose the piece’s sense of privacy and discretion.
Cut the Door
Cut out your opening with an oscillating saw. You’ll want to work slowly and wear safety goggles. To make this particular opening, I'm measuring 10" high and 8" wide.
Tape Off Edges
Heavy electrical or duct tape should be used to finish off the opening’s edges. Not only will it look better, but it will smooth out the entryways edges. Helpful hint: Duct tape comes in a variety of colors. See if there’s one that either matches your piece or would make a good complementing color.
Two-Room Kitty Box
The second chamber is the secret weapon to keeping the kitty litter dust to a minimum. Trim down a carpet square from the dollar store and your kitty will walk on it on her way out, brushing off any dust inside the cabinet and not on the floor. Hanging a few scoopers and sweepers inside will make for some convenient clean up.
The litter box is always going to need to occupy a place in any cat-lover's home, but now that place is pretty. Keeping the litter box enclosed, yet accessible is a design-friendly compromise that will have you and your pet purring in no time. See more of this apartment makeover >>
