How to Make Litter Boxes for Pet Carriers

A litter tray or litter box will be needed for your pet carrier if you are planning on transporting your pet any distance. This will encourage your pet—typically a cat or rabbit, to use the litter box rather than using the pet carrier itself. It will give you pet a sense of security and familiarity when traveling. It will also be easier for you to clean out during or at the end of the journey.

 Step 1 - Cutting the Cardboard

To make the litter box itself you will first need to cut the cardboard. A simple box template can be found on the internet. Make sure that the sides of the box are shallow enough for your pet to step over. However, you should not cut an entrance into the litter box, or with the slightest motion, the litter will spill out into the main pet carrier. Use a craft knife or strong scissors to cut the cardboard.

Step 2 - Gluing the Cardboard

You will need to use heavy duty staples or strong glue to secure your cardboard. Paper glue won't be effective. You will need to make sure that the box is strong enough to withstand movement of your pet and the weight of the litter (and any extra contents) in the box. Staple or glue along each of the ledges making sure you have left no gaps.

Step 3 - Lining the Box

You should next line the box with absorbent paper. This will stop any moisture from seeping through to the cardboard. Cut the paper to the same size as the inside base of the box with scissors. Do not secure the paper in the bottom of the box as you will want to replace it. You can also use cheap fleece instead of absorbent paper, which can be cut to size and then put in the washing machine each time it is dirty.

Step 4 - Filling the Litter Box

You should then fill your litter box with pet litter. Think carefully about the type of litter you want to use as there are several different types on the market. Clumping litter does what it says on the packet—if it becomes wet then the litter will mesh together to form clumps. This means that when you dispose of the litter you have the option of only disposing of the clumped sections therefore saving you money. Biodegradable litter tends to be more expensive but is considered to be a green alternative. Silica gel litter is expensive but is also the most absorbent type of litter on the market and may only have to be changed every few weeks.

Make sure you don't overfill the litter box. You should also be aware that cats in particular will bury their waste in the litter, kicking the litter up with their back feet.

Step 5 - Placing the Litter Box

Finally put the litter box in your pet carrier. You may wish to secure the box. However, this shouldn't generally be necessary.