Greetings cat lovers all! Skye Blake here, with everything you’ve always wanted to know about cat litter scoops (a.k.a., “pooper scoopers”)!
The information here is for general knowledge… always see your vet with questions about your cat’s individual needs.
Who Is Skye Blake?
Skye Blake, Cat Info Detective, is a curious cat researcher (not a veterinarian) who sniffs out expert, reliable sources about cats, studies their information, then passes it on to you!
Sometimes there’s not enough evidence for easy answers, so Skye gives you all sides, explains the situation as thoroughly and clearly as possible, and links you to experts on each page.
Sources are at the bottom of each page so you can do more snooping.
Cat Litter Scoops
Scoops are necessary for dealing with any litter box, including robot and other “self-cleaning” ones, since there’s no such thing as a completely hands-free, no maintenance box.
Always good to have a few hanging around!
It can be frustrating using the wrong scoop with the wrong size holes or slats for your litter.
So, it’s important to consider the size of the scoop itself and the size and shape of the holes or slots.
Check descriptions and reviews carefully for any products you wish to buy… quality, sizes, colors, etc., can’t be guaranteed by anyone but the manufacturer.
Some of the photos below have links to Amazon. If you purchase through them, I make a small commission.
Metal Scoops
Metal scoops are usually made of stainless steel or aluminum. They’re more durable than plastic and have handles coated for a good grip.
Be sure the one you choose is the right size holes or slots for your type of litter.
Plastic Scoops
Plastic scoops are less expensive than metal but not as durable. However, some are better quality and sturdier than others.
They can crack and break, especially if you have to scrape clumps that have stuck to the sides or bottom of the litter box.
Plastic scoops have more variety of hole/slot sizes. Some are made for fine sifting, while others are for pellets.
Be sure the one you choose is the right size holes or slots for the type of litter you use.
Scoop/Shovel Systems
There are now some fancy feed-type scoops that sift and hold what you’ve scooped so you can just dump it.
Some even have bags… you have to replace them, so keep that expense in mind when deciding if they’re worth buying.
Scoop Caddies
Cat litter scoops get dirty, so it’s nice to have something to contain the mess.
Caddies are holders made specifically for this purpose and are the same idea as a toilet brush holder.
Some caddies come as a full organizer with a scoop, brush and dustpan. Others are just the caddy.
If you’re buying it separately from a scoop, be sure the size will fit the scoop.
Related Pages of Interest
Curious about other types of cat litter and boxes? Discover more at “Supplies for Cats“.
You’ll also find info about other accessories you may find useful.
Having trouble with your cat peeing or pooping outside the litter box?
Find some answers to fix the problem and clean up the mess at “Behavior“.
Sources
Sources used on this website are either primary or secondary.
Primary sources are always preferable and have the most reliable information because they’re original and directly referenced.
Scientific abstracts and data are good examples of primary sources.
Secondary sources are weaker because they usually consist of opinions or articles that give no sources of their own.
However, sometimes they refer to primary sources.
When I use secondary sources, most are those with some authority, such as veterinarian or cat behaviorist books and articles.
List of Sources
Amazon – Product Information
Updated July 13, 2023