Another option: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M7Y0NEX/
These average to $0.04 each, vs $5 for 40 bags being $0.12 each.
They are half the price at Costco, but I don't have a membership.
What I like the most is how little space the full 500 bags occupies, and it works like a tissue box, pull a bag out and it leaves another ready to pull. At one change per week, the box should last 9 years.
Angry Orange has removed that leftover smell that regular soaps and detergents wouldn’t get out. It is a rather pricey item, but well worth it as I also use it to clean in my bathroom.
We use stairs and one of these....you will get a little tracking no matter what you do......
I use a fluffy bath rug with the thick tufts to catch litter when the jump out. Much like this but most certainly purchased from tjmaxx or similar for much cheaper.
And a daily Roomba run for all fur and any litter scattered.
Agreed! Or Scoop away. I tend to avoid any litter that has a fragrance. Seems to make it worse.
https://www.chewy.com/scoop-away-complete-performance-fresh/dp/184410
This is my time to shine, but I got here too late 😆 ages ago, my husband and I started using old ‘pub mix chip’ containers to store litter in. They’re large enough to hold a good volume of litter and light enough to easily pour
I’m linking below for reference but don’t buy these on Amazon, you will find them way cheaper at a grocery store or Costco
https://www.amazon.com/Utz-Pub-Mix-container-CASE/dp/B004D47D54
Still waiting on my LR4 so can't give you advise on that one yet but on the feeder.
I really didn't read into the Whisker feeder at $299 as that's pretty steep but I would think it's nice. I purchased several of these due to multiple cats and they are doing well so far. I personally would try the cheaper feeders unless there is something that's a must have on the pricey models. As they age... might have to get the one that works off the RFID due to diets.
Here the one I have... typically pickup at $55. Runs off usb power and AA batteries for backup. Breaks apart for easy cleaning. Only thing I don't care for is how amazon ships them but they work... only had to send one back due to it saying food supplies were low yet the box is full.
I bought some stairs, to help my cat get in and out. The height aligns perfectly with the entrance. This would be a big help to small cats, or old lady cats, like mine.
I want to know too! I'm looking now!
Wow that was fast, I think it's this:
We have one of these in front of the box and it helps with tracking. Although one of our cats throws litter out even with the gate on it so it only helps so much
I have a bunch of different smart plugs of different brands all over the house controlling different appliances. I don't remember the brand names but they all work the same. They all use the smart life app.
I don't have a motion sensor but here's is a link to one that uses smart life. As you can see, they are quite cheap.
Bamboo Factory, Activated Bamboo Charcoal Air Purifying Bag - All-Natural Car Air Purifier and Freshener - Pet Odour Eliminator, 200g (Pack of 2) https://smile.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07B9GLXJ7/ref=cm_sw_r_wa_apa_fabc_E336W180FJ5A43CYHGVW?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
We bought a bird seed pourer/dispenser- kind of like this: https://www.amazon.com/Birdseed-Storage-Container-Dispenser-Capacity/dp/B010ZG5S82/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=birdseed+pourer+and+storer&qid=1610809435&sr=8-2
I used some tofu litter I found on amazon, and it works pretty well! I've used this and dr. elseys's and I think I prefer the tofu litter. It controls smells better than Dr. Elseys and works pretty well in the litter robot. If you have a kitten or a slightly smaller cat, it might not work as well as the litter is much lighter. It is also more expensive than Dr. Elseys
I can't help with the cycling question but I've been very happy with the Dr Elsey's litter.
I like this style litter mat: https://smile.amazon.com/Litter-Super-Phthalate-Durable-litter/dp/B078TFVWPY/
Thanks! I have already put one of these in there. We're in the middle of winter, so the infestation must be come from inside, so giving it time for the trap to do its work and I'll probably run an ozone treatment in there as well to kill off any odor+eggs that are left over before I start using the drawer again.
And I'm using world's best (corn based?), hmm I'll try looking into other types of litter.
I’ve tried a few brands and so far I like this one ecoleoliners
The other thin green bag types broke easily and smelled awful as they began to break down (within days of being used). I’d often have to change them before they were full just because of the smell.
I have tried all the cheap options out there for the LR3, and wasn't happy with any of them because they were too thin and not as dense (which means less odor control).
The only ones I found that were comparable to LR's filters were these, which I have been very happy with.
https://www.amazon.com/FRESH-HEADQUARTERS-Replacement-Charcoal-Filters/dp/B09DZ4K96D?th=1&psc=1
Do you have anything in front of the LR to help her get in? I have found that reluctant adult cats do best with a sturdy stool or ramp as opposed to the LR stairs or just the step.
Here are the 2 that I can highly recommend after training 11 adults to use my LR3 units.
$12 Rubbermaid One Step Stool - comes in multiple colors https://www.amazon.com/Rubbermaid-Step-Stool-FG275300CYLND-Small/dp/B00NCNW3CA/
$60 Pet Gear Ramp (Essential Gray oval end) - my cats love this ramp sooo much that they would only use the LR3 with the ramp, and wouldn't use the other units until I bought 2 more ramps. And it catches a TON of litter.
https://www.amazon.com/Pet-Gear-Combination-Lightweight-Portable/dp/B09DDHB1B7/
It sounds like you might have very dusty litter. I have found that all litters track to some degree, but some are definitely worse than others. The BoxiePro litter I use is very low dust, but is probably average on tracking. I have this ramp (Essential Gray oval shaped version) in front of my LR3 units and they catch the majority of it. My robot vac gets the rest.
https://www.amazon.com/Pet-Gear-Combination-Lightweight-Portable/dp/B09DDHB1B7/
Zeolite crystals apparently absorb ammonia. I added some to the litter, as well as some in the drawer, and found they helped with the urine smell. I got these.
I've set a support request ticket for my firmware not updated 4 days ago and still no responses. There is no "update" firmware below my Robot Information at all. Is there a way to push the update? I know I'm not currently updated to the latest firmware per the firmware page.
I also use A&H Slide. I take a box cutter and make a cut 3/4 around the top of the box and use a scoop ($3 today).
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004LOEKS4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
These work great (strong, relatively cheap): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00S7NN770/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I can confirm that these bags, which were previously recommended by someone here for the LR3 also work fine for the LR4: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PBV2133 I have also found the roll of them a handy thing to have around the house for other random purposes.
I'll spend a few more bucks on biodegradable trash bags before I'll use something like these aluminum trays that would eventually smell. Something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Biogreenable-Compostable-Trash-Bags-Gallon/dp/B09TFY1VG1/
BTW folks, Amazon is STILL selling 4-packs of Kasa mini smart plugs for $22 or so (for everything except large-amp refrigerators or dryers, etc.) -- an absolute STEAL of a price. I bought two packs because you just can't have enough for any number of on/off items you want to put on a schedule or simply access via voice control. I've already thrown out ALL my mechanical timers -- so LAST century! haha
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B091FXLMS8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
4 boxes of arm and hammer slide kitty litter and I always had a tray under the litter box (my cats sometimes rest their tail on the edge and pee runs down).
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002DHW10/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1
I buy this 3 pack for $17 and it lasts me 5-6 months. I put it inside between the bag and the filter.
You might be thinking of this product: https://www.amazon.com/Litter-Care-Non-Stick-Coating-Enclosure/dp/B078GXDGDN/
This is another option that people have used successfully: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B084TNCT28/
I have this ramp in front of my LR3 (essential gray oval one), and thankfully it catches 95% of the litter before they step off.
https://www.amazon.com/Pet-Gear-Combination-Lightweight-Portable/dp/B09DDHB1B7/
I used to use the Freshwave Gel (which is also in the LR Odor Traps) but found that it dehydrated fairly quickly. I did some research on ammonia (I have no life, lol) and came across a product called Ammosorb that was used in a research study involving management of rat urine which is extremely potent and a problem in medical research labs. They do sell to consumers, and you might want to check out their pouches. This stuff works exceptionally well in the LR drawer, though you need to massage the bag periodically to stir up the product. Supposedly you can lay it out in the sun to restore it, but I haven't tried that yet.
https://www.amazon.com/AMMOSORB-Natural-Aquarium-Ammonia-Absorber/dp/B004SDZ17M?
I read a tip to try zeolite crystals, since they absorb ammonia, and are an ingredient in some pet odor absorbers (second link).
I pour some into the litter in the globe, and have some in the drawer as well. They seemed to help with the ammonia smell. And I had just washed the unit a week or two earlier, so it should have been starting out OK. Could be worth a try.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002566XS
Pet crystals with zeolite: https://www.amazon.com/Natures-Miracle-Destroyer-Litter-Powder/dp/B00IK5S0RC
I have a high output kitty as well, and that can push any litter to it's max. I would look at mixing in some Sustainably Yours Large Grain which clumps exceptionally well (but tracks like crazy on its own). My cat was unfortunately allergic to it, so just keep an eye out for itching or respiratory issues. Another option is adding a bit of Ultra Clumping crystal Litter which is highly absorbent but the clumping isn't that great and it leaves a bit of of mess on the liner.
https://www.amazon.com/PetFive-Sustainably-Natural-Sustainable-Multi-Cat/dp/B08L47T8W7/
I have tested over 30 different types and brands of litter in the LR over the last 3 years, and BoxiePro Deep Clean clay is consistently my favorite for keeping the globe clean, odor control, and no dust.
https://www.amazon.com/Boxiecat-Clean-Probiotic-Clumping-Litter/dp/B07DK2BQGF/
I've rebuilt my LR4 twice now and this is the Seal Strips that I've been using: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09937LDH9?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1
This PetGear "Stramp" made a HUGE difference in getting my senior, mostly blind cat to use the LR3. It is super stable and weighty, so she felt very safe both checking it out and entering/exiting. The specific one should be already selected when you click on the link, but it is the one that is rounded at the end. It fits like it was made for the LR3 and slides right over the step, but let me know if you need me to do any measurements to see how it would fit over the LR4 step. I have 3 LRs, and all my cats love this ramp so much that they stopped using the other 2 LRs until I bought 2 more ramps. 😩 And it catches a TON of litter, plus the carpet area is removable and washable.
https://www.amazon.com/Pet-Gear-Combination-Lightweight-Portable/dp/B09DDHB1B7/
Not to hard if you have an oscilating tool. Buy a kit like this to tunnel through the wall.
they usually have a template to draw on the wall.
https://www.amazon.com/Baboni-Telescoping-Tunnel-Aluminum-Durable/dp/B09682CXNR/ref=sr_1_4?crid=2E9ZZLX5DEPQT&keywords=cat+door+through+wall&qid=1668542256&sprefix=cat+door+through+wall%2Caps%2C100&sr=8-4&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.006c50ae-5d4c-4777-9bc0-4513d670b6bc
I use a scoop https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004LOEKS4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I cut my kitty litter box 3/4 around with a utility knife (box cutter) and scoop out. It takes 8 scoops with this to fill after a dump. I top off with half a scoop every day.
We did not find it so hard.
After initially struggling, as we had a pre-existing box, we went with a food storage container (small) that you can pour litter into and then easily pour into the opening.
https://www.amazon.com/Containers-BPA-Free-Container-Airtight-Suitable/dp/B07FF7C3MN/
We ended up switching to these, which has the litter divided into smaller bags. Both ways were easy enough.
https://www.chewy.com/fresh-step-triple-action-scented/dp/180803
Not sure if this counts as "light" litter or not, but I use a non-clay, corn-based litter in my LR4 and (knock-on-wood) have had zero issues. :)
How often do you change the waste drawer? Does kitty have diarrhea? You could try probiotics which will help kitties gut health and make it stink less too. I’ve also put in charcoal pellets in the drawer at the front which you can get at the pet store in the fish area.
Litter Brand / Type: Cat's Pride Unscented Complete Care
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Product link to litter: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MRLPOK6
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Results: I've been using this with LR3 for years and am now trying it out with LR4. Both had similar challenges b/c my 2 cats tend to pee against the back wall, so a layer of litter ends up sticking to the sides of the LR. This causes the globe to stink over time (though that might also be the case regardless? not sure). That being said, it does still clump enough for the majority of pee clumps to make its way down to the bottom compartment.
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Conclusion: Compatible, as long as your cats pee more squarely over the litter instead of the sides.
The only litter I found that noticeably tracks less was Fresh Step Clean Paws, but it had lots of globe smears unfortunately. And if you hating tracking, avoid Sustainably Yours which is like beach sand. The best way for me to keep my 5 cats' tracking under control is my robot vac and the Pet Gear ramp which catches 95% of it when they leave.
https://www.amazon.com/Pet-Gear-Combination-Lightweight-Portable/dp/B09BC7TZB8/
That looks like a set of Pet Gear steps. I have the Pet Gear ramp in front of mine and love it because it catches so much litter, plus keeps them from shooting out like a cannonball.
https://www.amazon.com/Pet-Gear-Combination-Lightweight-Portable/dp/B09DDHB1B7?
Here's the "clumping" crystal litter I add in...it's super fine, and mixes well with the Boxie. The clumping isn't all that, which is why you don't want to use too much.
https://www.amazon.com/Clumping-Crystal-Litter-Crystals-Multicolor/dp/B01BNRNSB6/
And the BoxiePro Deep Clean https://www.amazon.com/Boxiecat-Clean-Probiotic-Clumping-Litter/dp/B07DK2BQGF/
This is by far the best ramp I have found for my LR3. I originally purchased one for my senior cat with a degenerative spine issue, but the other cats liked it so much that they stopped using the other 2 LRs until I bought ramps for those too. It is super sturdy, slides right over the LR3 step, and catches a TON of litter.
https://www.amazon.com/Pet-Gear-Combination-Lightweight-Portable/dp/B09DDHB1B7/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?
LED. 1300 lumen, set to 5000k color temp
and one of the triple beam LEDs, 1800 lumens in the far corner mostly out of site of the LR4
Litter brand / type: fresh step simply unscented
Product link to litter: https://www.chewy.com/fresh-step-simply-unscented-clumping/dp/210130
Results: sifts perfectly, takes a bit longer to clump than scented counterparts. Like getting the case with four bags because one bag fills up to the line perfectly.
Conclusion: compatible
What about using a pee pad liner that is larger than the litter box? Something like this could sit under a regular litter box:
https://www.chewy.com/glad-pets-activated-carbon-jumbo-dog/dp/189963
You could also find smaller ones and/or cut them to fit on the stairs.
I forgot to mention: like u/SingularNoun said get some trash bags. I use these (cheap and work very well): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00S7NN770/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I can't use Slide either....horribly scented. And no, not all clay smells like that thank goodness. I've tested 30+ litters in the LR3, and the best by far is BoxiePro Deep Clean clay. It is unscented, has a probiotic that does a great job at controlling odor, is dust free, and keeps the globe clean.
https://www.amazon.com/Boxiecat-Clean-Probiotic-Clumping-Litter/dp/B07DK2BQGF?
We had the same issue with our LR4. I purchased two of the mats from the litter robot store, then bought a set of steps recommended here, between the mats and steps, litter scatter has gone down a lot, but not 100%. Here's the link to what we have. Pet Gear Easy Step II Pet Stairs,... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00134FQZQ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
You can also add something like this. Not sure if they sell this Brand where you live, it's just calcium carbonate + scent. It helps with the smell of the Litter, if the Robot itself stinks, you need to wash it. I just hose it down in my Garden with water (ofc just the parts like globe and Tray that have no electronics).
You can also use different Bags, this prevents that stuff falls between the Bag and the Tray.
Something like this may work https://www.amazon.com.au/Rinseroo-Slip-Installation-Showerhead-Attachment/dp/B07R95DQ39/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=19YWF3M7Q01EL&keywords=rinseroo&qid=1665010396&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIyLjEzIiwicXNhIjoiMS40MCIsInFzcCI6IjAuNzIifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=rin...
Otherwise you may be able to find a pet washing station nearby. In Australia you can find these at some service stations or car washing places.
My favorite after testing 30+ brands/types of litter is BoxiePro Deep Clean clay. It keeps the globe the cleanest + odor control + no dust.
https://www.amazon.com/Boxiecat-Clean-Probiotic-Clumping-Litter/dp/B07DK2BQGF/
Get the Pet Gear ramp....it is AMAZING. Super stable, very well made, and also catches a TON of litter. It fits my LR3 like it was made for it. I purchased it for my cat with a degenerative spine issue and it helped immensely.
https://www.amazon.com/Pet-Gear-Combination-Lightweight-Portable/dp/B09BC7TZB8/
Get a mat to place in front of the LR4 because the step does not get all the loose litter from their paws.
https://www.amazon.com/Pieviev-Trapping-Honeycomb-Waterproof-Scatter/dp/B07NJ5SR5G/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?
The only litter I found that really tracked less was Fresh Step Clean Paws, but I found it didn't clump fast enough and caused globe smears.
I use the Pet Gear ramp which catches a TON of litter as they come out of the LR, then run my robotvac once a day.
https://www.amazon.com/Pet-Gear-Combination-Lightweight-Portable/dp/B09BC7TZB8/
I highly recommend this Pet Gear ramp for in front of your LR. It is super high quality, very stable, and has stopped my cats from jumping out. It also catches a TON of litter. I have 3 LR3 units, and bought one ramp for my cat with a degenerative spine issue. The other cats like it so much that they quit using the other 2 LRs until I bought a ramp for each one.
https://www.amazon.com/Pet-Gear-Combination-Lightweight-Portable/dp/B09BC7TZB8/
Litter Brand / Type: Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Slide Multi-Cat
Product link to litter: https://www.amazon.com/Arm-Hammer-Multi-Cat-Clean-Up-Litter/dp/B01N34ICCQ
Results: Works great if you set the timer longer (I used 15 minutes for 1 cat, 30 minutes for 2 cats). Sometimes sticks to the back of the globe a bit, but wipes off easily. very low dust and almost no smell at all. But does have a significant amount of tracking outise the box.
Conclusion: Compatible, but tracks a lot.
I'm sorry for your loss. 🥲
This is unfortunately a common problem with senior cats, particularly ones with diabetes or in kidney failure since they have higher urine output.
I'm going through the same situation with a kidney cat, and I add a small amount of silica litter right at the entry along with my BoxiePro Deep Clean clay. I picked a clumping silica litter specifically because silica absorbs a high amount of moisture. The Tidy Cats Instant Action has something called "moisture activated Power Pieces" and they may be silica as well.
Here's the clumping silica litter that I like: It doesn't clump nearly as firmly as my clay litter which is why I limit the amount that I add. But it makes a huge difference in limiting the amount of wet clay footprints all over my home.
Ultra Unscented Clumping Crystal Litter https://www.amazon.com/Clumping-Crystal-Litter-Crystals-Multicolor/dp/B01BNRNSB6/
I put waffle type mats on the floor around the kitty litter. They are a bit expensive but would probably stop the Roomba from moving them.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01AUU90IW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1
The LR3 cycle time options are 3, 7 (default), and 15 mins.
I have a similar problem with my cat in advanced kidney failure and high urine output. I have my cycle time set at 15 mins, use a high quality clumping clay litter, and mix in some clumping crystal which is highly absorbent, but isn't as clean in the globe as just clay litter. The one I use is below.
https://www.chewy.com/frisco-micro-crystal-unscented-non/dp/258629?
However, the litter I think would really help the most is Sustainably Yours Large Grain. It clumps like crazy and is highly absorbent, and you wouldn't need to add a bunch of it. Unfortunately one of my cats is highly allergic to it, or I would be using it myself. (It caused him to itch horribly). I also wouldn't recommend that you use this at 100% because it tracks horribly. FYI that the Garfield brand litter is made by the same company and performs just as well.
Update: I ordered this one on Amazon linked below. It came in 2 days and works great and was only $16! Didn’t need to use any of the adapters just the regular plug was the same size.
No offense to whisker/litter robot I know they are struggling with customer service right now but these should be shipped faster than a week being such a premium product that is hard to live without once you buy it! I wasn’t really even able to figure out how to initiate a replacement under Whisker care.
15V 2A 1.5A Switching Power... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HT1QK1G?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Litter Brand / Type: Tidy Cats 24/7 Scented Clumping Clay Cat Litter
Product link to litter: Link
Results: I've never had a LR before but it seems to work perfectly fine. Clumps fine, goes through the filter no problem, a little gets on the step but with a mat in front there are no issues. It is scented but my cat doesn't care about that.
Conclusion: Compatible, I will continue using it
Thanks, do you mean this one, which is compatible but not sponsored by LR? I do see good customer reviews
Here’s the ones that we use in our LR3…I’m assuming they should work fine with the LR4.
I have a far better solution... the Pet Gear ramp with a vacuum-able/washable/replaceable cover that catches SOOO much litter, is ultra stable, fits like a glove over the LR3 step, is very heavy duty, and is the product that LR only wished they had patented. Worth every single penny.
https://www.chewy.com/pet-gear-one-step-cat-dog-ramp/dp/288501
I haven't tried this yet because its $60 but might be worth it, its non stick spray for litter boxes, someone also suggested cooking oil and baking soda which might be cheaper but seems messy. I use walnut shell litter and don't want to switch because I want to keep it biodegradable. https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B078GXDGDN?tag=hepperca-20&geniuslink=true
Litter Brand / Type: Arm & Hammer Litter Clump & Seal Multi-Cat
Product link to litter: https://www.chewy.com/arm-hammer-litter-clump-seal-multi/dp/105867
Results: Works well with relatively little dust. I have a white LR4. We increased the cycle time to 15 minutes because we have two fur balls and they like to go right after each other sometimes. I've seen when I have manually cycled under 7 minutes it can leave residue for urine clumps that aren't fully hard, so I recommend a minimum of 7 minutes for the cycle delay.
Conclusion: Compatible
Do you have the stairs? My cats hated them, but do very well with this $12 stool. They wouldn't use it without the stool though. (Stool comes in gray or bisque to match your LR). Also, she might not like the smell of what you are using to clean the globe. I just use blue Dawn and water.
https://www.amazon.com/Rubbermaid-Step-Stool-FG275300CYLND-Small/dp/B00NCNW3CA/
I am using the Fresh Step Advanced Cat Litter,... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089PM6FRC?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
and the purifier I use is: LEVOIT Air Purifiers for Bedroom... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09GTRVJQM?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
it’s pretty small but it gets the job done !
I use Dr Elsey's Clean Tracks - it still spills out but I have found it to be satisfactory combined with a quick vacuum that's kept in the same room a few times a week whenever I think to do so.
For the smell, for me the game changer was putting in a renewable dehumidifer into the litter tray, sitting outside the bag basically just where the carbon filter normally sits (i don't use one). I use this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000H0XFCS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I've had to renew it once and it has helps with the smell more than anything else I ever tried.
Short of replacing the stock bonnet connector or bypassing it, I doubt there is anything you can really do to fix the problem as its a weak design, and the issue will eventually re-appear. Bending the bonnet tabs, bending the bonnet pins, cleaning the pins (or replacing them) just delays the inevitable.
I suspect some bonnets / bases fit together slightly better than others, hence why some people get this issue more than others.
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I got sick of this error too and used a DC power cable with a couple of male spade connectors on the end to bypass the bonnet pins. It's been over 6 months and I haven't had one single issue with my LR3 since :)
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I have also read that you can just short the two pins (e.g. with a paper-clip) and it will think the bonnet is attached, although the night light will no longer work. I haven't tried this, though.
I can't speak to the LR4, but I really like these 8gall biodegradable bags for my LR3. They are thicker than most, don't tear, and there is plenty of room to tie them off at the top when you empty the drawer.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WCPFVKC/ref=sns_myd_detail_page
I've successfully trained 11 adult cats and found that adding this $12 stool made a huge difference for the scaredy cats. It gives them a wider, more secure base to stand on and examine the LR globe, and then feel more comfortable entering/exiting. I later upgraded to the Pet Gear ramp which catches a lot of litter, but it's currently $70 (it was $40 when I bought it).
https://www.amazon.com/Rubbermaid-Step-Stool-FG275300CYLND-Small/dp/B00NCNW3CA/
I guess it really more depends on the litter you use. My LR is in the laundry room which has a floor that hides dirt well. I use Dr. Elsy.
I don't see any dust. There's some litter tracking outside the LR but it is fairly minimal.
Yeah, since we got a robot vacuum, it's way better. I can have it just run through the bathroom and get the litter, and it takes it under 10 minutes. Easy, and done.
We do have a nice litter-catching mat, which has helped. But it's not magic, and they still hop out of the robot and bounce litter around the floor. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00WPZ63Q8
There have been several posts on this in the past, you may want to search to find other alternatives. Make sure whatever you’re putting in there is pet/food safe. There are food-grade silicon lubricants used for slicers and other commercial kitchen machines.
/u/eclecticgray42 recommended this spray from Amazon.
I haven’t had too much trouble with mine. I keep a silicone toilet brush next to my LR and just periodically brush off the globe and grate, but your problem may be worse than mine.
https://ifttt.com/connect/whisker/amazon_alexa
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Assuming you have one of the newer ones anyhow. Once you get it talking to Alexa or whatever, use that device to schedule cycles.
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edit: note - aside from having seen that this app/api exists, I know nothing about it, have not used it, or even looked into it much.. But it's a starting point anyhow
I don't like to 'cover' odors, but I found placing one of these in the drawer (in between the filter and the bag) helps immensely: Fresh Wave Odor Removing Gel, 15 oz. (Pack of 2)
That seems expensive.
I've been using Dr Elsy's unscented which seems to be half the cost and have had no issues whatsoever. I have 2 cats.
FYI that not all cats like the LR stairs because they are not securely attached, and I have found that they don't really like the access angle when they are new users. (I have trained 11 adults and own 4 LR3s)
I have 2 recommendations for you...both have worked extremely well for my cats, and were essential to their successful training.
The $12 Rubbermaid Stool is also a great option, especially for new LR users. It gives them a wider platform to stand on and peer into the LR globe as they become familiar with it, and it is extremely stable. My cats would often sit on it after doing their business in the LR, and clean themselves. I later upgraded to the ramp below because I had a cat with a degenerative spinal issue.
The $60 Pet Gear Ramp is by far my cats' favorite and it catches a TON of litter. In fact, I bought 1 and and they actually stopped using the other LRs until I bought a step for each of them!
Nice! I picked up some of these Marsheepy bags and they work pretty good and have lasted me over a month so far before replacing.
I use these:
Each one lasts roughly.... 3-4 weeks depending on your tolerance.
Now that I am on my laptop, I can give some more details:-)
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I used this Pet Gear Ramp for my cat with a spinal issue and it made using the LR3 sooo much easier for him. Unfortunately ALL my cats liked it so much that they quit using the 2 LRs with no ramp, so I had to buy 2 more ramps, sigh. On a positive note, it is super high quality, VERY stable, and the washable mat catches a ton of litter. It also comes in a light gray but is out if stock at both Amazon and Chewy lately.
Mine was real smelly, Arm & Hammer scented powder or scented litter didn't work either.
Got a Litter Robot 3 and one normal enclosed litter box.
Got one of these:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088D4K85Y
It's an Ozone/Ionizer Purifier that you plug to the wall.
Amazing how it got rid of the pee smell.
I eyeball it. I use this bird seed feeder. I fill 2 of them with one bag and they last me a month.
They are really easy to open and just pour in however much is needed.
We have had our litter robot since February. I haven't changed the carbon filter yet. We use tall kitchen trash bags as liners. The litter you use does make a big difference. We switched to litter with charcoal and sprinkle some litter and baking soda in the waste tray bag to absorb the odor.
This all helped a lot but the biggest smell reduction was made by putting a jar of Fresh Wave Odor Removing Gel inside the waste tray (the tray has a big gap between the carbon filter and the liner). People really love these gel air fresheners. They're a tad bit pricey next to other options but work really well.
you can use regular garbage bags & Cut-to-Fit Activated Carbon Filter Sheet. I also put foam & tape over the holes in the waste drawer. The older models didn't have the holes & they don't have the problem with odor control like the newer model. IMO, they did it on purpose so people would keep buying the overpriced "carbon filters". Add some desiccant to the waste drawer, too & it'll help control the smell a little bit. IMO, If I pay close to $1000 for a litter box, I should never smell it. As soon as there is a better alternative to the litter robot, I'm getting rid of mine
I've used these before several times, but honestly just about any generic one that is at least big enough that you can cut it down should work.
My old man pees volumes. Just set it to the longest time to wait to cycle and I buy this awesome litter from Amazon...
I stick these little baking soda diaper pail deodorizers in the tray with double sided tape. It has really helped with absorbing smells
I would recommend the Pet Gear ramp....I used it for my cat that had a spinal compression issue, and it allowed him to use the LR until it was his time to cross the rainbow bridge. It's not cheap, but it is super heavyweight and won't shift like the LR stairs. Otherwise, I don't see how she could really use the LR successfully for both getting in and out.
Do you have the stairs? Whether you do or not, I would recommend this $11 Rubbermaid Stool. It is much broader and more stable, and helped the more reluctant of the 11 cats I have trained to finally convert. That included a nearly blind senior, a super skittish weirdo, and an indoor feral.