5 Cat Litter Box Cabinet Ideas You’ll Wish You Tried Sooner

Let’s face it—most litter boxes are eyesores. They take up space, look messy, and never quite fit in with your home decor.

But what if you could tuck them away inside a cabinet that actually looks good? These 5 cat litter box cabinet ideas are smart, stylish, and way more practical than leaving the box out in the open.

Whether you’re into IKEA hacks, hidden setups, or easy DIY builds, you’ll find something here that makes your life (and your cat’s) a lot better.

5 Cat Litter Box Cabinet Ideas

1. IKEA Besta Hack That Hides in Plain Sight

This is one of the most popular hidden litter box setups, and for good reason. It’s sleek, easy to customize, and doesn’t scream “cat bathroom.” It blends into your decor like it was always meant to be there. Great for modern or minimalist homes.

How to copy it:

Buy the IKEA Besta unit with doors (not open shelves). Choose a size that fits your litter tray with enough room for your cat to move around. Use a jigsaw to cut an entry hole on one side—make sure it’s low enough for your cat to step through easily.

Inside, you can add a motion sensor light so your cat’s not stuck in the dark. Some people also install small PC fans or vents to reduce odors.

Place a washable mat under the litter box to catch spills. Outside, dress it up—stick-on wallpaper, cane webbing, or even faux marble contact paper work great. You get both form and function.

By the way, if you're into DIY Hacks stuff, you’ll wanna check this one out: 7 DIY Cat Wall Furniture Ideas That’ll Make Your Cat Climb With Joy

2. Rustic Farmhouse Litter Box Cabinet

This one adds charm to your space instead of looking like a plastic litter bin. With barn door accents or vintage-style handles, it feels like a purposeful piece of furniture—not a hiding spot for cat poop.

How to copy it:

Find an old cabinet at a thrift store or repurpose one you already have. Sand it down and add wood panels in a criss-cross (barn-style) design to the front. You can buy thin decorative trim for cheap.
Cut an entry hole on the side or back—whichever suits your room layout best.

Paint the whole cabinet in soft tones like cream, sage green, or dusty blue. Add a little sign or stencil that says “Cat’s Den” for fun.

Inside, use a plastic liner or vinyl sheet to keep the wood protected. If you’re feeling fancy, install a charcoal filter or air holes in the back for airflow.

Oh, and speaking of DIY Hacks, here’s another one you might like: 7 DIY Cat Outdoor Enclosure & Catio Ideas for Happy, Safe Cats

3. Side Table Meets Litter Box

This is perfect for people living in apartments, dorms, or small homes. It saves space by doing double duty. You get a table, your cat gets a bathroom, and your guests are none the wiser.

How to copy it:

Start with a sturdy side table or nightstand that’s boxy and fully enclosed. Look for something with a cabinet or drawer at the bottom. Cut a neat entrance on one side—ideally, the side facing a wall so it stays hidden.

Paint or stain the outside to match your room. Add felt pads under the legs if you’re placing it on hardwood floors to avoid scratches. You can place a plant, lamp, or photo frame on top—just don’t make it too heavy in case you need to move the table.

Inside, use a low-sided litter box to make it easy for your cat to access. You can also stick Velcro under the litter box to prevent it from sliding.

Also, just throwing this in—this DIY Hacks post is a fun read too: 7 DIY Cat Scratching Post Ideas Your Furniture Will Thank You For

4. Old Dresser, New Life

Instead of tossing out that old dresser, give it a new job as your cat’s private ensuite. This one’s a great way to recycle furniture, and you also get bonus storage for litter supplies.

How to copy it:

Take a regular dresser. Remove the bottom two or three drawers and gut that section. Reinforce the inside with wooden slats or panels to make a solid base for the litter tray.

Cut an entrance hole on either the front where drawers used to be, or on the side panel if you want a cleaner look from the front. Sand everything down and repaint the whole piece. Add handles, knobs, or even contact paper for a refresh.

Use the top drawers to hold scoops, liners, deodorizer spray, poop bags, and anything else. Inside the litter area, place a rubber mat or liner to protect the wood from spills.

5. Sleek Minimalist Box

This idea is for people who want everything clean, simple, and clutter-free. No extra decor, no frills—just a box that quietly does its job. It works especially well in modern or Japandi-style spaces.

How to copy it:

Build a rectangular box out of plywood or buy a plain MDF cabinet with no detailing. The front should have a flip-down or hinged panel so you can access the litter box for cleaning. Cut a small round or square entrance on the side.

Paint the whole thing in a single neutral color—matte white, soft gray, or light wood stain. Keep the surface smooth and free from patterns. You can even add soft-close hinges for a high-end touch.

Line the inside with a plastic sheet or silicone mat. Add a loop handle or push-to-open hardware to keep the outside completely clean-looking. It’s stylish, easy to clean, and doesn’t take up visual space.