Rubric v1 · 8 products scored
Cat litter box rubric
Every product in this category is scored against the same rubric. Weights sum to 100. A hit on any disqualifier forces a "skip" verdict regardless of the point total.
Criteria & weights
1. Size and capacity
- 10Dimensions plus recommended cat weight range
- 5Dimensions listed
- 0No dimensions disclosed
2. Entry design
- 10Both low-entry and high-sided variants OR configurable entry
- 5Low-entry option OR high-sided option offered separately
- 0Single high-wall design, no alternative
3. Odor control design
- 10Hood with replaceable carbon filter or sealed odor system
- 5Hood option available
- 0Open box, no filter option
4. Litter containment
- 10High back with track pad, top-entry, or built-in containment lip
- 5High back or ramp
- 0Straight low walls
5. Material safety
- 10BPA-free food-grade plastic or non-porous alternative (stainless, resin)
- 5BPA-free plastic
- 0Unnamed plastic
6. Cleanability
- 10Smooth interior, single piece or fully disassembles for washing
- 5Smooth interior
- 0Multi-piece with crevices
7. Automation transparency (if self-cleaning)
- 10Manual box (N/A) OR automated with sensor + safety-stop mechanism disclosed
- 5Manual box OR automated with basic sensor description
- 0Automated with no mechanism disclosed
Disqualifiers
Any of the following forces a "skip" verdict, no matter how well the product scores on other criteria. Non-negotiable.
- Contains BPA
- Sharp edges reported by CPSC
- Self-cleaning motor recalled in the last 24 months
Verdict thresholds
Total score cutoffs for each public verdict tier. Sum of weighted criterion scores maps directly onto these bands.
- Editors' pick
- ≥ 80
- Solid buy
- ≥ 65
- Situational
- ≥ 50