ELS Pet Litter Box Review 2026: Is It Worth Your Money?

Keeping your cat’s litter box clean can feel like a never ending chore. You scoop multiple times daily. The smell lingers despite your best efforts. Your back aches from bending down repeatedly. This is why automatic litter boxes have become so popular among cat owners looking for an easier solution.

The ELS Pet litter box has gained attention in 2026 as an affordable alternative to premium brands. This self cleaning system promises to handle the dirty work automatically. But does it live up to the hype? Many cat parents have questions about reliability, performance, and value for money.

I spent weeks researching customer experiences, testing reports, and technical specifications. This complete review will help you decide if the ELS Pet automatic litter box deserves a spot in your home. You will learn about features, real user experiences, pros and cons, and better alternatives available today.

Key Takeaways

Quick facts about ELS Pet Litter Box before you buy:

• Multiple Models Available: ELS Pet offers Spaceship 1, Spaceship 2, and Orbitie models with varying features and price points ranging from $259 to $359
• Mixed Customer Reviews: While some users report smooth operation, many customers experience device malfunctions, sensor failures, and poor customer service support
• App Enabled Smart Features: The litter box connects to your smartphone for remote monitoring, cleaning schedules, and usage tracking for multiple cats
• Safety Sensors Included: Infrared and gravity sensors detect cat presence to prevent accidents, though reliability issues have been reported by several users
• Limited Warranty Coverage: Comes with 90 day return policy and one year warranty, but customer complaints suggest difficulty getting replacements or repairs processed quickly

What Is ELS Pet Litter Box

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ELS Pet is a pet care brand founded in 2019 with a focus on automatic litter solutions. The company started after the founder had a scary experience with his cat getting trapped in an automatic litter box. This motivated the development of safer self cleaning systems.

The brand launched its first product, the Spaceship 1 Automatic Litter Box, in 2021. Since then, they have expanded their lineup to include multiple models. The Spaceship series features a fully enclosed dome design. The newer Orbitie model offers a wide opening design for easier cat access.

ELS Pet has grown beyond just litter boxes. They now sell cat trees, bubble backpacks, and grooming accessories. However, their automatic litter boxes remain the core product line. The company positions itself as an affordable alternative to expensive brands like Litter Robot.

All ELS Pet litter boxes work on the same basic principle. After your cat uses the box, sensors detect when they leave. The system waits a preset time, then automatically cleans by separating waste from clean litter. Waste drops into a sealed drawer that you empty periodically.

How ELS Pet Self Cleaning Litter Box Works

The ELS Pet system uses a rake based cleaning mechanism rather than a rotating drum. This sets it apart from many competitors. When your cat exits the litter box, infrared sensors confirm the space is empty. The system then activates a motorized rake.

This rake slowly moves through the litter bed from back to front. It pushes clumped waste toward the waste collection area. Clean litter falls through the rake tines and stays in the main chamber. The waste then drops into a sealed drawer beneath the unit.

The cleaning cycle takes about 3 to 5 minutes to complete. You can adjust the delay time before cleaning starts through the mobile app. Most users set this between 5 and 15 minutes after their cat exits. This gives urine clumps time to fully harden.

The system includes UV sterilization to reduce bacteria and control odors. A built in light activates during and after cleaning cycles. The sealed waste drawer prevents smells from escaping between disposals. You typically need to empty this drawer every 3 to 7 days depending on how many cats you have.

Safety features include multiple sensors that stop operation if a cat enters during cleaning. A safety door prevents cats from accessing the globe during the cleaning process. The rake automatically reverses if it encounters an obstruction.

Top 3 Alternatives for ELS Pet Litter Box

ELS Pet Litter Box Models and Specifications

ELS Pet currently offers three main automatic litter box models. Each has different features and price points. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right option for your household.

The Spaceship 1 and Spaceship 2 share similar enclosed globe designs. They look futuristic and space age, which some owners love while others find too bulky. The globe interior measures about 17 inches in diameter. This provides decent space for average sized cats but may feel cramped for larger breeds.

The entry opening measures 8.5 inches high by 9.5 inches wide. A pull out step helps cats enter more easily. This step also catches scattered litter when your cat exits. The entire footprint is approximately 23.6 inches by 29 inches, so you need adequate floor space.

Maximum weight capacity is 25 pounds for most ELS Pet models. Cats weighing 3.3 pounds or more can safely use the system. The unit itself weighs about 28.8 pounds when empty. This makes it fairly stable but difficult to move frequently.

The Orbitie model features a wider opening design compared to the Spaceship series. This 65 liter capacity offers more interior room. The opening allows easier access for senior cats, kittens, or cats with mobility issues. However, the open top design may scatter more litter around your floor.

All models include WiFi connectivity and smartphone app control. The waste drawer capacity is about 6 liters. Power consumption runs around 9.6 watts during operation. Noise levels reportedly stay around 50 decibels, similar to a quiet office.

Key Features of ELS Pet Automatic Litter Box

The smartphone app integration stands out as a major selling point. You can monitor your cat’s bathroom habits remotely. The app tracks how often each cat uses the box, the duration of visits, and weight changes over time. This health monitoring helps you spot potential problems early.

Through the app, you customize cleaning schedules and delays. Set different programs for day versus night. Create a sleep mode that pauses cleaning during specific hours. You receive notifications when the waste drawer needs emptying or when litter levels run low.

Safety sensors include infrared and gravity detection. The infrared beams create an invisible barrier around the entrance. When a cat breaks this beam, all movement stops immediately. Four gravity sensors in the floor detect weight changes. If a cat enters during cleaning, the system halts and reverses.

The UV sterilization light activates after each cleaning cycle. This ultraviolet exposure kills bacteria on surfaces and helps control odor. The sealed waste drawer provides additional odor containment. Some models include activated carbon filters for extra freshness.

A quiet operation mode keeps noise levels low, especially important at night. The motor runs smoothly without loud grinding or mechanical sounds. This helps nervous cats adjust to the automated cleaning process. Sleep mode completely silences operation during set hours.

The system works with clumping clay litters and mixed formulas. ELS Pet recommends their proprietary mixed litter blend. This combines bentonite clay, tofu based litter, and deodorizing particles. However, most quality clumping litters should work adequately. Avoid crystal, wood, paper, or non clumping varieties.

Setting Up Your ELS Pet Litter Box

Unboxing and assembly takes about 30 to 45 minutes for most users. However, instructions have been criticized as vague and confusing. Many customers report struggling to understand the setup process without watching YouTube tutorial videos.

The package includes the main litter box unit, waste drawer, power adapter, litter scoop, and spare rake. You also receive foam guards that attach to certain sensors. These foam pieces confuse many users because the manual does not clearly explain their placement or purpose.

Start by finding a suitable location with access to a power outlet. The area needs enough space for your cat to comfortably enter and exit. Avoid tight corners or closets where your cat might feel trapped. Ensure the floor is level and stable.

Place the litter box in position and plug in the power adapter. The unit should beep and display a blue light. Download the ELS Pet app from your phone’s app store. Follow the pairing instructions to connect the litter box to your home WiFi network.

Fill the globe with 3 to 4 inches of clumping litter. Too little litter prevents proper clumping. Too much litter can overwhelm the rake mechanism. Test the cleaning cycle manually through the app to ensure everything works correctly before allowing your cat to use it.

Training Your Cat to Use ELS Pet Litter Box

Transitioning to an automatic litter box requires patience. Most cats need several days to a few weeks to fully adjust. Some cats adapt immediately while others show hesitation or fear of the mechanical sounds.

Start by placing the new litter box near your cat’s current box. Keep both available initially. Do not turn on the automatic cleaning function yet. Let your cat explore and use the new box in manual mode. This helps them become comfortable with the structure.

Place your cat gently inside several times per day. Reward them with treats and praise when they investigate. Do not force them to stay inside if they seem anxious. Natural curiosity usually wins eventually.

After your cat consistently uses the new box, activate the cleaning function. Set a longer delay time initially, like 15 or 20 minutes. This ensures your cat has left the area before cleaning starts. Sudden movement and noise while they are nearby can create negative associations.

Gradually reduce the delay time as your cat becomes accustomed to the sounds. Monitor their behavior closely. Signs of stress include avoiding the litter box, eliminating outside the box, or showing fear responses. If this happens, slow down the transition process.

Once your cat uses the ELS Pet box confidently for at least one week, remove the old litter box completely. Continue positive reinforcement with treats and affection. Most cats fully transition within 2 to 4 weeks.

Daily Maintenance and Cleaning Requirements

Despite being automatic, the ELS Pet litter box still requires regular maintenance. Empty the waste drawer every 3 to 7 days depending on how many cats you have. For a single cat household, weekly disposal usually suffices. Multiple cats may require more frequent emptying.

The app sends notifications when the waste drawer reaches capacity. Pull out the drawer carefully to avoid spills. Remove the disposable liner bag and tie it closed. Replace with a fresh liner before sliding the drawer back into position.

Check litter levels daily and refill as needed. The system uses more litter than traditional boxes because it needs adequate depth for proper clumping. Most owners add fresh litter every 2 to 3 days. Complete litter changes should happen every 2 to 3 weeks.

Wipe down the interior surfaces weekly with pet safe cleaning solutions. Remove all litter first. Clean the globe, entry step, and waste drawer with mild soap and water. Dry thoroughly before refilling with fresh litter. Avoid harsh chemicals that could harm your cat or damage sensors.

Clean the rake and sensors monthly for optimal performance. Litter dust can accumulate on infrared sensors and cause malfunction. Gently wipe sensor windows with a soft, slightly damp cloth. Check the rake tines for stuck litter or debris. Remove the rake if necessary for thorough cleaning.

Replace the activated carbon filters every 1 to 2 months. These filters help control odors but lose effectiveness over time. Order replacement filters from ELS Pet or use compatible universal filters.

Real Customer Experiences and Reviews

Customer feedback on ELS Pet litter boxes shows significant mixed reactions. Reviews range from extremely positive to deeply frustrated. Understanding both perspectives helps set realistic expectations.

Positive reviews highlight successful operation and convenience. Some owners report their units work perfectly for months or years. They appreciate not scooping manually multiple times daily. The app tracking features help them monitor pet health. Cats adapt quickly and use the box without issues.

One satisfied customer on Walmart wrote: “I bought it for the sheer reason that I was going to have surgery, and I wasn’t going to bend over and clean a cat box. It has definitely done its job and I totally love it.” These users find the price point attractive compared to premium alternatives.

However, negative reviews significantly outnumber positive ones on independent platforms. Common complaints include units that never work from day one. Many customers report sensor failures within weeks of purchase. The rake mechanism breaks or gets stuck frequently for some users.

Reddit threads and Facebook groups document widespread frustration. A Facebook group called “Scammed by Els Pet” has over 400 members sharing negative experiences. One user reported: “For some reason, it worked good for awhile, but now it’s leaking my cats pee from under it somehow. It’s scooping incorrectly and breaks the clumps apart.”

Customer service complaints appear frequently in reviews. Users describe slow responses, unhelpful troubleshooting, and difficulty obtaining replacements. Some receive replacement sensors without installation instructions. Others struggle to get warranty coverage honored.

A detailed review from Cats.com described receiving a completely non functional unit. After extensive troubleshooting with customer support, the tester never got the litter box to work at all. The reviewer noted that ELS Pet removed their Amazon listings, preventing customers from leaving reviews there.

Common Problems and Troubleshooting Tips

Sensor malfunctions rank as the most reported issue. The infrared sensors may fail to detect cats entering or exiting. This can cause the cleaning cycle to start while your cat is still inside, creating a dangerous situation. Cleaning sensors regularly sometimes helps, but many users report persistent problems.

If sensors malfunction, try these steps. Turn off the unit and unplug it for 30 seconds. Wipe all sensor windows with a soft dry cloth. Ensure no litter or debris blocks the sensor areas. Restart the unit and test the sensors by waving your hand through the entry. The system should stop immediately.

Rake jamming or breaking frustrates many owners. The rake may get stuck on large clumps or debris. Sometimes the rake mechanism simply breaks under normal use. ELS Pet includes a spare rake, but this only solves the problem once. Frequent breakage indicates a design or quality issue.

Prevent rake problems by using proper clumping litter at the correct depth. Scoop out any oversized clumps manually before they enter the cleaning cycle. Check for foreign objects like toys or tracking mats that might enter the globe.

Leaking or odor issues occur when the waste drawer does not seal properly. Check that the drawer is fully inserted and latched. Ensure the liner bag is not bunched up preventing a tight seal. Empty the drawer more frequently if smells persist.

WiFi connectivity problems prevent app control from working. Ensure your router is within range and the litter box has adequate signal. Try restarting both your router and the litter box. Delete and reinstall the app if connection issues continue.

The unit not powering on sometimes happens right out of the box. Check that all electrical connections are secure. Try a different power outlet to rule out electrical issues. If the unit still does not power on, contact customer support for a replacement.

Comparing ELS Pet to Other Automatic Litter Boxes

The Litter Robot 4 remains the market leader and gold standard. It costs significantly more at around $699 to $799. However, the Litter Robot uses a rotating globe design that many find more reliable than rake systems. It has much larger waste capacity and better customer support.

Litter Robot offers superior build quality with heavy duty materials. The unit feels solid and durable compared to ELS Pet. Customer reviews show much higher satisfaction rates. The company has years of experience and continuously improves their product based on feedback.

Neakasa M1 offers an open top design similar to ELS Pet’s Orbitie model. Priced around $399, it falls between ELS Pet and Litter Robot. The Neakasa receives better reviews for reliability. The open design makes it easy to monitor operation and perform maintenance.

The Neakasa includes better sensors and safety features. It tracks individual cat health data more accurately. Build quality appears more consistent based on customer reviews. However, it still costs more than ELS Pet while offering similar core functionality.

CATLINK provides another mid range option with prices from $259 to $339. It uses a rotating mechanism rather than a rake. Customer reviews show moderate satisfaction with occasional issues but generally acceptable performance. CATLINK offers better customer service response than ELS Pet according to user reports.

Budget options from less known brands cost $150 to $250. However, these typically show even worse reliability than ELS Pet. Extremely cheap automatic litter boxes often fail quickly or work poorly from the start. Investing more in a proven brand usually provides better long term value.

Is ELS Pet Litter Box Worth the Money

The price point of $259 to $359 makes ELS Pet attractive compared to premium brands. You save $300 to $400 compared to a Litter Robot. This significant savings appeals to budget conscious cat owners or those wanting to try automatic litter boxes without major investment.

However, the reliability concerns significantly impact value. An automatic litter box that does not work provides zero value regardless of price. Many customers report units that fail immediately or within weeks. This means you may end up buying a replacement from a different brand anyway.

If your unit works properly, the ELS Pet can provide good value. Daily scooping disappears from your routine. You save time and effort while maintaining a cleaner litter environment for your cat. The health tracking features offer genuine benefits for monitoring your pet.

The one year warranty and 90 day return policy provide some protection. However, customer complaints about slow support and difficult warranty claims reduce this safety net. You may struggle to get timely replacements or refunds if problems occur.

Consider your risk tolerance and backup plans. If you can afford to potentially waste $300 on a non working product, ELS Pet might be worth trying. Keep your old traditional litter box available as backup. Document everything if issues arise to support warranty claims.

For most cat owners, spending more on a proven reliable brand likely provides better long term value. The Litter Robot costs more upfront but works consistently for years. You avoid the frustration, wasted time, and potential second purchase that ELS Pet may require.

Best Practices for Using ELS Pet Litter Box

Use high quality clumping litter for best results. ELS Pet recommends their proprietary mixed formula but this is not required. Premium clumping clay litters from trusted brands work well. Ensure the litter clumps quickly and firmly to prevent rake problems.

Maintain proper litter depth between 3 to 4 inches. Measure this when adding fresh litter. Too shallow and clumps do not form properly. Too deep and the rake struggles to move through effectively. Consistent depth improves cleaning performance.

Position the litter box strategically in your home. Choose a quiet area with minimal foot traffic. Avoid placing it near loud appliances like washing machines. Ensure your cat has easy access without feeling cornered or trapped. Leave space around the unit for your cat to comfortably approach.

Monitor the app notifications regularly to stay on top of maintenance needs. Do not ignore alerts about full waste drawers or low litter levels. Addressing these promptly prevents malfunctions and keeps the system running smoothly.

Keep traditional backup litter boxes available, especially during the initial months. If the ELS Pet malfunctions, your cat still needs a place to eliminate. Having a backup prevents accidents and reduces stress for both you and your pet.

Document any problems thoroughly if they occur. Take photos and videos of malfunctions. Save all communication with customer support. This documentation proves essential if you need to pursue warranty claims or refunds.

Clean sensors and moving parts weekly rather than waiting for problems to develop. Preventive maintenance may extend the life of your unit. Litter dust accumulates quickly in electronic components. Regular cleaning reduces the chance of sensor failures.

Health and Safety Considerations

Most cats can safely use automatic litter boxes including the ELS Pet. However, some situations require extra caution. Kittens under 6 months should not use automatic litter boxes. Their small size may confuse sensors, and the mechanical operation could frighten or harm them.

Senior cats with mobility issues may struggle with the entry height and step. Consider whether your older cat can comfortably climb in and out. The Orbitie model with wider opening works better for cats with arthritis or joint problems.

Cats weighing over 25 pounds exceed the weight limit. Using the litter box with an oversized cat risks sensor malfunction or mechanical failure. It also provides insufficient space for larger cats to move comfortably.

Multiple cat households need to consider whether one automatic box suffices. The general rule suggests one litter box per cat plus one extra. A single ELS Pet may work for two cats but three or more cats likely need multiple boxes.

Nervous or anxious cats may never adjust to automatic litter boxes. The movement and noise create too much stress for some personalities. Watch for signs of litter box aversion like eliminating outside the box or excessive anxiety. Return to traditional boxes if your cat shows severe stress.

The enclosed design can trap cats if the safety door malfunctions. While ELS Pet includes sensors to prevent this, some users report sensor failures. Never disable or override safety features. Ensure all safety mechanisms work properly before leaving cats unattended.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Automatic litter boxes consume electrical power continuously even when not actively cleaning. The ELS Pet draws about 9.6 watts. While this is relatively low, it adds up over time. Consider the environmental impact of this constant power use compared to manual scooping.

The electronic components and plastics create disposal challenges when the unit reaches end of life. Unlike simple plastic litter pans that can be recycled, automatic litter boxes contain motors, sensors, and circuit boards. These require proper electronic waste disposal.

Disposable liner bags add to ongoing waste. You go through one liner every few days to weekly. While convenient, these plastic bags accumulate in landfills. Some users try reusable liners but this requires more intensive cleaning.

ELS Pet uses standard clumping litter which has its own environmental concerns. Clay litter comes from strip mining operations. Consider switching to more sustainable alternatives like tofu, corn, or wheat based litters that clump adequately.

The manufacturing and shipping of large automatic litter boxes has carbon footprint implications. These units are heavy and bulky requiring significant packaging materials. Shipping from overseas manufacturing facilities adds transportation emissions.

However, some argue automatic boxes reduce overall litter usage because they clean more efficiently. Less litter gets thrown away with waste. Better odor control may mean fewer complete litter changes. These factors could offset some environmental costs.

Alternatives to Consider Before Buying

If reliability concerns you, Litter Robot 4 offers the most proven track record. Yes, it costs $699 to $799, but customer satisfaction rates are much higher. The company has excellent customer service and a robust warranty program. You get peace of mind that your investment will work as promised.

The PetSafe ScoopFree line provides a completely different approach. These boxes use crystal litter and disposable trays. No moving parts or motors eliminate mechanical failure concerns. You simply replace the entire tray every few weeks. Prices start around $169 making them more affordable than ELS Pet.

Traditional high quality manual litter boxes remain an excellent option. Premium boxes with high sides and good design cost $30 to $80. Pair these with quality litter and regular scooping provides reliable results. You avoid all reliability concerns and electrical requirements entirely.

Modified manual systems like the Omega Paw rolling litter box offer semi automation. You manually roll the unit to sift waste into a pull out drawer. No electricity, no sensors, no motors to break. Prices around $50 make them very affordable. These work well for owners who want some automation without full electronics.

The Neakasa M1 or M1 Lite splits the difference between ELS Pet and Litter Robot. Better quality than ELS Pet but cheaper than Litter Robot. Reviews show more consistent performance than ELS Pet. Consider this if you want open top design and middle ground pricing around $349 to $399.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the ELS Pet litter box really work automatically?

When functioning properly, yes, the ELS Pet litter box cleans automatically after your cat uses it. Sensors detect when your cat exits, wait a preset delay, then activate the rake to remove waste. However, many customer reports indicate reliability issues where the automatic function fails or stops working after initial use.

How often do I need to empty the ELS Pet waste drawer?

For a single cat, you typically empty the waste drawer every 5 to 7 days. Multiple cats require more frequent emptying, usually every 3 to 4 days. The smartphone app sends notifications when the drawer reaches capacity. Empty it promptly to prevent odors and maintain proper function.

Can I use any cat litter with the ELS Pet litter box?

No, you must use clumping litters only. The system works best with clay based clumping litter or mixed formulas combining clay and plant based materials. Do not use crystal litter, wood pellets, paper litter, or non clumping varieties. These will cause the rake mechanism to malfunction or fail to separate waste properly.

Is the ELS Pet litter box safe for kittens?

The manufacturer states cats must weigh at least 3.3 pounds to safely use the system. Most kittens under 6 months should not use automatic litter boxes. Their small size may confuse sensors creating safety risks. Wait until kittens are fully grown before introducing them to automatic systems.

What should I do if my ELS Pet litter box stops working?

First, unplug the unit for 30 seconds and restart it. Check for obstructions in the rake mechanism and clean all sensors. Ensure the waste drawer is not overfull. If problems persist, contact ELS Pet customer support through their website or app. Be prepared for potentially slow response times based on customer reports.

How loud is the ELS Pet during cleaning cycles?

ELS Pet claims operation at about 50 decibels, similar to a quiet conversation or office environment. Most cats adjust to this noise level. The app includes a sleep mode that pauses cleaning during set hours if nighttime noise concerns you. Some users report louder operation than advertised, especially if the rake encounters resistance.

Can multiple cats share one ELS Pet litter box?

Yes, the ELS Pet can accommodate multiple cats. The app tracks individual cat usage by weight. However, following the golden rule of one box per cat plus one extra is still recommended. A single automatic box may suffice for two cats but likely proves insufficient for three or more cats.

What is the warranty coverage for ELS Pet litter boxes?

ELS Pet offers a one year warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. They also provide a 90 day return policy if your cat refuses to use the product. However, many customer reviews report difficulty getting warranty claims processed or timely support responses.

How much electricity does the ELS Pet use?

The ELS Pet draws approximately 9.6 watts of power. It runs continuously to maintain sensor functionality and perform cleaning cycles. Monthly electricity costs are minimal, usually less than one dollar depending on your local rates. The power consumption is comparable to leaving a small LED light on continuously.

Can I monitor my cat’s health with the ELS Pet app?

Yes, the app tracks usage frequency, visit duration, and weight for each cat. This data helps identify potential health issues early. Changes in bathroom habits or weight can indicate illness. However, this feature only works when the unit functions properly. Many users report app connectivity issues or inaccurate data.

Last update on 2026-02-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API