As a cat parent, you want to find the perfect litter box – one that controls odor, minimizes mess, and makes your finicky feline happy.
The Petmate Clean Step Litter Dome may have been recommended to you as an affordable option.
But you likely still have reservations whether it’s the right pick.
As a multi-cat owner who’s tried endless litter boxes seeking that ideal solution, I get it.
I was skeptical when a friend first suggested the Petmate to me. Yet I decided to give it a shot.
After months of use, I’m ready to provide an authentic, unbiased review on this litter dome.
In this review, I’ll share exactly what I like about the Petmate’s design and performance.
I’ll also cover any downsides you should know.
My goal is to give you the complete picture to determine if this budget-friendly litter box could solve your needs.
Whether you need guidance on where to start or validation on this specific product, my experience will assist you in making the right decision for your cat and wallet.
Short of time, here is my high-level Petmate Clean Step Litter Dome Review:
Quick Verdict
For odor and mess containment without the premium price, the Petmate Clean Step Litter Dome is an ideal solution.
With excellent odor control, stylish design, and enticing privacy features, this affordable litter dome keeps your home fresh and cats happy.
Reduced tracking and scatter plus sturdy construction make it the practical choice.
What I Like About The Petmate Clean Step Litter Dome
Sturdy Yet Sufficiently Lightweight To Move
Weighing in at just 6.8 lbs., the Petmate dome is sturdy yet lightweight enough for easy moving and cleaning.
The built-in handle makes it simple to carry the litter box to the sink or bathtub for thorough scrub downs.
I love that I can easily pick it up and reposition it around the house as needed.
The durable construction means it won’t crack or chip when cleaned.
Plus, its made in the USA with 95% recycled materials – meaning its great for the planet, too.
Functional, Practical For Cats & Owners
This litter box is thoughtfully designed for both cats and owners.
The unique dome shape helps reduce messy litter scattering and tracking around the home.
The hooded top gives kitty privacy while doing their business.
High walls keep litter contained inside.
The large step area inside the entrance makes it easy for cats to get in and out.
I love that it’s functional and practical!
Enticing For Cats And Those Who Are Particularly Litter Box Averse
Some cats can be finicky or even averse to litter boxes.
The Petmate Clean Step’s design gently guides the cat all the way inside so there’s no room for “butt poking out.”
This prevents cat sprays on walls or floors.
Many litter-box resistant cats have taken to this box right away and consistently use it with no issues.
If you have a cat that’s exhibited aversions, this box is great for enticing consistent use.
Roomy Yet Private
With plenty of interior room for digging and moving around, this litter dome provides felines space to comfortably do their business.
Even large Maine Coons can fit and move around with ease.
The privacy of the enclosed design makes cats feel secure.
One of my cats was defecating outside the box, but once I got the Petmate Clean Step, she took to it immediately and consistently uses it with no more accidents.
The private, roomy space is clearly enticing to her.
Excellent Odor Control
I’ve noticed significantly better odor control with this litter dome design compared to other boxes I’ve tried.
The enclosed shape seems to keep smells contained inside rather than wafting out into the home.
Even as the litter gets used between cleanings, there is hardly any odor leakage.
The dome shape and tight seal when closed keeps everything inside. I love that it helps control that stale, ammonia cat litter smell between full cleanings.
Aesthetically Pleasing In Three Unique Colors
The Petmate litter dome comes in three stylish colors – Brushed Nickel, Pearl White, and Titanium.
The brushed nickel and titanium options have a modern, sleek look that blends in seamlessly with any home décor.
The pearl white dome gives off a clean, bright aesthetic.
I love that there are options to match different home color schemes.
What I Don’t Like About The Petmate Clean Step Litter Dome
Dome Lid Security
The dome lid does come off pretty easily.
Now cats are unlikely to knock it off, but unless you place it against a wall this is possible.
If your litter box is free standing somewhere you may want to find a method to really secure the lid on.
Cleaning Can Be Challenging
Cleaning it can be frustrating.
The shape of the box makes it really difficult to scoop since the inner edges are rounded so you can’t get into the “corners” of the box very easily.
And the litter that does sit on the steps is really hard to get off without flipping the entire box upside down or hose vaccuming it.
Many of the more unsatisfied users have mentioned that this box has been a learning curve to get used it.
The main alternative here is to use a bag inside the litter box and take your time when removing the litter.
Alternatives To The Petmate Clean Step Litter Dome
Tuft and Paw Cove Litter Box
The Tuft & Paw Cove Litter Box is perhaps the standout alternative, though it does cost 3x the price.
It features a minimalist, modern design that integrates the litter scoop, brush, and dustpan for convenient cleaning and storage. Constructed from thick durable plastic, the box is easy to keep clean with simple wiping.
With adequate interior space, cats can turn around and dig comfortably. The non-slip rubber bottom prevents sliding on floors. A discreet cutout handle allows for easy lifting and portability.
For cats that tend to kick litter out of the box, Tuft & Paw offers an optional 8-inch wall attachment called The Shelter. This accessory neatly contains litter scatter inside.
The Cove’s thoughtful design and features create a functional, hassle-free litter box option suitable for small spaces. It provides cats a clean, contained space to do their business.
Learn more: Tuft and Paw Litter Box Review [Is It Worth The Price?]
Final Verdict: Should You Buy The Petmate Clean Step Litter Dome?
At its affordable price point, the Petmate Clean Step Litter Dome is an excellent cat litter box solution that I would recommend purchasing.
The pros clearly outweigh the few minor cons. Sturdy construction, stylish design, excellent odor control, and enticing privacy for finicky cats make this an ideal cat litter box.
While cleaning the rounded edges can be tricky and the lid may need extra securing, these are relatively small drawbacks for such a functional and effective litter dome design.
If you have some extra budget, the Tuft & Paw Cove Litter Box resolves the cleaning challenges of the Petmate while offering a sleek, integrated design.
However, you do pay more for this convenience.
For those seeking an affordable litter box that looks good and functions well for cats, the Petmate Clean Step Litter Dome checks off the key boxes and won’t break the bank.
Considering its price-to-performance ratio, useful features, and effectiveness, the Petmate is an excellent cat litter box option worth purchasing.
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I am an experienced pet owner with decades of experience owning a number of different pets, from traditional pets like dogs and cats, to the more exotic like reptiles and rodents. I currently own a Cockapoo (pictured) called Bailey. I am also the main writer and chief editor here at Pet Educate; a site dedicated to sharing evidence-based insights and guidance, based on my vast pet ownership knowledge, experience, and extensive research.