The Litter Robot 4 is an innovative and high-tech litter box that automates the process of cleaning and recycling cat waste. This automatic self-cleaning cat litter box provides cat owners with a hands-free solution to dealing with kitty litter.
The Litter Robot 4 utilizes advanced sensors and waste sifting technology to separate clean and used litter after your cat uses the litter box. Once waste is detected, the Litter Robot initiates the cleaning cycle, rotating its spherical waste bin to sift and deposit waste in a built-in carbon filter receptacle while returning clean litter to the base. This automated cleaning and recycling process removes the need for manual scooping and cleaning of the cat litter box.
Key features and benefits of the Litter Robot 4 include:
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Advanced sensor technology detects when your cat enters and exits the box to initiate automatic cleaning cycles
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Large capacity spherical waste bin separates clean and used litter, filtering clumps into a sealed compartment
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WiFi enabled connectivity and mobile app allow monitoring, custom cleaning schedules, and health alerts
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Open air design with ramp provides easy entry and exit for cats
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High rim walls help contain litter scatter
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Energy efficient operation with low voltage power supply
With its innovative design and technology, the Litter Robot 4 aims to deliver maximum convenience and minimal effort for cat owners when it comes to managing litter boxes. It takes away the chore of manual scooping while keeping the litter box clean for cats.
Setup and Design
The Litter Robot 4 has been redesigned to be easier to set up and use compared to previous models. When unboxing the unit, all the parts are neatly packed and organized with clear labels indicating how to put everything together.
The setup process only takes about 10-15 minutes to complete. The quick start guide provides illustrated step-by-step instructions on how to assemble the main globe unit, attach the base, insert the carbon filter, download the app, and connect it to wifi. Videos are also available online showing the setup process if users need more guidance.
In terms of physical design, the Litter Robot 4 has a modern, spherical shape with a sturdy plastic construction. It measures 27 inches wide by 24.25 inches deep – a similar footprint to previous versions. The overall height is 25 inches tall. These compact dimensions allow the unit to fit into small spaces and corners in a room.
The interior globe that rotates to cycle through the cleaning process is made of high quality plastic resistant to scratches from cat claws and litter dust. This globe can accommodate cats up to 15 pounds. The entry hole in the globe is a generous 14 inches wide by 10.25 inches high to allow easy access for larger cats.
Noise levels are minimal with the Litter Robot 4. Unlike some older models, this version has no noisy rake or metal parts. The main sounds come from the globe rotating and litter falling into the base, but these actions produce a gentle hum comparable to a quiet fan. The unit cycles very quietly, registering between 50 to 60 decibels on average. For comparison, normal conversation is about 60 dB, so the Litter Robot 4 is on par with ambient home noise levels.
Litter Loading and Capacity
The Litter Robot 4 has a generously sized litter box that can hold up to 20 pounds of litter. This gives even large cats plenty of space to move around and do their business.
To load litter, lift the globe dome up and out of the way which provides full access to the litter box. Simply pour litter directly into the box until reaching the fill line. The box accommodates both clumping and crystal litters. Clumping varieties are recommended since they form solid clumps that the Litter Robot can easily remove. Avoid using lightweight, fluffy litters that can get stuck in the sifter screen.
Once loaded with litter, turn the unit back on and let the automatic rake system level out the litter. This creates an even surface inside the box. The rake will run periodically after each cat use to keep the litter smoothed out.
The large litter capacity means only needing to replenish the litter about once a week for one cat, and twice a week for multi-cat households. This is much less frequent than scooping a standard litter box daily. The high walls also help minimize messy litter scatter.
Waste Disposal Process
One of the standout features of the Litter Robot 4 is its automated waste disposal process. This removes one of the most unpleasant parts of cat ownership – cleaning the litter box.
The Litter Robot has an oval-shaped waste drawer that rotates and collects clumped waste after each cycle. The waste drawer holds up to 14 lbs of waste, which is approx 30-45 cycles depending on litter type and number of cats. This means you only need to empty the drawer every 3-7 days for one cat.
The drawer uses disposable waste bags that fit neatly inside, making waste removal clean and mess-free. Litter Robot supplies official waste bags designed to fit the drawer perfectly and prevent leaks. Each bag can hold up to 30 lbs. Replacement bags are available in bundles of 18 or 36.
To start the waste disposal cycle, the Litter Robot detects your cat exiting after a use. It then initiates a 5-minute countdown before rotating the globe to sift and separate waste into the drawer. This quiet rotation only takes approx 2 minutes.
The Litter Robot has effective odor control. Its carbon filter air vents absorb odors inside the globe during sifting. An optional night light illuminates the interior to prevent odor from escaping when cats enter. The tight seal between globe and base also helps contain smells. Changing waste bags regularly is important for optimal odor control.
Overall the automated waste disposal system makes litter box maintenance much easier. No more daily scooping required. Just empty the bag when full and occasionally wash the globe interior. This is a major time saver for multi-cat homes. The Litter Robot keeps your home smelling clean!
Sensors and Cleaning
The Litter Robot 4 features an advanced sensor system to detect your cat’s presence and automatically initiate the cleaning cycle. This allows the litter box to always stay clean without requiring manual scooping.
Motion Sensors Detect Your Cat’s Presence
There are infrared sensors mounted on the inside rim of the Litter Robot’s entrance. When your cat enters the box, breaks the plane of the infrared beam, and climbs into the litter-filled globe, the sensors are triggered to start the cleaning process once your cat exits. This allows the Litter Robot to initiate a cleaning cycle soon after your cat uses the litter box.
Self-Cleaning Process
After the sensors detect your cat has exited, the Litter Robot will wait a short delay of approximately 7 minutes before starting the cleaning process. This gives time for any lingering odors or dust to settle before the globe rotates.
To clean the litter box, the globe will rotate upside down sifting the waste clumps through a built-in sifter and into the waste drawer. The clean litter will remain in the globe while the waste clumps fall away separated from the clean litter. The whole cycle takes around 2 minutes.
The Litter Robot has a pre-set cycle that will initiate the cleaning process around 7 minutes after each cat use. There is also a backup timing cycle that will activate every hour in case a cat visit wasn’t detected. This ensures regular cleaning even if the sensors miss some litter box activity.
Frequency of Cleaning Cycles
The Litter Robot is designed for multiple cats and heavy use. It can complete around 8-10 cleaning cycles per day on average. The frequency will depend on the number of cats and how often they use the litter box. The Litter Robot can handle up to 4 average sized cats.
Cleaning Tips
It’s recommended to empty the waste drawer every 1-3 days depending on use to prevent odor buildup. The waste drawer and globe should also be fully washed out weekly.
Use clumping litter and avoid very lightweight litter, as the Litter Robot sifting is optimized for medium sized clumps. Scoop any extremely large clumps before running a manual clean cycle to prevent clogs.
Following the cleaning guidelines in the owner’s manual is key to maintaining optimal performance and avoiding any sensor detection issues over time.
Connectivity and App
One of the standout features of the Litter Robot 4 is its connectivity and compatibility with the Litter Robot mobile app. This allows cat owners to monitor, control, and customize their Litter Robot remotely using their smartphone.
The Litter Robot app is available for both iOS and Android devices. It connects to the Litter Robot via WiFi, allowing you to access your cat’s litter box from anywhere. The app features a number of useful functions:
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Remote monitoring – The app allows you to check the status of the Litter Robot in real-time, view waste drawer levels, check for any alerts or errors, and monitor your cat’s litter box usage. Motion sensor alerts let you know when your cat enters or exits the unit.
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Remote control – Within the app you can manually trigger a cleaning cycle, change settings, or turn off the unit as needed, even when away from home. This gives you full control.
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Customizable settings – Use the app to adjust cycle timing, night light options, waste drawer lock settings, and more. You can set up the Litter Robot to meet your cat’s needs and cleaning preferences.
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Usage tracking – The app tracks your cat’s litter box visits and waste levels, so you can monitor their health and litter habits. Helpful graphs and trend lines make it easy to identify changes.
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Alerts – Get notified if the waste drawer is full, there’s an error, or the unit has stopped cycling. This allows you to promptly address any issues.
The Litter Robot 4’s connectivity features and intuitive app allow unprecedented control, convenience, and monitoring when it comes to your cat’s automated litter box. You’ll have insight into their litter habits along with remote access from anywhere.
Special Features
The Litter Robot 4 comes with some special features that help make it more convenient and tailored to your cat’s needs.
Night Light
One handy feature is the night light located near the entryway of the Litter Robot. This dim blue light illuminates the opening to help cats enter and exit easily in low light conditions. No more stepping in the dark! The night light can be turned on or off as needed.
Health Counter
The Litter Robot 4 has a built-in health counter that tracks your cat’s bowel movements. It counts the number of cycles and provides daily, weekly, and monthly stats. This allows you to monitor your cat’s health and notice any changes in bathroom habits, which could indicate a potential medical issue.
Multiple Cat Household Capability
The Litter Robot 4 is designed to accommodate multi-cat households. It has a patented sifting system that thoroughly cleans all waste after each use. The waste bin is also large enough for 2-3 cats. An indicator light lets you know when the bin is full and ready to empty. With automatic cleaning after every use, the Litter Robot 4 can handle families with multiple cats sharing one unit. No more scooping for you!
The special features of the Litter Robot 4 make it more than just an automatic litter box. The night light, health counter, and multi-cat capabilities add extra convenience and health monitoring for your feline family members.
Maintenance
The Litter Robot requires some regular maintenance to keep it functioning properly. Here are some tips for maintaining your Litter Robot:
Cleaning the Globe
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The globe should be cleaned out completely every 1-2 weeks. Remove any stuck-on waste and wash with mild soap and water.
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Be sure to fully dry the inside of the globe after washing. Any moisture left inside can impact the sensors.
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For a deeper clean, use a cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove odors and stains inside the globe.
Base
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Wipe down the base weekly with a soft cloth to remove any scattered litter.
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Use a small vacuum crevice tool to suck up litter around and under the base, where cats may kick it.
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Every 1-2 months, empty out the base and wipe down thoroughly with mild cleaner.
Sensors
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Wipe the sensors inside the globe every couple weeks to remove any coating of dust, litter, or residue.
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Use rubbing alcohol and cotton swabs to carefully clean the sensors and remove buildup. Avoid scratching the sensors.
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Check that all sensor holes are clear of obstructions. Clogged holes can impact detection.
Replacing Parts
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Expect to replace the carbon filter every 1-2 months depending on your cat’s usage.
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The waste receptacle and sweep should be replaced every 6-12 months.
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Globes, bases, and other components can be replaced after wear and tear, usually after 1-3 years.
Regularly following this maintenance routine will help keep your Litter Robot functioning optimally and extend its lifespan. Proper cleaning is essential for accurate sensor detection and preventing waste clumps.
Troubleshooting Issues
The Litter Robot 4 is designed to be reliable and convenient, but occasional issues can arise. Here are some troubleshooting tips for common problems.
Litter Robot won’t cycle or turn on
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Check that the power cord is firmly plugged into the wall outlet. Make sure the outlet is functioning properly.
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Check the back panel for any error code lights. Refer to the owner’s manual for specific error code causes.
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Make sure there is enough clearance around and above the unit, at least a few feet, so the globe can turn freely.
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The unit may need time to recharge if the battery ran down completely. Let it sit plugged in for several hours.
Cat sensor not working
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Try cleaning the cat sensor eyes at the entrance with a soft cloth. Remove any dust, litter or debris.
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Adjust the cat sensor sensitivity level in the app settings. It may be set too low.
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Test the sensor by passing your hand in front of the entrance eyes. The red lights should flash.
Litter Robot stops mid-cycle
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Check for any obstructions preventing the globe from turning smoothly. Remove any litter or objects that may be blocking it.
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The unit may stop cycling when the waste drawer is full. Try emptying the drawer and restarting the cycle.
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Make sure the litter level is not too high or too low. Maintain around 2-3 inches of litter.
App connectivity issues
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Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your mobile device and location services are turned on.
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Try resetting your home’s WiFi network and reconnecting the Litter Robot app.
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If problems persist, contact Litter Robot customer support online or by phone for troubleshooting help. Their technicians can diagnose issues remotely.
Costs and Reviews
Purchasing the Litter Robot 4 is a significant investment for most cat owners, but many find the upfront cost worthwhile over time. The Litter Robot 4 currently retails for $499 directly from the manufacturer. This places it at the higher end of automatic litter boxes, but it comes with high-end features like an app, advanced sensors, and stainless steel construction.
The main ongoing cost for the Litter Robot is purchasing cat litter to fill it. It can hold up to 20 pounds of standard clumping litter. With daily cleaning cycles, most owners need to add a bag or two of litter each month. The Litter Robot 4 is compatible with any clumping litter, so owners can use affordable options. Using a lower-quality litter does not seem to impact the effectiveness of the waste removal process.
$60 to $558
Customer reviews of the Litter Robot 4 are overwhelmingly positive. On the Litter Robot website, it earns a 4.7 out of 5 star rating based on over 5,000 independent reviews. Owners praise the hands-free waste removal, odor control, and high-tech features like the mobile app. Most describe it as a game changer for managing litter and keeping their home clean.
Some technical issues have been reported, such as wifi connectivity problems or sensors not working correctly. But the manufacturer appears very responsive about quickly replacing parts and troubleshooting. Negative reviews mostly seem to focus on the high price tag being unaffordable. Overall, owners who invest in a Litter Robot are extremely satisfied with the functionality and quality.