How to Stop Litter Box Leaks with the Right Liners
By Petmate | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: How-to Guides
Litter box leaks often come from the wrong liner or improper fit. Learn to diagnose the cause and choose a drawstring hi-back liner that stays put and seals tight.
Quick Answer
To stop litter box leaks, switch to a drawstring hi-back liner that grips the pan securely and closes tightly when you lift it out. A proper fit and correct installation are just as important as the liner itself.
Why Liners Leak Even When They Look Fine
Most leaks happen because the liner slips down when your cat jumps in, leaving an exposed gap at the bottom. If the liner doesn't hug the pan's corners, urine can pool underneath and seep out.
Another common culprit is a liner that's too small for your box. A stretched liner tears easily under the weight of fresh litter, and a tear near the bottom is a direct path for leaks.
Hi-back boxes have taller walls, so a standard liner may not reach high enough. That's why a liner designed specifically for hi-back boxes makes a difference: it covers the full interior and stays anchored.
Diagnose and Fix Your Litter Box Leak
- Symptom: You see wet spots on the floor outside the box, or the bottom of the box feels damp even though you just changed the litter. Check the outside of the box and the floor beneath it for moisture patterns.
- Likely Cause: The liner is slipping down the sides, tearing from overstretching, or not tall enough for a hi-back box. A too-small liner is the most common reason for bottom leaks. Measure your box's height and compare it to the liner's coverage before buying.
- Corrective Action: Replace the liner with a drawstring hi-back liner that fits your box's dimensions. When installing, pull the drawstring snug around the rim so the liner stays anchored, and avoid overfilling with litter. After installing, run your hand along the bottom to confirm there are no wrinkles or gaps.
- When to Stop or Choose Another Option: If leaks continue after switching to a correctly sized drawstring liner and checking for tears, the problem may be the box itself—cracks or warped plastic. At that point, consider replacing the litter box rather than trying another liner.
The Liner That Fixes the Most Leak Complaints
- Petmate Drawstring Hi-Back Litter Box Liners: Petmate Drawstring Hi-Back Litter Box Liners are made specifically for Hi-Back Litter Boxes and have a unique drawstring that holds securely on the pan so it doesn't slip down when your cat jumps in. A liner that stays put prevents the gaps and pooling that cause leaks, and the drawstring closure makes disposal cleaner.
Petmate Drawstring Hi-Back Litter Box Liners
