Assemble the self-cleaning litter box according to the instructions. Plug it in, or if your model has a battery operated option install the batteries, and fill it with a high quality clumping cat litter. Automatic litter boxes do not work with traditional cat litter.
Sensors
Sensors inside the litter box recognize when the cat has stepped into the box. The cleaning cycle is engaged when the cat leaves the box. Once the the sensors start counting down, it takes ten to twelve minutes before the cleaning cycle starts. If the cat returns to the litter box before the rake begins to operate, the sensors will reset and the ten to twelve minute timer will start again when the cat leaves the box.
The Cleaning
Scooping the waste is done by a rake mechanism that runs through the litter. When it picks up solid waste, it deposits it into a receptacle on the other side of the litter box and automatically covers it up. The cycle will repeat until no more clumps are found in the litter. If an object winds up behind the rake, the cycle will quit where it is. It will have to be manually cleaned up in order for it to work again.
The Receptacle
Remove the plastic waste receptacle and throw it away. Replace with a clean one.
Tips
To save money on the disposable receptacle containers, line the container with a plastic grocery bag. That way you can simply remove the bag and reuse the receptacle. Also, be sure to clean the receptacle every day, it fills up quickly. When filling the box with clumping cat litter, be sure it is exactly level with the fill line. The rake will not operate if there is too much or to little cat litter in the box.
Warning
Automatic litter boxes aren't good for cats with soft stools. The waste will caught up in the rake and won't deposit into the receptacle. It can also clog the sensors causing the rake to continue to cycle, thus burning out the motor. Even though the automatic litter box comes with a tool to clean out the tines of the rake, it can be more effort to do that than it would be to use the old fashioned style litter box.
