7 Best Litter Mats for Long Haired Cats That Drag Litter

The best litter mat for long haired cats is the Pieviev Soft Chenille mat if your priority is a soft surface that brushes litter out of fur and paws, and the CatGuru mat if you want a washable, waterproof option in a wide range of sizes. Long coats change the problem. Short-haired cats mostly carry litter on their paws, while a Persian, Maine Coon or Ragdoll can also pick it up in belly fur and trailing hair, then leave a trail across the room. The seven picks below are chosen with that fur-drag problem in mind.

A mat helps most when it is soft enough that a cat will not avoid it, textured enough to loosen granules, and easy enough to clean that you will keep up with it. Long haired cats can also have specific care needs around the litter box, such as grooming the fur around the hindquarters, which is worth discussing with your veterinarian or groomer. This guide sticks to the mats, and includes sizing guidance, a placement plan, and a short routine that keeps fur and litter under control.

Our top picks

Top pickGORILLA GRIP Cat Litter Mat

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Also greatGORILLA GRIP Cat Litter Mat

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Also greatGORILLA GRIP Cat Litter Mat

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Also greatAmazon Basics Less-Mess Litter Trapping Cat Litter

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Top Picks at a Glance

• Best Overall: Pieviev Soft Chenille Cat Litter Box Mat, 28 x 22 inches, long plush fibers for deep trapping.
• Best Washable Range of Sizes: CatGuru Cat Litter Mat, sold in Medium, Extra Large and XXL, machine washable.
• Best Soft Grip: VIVAGLORY Softgrip Litter Trapping Mat, 31 x 20 inches.
• Best Simple Soft Rectangle: Catit Cat Litter Mat, a non-slip rectangle marketed as soft and easy to clean.
• Best Extra-Large Coverage: LittleTiger Cat Litter Mat, 46 x 35 inches, phthalate free.
• Best Two-Mat Rotation: Bienbee Cat Litter Mat 2-Pack, 28 x 20 inches each, machine washable.
• Best Waterproof Fabric: Drymate Cat Litter Box Mat, 28 x 36 XL, with a waterproof backing.

Quick Comparison Table

1. Pieviev Soft Chenille Cat Litter Box Mat: Best Overall

• 28 x 22 inches, with a 36 x 30 inch size also sold.
• Long plush chenille fibers described as trapping litter deeply.
• Marketed as ultra absorbent and waterproof.
• Care instructions: check the maker’s page before washing.

Best for: cats with fluffy coats that brush the ground as they walk. Skip if: you would rather rinse a mat under a tap than shake out fabric.

A long coat dislodges litter in a different way than a bare paw. As the cat steps out, belly fur and trousers of hair brush against the surface. A chenille mat has long, soft fibers that catch loose granules and also hold them while the cat walks across, so they are less likely to ride along on fur. Softness matters too, because a cat that dislikes the texture may avoid the mat and walk around it.

The two sizes let you choose between a standard apron and a bigger landing area. For most open boxes, 28 x 22 is a reasonable start; for a large hooded box or a big breed such as a Maine Coon, consider the 36 x 30 version.

The trade-off is cleaning. Fabric holds on to what it traps, so plan to shake out or vacuum it often, and wash it based on the label. Fine dust from clumping litter can also collect in the fibers, so a lint roller or vacuum attachment helps between washes.

Pros: very soft, absorbent, two sizes. Cons: needs regular shaking, care instructions require checking.

2. CatGuru Cat Litter Mat: Best Washable Range of Sizes

• Sold in Medium (about 24 x 20 inches), Extra Large (about 36 x 28 inches) and XXL (about 48 x 35 inches), according to the maker.
• Machine washable, per the maker.
• Heavy Duty version has a waterproof, non-slip backing; the Standard version has non-slip backing but needs a pad underneath to be waterproof.
• Polyester and rubber construction, per retail information.

Best for: owners who want to size the mat to their space, and who plan to wash it often. Skip if: you want a hose-and-shake design.

CatGuru is one of the few brands that offers three clear sizes in the same design, which helps if you are not sure how much floor you need to cover. For a long haired cat that kicks litter in all directions, the extra-large option provides a wide zone around the box. The XXL covers an area large enough for multiple boxes or a corner set-up.

The maker says to machine wash to disinfect and renew the mat, and to fold and shake loose litter back into the box between washes. That is a practical routine for a household with fluffy cats, because fur and litter collect together and a weekly wash prevents a build-up. Choose the Heavy Duty version if urine or wet litter is a concern, since the Standard version relies on a separate pad to be waterproof.

Pros: multiple sizes, machine washable, waterproof option. Cons: Standard version is not waterproof by itself, larger sizes need lots of space.

3. VIVAGLORY Softgrip Litter Trapping Mat: Best Soft Grip

• 31 x 20 inches.
• Softgrip surface described as litter trapping.
• Gray color.
• Material and care details: not listed in the title.

Best for: medium boxes and cats that prefer a soft landing. Skip if: you need to know the exact materials before buying.

The VIVAGLORY sits between a small mat and an extra-large one. At 31 x 20 inches, it fits a standard box with a modest apron. Its listing emphasizes a soft grip, which suggests a surface designed to be gentle on paws while still holding litter. Check the maker’s page for the specifics of the surface and care method.

Because specs are sparse, it is best treated as a mid-range option. If your cat tolerates it and you find it keeps floors cleaner, it can be a sensible choice for a small apartment.

Pros: sensible size, soft grip surface. Cons: few published details.

4. Catit Cat Litter Mat: Best Simple Soft Rectangle

• Rectangular, non-slip litter trapping mat.
• Marketed as soft and comfortable for cats.
• Easy to clean, for all litter types, according to the listing.
• Dimensions: not listed in the title.

Best for: households that want a recognized pet brand at a modest cost. Skip if: you need size options spelled out in the title.

Catit is a familiar name in cat accessories, and its mat is a straightforward rectangle designed to be gentle on paws. The listing says it works with all litter types, which is useful for households that change litter. The softer surface should be friendlier to long coats than a hard plastic grid.

Without dimensions in the title, check the product page to confirm that the size suits your box before you order. A mat that is too small will not help a long coat that sweeps across the floor.

Pros: known brand, simple design, non-slip. Cons: sizes need to be checked.

5. LittleTiger Cat Litter Mat: Best Extra-Large Coverage

• 46 x 35 inches.
• Phthalate free, according to the listing.
• Easy to clean and described as soft on paws.
• Durability and backing details: not listed in the title.

Best for: large cats, big boxes and owners who want a very wide landing zone. Skip if: floor space is tight.

A very large mat gives a long haired cat more room to shed litter before it reaches the rest of the home. At 46 x 35 inches, this option is closer to a small rug than a typical litter mat. It suits a corner with a large enclosure, or a laundry room where the box sits in the middle of the floor.

The trade-off is space and cleaning. Bigger mats are more awkward to shake out and may not fit in a standard washing machine, so check the care instructions. A mat this size can also look like part of the room, so choose it if you are happy to make that compromise.

Pros: very large, soft on paws, phthalate free. Cons: needs a lot of room, harder to wash.

6. Bienbee Cat Litter Mat 2-Pack: Best Two-Mat Rotation

• Two mats per pack, each 28 x 20 inches.
• Machine washable per the listing.
• A 33 x 22 inch two-pack is also sold.
• Material details: not listed in the title.

Best for: keeping a clean mat on the floor at all times. Skip if: you want a single large mat.

Fur-heavy households have to wash mats frequently, so having a spare is a practical advantage. One mat sits by the box while the other is washing or drying, and you never go without. Two mats also let you layer them end to end for a larger landing zone when needed.

The 28 x 20 inch size works for most open boxes. If you have a big cat or a hooded box, the 33 x 22 pack offers more coverage.

Pros: two mats, washable, flexible layout. Cons: limited specs.

7. Drymate Cat Litter Box Mat XL: Best Waterproof Fabric

• Listed at 28 x 36 inches; the maker lists the XL as roughly 29 x 36 inches.
• Polyester top with a waterproof, slip-resistant backing.
• Made with at least 50 percent recycled content, according to the maker.
• Retail listings describe it as machine washable; the maker suggests washing separately and hanging to dry.

Best for: homes where moisture is an issue as well as litter. Skip if: you need an ultra-plush surface.

Drymate is built to protect floors. For long haired cats, the extra length is useful because a trailing coat sweeps across a large area as the cat leaves the box. The fabric surface is not as plush as chenille, but it absorbs liquids and the backing keeps them from reaching the floor.

Follow the maker’s care guidance, which favors a separate wash and hanging to dry, and avoid bleach. Shake or vacuum it between washes to remove fur and loose granules.

Pros: large, waterproof backing, slip-resistant. Cons: less plush, needs air drying.

Also Consider

• Gorilla Grip Coiled Mesh Mat (35 x 23): a mesh mat that lets litter fall through the coils; good for shake-and-tip cleaning, though long fur can tangle in coils.
• YOSEPATI Soft Litter Mat (24 x 16): a compact, soft-on-paws mat for small spaces.
• Garoopion Silicone Litter Mat (34 x 22): a waterproof silicone option with raised edges that is easy to rinse.
• Pieviev Double-Layer Mat (30 x 24): a honeycomb-style, urine-proof mat for those who prefer a hard surface.

How We Chose

We did not physically try these products. This guide is based on research: manufacturer pages, retailer listings, stated sizes, materials and care notes, and general guidance from veterinary and cat care organizations about litter areas and grooming. When a listing did not state a spec, we marked it “not listed”. When the retailer description and the maker’s care notes differed, as with the Drymate, we reported both.

For this specific topic, we gave extra weight to softness, size and washability. Long coats make fur and litter travel together, so a soft surface, a wide landing zone and an easy cleaning routine matter more than a clever design. We kept to two products per brand, included only current products, and covered budget, mid-range and premium tiers.

Buying Guide

Prioritize a soft, textured surface

Soft fabric and chenille tend to be more comfortable for long haired cats than hard grids, and they brush litter out of fur gently. Hard mesh designs can trap litter well but may catch long hair. If your cat has a very fluffy coat, start with a soft fabric. If your cat is already reluctant to step on a new surface, introduce the mat slowly.

Go bigger than you think

Long coats sweep a wider area, so a larger mat is usually better. Aim for at least 10 to 12 inches beyond the box on the exit side, and consider an extra-large size such as CatGuru XL (about 36 x 28 inches) or the LittleTiger (46 x 35 inches) if space allows. A mat that is the same width as the box is often too small for a fluffy cat.

Choose a cleaning method you will actually follow

Fabric mats collect fur, so plan to vacuum or shake them every day or two. Machine-washable mats such as the CatGuru and Bienbee make weekly cleaning easier. If you do not want to wash anything, a shake-and-rinse mat may suit you better, but check that long hair does not tangle in the pattern.

Consider waterproofing

If your cat has accidents, spills litter, or the box sits on a wood floor, a waterproof backing protects the surface below. The CatGuru Heavy Duty and the Drymate both list waterproof backing, while the CatGuru Standard needs a pad. Ensure the backing is non-slip to prevent sliding.

Support the mat with good litter and grooming habits

A mat works best alongside a few simple habits. Use a low-dust, non-sticky litter if your cat tends to carry clumps in its fur. Keep the box scooped daily. Ask your groomer or veterinarian whether a sanitary trim of the fur around the hindquarters makes sense for your cat, which can reduce what the coat picks up. Never trim near the skin yourself without guidance.

Placement plan

Put the mat at the exit side of the box and make sure your cat has to cross it. If the box has multiple exits or sits against a wall, place the mat on the open side. For a top-entry box, put the mat directly under the entry hole and extend it forward. Test the placement for a few days and watch where litter ends up, then adjust the mat position or add a second mat.

Which mat for which long-haired situation

A simple weekly routine for fur and litter

A few minutes on a fixed schedule beats an occasional deep clean. Each morning, scoop the box and give the mat a quick shake over the box so loose granules fall back in. Every second day, run a handheld vacuum or a lint roller over a fabric mat to lift fur. Once a week, wash the mat according to its label, and let it dry fully before it returns to the floor. Once a month, wipe the floor underneath with a pet-safe cleaner that has little scent, because trapped moisture and fine litter dust can collect below the mat.

If you own a two-pack, swap mats on wash day so the floor is never bare. If you have only one mat, wash it in the morning and let it air dry through the day, with a towel under the box in the meantime. Keeping the routine small makes it more likely to stick, and long haired cats tend to create the most mess when a routine slips for a week.

Watch your cat’s reaction

The best mat is the one your cat actually walks on. Notice whether your cat hesitates at the edge, hops over the mat, or avoids the box after a change. Any of those reactions suggests the texture or position is wrong. Adjust before you assume the cat is being difficult, and speak to your veterinarian if changes in litter habits last more than a day or two, since they can sometimes point to discomfort rather than preference.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying a mat that is the same size as the box.
• Choosing a rigid grid for a cat with very fluffy fur that tangles.
• Using scented detergents that may put a cat off the area.
• Skipping regular vacuuming of a fabric mat.
• Ignoring changes in litter habits, which can signal a health issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best litter mat for long haired cats?

A soft, large, washable mat works best. The Pieviev Soft Chenille mat is a strong choice for softness, and the CatGuru is a good choice if you want machine washing and several size options.

Why does my long haired cat track so much litter?

Fur on the belly, legs and hindquarters picks up litter, especially clumping types. A larger, softer mat and a low-dust litter reduce tracking, and grooming advice from your veterinarian or groomer can help.

How big should a litter mat be for a Maine Coon or Persian?

Larger is better. Look for at least 10 to 12 inches beyond the box, which often means a mat of about 36 x 28 inches or more.

Are litter mats machine washable?

Some are. The CatGuru and Bienbee are described as machine washable, and the Drymate is sold as machine washable in retail listings, though the maker suggests washing separately and hanging to dry. Always check the care label.

Can long fur get stuck in a coiled mesh mat?

It can, depending on the pattern. Soft fabric mats are usually a safer starting point for fluffy cats.

How often should I clean the mat?

Shake or vacuum every day or two and wash every week or two. Households with several cats may need to clean more often.

My cat will not walk on the mat. What should I do?

Introduce it gradually, move it closer over several days, and choose a softer surface. If your cat avoids the box entirely, contact your veterinarian.

Which One Should You Buy?

For a soft landing that is kind to fluffy fur, choose the Pieviev Soft Chenille mat. For a mat you can size to your space and wash in the machine, choose the CatGuru. If you want to rotate clean mats, the Bienbee two-pack keeps one ready. For a very large landing zone, consider the LittleTiger, and for waterproof protection, the Drymate XL. Measure your space, aim for a generous apron, and follow the maker’s care instructions so the mat lasts.

Sources

• Pieviev product pages
• CatGuru product pages and care instructions
• Drymate product pages
• Catit, VIVAGLORY, LittleTiger and Bienbee product listings
• International Cat Care guidance on litter trays and coat care

Last updated: October 2026