Furrbby XXL vs. Modkat XL: The Battle of the High-Sided Giants
by Laura Jane on May 07, 2026
For businesses selling or using premium litter boxes, understanding the true long-term value of products like Furrbby XXL and Modkat XL means looking beyond initial price tags.
We will explore key differences, focusing on how material choices affect long-term odor control, scratch resistance (with Furrbby XL stainless steel boxes reporting 92-95% user satisfaction for no visible scratches), and the Modkat XL's estimated $60 annual 'liner tax' from proprietary liners.
Material Porosity (Smell Absorption)
Plastic litter boxes, like the Modkat XL, have microscopic pores and develop scratches that trap odor-causing residues and bacteria, leading to smell retention over time. Stainless steel boxes, such as the Furrbby XL, are non-porous and scratch-resistant, preventing odor molecules and bacteria from clinging, and allowing for thorough cleaning without retaining smells.
Material Porosity's Role in Odor Retention
Plastic litter box surfaces, like those found in the Modkat XL, are porous at a micro-scale and prone to micro-scratches over time.
These micro-scratches and seams do not absorb urine, but they harbor odor-causing residues and bacteria, leading to increased smell retention over months of use.
The ability to fully deodorize a litter box is directly linked to the material's surface integrity, with scratched plastic surfaces being notably harder to clean completely.
Plastic vs. Stainless Steel: A Long-Term Odor Comparison
Stainless steel, as used in Furrbby XL models, is non-porous and resists scratches, preventing odor molecules and bacteria from clinging to the surface.
Smooth stainless steel walls allow for complete rinsing, ensuring the material itself does not retain odors once washed, a significant advantage over plastic.
Unlike plastic boxes that often require recurring proprietary liner replacements to manage smells, stainless steel maintains a neutral scent with simple cleaning, even for high-ammonia or multi-cat households.
The "Liner Tax" Calculation ($60/year)
The "liner tax" is the ongoing premium you pay every year to keep a Modkat XL running on proprietary liners instead of switching to a box that can use cheap generic bags or go liner-free. For a cat guardian who dislikes recurring consumables, this is often the biggest long-term cost difference between a design-focused box like Modkat and alternatives such as Furrbby-style large pans or XL enclosures that do not require custom-fit liners.
| Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Estimated cost per proprietary liner | ~$5 | Based on typical 3-pack pricing for Modkat XL liners. |
| Monthly liner usage | 1 liner | Assumes one liner change per month for a Modkat XL owner. |
| Total estimated annual "liner tax" | $60 | Calculated as $5/liner × 1 liner/month × 12 months. |
Understanding the Annual Liner Cost
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The "liner tax" is the ongoing premium for using proprietary liners, particularly with models like the Modkat XL.
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This cost arises from selecting specific brand liners instead of cheaper generic options or going liner-free, common with Furrbby-style large pans.
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For many cat guardians, this recurring expense is a substantial long-term difference when comparing design-focused litter boxes to more practical alternatives.
Calculating the $60 Yearly Expenditure
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Assuming a Modkat XL owner uses one proprietary liner monthly, costing around $5 per liner (based on typical 2026 pricing).
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Over a 12-month period, this results in an estimated annual "liner tax" of $60.
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This calculation helps comparison shoppers evaluate overall ownership costs, especially against litter boxes that can use generic bags or operate without liners, effectively reducing this expense to near zero.
Scratch Resistance Test
Scratch resistance is key for litter box durability and hygiene, preventing wear from cat claws and scoops. Plastic boxes like Modkat XL show cosmetic swirling over time, while Furrbby XL Stainless Steel boxes offer superior resistance, with high user satisfaction reporting no visible scratches due to their non-porous 304 stainless steel surface.
Understanding Litter Box Scratch Resistance
Cat claws and scoops present significant challenges to a litter box's surface durability, often leading to visible wear.
A material's scratch resistance directly impacts a litter box's functional lifespan and helps maintain its hygienic, smooth appearance.
Choosing a scratch-resistant material ensures long-term aesthetics and simplifies cleaning by preventing debris from clinging to damaged surfaces.
Comparing Material Durability in Practice
Modkat XL (plastic) boxes demonstrate practical scratch resistance, featuring robust construction that resists gouging in daily use.
Plastic surfaces, while durable, typically show cosmetic swirling from claws rather than deep structural scratches after years of service.
Furrbby XL Stainless Steel boxes set a benchmark for high scratch resistance, with 92–95% user satisfaction reporting no visible scratches.
The non-porous 304 stainless steel surface prevents gouging and wear patterns from claws and metal scoops, maintaining its smooth appearance even with heavy use.
Effortless Clean, Odor-Free: Discover Stainless Steel Litter Boxes
Aesthetics & Design
Modkat XL and Furrbby both prioritize modern design, aiming for seamless integration into homes. They balance aesthetics with practical features like versatile entry options, perforated lids, and enclosed designs to manage odor and litter scatter effectively. Both brands focus on compact sizes that optimize space while suiting different cat sizes, with features such as high sides and flip-top lids to simplify cleaning.
Modern Design Philosophy
Modkat XL and Furrbby focus on sleek, modern aesthetics. They aim to blend into contemporary home environments smoothly.
Both brands create designs that balance visual appeal with practical needs. They move away from the look of traditional, bulky litter boxes.
Furrbby's innovative models draw inspiration from designs like the Modkat Flip. This shows their dedication to stylish yet functional solutions for cat owners.
Functional Design Elements
The Modkat XL offers both top and front entry options. It also has a perforated folding lid that helps catch loose litter.
Furrbby's enclosed, flip-top designs prioritize superior odor containment and effective litter scatter prevention. This makes maintenance simpler.
Both brands make their products with compact footprints. This optimizes space while ensuring functionality for various cat sizes.
Design features like high sides in the Modkat XL actively prevent litter tracking. Furrbby's flip-top lids allow for quick, hygienic cleaning without complex disassembly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best alternatives to Modkat liners?
Modkat liners are proprietary to Modkat litter boxes like the XL and Flip models. Affordable alternatives for 2026 include universal litter box liners (e.g., Arm & Hammer or generic brands, costing around $5-10 for a 15-pack), reusable fabric liners (e.g., Furrbby, $15-25 each, machine-washable for 100+ uses), or DIY options such as standard trash bags (13-30 gallon, $0.10-0.50 each) doubled up for strength. These alternatives address the high cost of Modkat's proprietary liners (~$10-20 per pack) and simplify cleanup for top-entry boxes, with veterans often preferring them for better ROI.
How do stainless steel litter boxes compare to Modkat plastic boxes?
Stainless steel litter boxes are typically open-top, highly durable, and non-porous, resisting odors, staining, and scratching over many years. They offer maximum usable space, work with any standard litter/liners (or no liners), and provide high long-term satisfaction despite a higher upfront cost. The Modkat XL, conversely, is a high-end plastic box with a covered, modern design and dual entry (top or front). It excels in aesthetics and litter tracking control but uses proprietary, reusable tarp liners that snap into place, require replacement every 3 months, and are a significant ongoing expense. While Modkat XL offers excellent durability for plastic and strong odor control, its high box price and continuous liner cost are consistent drawbacks compared to the long-term, low-maintenance benefits of stainless steel.
Is the Modkat XL litter box worth the investment?
The Modkat XL litter box is considered worth it for novice cat owners who prioritize its stylish design, spacious size for large cats, dual top/front entries, and effective odor control. Its perforated folding lid captures loose litter, and it integrates well into modern homes. However, at around $190, it's expensive, and the ongoing cost of proprietary liners is a downside. Budget-conscious buyers or those with specific cat needs (kittens under 3 lbs, seniors, or mobility-impaired cats due to entry height) might find cheaper, open-top alternatives or stainless steel options more suitable for long-term value and ease of use. It wins on design and top-entry innovation but trails on upfront cost and freedom from proprietary consumables.
Which is better for long-term value: reusable liners or stainless steel boxes?
For long-term value, stainless steel litter boxes generally outperform reusable liners (like those in the Modkat XL). Stainless steel boxes offer superior durability (5+ year lifespan), are non-porous, bacteria-resistant, and eliminate the need for liners, leading to substantial cost savings and easier cleaning over time despite a higher initial purchase. Reusable liners, while convenient for cleaning and tracking control in systems like the Modkat XL, typically require replacement every 3 months, adding to ongoing expenses. Owners seeking a low-maintenance, hygienic solution for multi-cat or large-breed homes often prefer stainless steel, while reusable liners appeal more to those prioritizing modern design aesthetics but accepting recurring costs.
What is the best litter box for high-peeing cats?
For high-peeing cats, the Modkat XL Litter Box is a strong contender due to its top-entry design and the availability of an optional removable splash guard. This splash guard can add 6 inches to the height of the box, effectively containing urine from high-streamers. While the Modkat XL is stylish, spacious, and helps with litter containment, it does use proprietary reusable liners and has a price point around $190, plus the cost of the accessory splash guard. Other options, like automatic self-cleaning boxes, might offer hands-off cleaning but may not match the Modkat XL's specific design advantage for managing high-peeing behaviors.
What are the largest top-entry litter box options available?
The Modkat XL Litter Box is a notable large option that features both top and front entry, making it versatile for cats preferring either. Its dimensions are approximately 21.0 x 16.5 x 17.0 inches (L x W x H), offering a spacious interior within a designer-style covered box. The perforated hinged top lid also helps catch litter. While Modkat XL offers a top-entry option, it's not a purely top-entry-only design. For comparison, Furrbby’s XL and XXL models are open, high-sided alternatives that provide significant space, with the XXL being 20-30% larger than the XL, but these are not true top-entry boxes. They focus on high walls for containment and non-stick surfaces, suitable for large breeds or multi-cat homes that prefer open designs.
Final Thoughts
Modkat XL brings a modern, stylish look with flexible entry options and good litter control. Its plastic build means it can absorb smells and show scratches over time, and its special liners add ongoing costs. On the other side, Furrbby XXL, usually stainless steel, gives a hygienic, long-lasting answer. Its non-porous, scratch-resistant surface stops odors and makes cleaning simple, often without costly liners. Both fit well in a home, but their materials and cost structures lead to different experiences over time.
Picking between these large litter boxes depends on what you value most. If you want a sleek design and good litter control from the start, and don't mind recurring liner costs or some smell over time, the Modkat XL is a good fit. But if long-term hygiene, keeping odors away, lasting durability, and low ongoing costs are your main goals, a stainless steel box like Furrbby XXL offers clear benefits. This holds true even if it costs more at first. Your budget, daily life, and how you see long-term care will help you decide.
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