Since we published this review, the Neakasa M1 Plus listing has attracted very few Amazon ratings and now averages 2.9 stars, so there is not much buyer feedback to go on. For most multi cat homes we now recommend the PETKIT PuraMax 2 instead. It holds 4.2 stars across more than 2,500 ratings, seals in odor with a fully enclosed design, and costs roughly $150 less.
See the PETKIT PuraMax 2Compare all 13 automatic litter boxesIf you have cats, you already know the daily routine. Scoop. Toss. Repeat. And if you have more than one cat, multiply that by two or three.
We recently took a deep dive into the Neakasa M1 Plus Open Top Self Cleaning Litter Box, and after reviewing it, here is our honest Pawfect Journey breakdown.
Heads up: that listing is the Airstep bundle, which pairs the M1 Plus with Neakasa’s 2-in-1 air purifier and cat step.
First Impression
The Neakasa M1 Plus is a modern, open-top automatic litter box designed for multi-cat homes. Unlike some enclosed robotic models, the M1 keeps an open design, which many cats prefer because it feels less confined.
It looks sleek, feels sturdy, and does not scream “giant plastic litter robot” in your living room.
At around the $500-550 (currently $429 on Sale) price point, this is definitely an investment. So the real question is: Is it worth it?
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What Cat Owners Are Loving
1. Easy Cat Transition
One of the biggest concerns with automatic litter boxes is whether cats will actually use them.
Many owners report smooth transitions. A common strategy that worked well was filling the M1 with mostly new litter and adding a couple scoops from the old box to keep the familiar scent. Even multi cat households reported that all cats adapted without much issue.
For more hesitant cats, Neakasa offers step accessories to make entry easier.
2. Less Scooping, Way Less Hassle
The biggest win is simple:
You are not scooping daily anymore.
Owners report emptying the waste bin about every 5 to 7 days for multiple cats, compared to scooping once or twice per day before. That convenience alone is life-changing for many households.
The automatic cleaning cycle kicks in shortly after your cat exits, separating waste into a sealed drawer.
3. Open Top Design
The open top is a big deal.
Some enclosed automatic boxes can make cats nervous. The M1’s open concept feels more natural and spacious. It also gives better visibility for larger breeds.
For multi-cat homes, that added openness can reduce territorial stress.
4. Odor Control Is Solid
With proper clumping litter, odor control is surprisingly good. The sealed waste drawer helps trap smells between emptying.
Is it zero odor? No litter box is. But compared to a standard box that sits unscooped all day, this is a noticeable improvement.
5. Smart App Monitoring
The Neakasa app connects over WiFi and allows you to:
- Track usage frequency
- Monitor cleaning cycles
- Adjust timing settings
For households monitoring a cat’s bathroom habits due to health concerns, this feature is especially useful.
The Honest Downsides
No product is perfect, and we want to keep this real.
1. Sticker Sealing Strips
Some users mention the included sealing stickers, which are designed to prevent urine from leaking under the litter mat, may not hold up long term. A few reported peeling after a couple of weeks.
It is not a deal breaker, but it is something to be aware of. Some owners have used alternative sealing tape solutions with success.
2. Slightly More Litter Dust
Compared to manual scooping, some users noticed a bit more visible dust due to the rotation cycle. If you are sensitive to dust, pairing the unit with low-dust litter or a nearby air purifier can help.
3. Price
This is not a budget litter box. However, many owners feel the time saved and stress reduced makes the cost easier to justify, especially in multi cat homes.
Who It Is Best For
The Neakasa M1 Plus is a great fit for:
- Multi cat households
- Busy professionals
- Anyone tired of daily scooping
- Owners monitoring litter habits for health reasons
- Cats that dislike enclosed spaces
It may not be ideal if:
- You are on a tight budget
- Your cat is extremely noise sensitive
- You prefer a fully enclosed design
Real Life Impact
Several long term owners say the biggest benefit is not just convenience, but quality of life.
Less scooping. Less smell. Less arguing over whose turn it is.
One owner even joked that their cat treats it like an amusement ride.
And honestly, when a product makes pet care easier without sacrificing your cat’s comfort, that is a win.
Pawfect Journey Verdict
We would rate the Neakasa M1 Plus a strong 4.5 out of 5 paws.
It delivers where it matters most: convenience, odor control, and multi-cat performance.
There are minor improvements that could be made, especially regarding sealing strips and consumable costs. But overall, it performs consistently and earns its reputation as a reliable self-cleaning litter box.
If you are ready to upgrade your litter routine and reclaim your time, this one deserves serious consideration.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them. This comes at no additional cost to you and helps support Pawfect Journey. Thank you for helping us keep the journey going!
