Litter-Robot II Manual

Important - Read This First

• The Litter-Robot™ has been designed to be used as a self-cleaning litter box for cats between 5 and 15 lbs. It is not intended for any other use.
• The Litter-Robot is not recommended for kittens, or small cats that weigh 5 lbs or less.
• Always ensure that each cat in your household is heavy enough to activate the Cat Sensor before you let the Litter-Robot operate in automatic mode.
• Make sure the Litter-Robot is placed on a level firm surface. Placing the Litter-Robot on deep carpet may require adjusting the cat sensor (more sensitive).
• Do not put anything in the Globe other than clumping cat litter. You can use water and soap to clean the Globe.
• Do not force your cat into the Litter-Robot.
• Do not sit on, or place anything on the Litter-Robot.
• Do not remove the Globe while it is rotating.
• Do not turn power on if Globe is removed as hair or fingers can get caught or pinched in the turning gear.
• Do not wet or submerge the Base.

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Litter-Robot™, the self-cleaning litter box that really works!

At Automated Pet Care Products, Inc. we aim to develop pet products that make your life easier. This manual will help you get the most out of your Litter-Robot. We will guide you through the setup process, as well as provide you with useful tips and advice for getting your cat acclimated to its new self-cleaning litter box.

Try the Litter-Robot in your home for 90 days. If you or your cats are not completely satisfied, for any reason, simply return the Litter-Robot within 90 days for a full refund. Please note that you are responsible for return shipping costs. If you need assistance during your trial period, or a little extra time, please call us at the toll-free number or e-mail us at help@litter-robot.com.

Enjoy your Litter-Robot, and enjoy your freedom.

Please contact us if you have any questions, comments or suggestions.

Brad Baxter
President
Automated Pet Care Products, Inc.

Setting Up Your Litter-Robot

1. Place the Litter-Robot in the same location as the old litter box, if possible. Make sure the Litter-Robot is placed on a level, firm surface.
2. Put the Globe on the Base with the Cat Entry opening facing the front. Make sure that the track on the Globe engages with the gear in the Base unit.
3. Plug the small connector from the AC adapter into the socket in the back of the Base unit. Next, plug the main power cord into a wall outlet. Press the ON/OFF Switch - the Litter-Robot will perform an initialization cycle (this takes about 3 minutes). After completing the cycle, the Globe should be in the "home" position with the green light on.
4. Fill the Globe with litter. The Litter-Robot litter sifting system requires a clumping type litter to work properly. High quality clay-based clumping litter such as Litter-Robot Brand Premium Clumping Litter is recommended. Litter beads, and crystals can also be used as long as they are small enough to pass through the screen; periodic changing of this type of litter is required. Litters that DO NOT work in the Litter-Robot include strictly absorbent, non-clumping litters, newspaper based litters, loose clumping litters, and Feline Pine Absorbent Pellets. If using a litter alternative not listed, contact support@litter-robot.com to ensure compatibility.
5. If filling the Litter-Robot for the first time, it is recommended not to switch litter brands. Cats need to get used to the new litter box, and introducing a new litter may increase apprehension. However, if currently using a non-clumping litter, switch to a clumping style litter.
6. Litter can be added to the Globe in two ways:
   - Filling through the entry/exit opening (A)
   - Filling through the square waste ports (B)
7. A. Filling through the entry/exit opening: To facilitate filling the globe through the entry/exit opening, disengage the globe from the gear and simply rotate the globe back and away, orienting the opening upward to make it easier to pour or scoop litter into the Globe.
8. For the initial charge of litter, start with 9 to 10 lbs. of standard clumping litter or approximately 1 ½ gallons of volume, whichever is less.
9. With the Globe set back in the home position and the litter spread evenly, the level should not be higher than the 'Fill Line' ring.
10. After adding litter, start a cleaning cycle by pressing the “Cycle” button on the Control Panel or by turning the unit OFF then ON. If you accidentally over-fill the globe, excess litter will be expelled into the waste drawer. At the end of the cycle, the litter bed will be leveled.
11. B. Filling through the waste ports (square holes): First, ensure the Globe is in the home position. Look through the Cat Entry opening and locate the ribbed handle of the Internal Guard on the right. Grab this handle and rotate it upward (clockwise) until it snaps into a horizontal and locked position. The pin on the opposite side of the globe should be locked behind the spring.
12. Ensure the Green light is on. If not, turn the unit OFF then ON again and wait for the initialization cycle. The Guard can remain in its locked position. If the Red light is on, press any of the three buttons to reset the unit; the Green light should illuminate. Press the 'Fill' button to start the Globe's rotation, bringing the waste ports to the top for filling.
13. Pour 9 to 10 lbs. or 1 ½ gallons of litter (whichever is less) through the square waste ports. If over-filled, excess litter will be expelled into the Drawer during the first few cleaning cycles.
14. Consider using a towel to cover the cat entry/exit opening when filling through the waste ports to help reduce dust.
15. After pouring litter, pressing any button on the Control Panel will return the Globe to the home position.
16. Next, grab the handle of the Internal Guard and rotate it downward (counter-clockwise) to close it. The square waste ports are now covered.
17. When the Globe is in the home position, the litter bed should be level and not higher than the fill line. Over-filling will cause excess litter to be expelled into the Drawer during the first few clean cycles.
18. Tip: If this is the first time filling the Litter-Robot and acclimating cats, pour a cup of used litter from the old litter box onto the new litter. This provides a familiar scent. See "Getting Your Cat to Use the Litter-Robot" for more tips.
19. Note: During the first few days, the plastic Globe may exhibit static charge, causing litter to cling. This will eventually release. Also, Cat Re-entry Protection is active during initialization. Prevent cats from stepping on the drawer during this phase to allow the cycle to complete without interruption.
20. To ensure cats ease into the new litter box, turn the Litter-Robot OFF for a few days to allow them time to get accustomed to it.

Getting Your Cat to Use the Litter-Robot

Most cats will quickly adapt. Recommended steps:

• Place the Litter-Robot in the same location as the current litter pan. Set it up according to instructions (add litter, ensure it's OFF). Give cats a day or two to explore. If no interest, entice with catnip or treats.
• Add a scoop of litter from the old litter pan for a familiar scent.
• Once cats use the Litter-Robot, cycle the unit manually by turning it ON. If cats are present, they can observe the motion and sound while you reassure them. Turn the unit OFF after the cleaning cycle (Globe should be in the home position). Stop cleaning the old litter pan once the Litter-Robot is in use.
• If cats are not using the Litter-Robot within days, continue using the old litter box with the old litter, letting it go as long as possible without cleaning. A dirty litter pan may encourage them to use the clean Litter-Robot. Consider replacing the litter with one formulated for litter box training.
• Once cats consistently use the Litter-Robot, turn the unit ON and leave it in automatic mode. The old litter box can now be removed.

Congratulations! You have successfully introduced your cats to the Litter-Robot. Enjoy your freedom from litter box scooping!

Control Panel

1. "Cycle" Button: Pressing the "Cycle" button starts the cleaning cycle. To stop, press any button. Press "Cycle" again to resume. If the Globe was stopped, pressing "Fill" or "Empty" returns it to the home position.

2. "Fill" Button: Starts a counter-clockwise rotation of the Globe to bring waste ports to the top for filling. See "Filling the Litter-Robot with Litter" for details.

3. "Empty" Button: Removes most litter from the Globe, bypassing the sifting screen. Convenient for removing old litter before cleaning. See "Cleaning and Maintenance" for details.

4. Green Light (“OK/Waiting"): Indicates the unit is OK and ready for your cat.

5. Yellow Light (“Cycling/In Use"): Indicates the Litter-Robot is in a cycle (cleaning, fill, or empty).

6. Red Light (“Sensor/Timing"): Indicates the Cat Sensor has been activated, starting a seven-minute countdown before cleaning. If flashing, an error has occurred; see Troubleshooting.

Note: If the Cat Sensor is tripped again during the countdown, it resets. The Globe won't turn until another seven minutes pass. The "cat detected" countdown (red light) can be canceled by pressing any Control Panel button.

Control Panel Lockout Feature

Prevents accidental button presses by children or pets. The unit still functions normally in automatic mode.

• To lock: Hold down any button for ten seconds.
• To unlock: Hold down any button for ten seconds.

Installing Garbage Bags in the Waste Drawer

Your Litter-Robot ships with a 10-gallon trash bag installed; two extras are provided. Standard 10-gallon bags are recommended for size, availability, and cost, but 8 and 13-gallon bags also work.

To install a bag: Open it, roll down the edge, and push the rolled edge into the (5) rubber grommets.

Installing the Lip Extender

If the Lip Extender was not assembled or needs reassembly, follow these steps:

1. Insert Extender sideways into the opening. (Tip: Spray Windex on the rubber lip for easier assembly. Note: Lip Extender shown in lighter color for clarity; standard color is Black.)
2. Rotate Extender with flange starting to overlap the Rubber Lip.
3. Ensure the tab is between the Guard Lever and Liner.
4. Rotate and position the Extender so it is even. The Extender flange should start to overlap the rubber lip. Push back on the rubber lip.
5. Push down.
6. Ensure Extender tabs lock in beneath the upper Globe flanges (both sides).

Caution

Always use the included Lip Extender to prevent damage to the circuit board from litter box misses. Soaking the Control Panel in water from cleaning or urine can damage the circuit board.

How the Cat Sensor Works

The Litter-Robot Cat Sensor is a weight-sensitive switch detecting your cat entering or exiting the Globe.

Your cat must be at least five (5) lbs for the sensor to work. Do not use with kittens or cats weighing less than five lbs.

Always ensure each cat is heavy enough to activate the Cat Sensor before enabling automatic mode.

Ensure the Litter-Robot is on a level, firm surface. Deep carpet may require adjusting the cat sensor (more sensitive).

A seven-minute countdown starts when the cat leaves the Globe. At the end of the countdown, the Litter-Robot starts its cleaning cycle. Subsequent sensor trips reset the countdown, preventing the Globe from rotating with your cat inside.

Caution:

Ensure your smallest cat weighs at least 5 lbs before operating in unattended automatic mode. Your cat must weigh at least 5 lbs to trip the Cat Sensor.

Testing the Cat Sensor

1. Ensure the Litter-Robot has the correct amount of litter (refer to Fill Line on page 5).
2. Ensure the green light on the Control Panel is on ("OK/Waiting").
3. If the red light is on ("Sensor/Timing"), press any button (Cycle, Fill, or Empty) to reset. The green light should come on ("OK/Waiting"). Proceed to Step 4. If the red light stays on, the Cat Sensor is too sensitive and needs adjustment. See "Adjusting the Cat Sensor Sensitivity".
4. With the green light on ("OK/Waiting"), gently press down on the step with your hand until you sense a slight displacement or tilt, then release. The red light should come on. This simulates your cat stepping on the Drawer. If significant effort is required, or the sensor doesn't activate when your cat enters, the sensor is not sensitive enough and needs adjustment. Skip Step 5 and go to the adjustment section.
5. Press any of the three Control Panel buttons to reset. If the green light returns ("OK/Waiting"), the Cat Sensor is working properly. If the red light remains ("Sensor/Timing"), the Cat Sensor is too sensitive and needs adjustment.

Adjusting the Cat Sensor Sensitivity

Note: The cat sensor is factory-set for optimal performance. Adjustment should not normally be necessary.

1. Ensure the Globe contains the desired amount of litter, not substantially exceeding the Fill Line.
2. Remove the Globe for easier access to the Cat Sensor Switch. Removing the waste drawer may also help.
3. Slightly lift the Base unit and locate the Rotatable Foot at the front and center of the Base.
4. To DECREASE SENSOR SENSITIVITY: Lift the front of the Base unit and turn the Rotatable Foot to the right (about 2 full turns at a time).
5. To INCREASE SENSOR SENSITIVITY: Lift the front of the Base unit and turn the Rotatable Foot to the left (about 2 full turns at a time).
6. Reinstall the waste drawer (if removed) and place the Globe back on the Base. Test the Cat Sensor function again.
7. If the red light stays on after resetting, the Cat Sensor is too sensitive. If the red light does not come on when your cat enters, it's not sensitive enough.
8. The Cat Sensor may require several adjustments (1 to 2 full turns of the Foot) to achieve desired sensitivity.

If you need help adjusting the Cat Sensor sensitivity, call Customer Service at 1-877-250-7729 or visit http://litterrobot.kayako.com/Knowledgebase/List.

Safety Features

Cat Re-Entry Protection Mode

If the Cat Sensor detects your cat trying to enter during a cleaning cycle, the Globe stops rotating. The Litter-Robot waits 15 seconds before resuming.

Anti-Pinch Safety Feature

The Litter-Robot has an anti-pinch feature for cat safety. If a potential pinch condition is detected, the Globe automatically stops and reverses direction for approximately 2 seconds.

Internal Guard

The Litter-Robot Globe has an Internal Guard covering the waste ports to prevent cats from entering and to stop litter from being kicked out. During the cleaning cycle, before the "dump" position, the Guard moves to open the waste ports. As the Globe returns to the home position, the Guard automatically closes.

Automatic Shut-Off

If the Globe jams, the motor stops, and all three Control Panel lights blink twice per second. To reset:

• Turn off and unplug the power cord.
• Remove the obstruction.
• Reposition the Globe in the home position.
• Plug in the power cord and turn on. The Litter-Robot performs an initialization cycle. Cat Re-entry Protection is active during initialization.

If the condition persists, call Customer Service at 1-877-250-7729.

Cleaning and Maintenance

The Litter-Robot requires no special maintenance. Do not lubricate the four plastic 'glide buttons' on the Base unit, as this can cause dirt buildup.

Before cleaning, remove all litter from the Globe. Wet litter turns into messy clay.

Emptying the Litter-Robot

Look through the Cat Entry opening for the ribbed handle of the Internal Guard on the right. Rotate this handle upward (clockwise) to lock the Internal Guard in the "open" position (handle horizontal). The waste ports on the right are now open. The pin on the opposite side should be locked behind the spring.

Press the "Empty" button to rotate the globe to the discharge position, directing waste ports into the drawer. After litter dumps, press any Control Panel button to return the Globe to the home position. If litter remains, sweep it out with a brush.

Cleaning the Globe

After removing all litter, clean the Globe with water and mild soap. No electronic components in the Globe can be damaged. For extreme dirt, it can be soaked or cleaned with a water hose. Ensure the Globe is completely dry before returning it to the Base.

For a quick touch-up, use a disposable towelette to wipe the inside and upper half of the Globe. This can be done without removing litter, and the unit can be used immediately as drying is instantaneous.

Cleaning the Waste Drawer

The drawer can be easily removed and cleaned with soap and water.

Cleaning the Base

Never submerge or soak the Base. It contains the Cat Sensor and electronics. Wipe surfaces with a cloth dampened with disinfectant. Do not use Bleach.

Carbon Filter

The Litter-Robot includes a flexible carbon filter pad for odor absorption in the drawer. It can be removed and replaced during drawer cleaning. Replacement frequency is based on preference; one filter lasts a few months. Replacement filter kits (3 filters) can be ordered from customer service at 1-877-250-7729 or via www.litter-robot.com.

Base Seal

A brush-type seal helps contain odors within the drawer/base. Replacement seals can be ordered from customer service at 1-877-250-7729 or via www.litter-robot.com.

Money Back Guarantee and Warranty

If you or your cat are not completely satisfied, return the unit within 90 days for a full refund of the purchase price. You are responsible for return shipping costs.

If purchased through a source other than Automated Pet Care Products, Inc., coordinate returns with that source per their policy.

If purchased directly from Automated Pet Care Products, Inc., contact 1-877-250-7729 or email RMA@litter-robot.com for an RMA number. Shipments without an RMA number cannot be accepted. Refer to the Return Instructions insert.

Ensure the Litter-Robot is cleaned and carefully packaged (original materials preferred) to avoid shipping damage. The Return Instructions insert shows a packaging diagram.

Warranty

The Litter-Robot is covered by a full warranty for 18 months from the date of shipment. This covers all parts, labor, and shipping costs within the lower 48 states. Customers in Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and international shipments may incur additional costs.

Contacting Customer Service

For questions, concerns, or assistance, contact Automated Pet Care Products, Inc.

Email: support@litter-robot.com

Toll-free: 1-877-250-7729

Phones: Monday-Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM Eastern

Email Support: Monday-Friday, 9 AM - 10 PM

Mailing Address:

Automated Pet Care Products, Inc.
2900 Auburn Ct.
Auburn Hills, MI 48326

For repairs, call or email to obtain an RMA number before returning your Litter-Robot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my cat actually go inside the Globe?

Cats are curious and will investigate new objects. Those used to covered litter boxes may investigate quicker. Place the Litter-Robot in the old litter box's location. Leave the old box nearby briefly. Add a cup of litter from the old box to the new one for a familiar scent. Once your cat uses it, they'll know what to do. Refer to "Getting Your Cat to Use Litter-Robot".

Can kittens use the Litter-Robot?

Not recommended for kittens or cats weighing 5 lbs or less in unattended automatic mode, as their low weight may not activate the Cat Sensor. Cats must be at least 5 lbs for automatic mode.

CAUTION: Leave the Litter-Robot OFF and only start cleaning manually until you are sure all cats are heavy enough to activate the Cat Sensor.

What if my cat won't use the Litter-Robot?

If unsatisfied, return within 90 days for a full refund (responsible for return shipping). Contact Customer Service for a Return Authorization (RMA) number. Shipments without an RMA number cannot be accepted.

What happens if my cat tries to enter the Globe while it is rotating?

The Cat Sensor detects your cat and turns off the motor. The Litter-Robot pauses for 15 seconds before resuming the clean cycle.

Are there any rakes, or wires inside the Globe?

No, the Globe contains no rakes or wires that could harm your cat. The Litter-Robot is designed with your cat's safety in mind.

Are the electronics or power source dangerous to my cat?

No, the Litter-Robot operates on a safe 15 Volts via an adapter similar to those used for clock radios or phone chargers. All electrical components are in the Base, away from the cat's reach. There are no electrical components inside the Globe.

Troubleshooting

Visit: http://litterrobot.kayako.com/Troubleshooter/List

1. All lights on the Control Panel are blinking once per second.

This occurs if the Globe cannot find the home position. Ensure the Litter-Robot is on a level surface. If the condition persists, contact Customer Service.

2. Yellow light on the Control Panel is on.

The Yellow light indicates the unit is in a clean, fill, or empty cycle. If the globe is not turning, the cycle was interrupted by the Cat Sensor. The Litter-Robot waits 15 seconds before resuming. If continuously interrupted for over two minutes, the globe remains stationary, and the Red light flashes.

3. Red light (“Sensor/Timing”) on the Control Panel is flashing.

This indicates the Cat Sensor was triggered continuously for more than two minutes.

• Check that the Litter-Robot is on a level surface.
• Ensure no excess litter is in the Globe; the level should be at or below the Fill Line.
• Test and adjust Cat Sensor sensitivity if necessary (see sections on Cat Sensor).

4. Lights on the Control Panel are blinking twice per second.

This occurs if the Globe jams or rotation is obstructed/interrupted multiple times. The motor stops, and all three lights blink twice per second. To reset:

• Turn off and unplug the power cord.
• Remove the obstruction.
• Reposition the Globe in the home position.
• Plug in the power cord and turn on. The Litter-Robot performs an initialization cycle.

If the condition persists, call Customer Service toll-free at 1-877-250-7729.

Will the Globe turn while my cat is inside?

No, the Globe will not turn while your cat is inside. The Cat Sensor is tripped each time a cat enters or re-enters, resetting the countdown timer to prevent cleaning.

What happens if the Globe jams?

If the Globe jams or an excessive load condition occurs, the motor turns off automatically. The Litter-Robot also has an anti-pinch safety device.

Does the Litter-Robot require special litter?

No, it works with any clay-based clumping litter. Some silica gel litter beads and crystals can also be used. Litters that do not work include strictly absorbent, loose clumping or non-clumping litters, newspaper based litters, and Feline Pine.

How much litter do I put in the Litter-Robot?

Start with approximately 9 to 10 lbs. of litter. Ensure it does not exceed the Fill Line. Excess litter will be expelled into the drawer during the first few clean cycles. Since waste clumps are removed each cycle, excessive litter isn't needed.

Does the Litter-Robot work with Feline Pine?

No, Feline Pine pellets are too large for the sifting screen, preventing the system from working properly. Feline Pine clumping is also too fluffy.

How often do I need to add litter?

With two small cats (approx. 8 lbs each), litter needs adding about once a week, sometimes lasting longer. The Litter-Robot uses litter efficiently as the sifting mechanism only removes clumps.

Is dust a problem with the frequent rotation of the Globe and the movement of the litter?

No, dust is negligible as the Globe rotates slowly.

How often do I need to empty the drawer?

Depends on cat number and size. For two average cats, twice weekly is typical. For one cat, once weekly is usually sufficient.

How often do I have to clean the inside of the Litter-Robot Globe?

Depends on personal preference and cat behavior. Cleaning every one to three months is recommended.

How do I clean the Litter-Robot exterior?

Cleaning is easy. Remove the Globe and Drawer; sponge bath them or use a garden hose for deep cleaning. Other surfaces can be wiped clean but not submerged.

CAUTION: The Base contains electrical components and should not be submerged or wet. See "Cleaning the Litter-Robot" for details.

What are the dimensions of the Litter-Robot?

• Fully assembled: 29" high, 22" wide, 24" deep.
• Waste drawer: 11" wide, 16" long, 6" deep.
• Oval entry for cat: 9" high, 6 ½" wide.
• Litter bed area: 14" across at maximum capacity.
• Headroom inside Globe: 13" to 15" depending on litter level.
• Inside width: 20" at widest point.
• Depth: 15" front to back for Standard Units, 18" front to back for Bubble Units.