The short answer
Most issues trace to four things: an uneven or soft floor confusing weight sensors, the wrong litter level, an overfull bin, or a litter that clumps poorly. Check those before assuming a fault.
Cycles won't start or start randomly
- Move the box onto a hard, level floor; Whisker notes weight readings are most accurate on a firm surface.
- Recalibrate or reset the weight sensor as the manual describes.
- Keep other pets from leaning on the box.
Jams and smearing
- Empty the bin before it's full.
- Use a firmer clumping litter and the maker's fill line.
- Lengthen the delay so clumps set before cycling (PetPivot builds in a clumping delay).
Odor
- Replace carbon filters and deodorizers on schedule.
- Wash the drum or bed per the manual.
- Empty more often with more cats.
App and Wi-Fi
- Many boxes join only 2.4 GHz networks; CATLINK's Open-X also supports 5 GHz.
- Move the router closer or add a mesh point.
Products mentioned
Questions readers ask
Why does my box cycle with no cat inside?
Usually an uneven floor or another pet touching it; level it and recalibrate.
Why is waste smeared?
The litter didn't clump firmly or the cycle ran too soon; try a firmer litter and longer delay.