Are self-cleaning litter boxes safe for cats?

It depends on the model. Across specialist subreddit threads we read, owners repeatedly warn about generic automatic boxes with weak safety sensors, with r/YouShouldKnow and r/CatAdvice threads explicitly flagging incidents. Models with multiple pairs of anti-pinch sensors, weight detection and app-based safety alerts (like the Cumrige and Fumoi) draw far fewer complaints than no-name units. Larger cats over ~13 lbs should be measured against the entry hole before buying.