Model differences
LitterMaid Elite 5500, 9000 and 9000MB: identify the exact model
The archived U.S. LitterMaid Elite pages document three distinct product numbers: LME5500, LME9000 and LME9000MB. All three use an open rake tray and hard-clumping litter, but the exact capacity and package evidence differs. If you are caring for an older unit or comparing a used listing, read the model number printed on the machine; “Elite” and “9000” alone do not establish that the parts or box contents match.
Start with the model number, not the seller's shorthand
| Exact identity | Cat-fit wording | Manual/package evidence | Ramp evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elite LME5500 | 2013 page says “1, 15-lb cat”; one-cat positioning, no defined weight ceiling | Shared LME5500/LME9000/LME9250 manual; included supply quantities vary | Optional or model-dependent in shared manual; exact inclusion unresolved |
| Elite LME9000 | 2013 page says “multiple cats or larger cats over 15 lbs”; no numeric count or limit | Same shared Elite manual; tray and cover parts differ from LME5500 | Exact included ramp not established |
| Elite LME9000MB | Similar multiple/large-cat marketing phrase; no numeric count or weight ceiling | Dedicated MB manual lists four receptacles, four filters and model-specific parts | Included in the documented MB carton |
The claims do not form a numeric capacity ladder. LME5500 has a one-cat page statement, but the associated “15-lb cat” phrase is not a guarantee of a strict upper limit. LME9000 and LME9000MB use a larger-cat/multiple-cat phrase without specifying how many cats or what maximum weight. If a household count or weight threshold is essential, none of the latter phrases substitutes for an explicit number in the exact manual or model page.
Common rake routine, with two separate timing ideas
The Elite manuals describe an open tray, sensors, a motor-driven rake and a disposable receptacle with a carbon filter. They require premium hard-clumping litter and explicitly reject crystal, pearl-like and non-clumping litter. After the cat leaves, the manual describes a ten-minute countdown before the rake starts; a visit during the countdown resets another ten-minute wait. That pause is not the full cycle time. A separate programmable sleep function can keep the rake still for nine hours, then run a cycle and return to the normal schedule. Do not mistake a nine-hour quiet period for the ordinary post-exit delay, or either timing fact for a guaranteed total cleaning duration.
The manuals describe a safety bar, a rake that can stop/reverse and a fault response when an obstruction persists. These protections help explain behavior when a cycle stalls, but the manual also warns users to stay clear of moving parts. It advises against automatic use with kittens under six months and against use for some cats who might have difficulty getting in or out. Keep the sensors free of dust, do not overfill above the tray line, inspect the receptacle and clean the rake and tray. Automatic raking reduces one daily task; it does not remove the owner's cleaning and service work.
Where package assumptions become risky
The LME9000MB has a dedicated manual that names MB-specific components and lists four starter receptacles, four carbon filters and the ramp. The shared manual for LME5500/LME9000/LME9250 says receptacle quantities vary, the filters are supplied with certain models and the ramp is model-dependent. The LME5500 and LME9000 exact pages discuss ramp features, but they do not resolve whether that piece was included in every package. These details matter when identifying a used carton, but a dated starter kit does not show present-day consumable availability.
The manuals give different parts for the two standard models: the LME5500 and LME9000 tray numbers are distinct, and the receptacle covers also have model-specific listings. The MB manual separately names its tray, rake, supports and adapter. Do not order from a near-match model number alone. Confirm both the printed appliance identity and the exact part number with a qualified current source before assuming compatibility. The old product page's “In Stock” label refers to that capture date, not today's availability.
Which current routine should you compare?
These are historical owner references, not current shortlist recommendations. For someone shopping now who wants a clumping-litter rake, the separately assessed PetSafe ScoopFree Clumping is one current-source comparison, with different parts and instructions. If your cat uses crystals, compare a crystal-tray design instead. If you need a confirmed multi-cat count, maximum cat size, entry dimensions or end-to-end cycle time, look for an exact current model whose manufacturer states that limit. A general “large cat” phrase, a ramp picture or a larger starter supply set does not answer those requirements.
Read the individual LME5500 owner reference, LME9000 assessment and LME9000MB manual cross-check before comparing a labeled unit. Their exact pages and manuals resolve the model identities and meaningful package differences while leaving current offers, replacement parts and unlisted dimensions unknown.
References: archived official LME5500, LME9000 and LME9000MB pages; manufacturer-issued Elite manuals mirrored by UseAndCareManuals and UseAndCareManuals. Product-page images are historical low-resolution marketing renderings.