Many smart litter boxes are equipped with sensors to detect when a cat enters or exits the box. Some use weight sensors to identify when the cat is inside. After the cat has used the litter box, the self-cleaning mechanism is triggered. This can involve a rake system, a sifting mechanism, or another method that separates the clumped waste from the clean litter. The separated waste is then moved to a designated waste compartment or receptacle within the litter box. This compartment is often sealed to contain odors.