you can just switch the box, but there is no promise that the cat will use
it.  Some cats hate covered litter boxes.  Keep it exceptionally clean, and
you'll probably have less of a problem

I have never had any problems.  However, you are changing from an open
litter box to a covered litter box.  Some cats do not like the covered
"facilities."  If that becomes a problem, you might try what I did -- I
bought the very largest size of covered box and threw away the cover.  The
base of these units is very deep, and that contained everything for me.

MaryL

-> I know that there can be some complications when switching between
-> different types of cat litter but do people encounter problems
-> switching between litter boxes? Since I've adopted my cat 4 months ago
-> I've used a regular litterbox but I'd like to try a covered litterbox
-> as with the one I have now my cat is shooting litter all over the
-> place. Can i just make the change immediately?

Instead of a covered litter box, try a large plastic (Rubbermaid or other
brand) box. You can get them at Wal-Mart for a few dollars -- much less
than an actual litter box. I bought a "clear" box that the cats can sort
of see through.

Get the biggest box (within reason) that they have. Use a sharp utility
knife to carefully cut a "door" in one end, but not too low or you'll
have the same problem.

You will get a lid with the box, but you probably won't need it.

As others have mentioned, some cats don't like covered litter boxes.  A lot of
this may have to do with smell; not just their own waste, but also the
perfumes used in many litters.  The cover keeps all these fumes in close,
where they can irritate the cat's nostrils.

If you're going to try this, I'd suggest using an unscented litter.

I also got a litter mat for my cat at the pet store.  It looks kind of like an
extra-large doormat and catches (much of) the litter.  And recently, I bought
a huge shallow container at Home Depot for $4.  Cheaper and bigger than
official litter boxes, and the theory is that she won't be able to shoot the
litter out quite as easily.