We use the storage tubs, but I do the cut out. The only problem we have with the tubs is Timmy is so large that he does not get completly in the tub. Every so often he forgets to turn around and his butt hangs out. With the CREW that we have in house we still get a couple that get ticked off and use other areas. We can always tell when Bailey is mad he goes right in front of the door to the TV room. When Lucky gets mad he goes in front of the basement door. So it happens they get yelled at and it stops for a week or two.