I was figuring on just the side, minus the bottom and using regular dimensional lumber measurements (2x10 = 9.5" tall).
Home made trough might not mean rough sawn, just built the trough at home using dimensional lumber.
I agree 100% about getting a good measurement on the trough height, even height from top of trough to the ground where the cat was standing.
BTW Sprkplug, I received a box today - didn't open it yet tho....