The world’s best cat litter is essential for keeping your cat happy and healthy. The type of litter you choose can make all the difference when it comes to your cat’s paws, their litter box, and their overall comfort. Clumping litter is a popular option, but there are many different types of litter available, each with their own unique features. If you have multiple cats, or if you’re looking for the best cat litter for kittens, consider choosing a natural option that will keep your cats happy and healthy.
Best cat litters are an essential item for cat owners, as they play a crucial role in keeping the litter box clean, fresh and odor-free. With so many different types of cat litters available, such as clay litters, natural litters, and specialty litters, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your cat or multiple cats. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of different types of cat litters, as well as recommendations for some of the best cat litters on the market, such as Dr. Elsey’s and Fresh Step. We will also cover important factors to consider when choosing a litter, such as odor control, dust levels, and the size of the litter box. Whether you’re a first-time cat owner or have multiple cats, this guide will help you find the perfect cat litter box solution.
What’s the Best Cat Litter in 2023?
- World’s Best Cat Litter
- Dr. Elsey’s Ultra Premium Clumping Cat Litter
- Tidy Cats Breeze Litter System
- Arm & Hammer Multi-Cat Clump & Seal Clumping Litter
- Fresh Step Extreme Clumping Cat Litter
- Precious Cat Ultra Premium Clumping Cat Litter
- Okocat Natural Clumping Wood Cat Litter
- Feline Pine Clumping Cat Litter
- sWheat Scoop Fast Clumping Cat Litter
- Purina Tidy Cats Clumping Litter for Multiple Cats
Rank | Brand | Key Features | Benefits |
---|---|---|---|
#1 | World’s Best Cat Litter |
|
|
#2 | Dr. Elsey’s Premium Clumping Cat Litter |
|
|
#3 | Feline Pine Clumping Cat Litter |
|
|
#4 | sWheat Scoop Fast Clumping Cat Litter |
|
|
#5 | Purina Tidy Cats Clumping Litter for Multiple Cats |
|
|
#6 | Fresh Step Extreme Clumping Cat Litter |
|
|
#7 | Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Platinum Cat Litter |
|
|
#8 | Precious Cat Ultra Premium Clumping Cat Litter |
|
|
#9 | Tidy Cats Breeze Litter System |
|
|
#10 | Ever Clean Extra Strength Cat Litter |
|
|
#1: World’s Best Cat Litter
World’s Best Cat Litter is an outstanding choice for cat owners who are looking for an effective, safe and natural solution for their litter box. This product stands out from the rest due to its outstanding odor control. The natural ingredients used in this litter keep the smells to a minimum, so even if you have multiple cats, you won’t have to worry about a stinky litter box.
The quick clumping feature of World’s Best Cat Litter is a huge bonus. With multiple cats, it can be a challenge to keep up with the clean up, but with this fast-acting litter, you won’t have to worry about scraping or chiseling. The lightweight and 99% dust-free feature makes this litter a great option for those who are sensitive to dust or who have cats that are prone to respiratory issues.
In addition to its practical features, World’s Best Cat Litter is also pet, people, and planet-friendly. Made from whole-kernel corn, this litter is free of harmful chemicals and artificial perfumes, making it safe for your cats and for the environment. There are two scented options available – Lotus Blossom and Lavender, so you can choose the one that works best for you.
When transitioning to World’s Best Cat Litter, it’s recommended to start with only a third of the new litter mixed with your current litter, then slowly increase the amount until you’re using only World’s Best Cat Litter. This will help your cat get used to the new litter and prevent any accidents. It’s important to provide at least one litter box per cat and to place it in a quiet location that is easy to access.
- Excellent clumping action, easy to scoop.
- Naturally absorbent compressed corn materials absorb liquid on contact.
- Subtle natural scent, no added fragrance.
- Very low dust and relatively low tracking compared to clay litters.
- May develop a foul odor when exposed to a large amount of urine.
- Offers moderate odor control, requires frequent scooping for better results.
#2: Dr. Elsey’s Ultra Premium Clumping Cat Litter
As a cat owner, I’m always on the lookout for the best cat litter for my furry friends. And I have to say, Dr. Elsey’s Ultra Premium Clumping Cat Litter is definitely one of the best I’ve tried. The premium quality of the litter, made from 100% bentonite clay, creates litter particles that are just the right size for maximum clumping. The medium grain clay also helps prevent moisture from reaching the bottom of the tray, resulting in hard clumps that don’t break down, making it easier to scoop.
One of the things I love about this litter is how low in dust it is. It’s hypoallergenic and 99.9% dust-free, which is perfect for cats and owners who suffer from allergies. And, the superior odor control is a lifesaver. No more worrying about my home smelling like a litter box, even between cleanings.
I was also pleasantly surprised by the low tracking of the litter. It’s unique formulation of medium grain clay helps keep litter in the box where it belongs, making cleaning up a breeze.
If you’re in the market for a new cat litter, I would definitely recommend giving Dr. Elsey’s Ultra Premium Clumping Cat Litter a try. It’s a high-quality litter that provides excellent clumping, low dust, low tracking, and superior odor control, making it the perfect choice for single or multi-cat households.
- Natural, high-quality clay
- Chemical, fragrance and additive-free
- Forms strong, tight clumps for easy maintenance
- Minimal tracking and mess
- Dust-free and safe for cats and owners
- Highly absorbent and controls odors
- Cost-effective for multiple cats
- Heavy and difficult to carry
- Unscented formula may not appeal to all cats
- Not suitable for cats with medical conditions
- Availability in stores may be limited.
#3: Tidy Cats Breeze Litter System
As a cat owner, finding the perfect litter box system can be a challenge. That’s why I was excited to try the Purina Tidy Cats Breeze Litter System. The starter kit came with everything I needed to get started: a cat litter box with a scoop, one pack of 4 cat pads, and one bag of 3.5lb litter pellets. The disposable kitty litter pads are designed to lock in moisture and last for 7 days for one cat, which is a huge plus for me.
I was also impressed by the anti-tracking cat litter pellets. They are 99.9% dust-free, which is a huge relief for me since my cats can be quite messy with litter tracking. The pellets are specially designed to stay on top for fast removal, while the urine is locked away in the super-absorbent kitty litter pads. This means there are no urine clumps to scoop, which makes cleaning up much easier and faster.
I was pleasantly surprised by how well the Tidy Cats Breeze Litter System worked. The litter pellets did a great job of controlling odor, and the pads kept the box dry and fresh-smelling. The protective drawer is also a nice feature, as it keeps the pads away from my cats while they use the litter box.
I am extremely happy with the Purina Tidy Cats Breeze Litter System. It has made litter box maintenance much easier and less messy, and I love that I don’t have to worry about changing the litter every day. If you’re in the market for a new litter box system, I highly recommend giving the Tidy Cats Breeze Litter System a try.
- Effective odor control
- Easy clean-up with separation of urine and solid waste
- Comfortable for cats
- Saves time with efficient clean-up
- Durable
- Higher cost compared to traditional litter boxes
- Requires regular maintenance
- Takes up more space
- Time-consuming initial set-up
- Inconsistent performance with occasional leaks or clogs.
#4: Arm & Hammer Multi-Cat Clump & Seal Clumping Litter
I recently switched to Arm & Hammer Multi-Cat Clump & Seal Clumping Litter for my multiple cat household and I am extremely impressed with this product. The 7-day odor free guarantee really caught my attention and I was pleasantly surprised that it actually delivered on its promise. The clumps are rock solid and do not crumble apart when scooping, making litter box cleaning a breeze.
I was also thrilled to find that this litter is 100% dust free. No more dust clouds when pouring or scooping which is great for both myself and my cats. The moisture-activated Micro-Granules do an amazing job of sealing in the odor and the heavy-duty odor eliminators plus ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda effectively destroy the sealed in odors on contact.
This litter is specifically formulated for multiple cat households and its strength shows. I have noticed a significant decrease in litter box odors since switching to this brand. I love that this litter is made with plant-derived particles and is a more natural option for my cats.
I highly recommend this product. It has exceeded my expectations and I have already recommended it to friends and family with multiple cats. Give it a try and experience the confidence of a 7-day odor free home, guaranteed.
- Effective in controlling odor for a fresh litter box.
- Forms tight clumps for easy waste disposal.
- Ideal for households with multiple cats.
- Made with natural ingredients.
- Can generate a significant amount of dust.
- May not clump as well as other brands.
- Scented, which some may find overpowering.
- Can be more expensive than other brands.
#5: Fresh Step Extreme Clumping Cat Litter
I recently tried Fresh Step Extreme Clumping Cat Litter and I am impressed with the results. The mountain spring scent is a perfect balance of freshness without being overpowering. The ammonia block technology and activated charcoal really do a great job in trapping and eliminating kitty litter odor. I have multiple cats and this litter has been able to control the strong odors from urine and feces for up to 10 days, which is amazing.
Another great feature of this litter is the low dust formula. It keeps surfaces cleaner and air clearer which is a big plus for me. The clump lock technology is also a game changer. It absorbs liquid quickly and forms tight clumps leaving behind no stinky crumbles, making cleaning a breeze. I love the scoop able aspect of this litter as well, it makes cleaning up the litter box fast and easy.
I highly recommend Fresh Step Extreme Clumping Cat Litter. It’s a great option for those with multiple cats or those looking for a high-quality, odor controlling litter. It’s made with the power of febreze, has a paw activated fragrance, low dust formula and clump lock technology all designed with your cat’s health and happiness in mind. I will definitely be switching to this litter for all my future needs.
- Strong clumping
- Effective odor control
- Dust-free
- For multiple cats
- Affordable
- Overpowering scent
- Not eco-friendly
- Tracks outside litter box
- Not hypoallergenic
- Hard to scoop.
#6: Precious Cat Ultra Premium Clumping Cat Litter
The combination of Precious Cat Ultra Premium Clumping Cat Litter premium texture and granule size made with 100% bentonite clay for maximum clumping makes for litter particles that are just the right size. The hard clumping medium grain clay helps prevent moisture from reaching the bottom of the tray and forms hard clumps that won’t break down, making it easier to scoop.
One of the things I love about this litter is its low dust and low tracking formulation. As someone who suffers from allergies, this was a big selling point for me. The 99% dust-free and hypoallergenic litter formulation helps keep litter in the box where it belongs, which is a big plus.
Another great aspect of this litter is its superior odor control. It’s formulated for single or multi-cat households with natural ingredients to keep your home smelling clean and fresh between litter box cleanings. This is especially important for multi-cat households where odor can be a big issue.
Finally, I have to mention the natural herbal attractant. Blended with a natural herb attractant, the ideal texture and particle size combine to solve litter box problems by bringing cats back to their litter box. This is a great solution for cat owners whose cats do not use their litter box.
I highly recommend the Precious Cat Ultra Premium Clumping Cat Litter. It’s a premium quality litter that’s easy to use, offers great odor control, and has a natural herbal attractant to keep your cat coming back to the litter box.
- Keeps litter box dry & odor-free.
- Easy to scoop & dispose.
- Safe & eco-friendly.
- Minimizes mess.
- Long-lasting formula.
- Can be problematic for cats with respiratory issues.
- Unpleasant for some.
- May not be as effective as other litters.
- Still some tracking.
- More expensive compared to other litters.
#7: Okocat Natural Clumping Wood Cat Litter
Recently, I made the switch to Okocat Natural Clumping Wood Cat Litter for my furry companion and I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome.
The litter is made from sustainably sourced, responsibly rescued natural wood fiber and is free from harmful chemicals, synthetic dyes, and artificial fragrances. This makes it a cleaner and healthier option for my feline, family, and home.
The odor control is exceptional, as the wood fiber naturally prevents enzymes from bonding with liquid and waste to stop the creation of ammonia and odor. The precision cut wood fiber absorbs liquid on contact, forming solid, easy-to-scoop clumps that make cleaning the litter box quick and easy.
One of the biggest benefits of Okocat is that it is 99% dust free. The low-dust formula is made from clean wood fiber that has been screened and de-dusted, which results in a cleaner pour and a healthier home. This is especially important for those with allergies or respiratory issues.
The litter is also biodegradable and compostable, which is great for the environment. Unlike clay litter, it degrades quickly and cleanly, and it is flushable for added convenience and cleanliness.
- Made from sustainable sources, helps protect the environment.
- No harmful chemicals, perfumes, or dyes.
- Uses wood fibers for fresh scent.
- Easy to scoop and maintain.
- Can be composted after use.
- Can be more expensive than other brands.
- May create a mess.
- Not as widely available.
- May be overpowering for some users.
- Clumps may not be uniform, causing maintenance issues.
#8: Feline Pine Clumping Cat Litter
The 40-pound of Feline Pine Clumping Cat Litter net quantity is perfect for my two cats, who are now using the litter comfortably. This product is 100% natural and chemical-free, making it safe for my cats and my home. The fact that it’s designed for multiple cat homes is a huge plus and I love that there’s no dust or tracking. The scoop fully absorbs liquid, just like thousands of tiny sponges, which makes cleaning up quick and easy.
I was pleasantly surprised by how well this litter absorbs odor. Even though I have two cats, guests in my home can’t even tell that I have any pets. The pine shavings do an excellent job of binding directly to ammonia odors and locking them away for good. The plant-derived clumping agent also ensures that nothing is left behind. The fact that Feline Pine is made with the odor-fighting power of natural pine is a big plus for me. I turn my nose up at harsh chemicals and synthetic perfumes, so I appreciate that this litter is safe and natural.
The transition process was easy and straightforward. I filled a clean litter box ¾ full with Feline Pine Clumping Litter and added one or two inches of my old litter brand on top. I allowed my cats to use the mixed litter until the next time I changed the box, and they were acclimated to Feline Pine after just one use. Some cats might need a little more time, so I would encourage people not to give up too quickly.
I highly recommend Feline Pine Clumping Cat Litter to anyone looking for a safe, natural, and highly absorbent litter for their cats. It’s the smart choice for the health of your kitty and your home, and it’s worth every penny.
- 100% Natural
- Controls odor
- Clumps firmly
- Biodegradable
- Long-lasting
- Expensive
- Dusty
- Hard to find
- Strong Scent
- Tracking
#9: sWheat Scoop Fast Clumping Cat Litter
The fast clumping formula of sWheat Scoop Fast Clumping Cat Litter is truly a game changer. Not only does it trap odors on contact, but the clumps are easy to scoop and flush, making cleanup a breeze. The all-natural wheat starch formula really does a great job of neutralizing odors. My cat’s litter box no longer smells like a dumpster and I appreciate the lack of artificial fragrances.
What I love about this litter is that it’s all natural and made from biodegradable wheat. It’s so important to me to use products that are safe for both my pet and the environment, and sWheat Scoop ticks all the boxes. Plus, it’s farmer grown, not mined, making it a much more sustainable choice.
I also appreciate the company’s commitment to creating a product that is safe for pets, people, and the environment. The fact that it’s biodegradable and flushable just adds to its appeal.
- Made from 100% natural wheat
- Wheat scent helps control odors, keeping the litter box fresh and clean.
- Tight clumps quickly, making cleaning easy.
- Biodegradable, making it an eco-friendly alternative to traditional litters.
- Lasts longer, reducing the frequency of litter box changes.
- Track outside of the litter box, causing a mess on floors and furniture.
#10: Purina Tidy Cats Clumping Litter for Multiple Cats
Recently, I made the purchase of Purina Tidy Cats Clumping Litter for Multiple Cats and I am extremely satisfied with the product. The 17 lb. Box is packed with powerful odor control, low dust, and a pleasant fragrance thanks to the Clear Springs Glade scent. The Ammonia Blocker has been a game changer for me as it keeps the litter box smelling fresh for up to 14 days.
One of the things I appreciate about this litter is that it is lightweight, making it easy to carry and pour into the litter box. Despite its lightness, it still performs well as it forms strong and tight clumps, making litter box maintenance a breeze. The moisture-locking technology also keeps my cats dry and comfortable, which is an added bonus.
Another feature that I love is the low dust formula. I no longer have to worry about dusty paw prints all over my house. The litter is 99.9% dust-free, making it an ideal choice for people who are sensitive to dust.
Purina Tidy Cats Clumping Litter for Multiple Cats is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants a powerful odor control solution for their feline family members. Its lightweight and low dust formula, combined with the 14-day Ammonia Blocker, make it the perfect litter for keeping your home smelling fresh and clean.
- Effectively controls odors for multiple cats.
- Tight clumps for easy clean-up.
- Lasts longer than other litters, reducing litter box changes.
- Compared to other popular brands, this litter is more affordable.
- Easily found in most pet supply stores.
- Dusty and creates a mess in the litter box area.
- Scent may be overpowering for some users.
- Track outside of the litter box and create a mess on floors and furniture.
- Not made from natural materials, making it less appealing for some cat owners who prefer natural products.
How many types of cat litter?
Clay Cat Litter
Clumping litter, also known as clay litters, are made from sodium bentonite, a naturally occurring clay mineral. These types of cat litters are popular among cat owners due to their ability to clump together when wet, making them easy to scoop and dispose of. Clumping litters are also relatively inexpensive and widely available in most pet stores.
One of the most well-known brands of clumping litter is Fresh Step, which is known for its good odor control. However, it’s important to note that some types of clay litters can cause health problems for cats if ingested, such as intestinal blockages.
When it comes to choosing clumping litters, price and product details are important factors to consider. Some clumping litters are more expensive than others, but may have added features such as better odor control or dust reduction.
Another thing to consider is that there are plant-based clumping litters available, which are made from natural materials like wheat or corn. These types of litters are biodegradable, eco-friendly and safe for cats to ingest. They also have a lower dust level compared to clay litters.
Also read: 6 Best Clumping Cat Litters
- Easy to scoop and dispose of due to their ability to clump together when wet
- Inexpensive and widely available in most pet stores
- Good odor control options
- Low dust level options are available
- Plant-based clumping litters are safe for cats to ingest and eco-friendly
- Some types of clay litters can cause health problems for cats if ingested, such as intestinal blockages
- Can be harmful to the environment as it is not biodegradable
- Some clumping litters can be dusty, which can be a problem for cats with respiratory issues and cat owners with allergies
- Some clumping litters can be more expensive than other types of litters
- Not suitable for cats with a tendency to eat litter.
Popular Clumping Litter Brands are:
- Fresh Step
- Arm & Hammer
- Elsey’s
- Tidy Cats
- World’s Best Cat Litter
- Precious Cat
- sWheat Scoop
- Okocat
- Naturally Fresh
- Feline Pine
These brands are known for their quality clumping litters that are widely available in pet stores and online. They offer a variety of options to choose from, such as traditional clay-based litters, plant-based litters, and even scented or unscented options. They also have different formula for odor control, dust-free, and eco-friendly. These brands are also well-reviewed by cat owners and veterinarians for their performance in controlling odors and clumping ability.
Non-clumping Litter
Non-clumping litters, also known as traditional or non-clumping cat litters, are made from materials such as clay, corn, or recycled paper. These types of cat litters do not clump when wet, and instead, the solid waste must be scooped out and the litter must be replaced more frequently.
One of the main advantages of non-clumping litters is that they are often more affordable than clumping litters. They also tend to be low dust, which can be beneficial for cats with respiratory issues and cat owners with allergies. Furthermore, they are available in different fragrances and odor control formula, which helps to keep the litter box clean and fresh.
When it comes to maintaining a non-clumping litter, it’s important to keep the litter box clean and fresh by regularly scooping out the solid waste and replacing the litter.
Some non-clumping litters can be made from more eco-friendly materials such as recycled paper or corn, which can be a more sustainable option for cat owners.
Also read: 9 Best Non-Clumping Cat Litters
- Often more affordable than clumping litters
- Low dust, which can be beneficial for cats with respiratory issues and cat owners with allergies
- Available in different fragrances and odor control formula
- Keeps the litter box clean and fresh
- Eco-friendly options are available
- Requires more frequent changing of the litter
- Solid waste must be scooped out manually, which can be more labor-intensive
- Some non-clumping litters can be less effective at controlling odor
- Some non-clumping litters can be heavy and hard to handle
- Not suitable for cats that like to bury their waste.
Popular Non-clumping Litter Brands are:
- Feline Pine
- sWheat Scoop
- World’s Best Cat Litter
- Tidy Cats
- Elsey’s
- Precious Cat
- Naturally Fresh
- Okocat
- Fresh Step
- Arm & Hammer
Natural Cat Litter
Natural cat litters are made from natural materials such as corn, wheat, or paper, and are a popular alternative to traditional clay litters. These types of cat litters are known for their superior odor control, as they are made from materials that neutralize odors naturally. In addition, natural cat litters are more environmentally friendly than clay litters and are often biodegradable.
One of the main benefits of natural cat litters is that they are typically dust-free, which can be beneficial for cats and owners with respiratory issues. Additionally, natural litters are often more lightweight than clay litters, making them easy to handle and dispose of.
However, natural cat litters can be more expensive than clay litters and may not clump as well. They also tend to have a shorter lifespan than clay litters, meaning they may need to be changed more frequently.
When choosing a natural litter for your cat or multiple cats, consider the material of the litter, as some natural litters may contain allergens that could affect your cat. It’s also important to pay attention to the odor control properties, as some natural litters may not be as effective as others. Some of the most popular natural cat litters on the market include World’s Best Cat Litter, Feline Pine, and Yesterday’s News.
Also read: 5 Best Natural Cat Litters
- Environmentally friendly: Made from natural materials such as corn, wheat, or pine, natural litters are biodegradable and do not harm the environment.
- Safe for cats: Natural litters are non-toxic and safe for cats to ingest, making them a good choice for cats who tend to eat litter.
- Low dust: Natural litters tend to be low dust, which is beneficial for cats with respiratory issues and for cat owners who have allergies.
- Natural odor control: Some natural litters, such as those made from pine or cedar, have natural odor-control properties that help keep the litter box smelling fresh.
- Cost: Natural litters tend to be more expensive than other types of litters, such as clay litters.
- Clumping ability: Some natural litters do not clump as well as other types of litters, which can make it more difficult to remove waste and keep the litter box clean.
- Limited availability: Natural litters may not be widely available in all areas, making it more difficult to find and purchase them.
- Short shelf life: Some natural litters can have a short shelf life and may need to be replaced more frequently than other types of litters.
Popular Natural Litter Brands
- Dr. Elsey’s
- World’s Best Cat Litter
- Feline Pine
- sWheat Scoop
- SmartCat
- Yesterday’s News
- Tidy Cats
- Okocat
- Blue Buffalo
- Nature’s Miracle
Specialty Litters
Specialty litters are a type of cat litter that offer unique features and benefits beyond traditional clumping and non-clumping litters. These types of litters include scented litters, flushable litters, and biodegradable litters.
Scented litters are designed to mask or neutralize odors, making them a great option for cat owners who want to keep their litter box smelling fresh. Some popular scented litters include Dr. Elsey’s Precious Cat Ultra Scented Litter and Fresh Step Scented Litter.
Flushable litters are made from materials that can be safely flushed down the toilet, making them a convenient option for cat owners who want to reduce the amount of waste they produce. These types of litters are typically made from materials such as paper or corn.
Biodegradable litters are made from natural materials that break down easily, making them a more environmentally-friendly option. These types of litters are typically made from materials such as wood, wheat, or corn.
Also read: 7 Best Flushable Cat Litters
- Scented litters can mask odors effectively
- Flushable litters are convenient and reduce waste
- Biodegradable litters are environmentally-friendly
- Scented litters can be overpowering for some cats and humans
- Flushable litters can clog pipes if not used properly
- Biodegradable litters may not be as effective in controlling odors
Crystal cat litter
Crystal cat litter is a type of cat litter that is made from silica gel crystals. It is known for its ability to absorb moisture and control odors, making it a popular choice among cat owners.
Also read: Best Crystal Cat Litter (Reviews, Pros and Cons)
Benefits of Crystal Cat Litter:
- Extremely absorbent: Crystal cat litter can absorb up to three times its weight in moisture, making it very effective at controlling odors.
- Low Dust: Unlike traditional clay litter, crystal cat litter produces very little dust, which makes it a good option for cat owners with allergies or respiratory problems.
- Long-lasting: Crystal cat litter can last longer than other types of litter, making it a more cost-effective option.
- Environmentally friendly: Some crystal cat litter products are biodegradable and made from renewable resources, making them a more eco-friendly option.
- Excellent odor control
- Low dust content
- Long-lasting
- Environmentally friendly (depending on the brand)
- Expensive compared to other types of litter
- Can be noisy when the cat walks on it
- May be uncomfortable for some cats to walk on
- Some cats may reject the feel of the crystal litter and not use it.
How to Choose the Best Cat Litter
Factors to Consider for Cat Litter
When choosing the best cat litter for your cat, consider the following factors:
Material
Choose a litter made from a material that your cat is comfortable with and won’t cause any health problems. Popular options include clay, silica gel, recycled paper, and plant-based materials. Some cats may have a preference for a certain type of litter, and may refuse to use the litter box if they are not comfortable with the litter material. It may be helpful to try different materials and observe your cat’s behavior and preferences.
Odor control
Look for a litter that effectively controls odor and is low-dust. Regular scooping and removing waste helps to keep the litter fresh and reduces odors. It may also be useful to invest in a covered litter box to contain odors and keep the litter contained.
Clumping ability
Clumping litter forms tight balls around waste, making it easier to remove and dispose of without having to change the entire litter. This helps to keep the litter box cleaner and reduces litter waste. However, it is important to remember that clumping litter can be more expensive than non-clumping litter, and some clumping litters can release dust or have strong scents that may be off-putting to cats. Always observe your cat’s behavior and choose a clumping litter that works best for you and your cat.
Dust levels
Choose a litter that produces minimal dust to reduce respiratory irritation for both you and your cat. High levels of dust in litter can cause respiratory irritation and allergy symptoms in both cats and humans. Dust can also make a mess and track around your home. When choosing a litter, look for options that are low-dust or dust-free, and consider switching to a different brand if you notice an increase in respiratory issues or dust-related problems. If you or your cat have allergies, it may be helpful to choose a dust-free, unscented litter to minimize potential irritants.
Tracking
Consider a litter that doesn’t stick to your cat’s paws and doesn’t spread around the house.
Litter tracking can be a nuisance, making a mess and spreading litter throughout your home. When choosing a litter, look for options that are less likely to stick to your cat’s paws and spread around your home. Some litters are formulated to reduce tracking, or you can try using a litter mat to catch any stray litter and keep your home cleaner.
It is also helpful to regularly clean the litter box and surrounding area to minimize litter tracking and maintain a clean, hygienic environment for your cat.
Affordability
Consider your budget and the frequency of litter changes when choosing a litter.
Litter can be an ongoing expense, so it’s important to consider your budget when choosing a litter. Some litters may be more expensive but last longer, while others may be more affordable but need to be changed more frequently.
When considering affordability, also consider the frequency of litter changes and the amount of litter required to maintain a clean litter box. A higher-quality litter that lasts longer may be more cost-effective in the long run, even if it has a higher upfront cost.
It is also helpful to compare prices and read reviews from other pet owners to find the best value for your budget and your cat’s needs.
How to Transition Your Cat to a New Litter
Here are some steps to help transition your cat to a new litter:
- Gradually mix the new litter with the old: Start by mixing a small amount of the new litter with the old one and gradually increasing the proportion of new litter over several weeks.
- Offer multiple litter boxes: Place litter boxes with different types of litter in different locations around your home. This will give your cat a choice and reduce the stress of the transition.
- Keep the litter box clean: Make sure to scoop waste from the litter box daily and change the litter completely at least once a week.
- Encourage your cat to use the new litter: Place some treats or toys near the new litter box to encourage your cat to investigate and use it.
- Be patient: The transition may take a few weeks, so be patient and persistent. Some cats may take longer to adjust than others.
Conclusion
Choosing the best cat litter for your cats can be a daunting task, with so many options available on the market. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and disposal and always keep an eye on your cat’s behavior and preferences, as it can help you to find the best cat litter.