Published Jan 1, 2026
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Choosing the best cat litter can feel like an endless experiment because, to some degree, it is. The market changes constantly, and so do our cats. After 16 years as a cat owner, the one thing I’ve learned is that there’s no such thing as a perfect cat litter. It really depends on the performance metrics you value most and what your cat is comfortable using.
In this guide, we’ll explore the cat litter products that consistently rise to the top based on real-world testing and customer reviews. Whether you’re tired of tracking, seeking a low-dust solution, or interested in giving alternative cat litter a try, we’re here to help you find the right fit for both you and your cat.
At a Glance: Best Cat Litter to Buy in 2026
Want a quick look at the products reviewed in this article? In the comparison table below, we’ve highlighted some of the most important features of each product. You’ll find more detailed information about each product later in the article.
Boxiecat Probiotic Clumping Clay Litter
- Forms flat-top clumps that are easy to scoop
- Contains probiotics to combat odor
- Fairly low-dust and fragrance-free
Tuft & Paw Really Great Cat Litter
- Biodegradable, compostable, and flushable
- Lightweight, low-tracking pellets
- Forms easy-to-scoop clumps
Catalyst Pet Multi-Cat Formula Cat Litter
- Made from renewable resources
- Fine-grained texture is gentle on your cat’s paws
- Doesn’t contain crystalline silica dust
World’s Best Low-Tracking & Dust Control Multiple Cat Litter
- Natural litter made from whole-kernel corn
- Enlarged granules help reduce tracking
- Low-dust formula safe for sensitive cats
Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Slide Clumping Clay Cat Litter
- Moisture-activated granules absorb urine quickly
- Forms tight, easy-to-scoop clumps
- Suitable for automatic and self-cleaning litter boxes
Tidy Cats 24/7 Performance Clumping Cat Litter
- Forms strong clumps for easy scooping
- Economically priced around $0.50/pound
- Provides up to 10 days of odor control
Fresh Step Heavy Duty 30-Day Odor Control Clumping Cat Litter
- Hard-clumping formula is easy to scoop
- Contains odor-eliminating carbon
- Strong choice for multi-cat households
SmartCat Unscented Clumping Grass Litter
- Doesn’t produce crystalline silica dust
- Lightweight, paw-friendly texture
- Made from renewable grass materials
Okocat Original Premium Wood Clumping Cat Litter
- Made from sustainably sourced wood fiber
- Lightweight with a soft texture that’s gentle on paws
- Free from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrance
Feline Pine Original Non-Clumping Wood Cat Litter
- Made from sustainably sourced pine
- Large, low-tracking pellets
- Soaks up urine quickly
Fresh News Recycled Paper Litter
- Non-clumping formula safe for kittens
- Made from 100% recycled paper materials
- Very low-dust formula
PrettyLitter Health Monitoring Cat Litter
- Contains pH-detecting crystals that change color
- Lightweight with soft, paw-friendly texture
- Quickly absorbs urine and dehydrates solid waste
Ultra Micro Crystals Unscented Premium Non-Clumping Cat Litter
- Fine, lightweight litter is gentle on cat paws
- Soaks up urine on contact
- Dehydrates solid waste for easy scooping
Why Trust Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Our team has tested countless cat litter products over the years in an effort to keep up with the ever-changing market. We regularly update our recommendations, taking into account formula changes and new product lines as well as shifting public opinion of popular brands.
To write this review, I personally purchased every cat litter product on the list. I enlisted the help of my two cats, Munchkin and Biscuit, to put these products to the test in our home. Before testing begins, however, I spend a few hours researching the products and reading customer reviews to familiarize myself with the average cat owner’s experience (including potential issues to keep an eye out for during testing).
When testing cat litter products, I monitor metrics like dust level, tracking, odor control, and ease of scooping. I also pay attention to my cats’ preferences for one product over another, and make comparisons between similar products to hone in on the strongest choice in each category.
The Best Rated Cat Litter: Our Top 13 Recommendations
My personal favorite cat litter and one that consistently receives positive customer feedback is Boxiecat Probiotic Clumping Clay Litter. Boxicat stands out for its quick-clumping action and probiotic-powered odor control. But you and your cat may find that a different product is better suited to your needs.
To help you choose the best cat litter, I’ve categorized my recommendations by product type, price, and key performance metrics like dust level, tracking, and odor control. As you work your way through the list, keep your cat’s preferences (and your own) in mind to narrow down the options and find the right fit.
#1 Overall Best: Boxiecat Probiotic Clumping Clay Litter
- Brand: Boxicat
- Material: Clay
- Clumping: Yes
- Scented: No
- Features: Probiotic odor control, fast-clumping
- Price Per Pound: $1.05
Formulated with a proprietary blend of probiotics, this Boxiecat clumping clay cat litter delivers powerful odor control. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria which specifically target the bad bacteria responsible for litter box odors. With daily scooping, this formula delivers up to 40 days of odor control.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
In addition to containing odor-combating probiotics, BoxiePro helps keep your cat’s litter box smelling fresh by forming hard, tight clumps that are easy to scoop. The litter absorbs urine on contact, locking away offensive ammonia odors, while the probiotics do their work.
Customers are consistently impressed with this litter’s performance, frequently commenting on its strong clumping action and easy scoopability. Some customers find that BoxiePro is low-dust in comparison to other clay cat litters, and numerous reviews mention that the litter lasts a long time with minimal waste. Like most clay litters, some customers find that BoxiePro tracks more than they’d like.
What We Liked:
- Contains probiotics to neutralize odor
- Form hard, flat-top clumps that are easy to scoop
- Fairly low-dust and scent-free
- Suitable for use in automatic litter boxes
What We Didn’t Like:
- Some customers report issues with tracking
#2 Best Low-Tracking: Tuft & Paw Really Great Cat Litter
- Brand: Tuft & Paw
- Material: Soybean byproduct (tofu)
- Clumping: Yes
- Scented: No (scented available)
- Features: Biodegradable, low-tracking granules, lightweight
- Price Per Pound: $3.00 per lb
Many low-tracking litters are dense and heavy but Really Great Cat Litter from Tuft & Paw isn’t. It’s made from soybean byproduct (tofu) and shaped in small, oblong pellets. The shape and size of the pellets helps keep the litter from tracking outside the litter box.
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
While you’ll pay a premium for this litter, it offers a few benefits few other products can boast. It’s biodegradable and compostable, for one. It’s also flushable. Though you’ll need to let the clumps soak in the toilet for a while before flushing, the material breaks down very well.
In the litter box, this natural cat litter absorbs liquid quickly and forms cohesive clumps. I found that the clumps are a little more delicate than clay litter, but if you scoop slowly they’re less likely to break apart. My cats didn’t seem to mind the texture of the pellets and the formula controls odor well, despite the lack of added fragrance.
What We Liked:
- Biodegradable, compostable, and flushable
- Lightweight, low-tracking pellets
- Forms easy-to-scoop clumps
- Available in unscented charcoal or lightly scented lavender
What We Didn’t Like:
- Clumps may take longer than clay to harden
#3 Best Natural Cat Litter: Catalyst Pet Multi-Cat Formula Cat Litter
- Brand: Catalyst Pet
- Material: Pine
- Clumping: Yes
- Scented: No
- Features: Multi-cat friendly, easy to scoop, all-natural
- Price Per Pound: $1.25 per lb
Catalyst Pet makes litter engineered from upcycled softwood fiber that would normally go to waste, making it an eco-friendly alternative to clay. Because the litter is all-natural, there’s no crystalline silica dust to worry about irritating your cat’s lungs, and the litter is fragrance-free.
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
There are four Catalyst Pet cat litters to choose from, three lightweight litters (Healthy Cat, Unscented, and Multi-Cat) and one pelletized pine-based litter. All Catalyst cat litters offer strong odor control by absorbing urine quickly and forming easy-to-scoop clumps. The litter also has a subtle natural wood scent that can help keep the litter box smelling fresh.
Customers like that Catalyst Pet litter is lightweight and soft on their cat’s paws. While the product can be a little dusty when first poured, it’s not potentially harmful silica dust.
When you select the 40 lb option, it costs just $12.35 per month and lasts one cat at least 4 months, making it substantially more affordable than the average cat litter.
What We Liked:
- Made from upcycled softwood, a renewable resource
- Lightweight texture is soft on your cat’s paws
- Free from crystalline silica dust
- Forms easy-to-scoop clumps
What We Didn’t Like:
- May be dusty when first poured
- Lightweight granules may track outside the litter box
#4 Premium Natural: World’s Best Low-Tracking & Dust Control Multiple Cat Litter
- Brand: World’s Best
- Material: Corn
- Clumping: Yes
- Scented: No
- Features: All-natural, low-tracking, unscented
- Price Per Pound: $1.25 per lb
One of the most popular brands of natural cat litter on the market, World’s Best is made from whole-kernel corn. World’s Best has a strong reputation for customer satisfaction and many cat owners find its clumping action and odor control similar to clay cat litter.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
This formula is designed to minimize dust and tracking with larger-than-average granules. The enlarged granules do appear to effectively reduce tracking, and customers report that the litter produces minimal dust. With its hard-clumping action, World’s Best cat litter is generally easy to scoop and it’s appropriate for automatic litter boxes.
While this litter seems to live up to its promises, some customers found their cats disliked the feel of the larger granules. Others have mentioned that the corn-based materials combine with the smell of cat urine in an unpleasant way.
What We Liked:
- Natural litter made with whole-kernel corn
- Quick-clumping action, works well in automatic litter boxes
- Enlarged granules help reduce tracking
- Produces minimal dust during pouring and digging
What We Didn’t Like:
- Large granule size may be uncomfortable for some cats
- Some users dislike the smell when wet
#5 Best for Automatic Litter Boxes: Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Slide Clumping Clay Cat Litter
- Brand: Arm & Hammer
- Material: Clay
- Clumping: Yes
- Scented: Yes
- Features: Forms hard clumps, doesn’t stick to the litter box
- Price Per Pound: $0.70 per lb
Upgrading to an automatic litter box can greatly reduce the amount of time you spend interacting with your cat’s waste. The key to maximizing the benefits of an automatic litter box is choosing the right litter. A litter that forms tight, hard clumps is the best option, which is where Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Slide excels.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
This clay cat litter absorbs moisture on contact, locking away ammonia odors and forming hard clumps that are easy to scoop. In an automatic litter box, this means the clumps separate easily from the clean litter without leaving behind a mess. The same is true for standard litter boxes.
In fact, this formula is designed not to stick to the sides of the litter box, saving you from scraping and scrubbing. This litter lasts a long time and it does a good job of controlling odor. It’s a popular choice in multi-cat households, plus, it is moderately priced. Customers also report that it’s relatively low-dust.
What We Liked:
- Moisture-activated granules absorb urine quickly
- Forms tight, easy-to-scoop clumps
- Suitable for automatic and self-cleaning litter boxes
- Strong odor control in multi-cat households
What We Didn’t Like:
- Sandy texture may contribute to tracking
#6 Budget Pick: Tidy Cats 24/7 Performance Clumping Cat Litter
- Brand: Tidy Cats
- Material: Clay
- Clumping: Yes
- Scented: Yes
- Features: Forms strong clumps, lasting odor control
- Price Per Pound: $0.52 per lb
Priced around $0.50 per pound when you buy in bulk, Tidy Cats 24/7 clumping clay litter is a budget-friendly choice. It’s your typical clumping clay cat litter and comes in a wide range of sizes, from convenient 14-pound jugs to large boxes and tubs. You can also buy a 34-pound bag to refill the 35-pound pail.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
This Tidy Cats formula offers strong odor control through a combination of quick-clumping action and a fresh linen scent. With daily scooping, this litter promises 10 days of odor control. The added fragrance helps mask accumulating odor, though it could be irritating to cats with sensitive noses or respiratory ailments.
Like many cat litters, Tidy Cats 24/7 Performance is marketed as low-dust but customer experience in this area is mixed. If you’re looking for a cost-effective cat litter and don’t mind some dust and synthetic scent, this could be a good choice.
What We Liked:
- Forms tight, strong clumps for easy scooping
- Promises 10 days of odor control
- Quickly absorbs urine on contact
- Linen scent helps mask litter box odor
What We Didn’t Like:
- Some cats may be sensitive to artificial fragrance
- Customers say it’s can be dusty
#7 Best Odor Control: Fresh Step Heavy Duty 30-Day Odor Control Clumping Cat Litter
- Brand: Fresh Step
- Material: Clay
- Clumping: Yes
- Scented: Yes
- Features: Fast-clumping, long-lasting odor control
- Price Per Pound: $0.79 per lb
Formulated with ClumpLock technology and odor-neutralizing ingredients, Fresh Step Heavy Duty is a strong choice for multi-cat households. It’s a heavy-weight, clumping clay cat litter infused with black carbon Odor Shield granules to provide enhanced protection against unpleasant litter box smells.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
With daily scooping, this litter provides up to 30 days of odor control. It’s designed to absorb urine on contact, forming hard clumps that quickly lock away odor and make scooping the litter box a breeze. It also contains Febreze fragrance to help keep the litter box smelling fresh.
Like any clay litter, Fresh Step Heavy Duty produces a little dust when first poured but it settles pretty quickly. Some customers find the Febreze fragrance too strong for their liking, and scented litter is generally not recommended for cats with asthma or other respiratory ailments.
What We Liked:
- Forms hard, easy-to-scoop clumps
- Contains odor-eliminating carbon granules
- Provides up to 30 days of odor control
- Fairly low-dust for a clay cat litter
What We Didn’t Like:
- Those sensitive to fragrance may prefer an unscented option
- Can be heavy, may be tricky for some cat owners to pour
#8 Best Low-Dust: SmartCat Unscented Clumping Grass Litter
- Brand: SmartCat
- Material: Grass
- Clumping: Yes
- Scented: No
- Features: Biodegradable, lightweight, gentle on paws
- Price Per Pound: $1.50 per lb
If you’re concerned about crystalline silica dust, this SmartCat formula might be the perfect pick. It’s made from grass, not clay, so there’s no silica dust. And despite being a lightweight, fine-grained litter, customers report that it produces very little dust at all.
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
This SmartCat litter is made from 100% renewable grass materials, so it’s biodegradable. It’s completely free from chemical additives, including artificial fragrance, but still forms easy-to-scoop clumps. Customers who have used it in automatic litter boxes report that it works well, though the clumps may harden more slowly than clay.
While this litter is very low-dust and has a lightweight, sandy texture that’s gentle on cat’s paws, customers say that tracking can be an issue. It may also be less effective at controlling odors than fast-clumping litter products like clay.
What We Liked:
- Made from 100% renewable grass materials
- Free from fragrance and crystalline silica dust
- Lightweight, soft texture is gentle on cat’s paws
- Suitable for automatic litter boxes
What We Didn’t Like:
- Lightweight texture can contribute to tracking
- Clumps may harden more slowly than clay
#9 Best Lightweight: Okocat Original Premium Wood Clumping Cat Litter
- Brand: Okocat
- Material: Reclaimed wood fiber
- Clumping: Yes
- Scented: No
- Features: Lightweight, all-natural formula
- Price Per Pound: $1.25 per lb
If you struggle to heft heavy litter, a lightweight formula like Okocat Original could be the ideal solution. This litter still forms scoopable clumps for convenience, but you won’t have to worry about lugging around heavy bags or boxes. Okocat litter is also moderately priced in comparison to some lightweight litters.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
What makes Okocat Original unique among lightweight litters is its all-natural formula. This cat litter is made from sustainably sourced wood fibers, and it comes in paper bags that are completely recyclable. There’s even a sturdy handle on the bags, making them easy to carry.
Customers generally like Okocat, especially as an eco-friendly alternative to clay. The litter seems to control odors well and there’s no crystalline silica dust to worry about, though some bags may have more wood dust than others.
What We Liked:
- Made from sustainably sourced wood fiber
- Lightweight with a soft texture that’s gentle on paws
- Free from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrance
- Forms scoopable clumps for convenience
What We Didn’t Like:
- Lightweight texture may contribute to tracking
#10 Best Non-Clumping: Feline Pine Original Non-Clumping Wood Cat Litter
- Brand: Feline Pine
- Material: Pine
- Clumping: No
- Scented: No
- Features: Low-tracking, sustainably sourced ingredients
- Price Per Pound: $0.54 per lb
Non-clumping cat litter is popular among cat owners who prefer to keep the litter box fresh with frequent litter changes. It’s often an economical alternative to clumping litter, especially something like Feline Pine. This pellet-style cat litter is made from 100% sustainably sourced pine.
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
What customers love about Feline Pine is its simplicity and strong absorbency. This cat litter is free from harsh chemicals and added fragrance, though it does have a subtle pine scent. Many customers find the fresh pine scent helps mask litter box odor, while others dislike the way the pine scent combines with cat urine.
If you’re looking for an affordable cat litter that’s low-tracking and free from silica dust, Feline Pine could be a great option. As a non-clumping litter, it’s also suitable for kittens.
What We Liked:
- Made from 100% sustainably sourced pine
- Low-tracking litter made with large pellets
- Has a subtle natural pine aroma
- Highly absorbent, soaks up urine quickly
What We Didn’t Like:
- Some customers dislike the odor when wet
- Not a clumping litter, should be changed weekly
#11 Best for Kittens: Fresh News Recycled Paper Litter
- Brand: Fresh News
- Material: Recycled paper
- Clumping: No
- Scented: No
- Features: Low-tracking pellets, contains baking soda to neutralize odors
- Price Per Pound: $1.05 per lb
When choosing the best cat litter for kittens, safety is key and Fresh News is a fan favorite. Non-clumping litter is generally best for kittens, especially during early litter box training, just in case they ingest a little bit of litter during daily grooming. It’s also important to prioritize soft materials like recycled paper that won’t irritate your kitten’s paws and cause them to avoid using the litter box.
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Fresh News is made entirely from recycled paper and it comes in lightweight pellets that are gentle on cat’s paws. The size and weight of the pellets helps reduce tracking, and there’s virtually no dust to speak of.
This recycled paper cat litter is highly absorbent and it contains baking soda to help neutralize odors. Like any non-clumping cat litter, however, it needs to be changed regularly to keep the litter fresh. Some customers find that weekly litter changes are best, as liquid can accumulate in the bottom of the litter pan if it’s left for too long.
What We Liked:
- Non-clumping litter may be safer for kittens
- Incredibly low-dust, ideal for sensitive noses
- Made from 100% recycled paper materials
- Lightweight pellets are low-tracking
What We Didn’t Like:
- Non-clumping litter needs to be changed regularly
- May accumulate moisture if not changed often enough
#12 Best Health Monitoring Litter: PrettyLitter Health Monitoring Cat Litter
- Brand: PrettyLitter
- Material: Silica gel
- Clumping: No
- Scented: No
- Features: Fine texture, color-changing crystals, highly absorbent
- Price Per Pound: $3.44 per lb
Marketed as a health monitoring cat litter, PrettyLitter is a crystal cat litter that contains pH-detecting particles. These particles change color according to the pH of your cat’s urine, providing a visual indicator of potential developing health issues like urinary tract infections, kidney, tubular acidosis, or struvite crystals.
Mallory Crusta / Cats.com
Mallory Crusta / Cats.com
Mallory Crusta / Cats.com
While not intended to be used as a diagnostic tool, PrettyLitter can help you keep tabs on your cat’s health by alerting you to changes in the acidity of their urine. You’ll find a chart on the bag that indicates what each color means. Normal-range pH is dark yellow to olive while orange, blue, or red suggest a problem that should be brought to your vet’s attention.
PrettyLitter is made from silica gel and it has a very fine, almost sandy texture. It absorbs liquid on contact and, though it doesn’t clump, it dehydrates solid waste which makes it easier to scoop. Some customers express disappointment in the litter’s odor control ability and find it tracks more than they’d like but the health monitoring feature seems to work reliably.
What We Liked:
- Color-changing crystals indicate changes in urinary pH
- Can help identify developing health problems at a glance
- Lightweight, soft texture is gentle on sensitive paws
- Quickly absorbs urine and dehydrates solid waste
- Available in scented or unscented
What We Didn’t Like:
- Not a clumping litter, requires daily scooping
- May accumulate odor over time, daily stirring can help
#13 Best Crystal Litter: Ultra Micro Crystals Unscented Premium Non-Clumping Cat Litter
- Brand: Ultra
- Material: Silica gel
- Clumping: No
- Scented: No
- Features: Fine texture, low-dust, highly absorbent
- Price Per Pound: $2.77 per lb
Another fine-grained crystal cat litter, Ultra Micro Crystals is a popular pick among pet parents. It’s known for its low-dust formula, high absorbency, and soft texture that’s gentle on sensitive paws. If you’re looking for an economical alternative to PrettyLitter, this could be a good pick.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
What sets Ultra Micro Crystals apart from other crystal cat litters is the fine, soft granules. It’s a non-clumping litter but it absorbs liquid on contact and dehydrates solid waste, helping to keep odors at bay. To keep the litter clean and avoid accumulated odor, it’s best to stir the litter at least once a day to redistribute the saturated crystals.
What We Liked:
- Made with very fine silica gel crystals
- Soft texture is gentle on sensitive paws
- Highly absorbent, dehydrates solid waste
- Very low dust and relatively low tracking
What We Didn’t Like:
- Bag is not resealable
- Not a clumping litter, requires daily scooping
What to Consider When Shopping for Cat Litter
While all cat litter serves the same basic function as a receptacle for your cat’s waste, there’s a great deal of variety in types of cat litter. If you and your cat aren’t particular, you can buy what’s affordable and accessible to you. However, if you have specific concerns about sustainability or performance, you might find yourself assessing the options a little more critically.
To help you determine what kind of cat litter is the best fit for your needs, here are some factors to keep in mind as you shop:
- Materials – While many cat litters are made from sodium bentonite clay, there are plenty of alternatives like crystal cat litter and natural litters made from recycled or upcycled materials like wood, wheat, grass, paper, tofu, and corn.
- Fragrance – Added scents can help mask litter box odors but some cats are sensitive to synthetic fragrances. Many cats prefer fragrance-free litter.
- Clumping Action – Clumping cat litter is designed to reduce the frequency of litter changes by forming hard, scoopable clumps. Non-clumping cat litter is often cheaper and you may prefer weekly litter changes over scooping clumps.
- Dust Level – Most litter produces a little dust when first poured but it’s best when it settles quickly and doesn’t kick up in clouds when your cat uses the litter box. Crystalline silica dust from clay cat litter, in particular, can be harmful when inhaled.
- Tracking – Larger, heavier granules tend to track less than lightweight litters, which leads to less mess around the litter box. Some low-tracking cat litters come in pellets or contain ingredients designed to help prevent it from sticking to your cat’s feet and fur.
- Odor Control – Regular scooping is the best way to reduce litter box odor but some cat litters are infused with odor-neutralizing ingredients like baking soda or activated charcoal. Strong clumping action and high absorbency may help reduce odors as well.
- Comfort – Consider your cat’s personal preferences for texture and granule size. Kittens and cats with sensitive toes or arthritis may prefer softer, lightweight litter over large pellets or rough granules.
- Price – To compare cat litter prices, it’s best to look at the price per pound. Buying in bulk is generally the best way to save (i.e. large boxes or bags over small jugs), and some direct-to-consumer companies offer subscription discounts.
Trying several different types of cat litter is often the best way to find out what works best for you and your cat. If you want to learn more about the different types of cat litter, check out this detailed guide.
The best litter we found is Arm and Hammer 99.9% dust free, hard clumping and traps odors
Hi,
I was quite comfortable using clay litter until I read the potential health problems that can cause to cats, so I decided to explore more healthy and sustainable options. So far I’ve tried:
1. Feline pine, I am 50/50 on this one as did not realize until too late that it does not clump.
2. Pretty litter, in my experience, it is horrible due to all the dust that creates causing you also to either take a break on every scoop so you don’t inhale it, or just inhale it while you scoop.
3. Worlds best litter, I am 80/20 on this one. On one hand, it is easy to clean, it is not dusty cleaning it, and although it does track, its much easier to clean than the ones above mentioned. However, there is zero odor control! I do have to add some baking soda, but the fact that I have to buy something extra to make the litter full is just “extra”. So, I am still looking for the perfect litter match for my cats and I. Sometimes, I feel like going back to clay litter, but in this case, it is not about me but my two cats. 🙂
I switched to Naturally Fresh walnut shell cat litter over the same concerns about clay based litter. After researching the pros and cons of many litters, I’ve been very happy with Naturally Fresh.
your budget pick is the WORST cat litter EVER! It doesn’t absorb at all and glues all the way to the bottom of the litter box. I have to scrape it off, rips liners, a MESS. I’m stuck w a 40lb box! Give me Tidy Cats unscented clumping any day! Easy clean up!
I had to read your name carefully because I thought I posted this comment hahaha! Your experience is exactly mine. Dr Elsie’s is absolutely terrible. I’m stuck with a very heavy bag now that I hate and for the exact reasons you said. Tidy cat free and clear is the only one I will use.
I really like Arm and Hammer Ultralast .
Heavy but no dust and hard clumping. Was it reviewed?
Not yet but we will add it to our list this year!
Hi Mallory!
In the text review of the world’s best litter it’s called the top pick for automatic litter boxes – but the pick for top litter for automatic boxes was Boxiecat – could you please clarify the advantages of one over the other in your opinion? (I use a litter robot with 3 cats)
Thanks so much!
Hello I use a litter called Skoon have u heard of it? Online order only $26 a bag 8lbs bag if you’ve heard of it, what do you think of it? It’s supposed to be an algae based litter no clumping no tracking pretty much no odor. Just want to know if it’s healthy and it’s not really economical, but my cat seems to love it.
What surprises me that Sophresh unscented multicat from Petco and a similar brand from Pet Supermarket did not make it into the reviews. They are U.S. made from grass seeds, no odor, natural, low tracking, soft on paws, low dust and easily compostable.
Loved reading the reviews. I am still experimenting and researching. Like some others I gag and the wet smell of Worlds Best. Catalyst nearly landed me in the hospital. I did now know litter can cause Asthma attacks in cats and people. I hadn’t used an inhaler in over 10 years but I had started having such severe Asthma attacks I had to go to an Urgent Care. I could not even speak. After nearly a month of suffering I thought hard and realized the only environmental changes was the cat litter. After I tossed out the litter, in less than 24 hours my Asthma was gone and I have not had a single episode since. That was two months ago. I am sharing this information for educational purposes. No one was more surprised and shocked than I was to have an adverse effect from my cat litter!
What ingredient in Catalyst cat litter caused your asthma attacks?
My cat is declawed. We use a scoop able litter from Shoprite . Maybe it’s too course to cover her deposits. I don’t know but it does leave an incredible amount of dust everywhere but it is unscented. What can I try because the smell is terrible. I can’t spend a fortune on cat litter. Her oncologist is already costing multiple thousands
Declawing is terrible!
have you tried fenbendazole anti parasitic for the cancer? Vets have had good results with it and people are using it off label. There are vids on YouTube by legit scientists and MD’s. I beat cancer with this and raw foods. Diet is so important. Stop all kibble due to the additives, color etc, no carageenan, msg, etc, try making their food too. cheaper than you’d think.
NO cat litter is flushable, and I do not believe that you have to spend an extravagant amount of money on these cat litter brands.
I love the Okocat brand litter, specifically their Mini Pellets Unscented Clumping Wood litter. Less mess and tracking than clay and its easy on the paws. It absorbs urine surprisingly well and sifting everything is a cinch
In my opinion, EverClean is the worst possible litter. The entire room will be coated in a fine dust—and I mean on every surface in the room. I used it for my cat for 10 years and just thought the excess dust was normal. Even worse, my cat died from lung cancer after breathing in this awful stuff her whole life (nobody smokes in our house). Seriously, I would stay far away from this litter.
Thanks for sharing your experience.
Been using corn litter for a few years, last 2 was Worlds Best, but now i hear that the use of pesticides and the corn getting wet can csuse issues such as Kidney disease. Have you heard anything if this nature about corn litter? Thanks
None of my choices are listed so here are great litter brands : WORLD’s BEST made of Iowa Corn, GARFIELD made of CASSAVA, ARM&HAMMER made with baking soda, Wheatgrass, most available from CHEWY Walmart major Grocery Store chains
Thanks for sharing!
Can u PLEASE test Paco and Pepper cat litter???
It’s rather new on the market, exploding all over social media. It’s made from olive pits and they claim it has zero dust. I just started using it, and at first my cat refused to poop in it. Questioning whether to buy a 2nd bag and continue using it. I and many others, would greatly appreciate your opinion of it!!!! PLEASE AND THANK YOU!!
Great suggestion, Angela! I’ll bring this product to the attention of our editorial team.
I’ll be anxiously awaiting the results. Thank you soooooooo much(if u actually do it)!
Hey Mallory,
I’m new to the pet industry and so is my company. We have a new cat litter that is made from straw which is non-clumping. Right now we are working on creating a clumping version. However, we want to make sure we are using the right processes to create an effective litter while also being biodegradable. Any pointers, tips or best practices that you could set us in the right direction?
Cheers,
Kyle
Hi Kyle! Apologies for the late reply. There are a number of compounds that can help to make a litter more effective while remaining biodegradable, but I’m sure there are manufacturing considerations that you’d understand much better than I could. Gums may be used to support clumping, while baking soda and activated carbon may be explored for odor control. I’m not sure how well the straw product will work on its own—many companies end up combining multiple plant fibers into a single product to achieve the properties they seek.
I’d avoid straw due to mold when wet (Stachybotrys-a toxic mold!)
Thank you for such great and helpful information. I had a question about wheat litters. I have 3 cats and had been very happy with SWheat Scoop but have noticed the granules are smaller and there is more dust. Other than that it works good. Do you have any suggestions on another wheat based litter?❤
Hi Darcy! I’m afraid I haven’t tested any other wheat-based cat litter products, but there is a corn and wheat product from Kitty Poo Club that you might like.
I tried Fresh Step Simply Unscented Clay Litter. While it says no added fragrance, it does definitely have a perfume-y smell to it. Our cat has pollen allergies, so I wonder if it is a plant based additive. He started scratching like crazy ( the next morning) when I tried this kitty litter. I quickly emptied the box and sanitized it. I refilled it with his old kitty litter (Dr. Elsey). He was better soon after (I wiped his fur down). I’ll stick w/Dr. Elsey. I was looking for something that might not track quite as much, but I’d rather vacuum more often than try anything else.
None of these are available in India. 🙁
Hi Andrita! Yes, we’re working on expanding our selection of international roundups, including, potentially, a piece on the best cat litter in India. Sorry we couldn’t meet your needs with this article. You might appreciate this article on the best cat litter in India this year.
Sustainably Yours is my favorite! If you purchase it at Pet Food Express, you can buy 3 bags and get the 4th for free. As stated above, clay litter is HORRIBLE for the environment!!!
I was about to order the Dr. Elsey’s litter but the warning message on Amazon and exposure causing cancer is extremely concerning. Isn’t it better to go for natural wood pellets or something else that wouldn’t need a label like that?
Hey Jalal, sorry it’s taken me a little while to get back to you! I’ve not seen this warning on Amazon in the United States, but I’m assuming it relates to the crystalline silica dust that Dr. Elsey’s litter (and other clay litter products) may emit. From everything I’ve read, the amounts emitted by a typical cat litter are not enough to have this carcinogenic effect. Most cases of cancer from crystalline silica inhalation involve people who work full days in environments with heavy exposure to this dust. A cat visiting the litter box on a few occasions each day shouldn’t have an issue, and neither should their owner after pouring it once a month. However, you can certainly try a plant-based litter as a less risky—and less dusty—alternative. Hope this helps!
Thank you for your research, Mallory! This is very informative. I currently use pine litter but it’s becoming such a pain to clean the “dust” that’s produced after urination. I think I’m going to try clay litter again, and will give your top choice a try. Thanks again!
Happy to be of help. 🙂
I JUST SWITCHED TO ARM+HAMMER CLUMP+SLIDE. IT’S GR8! NO ODOR! CLUMPS DON’T BREAK. NOT SURE OF HOW IT IS ON KITTY PAWS. TRY A SMALL BOX. GOOD LUCK. 🙂
This is great information! There is one particular characteristic that you didn’t focus on, and is irrelevant to most people, but that I really need to know. I have a cat with Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome, and as a result her paws are EXTREMELY sensitive to any sharp edges. She can’t even use pellets, because The cutoff edge at each end of the pellet where they’re chopped down to the right size is too sharp for her. I’m not a fan of clay litter, and wondered which of the brands that come in crystals – or any other brands, really – have SMOOTH, ROUNDED granules, with ZERO sharp points or edges. Thank you in advance for your help!!
Hey Lynn, good question. Kitty Poo Club has a few options for large-grained crystal litter that is formed into balls rather than crystals. Other, finer, litter like Pretty Litter and the fine crystal litter from Kitty Poo Club might work, simply because the edges are so small, like pieces of sand. However, I think that something like SmartCat litter might be ideal, as it’s softer than any crystal litter and doesn’t have rough or sharp edges that might irritate her.
If you haven’t found a great litter by now, Arm and Hammer Hard Ball litter is the BEST cat litter. Extremely tiny, smooth litter with zero dust.
Urine deposits harden almost entirely b4 reaching the litter container so clean-up is a breeze! Rarely need to dump entire box for cleaning so cost becomes much less in the long run!