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Whether you’re a novice cat parent who’s new to the world of cat litter, or you’re a seasoned pro looking to address a specific need, choosing the right cat litter can be a daunting task. Gone are the days when clay litter was the only option available. Today, the market offers a wide range of cat litter types, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. From price and odor control to dust levels and absorbency, there are a lot of factors to consider.
To help you make sense of the different materials out there—and who they’re likely to benefit—we consulted feline expert Joey Lusvardi, a certified cat behavior consultant and the founder of Class Act Cats. Once you understand how each type of litter functions, you’ll be better equipped to choose one that works best for you, your cat, and your household.
The Different Types of Cat Litter Explained
Every cat is unique and will have individual preferences when it comes to how they do their business. Likewise, every cat parent will have different needs in mind. Here’s a quick rundown of the various litter types.
| Litter Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Clay |
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| Silica Crystals |
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| Pine |
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| Grass |
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| Wheat |
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| Corn |
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| Walnut |
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| Paper |
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| Tofu |
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| Clumping |
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| Non-clumping |
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| Flushable |
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| Health-monitoring |
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Clay litter
Clay will be the litter of choice for many cat parents. It’s widely available, relatively low-maintenance, and will work for a range of cats and households.
“Clay litter is the most common litter for a reason: It’s cheap, it absorbs odor well, it clumps, and it’s close to what cats would use in nature,” says certified cat behavior consultant and trainer Joey Lusvardi. Most varieties are clumping, but you can find non-clumping versions as well. Clumping clay will appeal to those who prefer to scoop out urine clumps daily, while the affordability of non-clumping clay will attract those on a budget.
oersin via iStock
There are some downsides to consider, though. For one, there’s the dust to contend with, Lusvardi points out. Not only is this messy, but it can be troubling for cats (and humans) with respiratory issues or sensitivities. Plus, clay litter is considerably heavier than other materials, which can spell trouble for people with mobility issues or those who need to lug containers up several flights of stairs.
Another problem with clay litter is its negative environmental impact. The process of extracting clay from the earth depletes the landscape of natural minerals, disrupts wildlife, and adds to the planet’s pollution. Plus, clay isn’t biodegradable, which means more trash piling up in already full landfills.
Finally, because clay expands when it comes into contact with moisture, it can cause issues if ingested. This is why most experts recommend against clumping clay litters for very young kittens who may venture a curious nibble. But for cat parents looking for a quick-clumping litter that traps odors effectively, clay is an attractive option.
Silica litter
Like clay, silica crystal litter is derived through mining. It’s made by mixing mined quartz sand with oxygen and water, which creates highly porous beads that can absorb up to 40% of their weight in liquid. Instead of clumping, silica crystals absorb urine and dehydrate solid waste. You scoop out the poop, and then the remaining litter is stirred.
One of the main selling points of crystal litter is its longevity—because the particles are so absorbent, it can last up to a month before needing to be replaced. It’s also a bit lighter in weight than clay. According to Lusvardi, it may suit long-haired cats who need a non-clumping material that doesn’t get stuck in their fur.
Unfortunately, crystal litter is usually more expensive than conventional clay litter. But since it lasts longer, you may not notice much of a price difference. The texture could be a dealbreaker for some cats, too. Brands with larger crystals can be uncomfortable for some pets, especially declawed cats, kittens, or cats with sensitive paws.
Sergey Pakulin via iStock
Pine litter
Litters made from pine are lightweight and more eco-friendly than clay and silica. You’ll find both clumping and non-clumping varieties. Typically, clumping pine litters will have a fine-grain texture similar to sawdust, whereas non-clumping formulas, like Feline Pine, are made into pellets. Pellet-style litters tend to track less, but Lusvardi tells us that some cats find them uncomfortable.
Pine is a highly absorbent material, which contributes to its success with odor control. However, there’s a tradeoff to consider. “While they may help reduce some odor, they do have a pine scent to them, and I have a lot of cats I’ve worked with that don’t particularly like them,” says Lusvardi. If you find your cat doesn’t like it, you can toss unused pine litter in your backyard compost.
Grass litter
Grass-based litter is another biodegradable option that’s highly absorbent and tends to form pretty solid clumps. Its quick-clumping action also means it does a good job of keeping odors under control. This makes it ideal for multi-cat households.
Grass is lightweight, which makes it easier to carry and pour—but it also means it has a tendency to track and scatter, so you’ll want to have your dustpan handy. When you’re ready to change it out, you can use leftover grass litter as mulch in non-edible gardens.
Wheat litter
Another eco-friendly option is litter made from wheat. This material is softer than clay, and it usually creates less dust. Because it’s biodegradable, some brands, like sWheat Scoop, may even be safe to flush down the toilet—provided your plumbing system (and local laws) allow for it.
One watchout with wheat: if exposed to moisture, it can develop a type of mold called “aflatoxins.” To prevent this, it needs to be stored in a dry, cool place and should be scooped daily.
ablokhin via iStock
Corn litter
Cat litter made from dried corn kernels has a soft texture that will appeal to cats with sensitive paws. It’s an absorbent material that clumps well, so it tends to trap odors effectively. Like wheat, it may be safe for flushing (always check with the manufacturer first).
Corn is also susceptible to mold, so it’s important to take care with storage. While most formulas will be unscented, corn has a natural scent to it that some cats (and people) may find offensive. And because it’s made from an edible source, there’s the risk that some cats may be tempted to venture a nibble. It may also attract pests.
Walnut litter
Made from ground-up walnut shells, this litter has a texture similar to conventional clay, so it makes sense for cat parents transitioning away from clay. It’s also much lighter, which makes it easier to carry—but it can contribute to more mess. Some varieties are able to clump (though they’re unlikely to clump as well as clay). Others are non-clumping. Walnut litter has a natural scent to it, which you may or may not love.
One drawback is that the darker can make it hard to spot and scoop out your cat’s number twos. Plus, walnut litter runs the risk of spoiling if not stored properly. And obviously, it won’t make a good choice for cats or humans with nut allergies.
Paper litter
One of the least dusty litters out there, paper litter is ideal for allergy-prone cats. It’s softer than clay, and it’s an affordable option. You can find it in pellet form or in finer crumbles—pellets tend to be low-tracking, but some cats will prefer the feel of finer particles.
If you’re not keen on frequent cleaning, paper may not be the best choice for you. It doesn’t clump, and it’s not the best at odor control, so it will require regular changing. As it gets soggy, paper litter can also be more of a chore to clean. That said, even if you don’t intend to use it long term, paper litter can make a fine temporary solution for cats recovering from surgery that need to be protected from dust.
AH86 via iStock
Tofu litter
Made from soybean fiber, tofu-based litter is one of the newer options on the market. Typically, it comes in pellet form, so tracking is less of a problem. It’s good at forming firm, scoopable clumps, making it easier to maintain the litter box. It’s also biodegradable, and many brands, like Tuft + Paw’s Really Great Cat Litter, are safe to flush down the toilet.
Tofu litter does tend to come at a higher price point, but it also lasts longer than many other litter types. Because it’s food-based, tofu litter runs the risk of developing mold if it’s not stored properly or if your scooping is lax.
Clumping versus non-clumping
With clumping litter, it’s all about convenience. “Clumping litter is generally easier to clean up than non-clumping litter as you can scoop more of it out,” says Lusvardi. And because it forms tight clumps, locking odors in the process, it tends to be better for odor control.
However, because it expands when it comes in contact with water, clumping litter can cause issues if ingested. As such, it’s not usually recommended for young kittens who are prone to curious nibbling.
Non-clumping litter is usually more affordable, but you’ll need to change the entire box more often, so the costs are often comparable. Lusvardi also notes that cats with long hair may prefer a non-clumping litter, as clumping litter can get stuck in their fur.
Scented versus unscented
For the most part, experts discourage the use of scented litter. As Lusvardi explains, scented litter is more for the human’s benefit than the cat’s. “Cats have more sensitive noses than we do, so even light scents may be too much for them.” Truth be told, most humans find scented litter off-putting—our expert included. “Personally, I find the smell of cat urine plus scented litter to be worse than cat urine alone,” Lusvardi remarks.
To eliminate odors, it’s better to scoop frequently, wash bins on a regular basis, and use a litter with either baking soda or activated charcoal.
Flushable litter
Some litters made from biodegradable, plant-based materials are designed to be safe for flushing down the toilet. These litters form softer clumps that dissolve naturally in water. Flushable litter will appeal to cat parents for their convenience (it doesn’t get easier than tossing scoops in the toilet) and their eco-friendliness. Not only are formulas like the World’s Best Clumping Corn Litter made from sustainable materials, but flushing them also cuts down on waste in landfills.
This corn litter is flushable—depending on your plumbing system and local ordinances.
However, these aren’t a perfect solution across the board. For one, flushable litter won’t be manageable for all plumbing systems—including older systems, septic tanks, and low-flow toilets. There’s also the risk of introducing parasites into the environment through contaminated cat feces. And some municipalities have restrictions against flushing litter down the toilet.
If your plumbing system can handle it—and your local wastewater authority permits it—flushable litter may be able to streamline your cleaning routine. It eliminates the need for wasteful plastic bags, and it’s convenient for people who live in apartments without easy access to outdoor waste disposal.
Health-monitoring litters
One of the more interesting trends in kitty litter is health-monitoring formulas that change colors to indicate potential health problems. One Rover writer tested the popular color-changing brand Pretty Litter, and noted this could be a valuable tool for concerned cat parents, especially since it can be hard to detect when cats are actually sick or in pain.
However, Lusvardi says the accuracy of these litters is unreliable, and they may lead to false positives—something he’s run into with his own clients. “It seems like they cause a lot of false alarms and unnecessary stress on both humans and felines.”
That said, some cat parents would still prefer to check on a problem that ends up being fine rather than miss something that could get worse. If it puts your mind at ease, a health-monitoring litter could be a good choice.
How To Choose a Cat Litter for Your Needs
There are various factors at play, but ultimately, choosing a litter will come down to your cat’s preferences. After all, the goal is finding a litter your cat will actually use. This may take some trial and error on your part. You may want to offer a few different options to see what your cat fancies.
Lusvardi also suggests looking at your own preferences when it comes to maintenance. “For example, silica litter only requires scooping poop, but you have to mix the litter when your cat urinates and will have to change the litter itself more frequently,” he explains. Clumping litter, on the other hand, may appeal to folks who prefer to scoop out waste daily. And flushable litter can be the easiest to clean.
You’ll also want to look at your cat’s individual needs, notes Lusvardi. Kittens and long-haired cats, for instance, can benefit from non-clumping formulas. And cats with asthma or those who’ve recently had surgery may need a gentle, low-dust option like paper.
“All litters are going to come with a trade-off so you need to ask yourself what is most important to you,” says Lusvardi. “Are you okay with a more smelly litter box and more frequent scooping if the litter is better for the environment? Are you willing to pay for a litter that is a bit more expensive but has a better balance of pros and cons from your perspective?” These are all crucial questions that may sway your final decision one way or the other.
With these considerations in mind, here’s a breakdown of cat litter types based on different needs and concerns.
| Need or Concern | Litters to Consider | Litters to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Asthma & Allergies | Low-dust litters like paper and unscented litter | Scented litter and lightweight litters that are prone to dustiness |
| Ease of cleaning | Clumping litter is scoopable, silica litter only requires solids to be scooped, and pellet-style litters are less prone to tracking | Non-clumping litter |
| Low odor | Clumping litter locks in odors, and litters with either baking soda or activated charcoal neutralize odors | Scented litters are irritating and make smells worse, and some plant-based litters may not control odors well |
| Picky cats | Soft, fine-grain litters and unscented litters | Scented litters and litters with hard, rough surfaces (like silica crystals) |
| Kittens | Non-clumping litter is safer if ingested. Kittens may also prefer a softer texture like grass, paper, or walnut. | Clumping litter can cause blockages if ingested. Clay can be dusty and irritate sensitive respiratory systems. |
| Multiple cats | Clumping litter controls odors and makes for easier clean up after multiple kitties | Some plant-based litters may not control odors well enough |
| Environmentally friendly | Most plant-based litters | Clay and silica crystals |
Cats with asthma or allergies will benefit from unscented, low-dust litter
Cats (and humans) with respiratory sensitivities will do best with low-dust litters. Paper tends to shine in this regard. You may also want to avoid lightweight litters, as these are prone to dustiness. Finally, stick with unscented litters, which are gentler on sensitive noses and lungs.
Clumping litter and silica crystals are easier to clean
If easier cleaning is a priority, Lusvardi recommends clumping litters that form easy-to-scoop “balls.” Some cat parents like silica crystals because only solid waste has to be scooped, and the remaining litter just needs a quick stir.
Heavier litters tend to track less than lightweight litter. Similarly, pellet-style litters are less prone to get stuck in cats’ paws, getting scattered about in the process. Finally, using flushable litter means there’s less trash to haul outside.
To combat odors, opt for clumping formulas with baking soda or activated carbon
If you have multiple cats (and multiple litter boxes) or you live in a smaller space, controlling odor may be your top concern. Generally, clumping litters tend to do a better job of minimizing smells because they trap odor molecules in tightly formed clumps.
Scented litters should be avoided, as they don’t really eliminate odors so much as add another one to the mix. For a good odor-control litter, look for formulas that include either baking soda or activated charcoal, which can neutralize odors.
“The best thing one can do to control odor is regularly scooping the litter box,” Lusvardi explains. “The litter should also be changed at minimum once per month, though for multiple cats you may need to do more frequent complete changes.”
Texture plays a key role for picky cats
Pay attention to a litter’s texture, as cats can be fussy when it comes to this detail. Some cats may prefer finer grain particles over large pellets or harder crystals. It may take some experimentation on your part to discover what your cat is partial to. Some experts recommend leaving out several options to let your cat decide what they like best.
Natallia Dzenisenka via iStock
Soft, non-clumping litter is safer for kittens
Since young kittens are prone to nibbling on things, many experts discourage clumping litter, which can cause GI blockages. Instead, stick with a non-clumping formula. Kittens will usually appreciate softer material, too. Consider walnut, paper, grass, or pine for tender kitten paws.
Homes with multiple cats will benefit from scoopable litters with odor control
Multi-cat households will likely want to prioritize affordability, odor control, and ease of cleaning. Oftentimes, this means a clumping clay litter, which is simple to scoop, inexpensive, and usually does a decent job of keeping smells under control.
Litter aside, it’s important to have enough boxes for multiple feline housemates. A general rule of thumb is to get one litter box per cat, plus one extra. So if you have two cats, you should have three boxes.
Plant-based litter is kinder to the planet
If protecting the environment is a priority for you, clay and silica won’t be the best options. Instead, look for litters made from renewable materials, like wheat, grass, corn, or tofu. Not only are these sustainably sourced, but they’re also biodegradable, meaning they’ll break down more readily than clay, given the right conditions. Some plant-based litters can even be composted.
How We Chose
The litters featured here were selected based on a combination of our own hands-on testing, a comprehensive look at customer reviews, and an interview with certified cat behavior consultant Joey Lusvardi. We considered a range of litter types that address the unique needs of different cats and cat parents. We’re also guided by the experience of living and playing alongside our own much-loved and strongly opinionated pets, who are never stingy with their feedback.
