Clumping or non-clumping? Wood, paper or mineral? With so many types of cat litter available, choosing one can be confusing. Find out what to consider and how to choose a litter your cat is comfortable using.
If you’ve ever stood in front of a shelf of cat litter wondering where to start, you’re not alone. From traditional mineral litter and wood pellets to paper, silica and plant-based options, there’s plenty of choice.
So, what is the best cat litter?
Unfortunately, your cat can’t tell you which one to pick. But they can make their preferences pretty clear once you get the litter home.
There isn’t one type of litter that is best for every cat. Cats are individuals, and what matters most is finding a litter that your cat feels comfortable using. Many cats prefer a fine, sand-like texture that feels soft beneath their paws and is easy to dig in, while familiarity can also play an important role.
If you’re bringing home a new cat or kitten, find out which litter they’re already used to and stick with it while they settle in. You can always introduce something different gradually later.
What are the different types of cat litter?
There are lots of different cat litter materials available, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, though, the deciding vote belongs to your cat.
Mineral or clay cat litter
Mineral or clay litter is often fine and soft, which many cats find comfortable beneath their paws. Clumping varieties absorb urine into clumps that can be removed from the tray, while non-clumping versions absorb moisture without forming clumps.
Some mineral and clay products can produce quite a lot of dust, so check the individual product, particularly if your cat has a respiratory condition.
Wood pellet cat litter
Wood pellets can be a tidy option because they are less likely to stick to your cat’s paws when they leave the tray. Some are also biodegradable or made from sustainably sourced materials.
The downside is texture. The larger, harder pellets may be uncomfortable for some cats, particularly if they are used to something softer.
One example is Kittilitt, a wood pellet litter used in many Cats Protection centres. Kittilitt is also a Cats Protection partner, with 12p from every bag sold helping to support our work for cats across the UK.
Paper cat litter
Paper-based litter is usually soft and low in dust, making it gentle on sensitive paws. However, some cats may be less keen on its texture if they’re accustomed to a finer, more sand-like litter.
Silica cat litter
Silica litter is highly absorbent and can be effective at controlling moisture and odour. However, the crystals feel different beneath the paws and won’t suit every cat.
Some silica litters offer additional features. For example, Litter Sense uses colour-changing crystals designed to alert owners to changes in their cat’s urine. Products like this shouldn’t replace veterinary advice, though. If you notice a change in your cat’s toileting habits or have any concerns about their health, contact your vet.
Tofu, corn and other plant-based cat litter
Plant-based litters made from materials such as tofu or corn are often biodegradable and can be relatively soft and low in dust. Again, whether your cat likes them will come down to individual preference.
Is clumping or non-clumping cat litter better?
There’s no simple winner in the clumping versus non-clumping debate.
Many clumping litters have the fine, sand-like texture that cats often prefer. They can also make it easier to remove pee and poo promptly, helping you keep the tray clean.
But that doesn’t mean every cat will prefer them. Some may find a particular clumping litter too dusty or dislike its texture.
For kittens, it’s usually best to avoid clumping litter. Kittens often investigate unfamiliar things with their mouths and swallowing clumping litter could potentially cause a gastrointestinal blockage.
What is the best cat litter for kittens and older cats?
Your cat’s needs can change throughout their life, so age and health are worth considering when choosing their litter.
Cat litter for kittens
Try to use the litter your kitten is already familiar with when you first bring them home and avoid making sudden changes.
A soft, sandy texture can be comfortable for little paws, but choose a non-clumping litter while your kitten is young.
Cat litter for older cats
Older cats may find rough litter, including some gravel and wood pellet products, uncomfortable beneath their paws. A softer, finer litter may be easier for them to use.
The tray itself matters too. Cats with arthritis or reduced mobility may struggle to climb over high sides, so choose a tray with a low side or accessible entrance.
Should I use scented cat litter?
While floral or fresh-smelling litter might sound more appealing to us, your cat may disagree.
Cats have a highly sensitive sense of smell, so fragrances that seem mild to us can be overwhelming to them. A strong scent may even discourage some cats from using their tray.
For that reason, it’s generally best to choose an unscented cat litter and keep smells under control by cleaning the tray regularly instead.
The same applies when washing the tray. Avoid strongly fragranced cleaning products and use hot soapy water or a cat-safe cleaner.
Is low-dust cat litter better?
Some types of litter produce more dust than others, with clay-based products among those that can be dustier.
For many cats this may not cause a problem, but choosing a low-dust litter can be particularly important if your cat has a respiratory condition such as feline asthma. If you’re unsure what is suitable for a cat with an existing health condition, ask your vet for advice.
How can I tell if my cat doesn’t like their litter?
Your cat may give you some subtle clues that they aren’t happy with what’s beneath their paws.
They might hesitate before entering the tray, avoid digging or covering their poo and pee, spend less time in the tray or shake their paws excessively afterwards. Some cats perch on the edge of the tray so as few paws as possible touch the litter.
If they really dislike it, they may stop using the tray altogether or use it only for certain things. For example, they might continue to pee in their tray but poo elsewhere.
Don’t assume unwanted toileting is simply your cat being fussy, though. Changes in toileting can also be a sign of a medical problem, so speak to your vet first if your cat suddenly stops using their tray.
How do I switch my cat’s litter?
If your cat is happily using their current litter and it meets their needs, there may be no reason to change it.
If you do need to make a switch, avoid replacing their familiar litter overnight. You can gradually mix a small amount of the new litter into the old, increasing the proportion over at least a week.
Alternatively, if you have several trays, offer the new litter in one while keeping their usual litter in the others. Your cat may make their preference obvious.
Try not to change several things at once. The type of litter is only one part of a good litter tray setup. Location, cleanliness, litter depth, tray size and the number of trays available all matter too.
How often should you change cat litter?
Cats are famously clean, and a dirty litter tray can quickly put them off using it.
Remove poo and pee twice a day. As a general rule, completely empty the litter and clean the tray at least once a week using hot, soapy water or a cat-safe cleaner.
Non-clumping litter may need replacing more frequently because it can be harder to remove urine. Hooded trays can also trap smells, so they may need a thorough clean more often.
Aim for around 3cm of litter in the tray, although individual cats may have their own preferences.
And remember the golden rule for the number of litter trays: one per cat, plus one extra. Spread them out in different locations around the home rather than placing them side by side, as your cat may see trays next to each other as one toileting area.
How to choose the right litter for your cat
With so many options available, it’s easy to focus on the litter that promises to be easiest to clean, smells nicest or makes the least mess.
But your cat’s opinion matters most.
Start with a soft, unscented litter or one you know your cat is already comfortable using. Consider their age, health and mobility, introduce any changes gradually and pay attention to how they behave around their tray.
It might take a little trial and error, but the best cat litter is ultimately the one your cat is happy and comfortable using consistently. Read more about cats and toileting in our online guide.
