Selecting the best cat litter is a crucial aspect of responsible pet ownership. It’s not just about maintaining a clean and odor-free environment for your feline companion, but also ensuring their comfort and well-being. The choice of cat litter can significantly impact both your cat’s happiness and your own.
In recent years, the cat litter market has witnessed a remarkable proliferation of options. Gone are the days of a one-size-fits-all approach. Today, you can find cat litters tailored to specific needs, from multi-cat households to those seeking eco-friendly solutions. This diversity can be overwhelming, making it essential to navigate this sea of choices with confidence.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive review of the top 5 best cat litters in 2023. We’ve scoured the market, assessed the options, and conducted rigorous testing to bring you the most reliable information. Our aim is to empower you to make informed choices when it comes to your cat’s litter box needs.
| Image | Product | Price |
|---|---|---|
Best Overall
 |
ARM & HAMMER Clump & Seal Platinum Cat Litter
Jump to Review | $34 AT AMAZON |
Best Absorbent
 |
Cat’s Pride Premium Lightweight Clumping Litter
Jump to Review | $10.99 AT AMAZON |
Best Lightweight
 |
Purina Tidy Cats LightWeight Clumping Cat Litter
Jump to Review | $24.21 AT AMAZON |
Best Clumping
 |
Fresh Step Outstretch, Clumping Cat Litter
Jump to Review | $30.68 AT AMAZON |
Best Crystals
 |
PetSafe ScoopFree Premium Crystal Cat Litter
Jump to Review | $23.74 AT AMAZON |
Best Overall: ARM & HAMMER Clump & Seal Platinum Cat Litter
- Exceptional clumping ability.
- Effective at masking waste odors.
- Economical use, requires less litter.
- Minimal dust.
- Suitable for multi-cat households.
- Heavy box can be challenging to handle.
ARM & HAMMER Clump & Seal Platinum Cat Litter is a powerhouse in the cat litter world. Tailored for multi-cat households, it promises up to 14 days of unbeatable odor control. The patented formula, with 10% more odor eliminators and ARM & HAMMER baking soda, takes care of business. Moisture-activated Micro-Granules ensure a tight seal around odors while forming sturdy clumps. It’s an environmentally responsible choice that doesn’t compromise on quality.
During our trial, we found this litter to be a heavyweight in terms of clumping power. Scooping was a breeze, although the weight of the box can be a challenge. Minimal dust is a plus. While it excels at masking waste odors, the litter itself has a noticeable scent. It’s economical, as it requires less litter per use, and it’s simple to scoop. There’s some tracking but less compared to other brands. Overall, it offers impressive absorbency. Among the litters we reviewed, this one stood out as the best overall choice.
ARM & HAMMER Clump & Seal Platinum Cat Litter is a top pick for multi-cat households. Its robust clumping, odor control, and cost-efficiency make it stand out. However, consider your cat’s preference for scented litters and be prepared for the weight of the box when choosing this option. It’s a surefire way to maintain a fresh-smelling home.
Best Absorbent: Cat’s Pride Premium Lightweight Clumping Litter
- 40% lighter formula for easy pouring and storage.
- Effective odor control powered by baking soda.
- Absorbent with a pleasant Pure & Fresh scent.
- Each purchase contributes to animal welfare.
- Slight dustiness during cleaning.
- Occasional tracking
Cat’s Pride Premium Lightweight Clumping Litter offers the ultimate convenience with its 40% lighter formula, making pouring and storage effortless. This litter boasts 10-day odor control powered by baking soda, swiftly trapping and eliminating odors. Its absorbent nature, complemented by the Pure & Fresh scent, maintains cleanliness. With every purchase, Cat’s Pride donates one pound of litter to support animals in need, showcasing its commitment to welfare organizations. Suitable for cats of all ages and breeds, it’s a cost-effective solution for pet owners.
During our experience, we noted slight dustiness during cleaning, although the odor control was commendable. The standout feature lies in its impressive absorbency and clumping performance. However, there was occasional tracking due to tiny particles adhering to the cat’s paws. Overall, the product provides a satisfactory experience.
Cat’s Pride Premium Lightweight Clumping Litter offers convenience, effective odor control, and a commitment to animal welfare. While there’s some dustiness and occasional tracking to consider, its absorbency and clumping capabilities make it a satisfactory choice. Suitable for all cat ages and breeds, it’s a cost-effective solution for pet owners seeking quality litter.
Best Lightweight: Purina Tidy Cats LightWeight Clumping Cat Litter
- Lightweight and low-dust formula.
- odor control.
- Efficient clumping and absorbency.
- Outdoor scent keeps the area fresh.
- Lightweight nature leads to tracking beyond the litter box.
- Packaging lacks resealing capability once opened.
Purina Tidy Cats LightWeight Instant Action clumping cat litter stands as a convenient choice for multi-cat households. This low-dust formula, packaged in a 17 lb. box, ensures a mess-free pour into the litter box. The Ammonia Blocker takes care of odors for a substantial 14 days. Its quick-release deodorizing system provides instant odor control. With its lightweight nature, this litter is a breeze to transport and store. It forms solid clumps, simplifying cleaning, while its outdoor scent keeps the area fresh. The moisture-activated formula promptly locks in odors upon contact, battling ammonia, urine, and fecal smells.
During our experience, we found the product to be genuinely lightweight, with low dust content that makes it comfortable for cats and prevents dry paws. It efficiently captures all odors and forms tight clumps, showcasing excellent absorbency. However, due to its lightweight composition, it does tend to track further from the litter box. The eco-friendly packaging is commendable, though it lacks resealing capability once opened. Overall, this litter shines in clumping, odor control, and absorption, all while being gentle on paws.
Purina Tidy Cats LightWeight Clumping Cat Litter excels in various aspects, including odor control, clumping ability, and overall absorbency. Its lightweight formula and low dust content contribute to a comfortable experience for cats. While tracking and packaging considerations exist, this litter stands out for its effectiveness and gentle care for your feline companions.
Best Clumping: Fresh Step Outstretch Clumping Cat Litter
- Activated charcoal successfully controls odors.
- Forms robust clumps near the surface for easy scooping.
- Minimizes dust and reduces litter tracking.
- Pet-friendly particles for cat comfort.
- Occasional large urine clumps.
Fresh Step Outstretch Advanced Long Lasting Clumping Litter introduces innovative microgranule technology that takes cat litter to the next level. This technology enhances absorption, extending its lifespan by 50% and reducing the frequency of changes. Using 16 pounds of this litter provides the same performance as 24 pounds of Fresh Step Multi Cat Litter, which translates to using less without compromising quality. The formula incorporates Febreze Freshness and 6X activated charcoal, ensuring exceptional 15-day odor control. The litter forms robust clumps near the surface, simplifying scooping and maintenance. Crafted with pet-friendly particles, it offers comfort for cats’ paws and hassle-free digging. Fresh Step Outstretch Advanced allows for extended intervals between litter changes, resulting in a clean and fresh-smelling litter box.
During our experience, this litter truly excelled in odor control and ease of scooping. It generated minimal dust and significantly reduced litter tracking. While urine clumps remained solid and easy to scoop, they could occasionally be on the larger side. However, the litter consistently formed effective clumps, minimized tracking, and offered extended usage, which can ultimately save money. Its absorbency was highly commendable.
Fresh Step Outstretch Clumping Cat Litter stands out as an excellent choice, especially for those seeking extended usage and exceptional odor control. Its innovative technology and efficient clumping make it a top performer. While large urine clumps can occasionally occur, this litter excels in reducing dust, minimizing tracking, and offering excellent absorbency. It’s a solid option for maintaining a clean and fresh-smelling litter box.
Best Crystals: PetSafe ScoopFree Premium Crystal Cat Litter
- Efficient odor removal.
- Remarkable longevity, lasting up to 30 days in a single-cat household.
- Low tracking and 99% dust-free crystal litter.
- Lavender-scented premium crystal litter for added freshness.
- Minimal odor up close.
- Tracking, while minimized, can occur outside the box.
The PetSafe ScoopFree Premium Crystal Cat Litter offers a superior solution for cat owners seeking efficient odor removal and reduced maintenance. The Lavender Crystal Litter 2-Pack excels in urine absorption and solid waste drying, outperforming clumping clay litter by a remarkable 5 times. In a single-cat household, one bag can last up to 30 days, allowing more quality moments with your feline friend and less time spent cleaning the litter box. The 99% dust-free crystal litter minimizes mess, while low tracking contributes to a clean living environment. The 2 pre-portioned bags of lavender-scented premium crystal litter provide an added touch of freshness. This litter is compatible with various litter boxes or trays, with a recommendation for use with the PetSafe Deluxe Crystal Litter Box. PetSafe prioritizes your pet’s well-being, ensuring a healthy, safe, and happy experience.
During our experience, this litter showcased exceptional longevity, outlasting regular clay litter. It provided minimal odor, except when up close, and tracking was effectively minimized, often caught by the pad outside the box. It proved highly effective for automatic litter boxes, offering impressive urine absorbency that swiftly dealt with the issue. Cleaning was effortless, and unlike traditional scoopable litter, it didn’t excessively clump.
PetSafe ScoopFree Premium Crystal Cat Litter is a game-changer for cat owners seeking efficient odor control and reduced maintenance. Its remarkable longevity, minimal tracking, and lavender-scented freshness make it a standout choice. While it may exhibit minimal odor up close and minor tracking, these are outweighed by its exceptional absorbency and easy cleaning, making it a fantastic option for hassle-free litter box upkeep.
How to Choose the Best Cat Litter: In-Depth Guide
Selecting the best cat litter is a crucial decision for any cat owner. To help you make an informed choice, we’ve prepared a comprehensive guide that covers every aspect in detail.
Types of Cat Litter
When it comes to cat litter, variety is the name of the game. There are several types to choose from, each with its own set of advantages and considerations. Understanding these options is the first step to finding the best cat litter for your feline friend. Let’s explore the main types:
Clumping Cat Litter
- Advantages: This type forms solid clumps around waste, making scooping and maintenance a breeze. It’s also renowned for its exceptional odor control.
- Considerations: Clumping litter tends to be more expensive than non-clumping alternatives.
Non-Clumping Cat Litter
- Advantages: Non-clumping litters are typically more budget-friendly. They still offer decent odor control.
- Considerations: Since they don’t form solid clumps, daily scooping may be less efficient.
Clay-Based Cat Litter
- Advantages: Clay litters are absorbent and widely available.
- Considerations: They can produce dust, which may not be suitable for cats or owners with respiratory sensitivities.
Crystal(Silica Gel) Cat Litter
- Advantages: Silica gel litter excels in odor control and moisture absorption. It’s also known for being low in dust.
- Considerations: It can be more expensive than other types of litter.
Natural Cat Litter
- Advantages: Environmentally friendly, often biodegradable, and available in various materials like corn, wheat, or wood.
- Considerations: Natural litters may not provide the same clumping ability as clay-based litters.
Now that we’ve explored these main types of cat litter, you have a more comprehensive understanding of the options available. The next step is to consider the factors that matter most to you and your cat when making your selection.
Factors to Consider
Choosing the best cat litter involves weighing several crucial factors that impact both your cat’s comfort and your own convenience. Each factor plays a pivotal role in determining which cat litter is the ideal fit for your specific needs.
Clumping Ability
Clumping ability is a key consideration for cat owners seeking convenience. Clumping litters are designed to form solid clumps around waste, simplifying the scooping and cleaning process. This means you can efficiently remove soiled litter without the need for frequent full box changes. The strength of clumping varies between litters, so if ease of maintenance is a priority, opt for one with robust clumping capabilities.
Odor Control
Effective odor control is paramount in maintaining a pleasant home environment. No one wants a lingering smell from the litter box. Look for cat litters that are specifically formulated to neutralize odors. This feature is especially important if you have multiple cats or if your litter box is placed in a smaller, enclosed space. The right choice here can make a noticeable difference in keeping your home smelling fresh.
Dust Level
High levels of dust can be a nuisance, both for your cat and for you. Dusty litters can lead to respiratory irritation for both feline and human occupants of your home. To ensure a comfortable and healthy environment, consider litters that are low in dust or even dust-free. This not only benefits your cat but also makes scooping and cleaning a more pleasant experience.
Environmental Impact
For eco-conscious cat owners, the environmental impact of cat litter is an important consideration. Some litters are crafted from biodegradable or recycled materials, reducing your carbon footprint. By choosing an environmentally friendly option, you can align your pet care choices with your commitment to sustainability.
Cat Preferences
Cats have individual preferences when it comes to litter texture and scent. Some cats prefer unscented litters, while others may enjoy a subtle fragrance. Experimenting with different options can help you discover what your cat favors, ultimately contributing to their comfort and contentment.
Price
Budget considerations are always relevant. Litter costs can vary significantly, from budget-friendly options to premium choices. While some premium litters offer exceptional features, it’s important to balance your budget with your cat’s needs. Quality litter is available at various price points, ensuring that you can provide your cat with a comfortable litter box experience without breaking the bank.
Taking these factors into account will empower you to make a well-informed decision when selecting the best cat litter for your beloved feline companion. The right choice will not only simplify your cat’s life but also contribute to a harmonious and hygienic living environment for both you and your furry friend.
Maintaining a Cat Litter Box
Maintaining a clean and inviting litter box is essential for your cat’s well-being and your own peace of mind. Here are some key maintenance tips and strategies to ensure both a happy cat and a harmonious living space:
Regular Scooping
Scooping waste from the litter box on a daily basis is the foundation of a clean and odor-free environment. Clumping litters, in particular, excel in this regard, as they form solid clumps around waste, making it easy to scoop away soiled litter. Regular scooping ensures that your cat always has a clean place to do their business.
Top-Up the Litter
Periodically topping up the litter in the box is essential to maintain an appropriate depth. This prevents waste from reaching the bottom of the box, making it easier to keep clean. Maintaining the right litter depth ensures your cat can comfortably bury their waste, which is a natural instinct.
Litter Box Placement
The location of the litter box matters more than you might think. Cats prefer privacy when using the litter box, so choose a quiet and easily accessible spot. Avoid placing the box in a noisy or high-traffic area, as this can make your cat feel vulnerable and deter them from using it.
Litter Box Cleaning
Regular cleaning of the entire litter box is crucial to prevent the buildup of odors and bacteria. Use mild soap and water for cleaning, and be sure to rinse and dry the box thoroughly before refilling it with fresh litter. Keeping the box clean not only ensures a pleasant environment but also contributes to your cat’s health.
Transition Gradually
If you decide to switch to a new type of cat litter, do so gradually. Cats can be sensitive to changes in their litter, and abrupt transitions may lead to aversion. Mix the new litter with the old one over several days or weeks to allow your cat to acclimate to the new texture and scent.
Observe Your Cat
Finally, keep a close eye on your cat’s behavior regarding the litter box. Sudden changes, such as avoiding the box or displaying discomfort, may signal that your cat is not happy with the litter choice. If you notice any such behavior, consider revisiting your litter selection.
Read More >> How to Keep Your Cat’s Litter Box Clean
By following these maintenance and cat comfort tips, you’ll create an environment that not only meets your cat’s needs but also enhances their overall well-being. A clean and comfortable litter box ensures that your cat can confidently do their business and fosters a harmonious coexistence between you and your feline friend.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here, we address some of the most frequently asked questions regarding cat litter, ensuring you have all the information you need to choose the best cat litter for your furry friend.
What’s the difference between clumping and non-clumping cat litter?
Clumping cat litter forms solid clumps when it comes into contact with moisture, making it easy to scoop out waste. Non-clumping litter doesn’t form clumps, so you’ll need to replace the entire box more often.
Is clumping cat litter safe for kittens?
Clumping cat litter is generally safe for kittens, but it’s essential to monitor them to ensure they don’t ingest it. If you have concerns, consider using a non-clumping litter until your kitten is older.
How often should I clean the litter box?
You should scoop waste from the litter box daily. A thorough cleaning, including replacing all the litter, should be done at least once a week, or more frequently if you notice odors or clumps building up.
Can I flush clumping cat litter down the toilet?
While some clumping litters claim to be flushable, it’s generally not recommended. Flushing litter can lead to plumbing issues and environmental concerns. Dispose of used litter in a trash bag.
What’s the best way to transition my cat to a new type of litter?
Gradual transitions are key. Mix a small amount of the new litter with the old one, increasing the ratio over several days or weeks. Cats can be sensitive to sudden changes.
Can I use scented cat litter to cover up odors?
Scented cat litters can help mask odors, but some cats may be sensitive to strong fragrances. It’s best to choose a litter specifically designed for odor control rather than relying solely on scented options.
Are natural or biodegradable litters better for the environment?
Natural and biodegradable litters are generally more environmentally friendly than clay-based litters. They break down more easily and are often made from renewable resources, making them a sustainable choice.
What do I do if my cat stops using the litter box?
If your cat suddenly stops using the litter box, consult your veterinarian to rule out any medical issues. Behavioral changes may require patience and may be addressed with adjustments to the litter box setup or type of litter used.
Can I reuse plastic litter boxes?
Reusing plastic litter boxes is possible, but it’s essential to clean them thoroughly between uses to prevent odors and bacteria buildup. Replace them if they become cracked or damaged.
Is it okay to use dog litter for cats?
No, dog litter is not suitable for cats. Cat litter is designed to meet feline needs, including texture and size, which are different from those of dogs.
We hope these answers help you navigate the world of cat litter more confidently. If you have additional questions or concerns, feel free to consult your veterinarian or a pet expert for personalized advice.
Final Words
In closing, the world of cat litter offers a wide array of choices to meet various preferences and needs. As we’ve explored the top 5 cat litter in 2023, it’s clear that each option has its strengths.
For my personal preference, I found the ARM & HAMMER Clump & Seal Platinum Cat Litter to be the best overall choice. Its exceptional clumping power, unbeatable odor control, and environmental responsibility make it a top pick for multi-cat households. However, the ideal cat litter ultimately depends on your unique situation and priorities.
Remember that selecting the best cat litter isn’t just about convenience; it’s about ensuring your cat’s comfort and well-being. Consider factors like clumping ability, odor control, dust levels, environmental impact, and your cat’s preferences to make an informed choice that benefits both you and your feline companion.
