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Best Cat Litters of 2024 Compared: Our Top Picks
Curated by
cdteliot
2 min read
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Cat litter is an essential product for feline owners, with options ranging from traditional clay to eco-friendly alternatives. According to The Spruce Pets, the best overall choice is Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Multi-Cat Litter, which offers excellent clumping, odor control, and low dust production.
Comparing Cat Litter Types: Pros and Cons of Each Option
Cat litter comes in various types, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The following table summarizes the key characteristics of different cat litter materials:
When choosing a cat litter, consider factors such as your cat's preferences, environmental concerns, and your specific needs for odor control and maintenance
| Litter Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Clay | Affordable, absorbent, odor control | Dusty, heavy, not eco-friendly |
| Clumping | Easy to scoop, odor control | Can be dusty, more expensive |
| Pine | Natural scent, biodegradable, low dust | Non-clumping, frequent changes needed |
| Recycled Paper | Eco-friendly, absorbent, low dust | Non-clumping, less effective odor control |
| Corn | Biodegradable, clumping, lightweight | More expensive, may attract pests |
| Walnut Shell | Biodegradable, absorbent, low dust | Non-clumping, dark color, less odor control |
| Crystal | Excellent odor control, highly absorbent | Expensive, some cats dislike texture |
| Tofu | Biodegradable, clumping, low dust | Hard to find, more expensive |
| Wheat | Biodegradable, clumping, odor control | May attract pests, cats might eat it |
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. Each type offers unique benefits, so you may need to experiment to find the best option for your household.3 sources
Top Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Cat Litter
When choosing cat litter, several key factors should be considered to ensure both cat and owner satisfaction. The following table summarizes the main considerations:
Consider these factors alongside your cat's specific needs and your household requirements to find the most suitable litter option.
| Factor | Importance |
|---|---|
| Odor Control | Essential for maintaining a fresh-smelling home; clumping litters with baking soda or activated charcoal excel 1 2 |
| Dust Levels | Low-dust options like crystal or pine are preferable, especially for respiratory health 2 3 |
| Tracking | Larger particles or low-tracking formulas reduce mess around the litter box 2 3 |
| Environmental Impact | Biodegradable options like corn, wheat, or walnut shell are eco-friendly choices 4 5 |
| Cat Preferences | Unscented, fine-particle litters are often preferred by cats 1 2 |
| Cost | While some options are pricier upfront, their effectiveness may offer long-term value 3 5 |
5 sources
2024’s Best Cat Litter: Our Expert Recommendation
1
World's Best Clumping Formula Cat Litter - Unscented
4.7
$41.19
2
Sustainably Yours Natural Cat Litter - Small Grain (13 lbs)
4.5
$29.99
3
Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Multi Cat Formula
5.0
$21.99
4
All Natural Unscented Clay Litter
$19.99
5
BoxiePro® Deep Clean Probiotic Cat Litter
$23.99
World's Best Clumping Formula Cat Litter - Unscented
World's Best Cat Litter receives mostly positive reviews for its clumping ability, odor control, and eco-friendly corn-based formula. Users appreciate its lightweight nature, low dust, and flushability. However, some note issues with tracking and dust accumulation over time.
Buy this if you want an eco-friendly, lightweight cat litter with strong clumping and odor control for multiple cats, and don't mind potential tracking issues
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Key Features, Reviewed By
Sustainably Yours Natural Cat Litter - Small Grain (13 lbs)
Sustainably Yours Natural Cat Litter receives overwhelmingly positive reviews from customers. Users praise its excellent clumping ability, effective odor control, and low dust production. Many appreciate its eco-friendly and sustainable nature, made from corn and cassava. While some mention minor tracking issues, most find it a worthwhile investment despite the higher price point.
Buy this if you want an eco-friendly, high-performing cat litter with excellent clumping and odor control, and are willing to pay a premium for sustainability and effectiveness
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Key Features, Reviewed By
Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Multi Cat Formula
Arm & Hammer cat litter receives generally positive reviews for its odor control and clumping ability. Users appreciate the variety of formulas available, including options for multi-cat households. However, some customers report issues with dust and tracking, and a few found the scent too strong.
Buy this if you want a reliable, affordable clay litter with strong odor control and clumping ability, especially for multi-cat households
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Key Features, Reviewed By
All Natural Unscented Clay Litter
$19.99
User opinions on this clay litter are mixed. Many praise its excellent clumping ability and odor control, while others find issues with dust and tracking. Some users appreciate its natural composition and low dust, but a few report problems with grain mites or prefer alternative litter types like pine pellets.
Buy this if you want a high-performance, natural clay litter with excellent clumping and odor control, especially suitable for allergy sufferers and multi-cat households
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Key Features, Reviewed By
BoxiePro® Deep Clean Probiotic Cat Litter
$23.99
BoxiePro Deep Clean Probiotic Cat Litter receives mixed reviews from users. Many praise its excellent odor control and low dust properties, while others find issues with absorption and tracking. Some users report it lasts longer than other brands, but opinions on its value for money are divided due to its higher price point.
Buy this if you prioritize odor control and low dust in a clay litter, and are willing to pay a premium for these features
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Key Features, Reviewed By
Closing Thoughts on How To Choose The Best Cat Litter
businessinsider.com
When selecting the best cat litter, it's essential to consider various factors to ensure both your cat's comfort and your convenience. Natural litters and unscented options are excellent choices for cats with sensitive noses, while clay cat litter remains a popular and absorbent choice for controlling odors
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. A lightweight litter can be easier to manage, especially when changing the entire layer of litter in the box2
. For eco-conscious pet owners, biodegradable options like paper pellets or pine pellets offer an environmentally friendly alternative3
. The granule size and texture are crucial, with many cats preferring a soft, sandy texture that mimics their natural instincts1
. Clumping litters with small granules are often favored for their absorbency and ease of daily scooping1
2
. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your cat's preferences, your household needs, and factors such as dust levels, odor control effectiveness, and eco-friendliness4
. Consulting with cat experts or veterinarians can provide additional insights into selecting the most suitable litter for your feline companion.4 sources
Related
What are the top-rated natural cat litters for multi-cat households
How do natural litters compare to clay litters in terms of odor control
Which natural cat litters are best for cats with sensitive paws
Are there any natural cat litters that are also budget-friendly
How effective are natural cat litters in controlling dust
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