Those of us who own cats (or maybe are owned by them) love them for their quirks and personalities. Not so loveable? Litter boxes. They are, however, a fact of cat life, and for obvious reasons. As such, selecting the right litter for your cat box is important.

The question here is, what IS the right kind of litter? There are a plethora of litter brands and types out there, with each having its own pros and cons. The following unpacks all the options, giving you the right information about the right type of litter for your beloved feline companion.

The Pros and Cons

Clay litter 

Pros: Many cats enjoy unscented, clumping clay litter as domestic cats are descended from a desert-dwelling ancestor. They eliminated in fine, dry sand and soil. 

Cons: Some felines don’t enjoy the roughness of clay litter, so listen to your cat. 

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Crystal litter

Pros: Crystal litter absorbs urine and moisture. Some brands are known to be super-absorbent and are silicon-based litters. 

Cons: Many cats (seniors!) are sensitive to the jagged nature of some crystal litters. 

Odor control litter 

Pros: Scented litter may drive your cat away from the box altogether. Many prefer unscented litter. 

Cons: Humans have certain smell preferences, but if you clean the litter box as often as you should, you don’t need to disguise poop as a pinecone. 

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Natural litters (grass, wood, pine, wheat, corn, green tea) 

Pros: Natural-based litters are an excellent option as they are non-toxic, softer, and gentle on your feline’s paws. 

Cons: Grass and corn both may track outside the litter box. 

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Clumping litters 

Pros: Clumping litters are made from different materials, including grass, corn, walnut shells, or other materials. These present greener options. 

Cons: Any litter made from a food item poses a risk that your cat may try to eat it! 

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Recycled Paper Litters 

Cons: It’s not great for anyone lazy about cleaning out the litter box. 

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The Best Litter?

According to Preventative Vet, cats prefer an odor-free litter, “Cats tend to prefer unscented litters to scented ones. Your cat’s nose and sense of smell are quite a bit more fine-tuned than yours (fun fact: it’s even more sensitive than some dog breeds!).” 

But the best type of litter depends on your cat. Experts note that the time a cat spends digging in the litter box can be used as a way to tell their preference. The less digging, the less they like the litter type. Cats also prefer a clean litter box so choosing the type your cat enjoys and what you’re most likely to clean regularly is the name of the game. 

At Pets-on-Broadway, we also suggest that you stick with the same brand of litter as cats get used to the texture. If you must change the litter then do so very gradually. You can take as long as three to four weeks to complete the changeover. Also, some cats with asthma or felines recovering from surgery may need a particular type of litter. Talk to our staff if you need suggestions.

In closing, litter box distress is a common problem in cats, so knowing the best type sets your feline up for success.  

For more information on cat litter products or any other products to improve your pets' health, check us out at Pets on Broadway.