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Your cats mean the world to you. They are your friends, your family, your loved ones. You want to provide the best for them from their food to their toys to their cat litter. If you want to give your cat the best cat litter available, there are few considerations to keep in mind.
Our cat litter guide goes through the different types of materials and factors to consider when switching to a new cat litter. What ingredient is best? Should you use clumping or non-clumping varieties? Choosing the right one can make you and your pet’s home life more comfortable.
In today’s pet store shelves, you can find several types of cat litter material. The first use of cat litter was in the late 1940s when Edward Lowe realized that the clay he sold to the construction industry could also absorb waste and had higher performance than sand.
In 1947, Lowe gave his neighbor some dried clay that he used for work when they complained that they needed more sand, a common litter material used back in the day. It worked so much better than sand. He would go on to call this new product Kitty Litter.
Over time, clay became the most popular choice for cat litter among pet owners. Since then, new cat litter materials have been created, each offering certain advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the best one ultimately depends on your particular needs.
Clay granules offer a powerful absorbency that offers the best odor control and make cat parenting much more pleasant for the cats and the owner. However, it is not biodegradable which can turn off eco-conscious pet parents.
Based on a national pet owners survey, there were approximately 95.6 million cats in U.S. households in 2017. With so many feline friends in our households, it is important to find the right type of litter for your furry little friend.
There are many reasons to consider buying new litter for your cat family. Here are a few of the most common reasons for choosing a new type of litter:
Switching cat litters may not be necessary in some cases. Before you make the big switch, try out some of these tips.
In some cases, switching litter will not solve the litter issues, which may be health-related. For instance, if you see your cat wheezing or have other respiratory issues or your cat is eating the litter, it could mean it has an underlying health issue and you need to seek immediate veterinary attention.
If your cat uses its litter box normally, it may be wise to stay with your current litter choice. Litters that are affordable, provide good clumping, good odor control, and ease of use do not need to be replaced. No litter is perfect. They all have some advantages and disadvantages.
However, you may be looking for a more environmentally friendly, dust-free, or anti-tracking option to make you and your cat’s home life easier.
Switching up your cat litter must be carefully considered and should be performed in a gradual manner to create an easier transition for your feline friend.
Cat litter comes in all shapes, sizes, textures, and scents. Choosing the right one for your pet can take a bit of experimentation until you find the right one. Choosing the right type of ingredients makes all of the difference between your cat liking the litter or not.
Cats can get picky when it comes to the litter you provide. Some cats with behavioral conditions and urinary issues are more prone to being particular where they do their business. In these cases, they may be put off by scented odors or other strong smells.
In other cases, the litter may produce dust, irritating cats with respiratory issues. For pets with urinary tract infections, silica gel litters provide a better backdrop to see any blood on the silica pellets compared to other dark colored litters.
Generally, cats like finer particles over crystal or pellet-based material. Cats have an innate sense to bury their waste in sand-like material from their desert-dwelling ancestors.
In addition, the finer material is less sensitive on their palms. Think of walking on rocks compared to a soft and sandy beach. Cats also tend to prefer unscented litters over scented ones.
Ultimately, your cat will tell you whether they like the litter or not. They have the final word on what you will buy. You do have control over certain properties of the litter material. For instance, how absorbent do you want your litter? How often do you want to empty the litter box? Are you concerned about the litter material safety for your cat?
Be aware of how your cat reacts to the new litter and adjust accordingly. It may take some trial and error to find the right one, but it will be worth it in the end.
Some of the qualities to look out for in a cat litter are:
Clay, the most popular of all cat litter materials, typically uses carbon and other plant extracts to absorb unpleasant smells. It is available in scented/unscented and clumping/non-clumping varieties. Clay-based litters that clump make it easy to clean up. However, it is not biodegradable and can create dust.
Sodium bentonite, the main ingredient in clumping clay litter reacts with urine by swelling up and binding the litter and urine together. It does a similar thing with cat feces. This helps pet owners easily scoop up the waste and replace it.
Non-clumping clay litter is usually made from absorbent clay such as sepiolite, montmorillonite, and attapulgite. These materials are also used for industrial purposes to clean up spills and dehydrate flowers.
Our recommendation: Fresh & Natural Scoopable Cat Litter, Unscented is a clumping cat litter that offers low dust, minimal tracking, and hard clumping capabilities.
Litter made from paper such as recycled newspaper comes in pellet form and is an eco-friendly solution. Litter made from recycled paper usually comes in unscented varieties. One of its advantages is that it does not produce dust and is an affordable alternative to traditional litters.
However, it does not have clumping capabilities like other litters. This can be a good thing in some cases as we will explain below. It’s not as good at controlling odors as other litters. Plus, it is not compostable or flushable. It will also probably need more changing than other litters.
Paper-based cat litters are the preferred choice for cats that are recovering from surgery or other medical interventions. Sutures, surgical staples, casts, bandages, splints, open wounds, or surgical drains should not be exposed to material that can get stuck in there. Paper-based pellets can be an alternative to traditional materials.
Our recommendation: Yesterday’s News Unscented Cat Litter is 99.7% dust-free, low tracking, soft textured, and 3 times more absorbent than clay.
Silica gel-based crystals are a natural and very absorbent material. It can absorb up to 40 times its weight. Best of all, it can be reused by a single cat for about a month, but we recommend regularly cleaning your litter box.
Silica gel-based litter, made from porous sodium silicate, comes in scented and unscented options. It does not offer clumping abilities but is dust free and trackless. However, it is usually pricier than traditional litters. Also, some cats may not like the crystalline texture on their paws.
Our recommendation: Ultra Pet Litter Pearls Micro Crystal Cat Litter, made from the company that brought you the first silica cat litter, provides a litter with high absorptive qualities and a super soft texture for cat paws, if they are not averse to it.
Corn-based litter is biodegradable and eco-friendly. Pet parents can choose from natural and scented varieties for odor control. It has natural clumping capabilities and does not produce dust like clay, so it will not track as much. However, it is relatively more expensive than other litter options.
Our recommendation: Sustainably Yours Natural Cat Litter Multi-Cat Plus is made from a unique corn-cassava blend that is 100% sustainable, flushable, low dust, and provides superior odor control with the use of cassava.
Coconut husk litter made from the husk of coconuts is a recyclable, eco-friendly ingredient that can be used in garden compost. Coconut husk litter comes in a natural form that offers subtle clumping capabilities. It does not produce dust and is a biodegradable option. This type of litter is harder to find than other cat litters.
Wood-based litter is an eco-friendly and biodegradable option that comes in pellet form, usually made from a pinewood by-product. The pine aroma can help mask odors of urine and feces. While it does have a natural aroma, it may be too strong for some cats and pet owners. It does not create dust. When it needs replacing, it can be used for composting and landscape mulch.
Our recommendation: Integrity Natural Pine Cat Litter is made of reclaimed pine wood from sustainable forestry products in a zero-waste production facility. It is 100% renewable, biodegradable, ideal for multi-cat households.
Litter made from wheat is usually a clumping variety due to the starch inside the wheat kernels which has natural enzymes that control odors. This type of litter comes in natural and scented options. It does not produce dust but also does not clump as well as clay litter. In addition, it must be properly stored to reduce pests.
Our recommendation: Integrity Natural Wheat Cat Litter is a mix of natural wheat and aspen. The wheat starch promotes clumping while the aspen prevents clumps from sticking to the bottom of the box.
Walnut shell cat litter is available in clumping and non-clumping varieties. It comes with a natural scent and is very absorbent for good odor control. Since it is made from a renewable resource, it is eco-friendly and biodegradable.
It does not produce a lot of dust, only some, and is low tracking. Due to its dark color, you may not be able to see the waste in the box, but it may be more visible when tracked on light-colored floors.
Grass, a natural form of cat litter, is made completely out of grass seeds and has excellent clumping abilities producing firm and solid clumps. This renewable material is also biodegradable unlike clay based litters. It also offers very low dust, good odor control, easy cleanup, and a soft texture for your cat’s paws.
Grass seed litter is relatively more expensive compared to other traditional litter types. Other disadvantages may include tracking and allergic reactions in cats allergic to grass.
Cat litter is sold in scented or unscented options. Scented options are designed to limit the odor from the litter box, but some cats may be put off by the scent and not want to use their litter box. In this case, you would go with unscented litter.
Unscented litters use ingredients such as activated charcoal or plant extracts that absorb the odors from feces and urine. In the end, it all depends on how much odor control you need and what your cat prefers.
When shopping for cat litter, you will often encounter clumping and non-clumping varieties. Each of these varieties requires different clean up. For instance, clumping litters clumps are solid masses that are easy to scoop out when needed. In addition, clumping cat litters offer better odor control and require less replacement than non-clumping varieties.
Non-clumping litter allows urine to seep through although it can absorb some of it with additives such as activated charcoal and baking soda. Feces is easy to scoop out and the urine is dried up in the litter. You will need a complete replacement of litter material to clean the box from the rest of the accumulated urine.
Some non-clumping varieties use silica gel crystals, similar to the ones used in desiccants, to absorb the urine at a faster rate than clay granules. These crystals allow the urine to slowly evaporate without creating a pungent odor all at once.
Cats may have a preference between clumping and non-clumping options. You may also have a preference if you want to have an easier time cleaning the litter box and the frequency of cleaning. However, clumping litters are a little pricier than the non-clumping ones.
Another thing to note is that certain cats with long hair can get clumping litter stuck on to them. This can create a problem when your cat unintentionally ingests it as it is grooming itself.
The safety of your pets should also be a consideration when choosing the right type of material. For instance, dust inhalation from the material can occur unintentionally when cats move around in their box. They can also accidentally ingest the grains that get caught between their hair or their toes when grooming themselves.
Generally, cat litter manufacturers produce non-toxic litter that is safe for cats.
In some cases, kittens or cats with a rare disorder called Pica are known for eating the litter. If you believe your cat has swallowed a significant amount of litter, immediately contact your veterinarian.
If you are worried about dust getting inhaled or ingested by your cat, you can consider dust-free options or material that produces minimal dust. Also, consider the main ingredient in the dust. Food-based dust such as corn or wheat or even mineral-based dusts such as silica and clay can trigger allergic reactions in cats that are allergic to these ingredients.
For the most part, clumping litter is not recommended for young kittens. Shelters usually opt for non-clumping litter for young kittens since it reduces the risk of inhalation or ingestion, which can cause issues in the digestive tract and airways.
Your cats mean the world to you. They are your friends, your family, your loved ones. You want to provide the best for them from their food to their toys to their cat litter. If you want to give your cat the best cat litter available, there are few considerations to keep in mind.
Our cat litter guide goes through the different types of materials and factors to consider when switching to a new cat litter. What ingredient is best? Should you use clumping or non-clumping varieties? Choosing the right one can make you and your pet’s home life more comfortable.
In today’s pet store shelves, you can find several types of cat litter material. The first use of cat litter was in the late 1940s when Edward Lowe realized that the clay he sold to the construction industry could also absorb waste and had higher performance than sand.
In 1947, Lowe gave his neighbor some dried clay that he used for work when they complained that they needed more sand, a common litter material used back in the day. It worked so much better than sand. He would go on to call this new product Kitty Litter.
Over time, clay became the most popular choice for cat litter among pet owners. Since then, new cat litter materials have been created, each offering certain advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the best one ultimately depends on your particular needs.
Clay granules offer a powerful absorbency that offers the best odor control and make cat parenting much more pleasant for the cats and the owner. However, it is not biodegradable which can turn off eco-conscious pet parents.
Based on a national pet owners survey, there were approximately 95.6 million cats in U.S. households in 2017. With so many feline friends in our households, it is important to find the right type of litter for your furry little friend.
There are many reasons to consider buying new litter for your cat family. Here are a few of the most common reasons for choosing a new type of litter:
Switching cat litters may not be necessary in some cases. Before you make the big switch, try out some of these tips.
In some cases, switching litter will not solve the litter issues, which may be health-related. For instance, if you see your cat wheezing or have other respiratory issues or your cat is eating the litter, it could mean it has an underlying health issue and you need to seek immediate veterinary attention.
If your cat uses its litter box normally, it may be wise to stay with your current litter choice. Litters that are affordable, provide good clumping, good odor control, and ease of use do not need to be replaced. No litter is perfect. They all have some advantages and disadvantages.
However, you may be looking for a more environmentally friendly, dust-free, or anti-tracking option to make you and your cat’s home life easier.
Switching up your cat litter must be carefully considered and should be performed in a gradual manner to create an easier transition for your feline friend.
Cat litter comes in all shapes, sizes, textures, and scents. Choosing the right one for your pet can take a bit of experimentation until you find the right one. Choosing the right type of ingredients makes all of the difference between your cat liking the litter or not.
Cats can get picky when it comes to the litter you provide. Some cats with behavioral conditions and urinary issues are more prone to being particular where they do their business. In these cases, they may be put off by scented odors or other strong smells.
In other cases, the litter may produce dust, irritating cats with respiratory issues. For pets with urinary tract infections, silica gel litters provide a better backdrop to see any blood on the silica pellets compared to other dark colored litters.
Generally, cats like finer particles over crystal or pellet-based material. Cats have an innate sense to bury their waste in sand-like material from their desert-dwelling ancestors.
In addition, the finer material is less sensitive on their palms. Think of walking on rocks compared to a soft and sandy beach. Cats also tend to prefer unscented litters over scented ones.
Ultimately, your cat will tell you whether they like the litter or not. They have the final word on what you will buy. You do have control over certain properties of the litter material. For instance, how absorbent do you want your litter? How often do you want to empty the litter box? Are you concerned about the litter material safety for your cat?
Be aware of how your cat reacts to the new litter and adjust accordingly. It may take some trial and error to find the right one, but it will be worth it in the end.
Some of the qualities to look out for in a cat litter are:
Clay, the most popular of all cat litter materials, typically uses carbon and other plant extracts to absorb unpleasant smells. It is available in scented/unscented and clumping/non-clumping varieties. Clay-based litters that clump make it easy to clean up. However, it is not biodegradable and can create dust.
Sodium bentonite, the main ingredient in clumping clay litter reacts with urine by swelling up and binding the litter and urine together. It does a similar thing with cat feces. This helps pet owners easily scoop up the waste and replace it.
Non-clumping clay litter is usually made from absorbent clay such as sepiolite, montmorillonite, and attapulgite. These materials are also used for industrial purposes to clean up spills and dehydrate flowers.
Our recommendation: Fresh & Natural Scoopable Cat Litter, Unscented is a clumping cat litter that offers low dust, minimal tracking, and hard clumping capabilities.
Litter made from paper such as recycled newspaper comes in pellet form and is an eco-friendly solution. Litter made from recycled paper usually comes in unscented varieties. One of its advantages is that it does not produce dust and is an affordable alternative to traditional litters.
However, it does not have clumping capabilities like other litters. This can be a good thing in some cases as we will explain below. It’s not as good at controlling odors as other litters. Plus, it is not compostable or flushable. It will also probably need more changing than other litters.
Paper-based cat litters are the preferred choice for cats that are recovering from surgery or other medical interventions. Sutures, surgical staples, casts, bandages, splints, open wounds, or surgical drains should not be exposed to material that can get stuck in there. Paper-based pellets can be an alternative to traditional materials.
Our recommendation: Yesterday’s News Unscented Cat Litter is 99.7% dust-free, low tracking, soft textured, and 3 times more absorbent than clay.
Silica gel-based crystals are a natural and very absorbent material. It can absorb up to 40 times its weight. Best of all, it can be reused by a single cat for about a month, but we recommend regularly cleaning your litter box.
Silica gel-based litter, made from porous sodium silicate, comes in scented and unscented options. It does not offer clumping abilities but is dust free and trackless. However, it is usually pricier than traditional litters. Also, some cats may not like the crystalline texture on their paws.
Our recommendation: Ultra Pet Litter Pearls Micro Crystal Cat Litter, made from the company that brought you the first silica cat litter, provides a litter with high absorptive qualities and a super soft texture for cat paws, if they are not averse to it.
Corn-based litter is biodegradable and eco-friendly. Pet parents can choose from natural and scented varieties for odor control. It has natural clumping capabilities and does not produce dust like clay, so it will not track as much. However, it is relatively more expensive than other litter options.
Our recommendation: Sustainably Yours Natural Cat Litter Multi-Cat Plus is made from a unique corn-cassava blend that is 100% sustainable, flushable, low dust, and provides superior odor control with the use of cassava.
Coconut husk litter made from the husk of coconuts is a recyclable, eco-friendly ingredient that can be used in garden compost. Coconut husk litter comes in a natural form that offers subtle clumping capabilities. It does not produce dust and is a biodegradable option. This type of litter is harder to find than other cat litters.
Wood-based litter is an eco-friendly and biodegradable option that comes in pellet form, usually made from a pinewood by-product. The pine aroma can help mask odors of urine and feces. While it does have a natural aroma, it may be too strong for some cats and pet owners. It does not create dust. When it needs replacing, it can be used for composting and landscape mulch.
Our recommendation: Integrity Natural Pine Cat Litter is made of reclaimed pine wood from sustainable forestry products in a zero-waste production facility. It is 100% renewable, biodegradable, ideal for multi-cat households.
Litter made from wheat is usually a clumping variety due to the starch inside the wheat kernels which has natural enzymes that control odors. This type of litter comes in natural and scented options. It does not produce dust but also does not clump as well as clay litter. In addition, it must be properly stored to reduce pests.
Our recommendation: Integrity Natural Wheat Cat Litter is a mix of natural wheat and aspen. The wheat starch promotes clumping while the aspen prevents clumps from sticking to the bottom of the box.
Walnut shell cat litter is available in clumping and non-clumping varieties. It comes with a natural scent and is very absorbent for good odor control. Since it is made from a renewable resource, it is eco-friendly and biodegradable.
It does not produce a lot of dust, only some, and is low tracking. Due to its dark color, you may not be able to see the waste in the box, but it may be more visible when tracked on light-colored floors.
Grass, a natural form of cat litter, is made completely out of grass seeds and has excellent clumping abilities producing firm and solid clumps. This renewable material is also biodegradable unlike clay based litters. It also offers very low dust, good odor control, easy cleanup, and a soft texture for your cat’s paws.
Grass seed litter is relatively more expensive compared to other traditional litter types. Other disadvantages may include tracking and allergic reactions in cats allergic to grass.
Cat litter is sold in scented or unscented options. Scented options are designed to limit the odor from the litter box, but some cats may be put off by the scent and not want to use their litter box. In this case, you would go with unscented litter.
Unscented litters use ingredients such as activated charcoal or plant extracts that absorb the odors from feces and urine. In the end, it all depends on how much odor control you need and what your cat prefers.
When shopping for cat litter, you will often encounter clumping and non-clumping varieties. Each of these varieties requires different clean up. For instance, clumping litters clumps are solid masses that are easy to scoop out when needed. In addition, clumping cat litters offer better odor control and require less replacement than non-clumping varieties.
Non-clumping litter allows urine to seep through although it can absorb some of it with additives such as activated charcoal and baking soda. Feces is easy to scoop out and the urine is dried up in the litter. You will need a complete replacement of litter material to clean the box from the rest of the accumulated urine.
Some non-clumping varieties use silica gel crystals, similar to the ones used in desiccants, to absorb the urine at a faster rate than clay granules. These crystals allow the urine to slowly evaporate without creating a pungent odor all at once.
Cats may have a preference between clumping and non-clumping options. You may also have a preference if you want to have an easier time cleaning the litter box and the frequency of cleaning. However, clumping litters are a little pricier than the non-clumping ones.
Another thing to note is that certain cats with long hair can get clumping litter stuck on to them. This can create a problem when your cat unintentionally ingests it as it is grooming itself.
The safety of your pets should also be a consideration when choosing the right type of material. For instance, dust inhalation from the material can occur unintentionally when cats move around in their box. They can also accidentally ingest the grains that get caught between their hair or their toes when grooming themselves.
Generally, cat litter manufacturers produce non-toxic litter that is safe for cats.
In some cases, kittens or cats with a rare disorder called Pica are known for eating the litter. If you believe your cat has swallowed a significant amount of litter, immediately contact your veterinarian.
If you are worried about dust getting inhaled or ingested by your cat, you can consider dust-free options or material that produces minimal dust. Also, consider the main ingredient in the dust. Food-based dust such as corn or wheat or even mineral-based dusts such as silica and clay can trigger allergic reactions in cats that are allergic to these ingredients.
For the most part, clumping litter is not recommended for young kittens. Shelters usually opt for non-clumping litter for young kittens since it reduces the risk of inhalation or ingestion, which can cause issues in the digestive tract and airways.
Similar to the dust-free litter, tracking refers to litter that makes its way out of the litter box and into your home’s floors, furniture, and elsewhere. There are many types of litters that offer low or no tracking. If your litter tracks, even a little bit, you can purchase an anti-tracking cat litter mat to keep your pet’s paws and your floor cleaner.
When your kitten is not using the litter box and there are no adult cats to teach them better, a cat attractant litter or litter additive can help create a guiding scent to teach young kittens where they should do their business.
Adult and senior dogs who begin to go outside of their boxes can need a helpful reminder of where to go. A cat litter attractant may help but there may be a variety of issues at play if your cat suddenly does not use its box.
We recommend visiting a vet if your cat is showing behavioral issues and avoiding using the litter box. Your cat may be avoiding the litter box due to an illness. You do not want to go straight to the cat attractant as a solution.
Our recommendation: Precious Cat Attractant Problem Cat Training Litter is great for a multi-cat household and guaranteed to bring cats to the litter box.
Odor control is one of the most important factors for pet owners when considering their litter material. If your litter box is in a low-traffic area, controlling odors may not be as big of a deal, but if it is located in a central area where there is a lot of foot traffic, it can start to get smelly.
Both cats and pet owners prefer litter that deodorizes the scent of the feces and urine and keeps your home smelling fresh. Cats can have a much more sensitive nose than some dog breeds
Because of this, some scented cat litters are not the preferred choice for cats. Cleaning your litter box frequently can help provide the best odor control without having to switch to scented litters. Even if your litter material is meant to control odors, regularly scooping the waste out can help you and your cat have a much more pleasant-smelling home.
Baking soda and activated charcoal are common ingredients used in litter to reduce the smell of cat feces and urine. If it is not included in your material and you want more absorption, you may add these ingredients into your litter yourself.
Since clay has been one of the most popular litter choices among pet owners, it also affects the environment. Flushing the litter down or throwing it away in a bag in the trash is not the most environmentally friendly method.
For most pet owners, dumping it in the trash may be the only way they can get rid of their cat litter. For some with a garden in the backyard, they can choose a more environmentally friendly solution by switching to plant-based litter that can be added to the compost pile. Eco-friendly options include organic material such as wheat, corn, or other plant matter.
It is important to double-check the ingredients in your new cat litter and ensure that they will not cause an allergic reaction or sensitivity to your cat. If you are not sure whether it will or not, you will have to gradually introduce new litter and assess the transition for any negative reactions.
Natural minerals, plant matter, and lab-manufactured additives can trigger an allergic reaction in your cats. If your cats display signs of an allergic reaction, you should look into the litter material as a potential source of the allergen and contact you or vet to figure out a solution.
Sometimes, a cat can be sensitive to the litter material. When your cat’s paws make contact with the material, it can either be comfortable or uncomfortable. Sometimes, declawed cats have problems with litter box material since they get triggered with the litter from the pain they experienced in their paws. If this is the case, consider switching to a softer litter box material.
When shopping around for cat litter for multiple cats, you may run into marketing that designates the product as a multi-cat friendly variety. These types of litters can usually provide more odor control and include antimicrobial ingredients that other litters. The amount of odor control additives in multi-cat and single cat varieties vary by brand and product. If you have a house with multiple cats, try out a multi-cat variety first and see how that works.
When choosing between different materials for the best litter, price is one of the most important factors to consider. You may have a preferred choice, but if it is out of your budget, you will have to settle for a second choice. Pet owners can end up spending between $70 and $200 per year on cat litter products.
Start by comparing the prices of the similar size litter options. Size and weight or volume is not the only consideration. Some litter material needs more frequent replacement than others. This can result in increased costs of maintenance and cleaning.
The most expensive letter is not always the best option for you or your cat. Oftentimes, the affordable version is the best choice for you. Buying cat litter in bulk can help you save money in the long run.
If you decide to switch to a new cat litter, it is important to consider these factors when making the switch. Generally, cats can easily adapt to a new environment if you gradually transition from the old cat litter to the new one.
The entire process can take between 7 to 10 days to completely switch out the old cat litter. First, start by adding small amounts of the new litter to the old litter. Making the switch gradually can help your cat become more assimilated, especially when the litter has a different texture, odor, or other form. If your cat does not like it, they will let you know.
For instance, cats that begin to avoid their litter box and may not be thrilled about the new ingredient. If this is the case, you will need to give them many more options to choose from. Do so by providing them with several selections, between 3 or 4, of different litters to see which one they gravitated to.
If your cat begins to not use the litter and starts using the bathroom outside of the litter box, do not chalk it up to a new litter. It may be due to a medical condition and you need to contact your veterinarian to be sure.
Another option is to use two litter boxes, one with the normal litter material and another with the new litter material. Place them close together for a few days and allow your pet to get used to the new box.
Generally, cats are curious enough to explore the new litter box. If your cats take a liking to it, they may start spending more time there, digging around,. Let them acclimate to the new litter without taking away the old one just yet.
If your cat is having a positive reaction to the new litter, you can start to gradually add some new litter into the old box and take out some of the old litter until you completely replace it over a few days.
Just like humans, cats prefer a relaxed and clean environment to take care of their business. Just like you would not be comfortable going to the bathroom in a dirty porta potty, they will not like a dirty litter box. In terms of placement, keep your litter box in a quiet room where there is low foot traffic. Place it against the wall to give your cat a feeling of safety when used.
Make sure to place your litter box in an accessible location, not up high or far away from where your cat usually hangs out. If your home is very large, placing it all the way across the house is not a good idea.
The type of litter box you use can also affect if your cat uses it or not. Cats prefer an open litter box that gives them an open view of the environment. Closed litter boxes are more prone to trapping smells and producing negative odors. High-sided litter boxes provide the best of both worlds that can prevent messy litter from the area and avoid trapping odors.
Litter boxes should be about 1.5 times the length of cats giving them enough space to dig and bury their waste. Usually, multi-cat pet owners have a single litter box per cat and an extra one, usually on each floor of a home. For multi-cat homes, you can use extra large boxes and clean them more often.
Clumping litter is easier to clean up since you literally just scoop out the clumps once or two times a day. You do not need to deep clean the box as often as non-clumping litter boxes. In the best-case scenario, you can wait up 2 to 5 weeks before switching out the entire litter material.
Proper disposal of a litter depends on the type of litter you use. In most cases, the litter is disposed of in an airtight trash bag. Some litter such as corn cat litter can be flushed down the toilet in smaller clumps. Avoid flushing the full litter box contents all at once down your toilet. This can cause damage to the sewage system.
Flushing material that is not for flushing can cause more than just harm to your sewage system but also to local wildlife. The US Environmental Protection Agency lists pet waste as a pollutant that can introduce harmful microorganisms such as coliform bacteria and parasites into rivers, streams, and groundwater.
It can also cause toxoplasmosis, a type of parasitic infection in humans and animals. In humans, it can cause severe issues during pregnancy and in those with weakened immune systems. Some evidence has shown that cat feces with toxoplasmosis has increased mortality in sea otters.
When cleaning your litter box, giving it a deep clean, you can empty the contents first and give it a good scrub and with unscented dish soap, rinse, and dry with paper towels.
Your cat deserves the best. If you want a one-stop-shop for finding all your pet supplies, cat litter, litter boxes, and other pet essentials, visit Wilco farm stores in-store or online to shop from a variety of high-quality brands
We are proud to carry the best cat litter brands including:
Stop by in-store, give us a call, or send us an email to find out more about our cat litter products. We want to provide the best for you and your pet family.
Bentonite cat litter is one of the most popular litter fillers around the world. Bentonite clay, the main ingredient of this product, holds distinctive properties that make it a reliable substance. It is a natural clay with high clumping and absorbing qualities and powerful odor control. Moreover, the substance is presented in the market with different scents and colors to suit every taste. Still, many pet owners need a comprehensive analysis of this substance to determine whether it is their cup of tea. In this bentonite cat litter review, we will discuss different aspects of this substance and make a holistic picture for all of those who are concerned about the use of bentonite in cat litter. So, keep reading to unlock more fascinating insights in this article.
Before going through this topic, it seems helpful to mention the name of a reliable supplier of bentonite in various grades, namely Pet Litter Bentonite. The company, which is called Iran Bentonite Co, is a reputable bentonite manufacturer, supplier, and exporter in the international market. This company takes pride in providing its customers with a pure product suitable for your litter box. Iran Bentonite Co. also offers dependable packaging methods and transportation options that enable every customer to purchase their product without any hassle. You can find out more about this company by clicking on About Us.
Bentonite cat litter, a widely used type of filler litter, has the natural properties of bentonite clay as its main component. Renowned for its high absorbency, this clay effectively soaks up moisture, making it ideal for use in litter boxes. One of its most valued qualities is its clumping capability, allowing easy removal of soiled litter, thereby maintaining a cleaner litter box environment.
In addition to these benefits, bentonite cat litter is appreciated for its odor-control properties. These attributes collectively contribute to its popularity among cat owners, providing a practical solution for daily feline hygiene management. Its effectiveness in absorbing and containing moisture and odors helps maintain a pleasant and hygienic home environment, making it a preferred choice for many. In this bentonite cat litter review, we will talk about this substance from various perspectives.
This section of our bentonite cat litter review will discuss different kinds of this substance. Bentonite cat litter comes in various forms, each tailored to enhance certain aspects of litter box maintenance. A notable variant is the Tofu mixed bentonite cat litter, which combines the natural clumping and odor control properties of bentonite with the eco-friendly aspects of tofu cat litter. This blend results in a product with strong water absorption, rapid clumping, and efficient deodorization, making it a popular choice among environmentally conscious pet owners.
Besides this innovative combination, bentonite cat litters are categorized based on the type of bentonite clay used. The two primary categories are sodium and calcium bentonite, each offering unique benefits. Sodium bentonite, known for its superior clumping and moisture-absorbing properties, is particularly effective in litter boxes. To gain a deeper understanding of how sodium bentonite enhances the functionality of cat litter, interested readers can explore more detailed information in the article What is Sodium Bentonite Cat LitterSodium Bentonite Cat Litter? Its Characteristics and Additional Information.
In this part of our bentonite cat litter review, discussing the advantages of using this clay as a litter filler is vital. This substance stands out in the pet care market for its impressive array of advantages. Foremost among these is its exceptional clumping ability, which activates upon contact with liquids like cat urine, swiftly creating tight, hard clumps. Additionally, bentonite’s high absorbency is a key benefit, efficiently soaking up moisture and trapping odors. This characteristic plays a vital role in controlling unpleasant smells, ensuring a more pleasant living environment for both cats and their owners. For further insights into the benefits of this litter type, you can explore additional information under Bentonite for Cat Litter: Explore Its 5 Key Advantages.
While bentonite is praised for its clumping and odor control capabilities, it is not without its drawbacks. So, it is the time in this bentonite cat litter review to discuss the potential disadvantages of the substance. A significant issue arises if clumps are left unattended for over 24 hours; they emit a strong ammonia odor, noticeable at close range and even from afar. Thus, regular scooping becomes a necessity, not just for odor control but also to manage the weight of these heavy clumps. The dense, non-biodegradable nature of these clumps leads to another concern: environmental impact. Once scooped, they must be disposed of in landfills, contributing to waste accumulation as they are insoluble in water.
For sensitized cats, the dust generated by bentonite litter can be problematic, potentially triggering respiratory or urinary issues. This aspect raises concerns among some pet owners about the safety of bentonite cat litter for their feline companions. Debates continue regarding its safety, leading to a divided opinion among cat owners and experts alike. For those interested in delving deeper into this topic, exploring the article Is Bentonite Cat Litter Safe? Exploring the Myths and Facts can provide further insight.
The user experience with bentonite cat litter can vary, influenced by several factors, including the sensitivities and allergies of individual cats. For cats without specific issues related to clay-based litters, bentonite often proves to be an effective choice. Its notable clumping ability simplifies the cleaning process, allowing for easy removal of soiled litter, while its odor control properties help maintain a fresher environment.
However, some pet owners have expressed concerns over some problems that should be mentioned in this bentonite cat litter review. Bentonite litter tends to stick to cats’ paws, potentially leading to tracking and minor cleanliness issues in the home. Despite this, for many, the practical benefits, like easy clump removal and odor management, outweigh these inconveniences, making bentonite cat litter a popular choice.
As every part of a useful review, in this bentonite cat litter review, we must discuss the price of this substance. The pricing of bentonite litter, a common necessity for cat owners, is shaped by several key factors. The cost encompasses not just sourcing raw materials like clay, but also their processing and packaging into a usable form. Bentonite, primarily derived from natural clay, undergoes various manufacturing stages to become effective cat litter, each contributing to its final cost. Additionally, the expenses involved in transportation and distribution play a significant role in determining the retail price.
Despite these factors, bentonite cat litter is considered an affordable option in the global market. Its widespread availability and the efficiency of production methods help keep costs relatively lower compared to other types of cat litter, such as those made from silica gel or natural fibers. This affordability makes bentonite cat litter a practical choice for many consumers, balancing cost-effectiveness with its functional benefits.
Continuing our bentonite cat litter review, it is vital to note that, when considering the environmental impact of this substance it’s important to recognize that its biodegradability largely depends on its production method. Predominantly made from clay, a natural but non-biodegradable mineral, bentonite is a common ingredient in many cat litters. This means that while derived from a natural source, it does not break down or decompose in the environment.
As a result, bentonite cat litter, once disposed of, typically remains intact in landfills. However, it’s worth noting that bentonite is generally compatible with most landfill requirements, posing minimal issues in terms of disposal regulations. Despite this, various biodegradable options are available for those seeking eco-friendly alternatives.
When it comes to bentonite cat litter review, another crucial topic is the substitutes of this substance in the industry. For those seeking alternatives to this substance, various options are available, each with unique attributes.
Tofu cat litter is another substitute that presents an eco-friendly alternative. It offers a different set of benefits and drawbacks compared to traditional litters. To explore this option further, refer to Tofu Cat Litter vs Bentonite Cat Litter; A Review on Their Pros and Cons, which provides a detailed analysis of both types.
The last part of our detailed bentonite cat litter review explains some crucial tips for properly using this substance. Paying attention to certain tips can significantly benefit your pet’s health.
Similar to the dust-free litter, tracking refers to litter that makes its way out of the litter box and into your home’s floors, furniture, and elsewhere. There are many types of litters that offer low or no tracking. If your litter tracks, even a little bit, you can purchase an anti-tracking cat litter mat to keep your pet’s paws and your floor cleaner.
When your kitten is not using the litter box and there are no adult cats to teach them better, a cat attractant litter or litter additive can help create a guiding scent to teach young kittens where they should do their business.
Adult and senior dogs who begin to go outside of their boxes can need a helpful reminder of where to go. A cat litter attractant may help but there may be a variety of issues at play if your cat suddenly does not use its box.
We recommend visiting a vet if your cat is showing behavioral issues and avoiding using the litter box. Your cat may be avoiding the litter box due to an illness. You do not want to go straight to the cat attractant as a solution.
Our recommendation: Precious Cat Attractant Problem Cat Training Litter is great for a multi-cat household and guaranteed to bring cats to the litter box.
Odor control is one of the most important factors for pet owners when considering their litter material. If your litter box is in a low-traffic area, controlling odors may not be as big of a deal, but if it is located in a central area where there is a lot of foot traffic, it can start to get smelly.
Both cats and pet owners prefer litter that deodorizes the scent of the feces and urine and keeps your home smelling fresh. Cats can have a much more sensitive nose than some dog breeds
Because of this, some scented cat litters are not the preferred choice for cats. Cleaning your litter box frequently can help provide the best odor control without having to switch to scented litters. Even if your litter material is meant to control odors, regularly scooping the waste out can help you and your cat have a much more pleasant-smelling home.
Baking soda and activated charcoal are common ingredients used in litter to reduce the smell of cat feces and urine. If it is not included in your material and you want more absorption, you may add these ingredients into your litter yourself.
Since clay has been one of the most popular litter choices among pet owners, it also affects the environment. Flushing the litter down or throwing it away in a bag in the trash is not the most environmentally friendly method.
For most pet owners, dumping it in the trash may be the only way they can get rid of their cat litter. For some with a garden in the backyard, they can choose a more environmentally friendly solution by switching to plant-based litter that can be added to the compost pile. Eco-friendly options include organic material such as wheat, corn, or other plant matter.
It is important to double-check the ingredients in your new cat litter and ensure that they will not cause an allergic reaction or sensitivity to your cat. If you are not sure whether it will or not, you will have to gradually introduce new litter and assess the transition for any negative reactions.
Natural minerals, plant matter, and lab-manufactured additives can trigger an allergic reaction in your cats. If your cats display signs of an allergic reaction, you should look into the litter material as a potential source of the allergen and contact you or vet to figure out a solution.
Sometimes, a cat can be sensitive to the litter material. When your cat’s paws make contact with the material, it can either be comfortable or uncomfortable. Sometimes, declawed cats have problems with litter box material since they get triggered with the litter from the pain they experienced in their paws. If this is the case, consider switching to a softer litter box material.
When shopping around for cat litter for multiple cats, you may run into marketing that designates the product as a multi-cat friendly variety. These types of litters can usually provide more odor control and include antimicrobial ingredients that other litters. The amount of odor control additives in multi-cat and single cat varieties vary by brand and product. If you have a house with multiple cats, try out a multi-cat variety first and see how that works.
When choosing between different materials for the best litter, price is one of the most important factors to consider. You may have a preferred choice, but if it is out of your budget, you will have to settle for a second choice. Pet owners can end up spending between $70 and $200 per year on cat litter products.
Start by comparing the prices of the similar size litter options. Size and weight or volume is not the only consideration. Some litter material needs more frequent replacement than others. This can result in increased costs of maintenance and cleaning.
The most expensive letter is not always the best option for you or your cat. Oftentimes, the affordable version is the best choice for you. Buying cat litter in bulk can help you save money in the long run.
If you decide to switch to a new cat litter, it is important to consider these factors when making the switch. Generally, cats can easily adapt to a new environment if you gradually transition from the old cat litter to the new one.
The entire process can take between 7 to 10 days to completely switch out the old cat litter. First, start by adding small amounts of the new litter to the old litter. Making the switch gradually can help your cat become more assimilated, especially when the litter has a different texture, odor, or other form. If your cat does not like it, they will let you know.
For instance, cats that begin to avoid their litter box and may not be thrilled about the new ingredient. If this is the case, you will need to give them many more options to choose from. Do so by providing them with several selections, between 3 or 4, of different litters to see which one they gravitated to.
If your cat begins to not use the litter and starts using the bathroom outside of the litter box, do not chalk it up to a new litter. It may be due to a medical condition and you need to contact your veterinarian to be sure.
Another option is to use two litter boxes, one with the normal litter material and another with the new litter material. Place them close together for a few days and allow your pet to get used to the new box.
Generally, cats are curious enough to explore the new litter box. If your cats take a liking to it, they may start spending more time there, digging around,. Let them acclimate to the new litter without taking away the old one just yet.
If your cat is having a positive reaction to the new litter, you can start to gradually add some new litter into the old box and take out some of the old litter until you completely replace it over a few days.
Just like humans, cats prefer a relaxed and clean environment to take care of their business. Just like you would not be comfortable going to the bathroom in a dirty porta potty, they will not like a dirty litter box. In terms of placement, keep your litter box in a quiet room where there is low foot traffic. Place it against the wall to give your cat a feeling of safety when used.
Make sure to place your litter box in an accessible location, not up high or far away from where your cat usually hangs out. If your home is very large, placing it all the way across the house is not a good idea.
The type of litter box you use can also affect if your cat uses it or not. Cats prefer an open litter box that gives them an open view of the environment. Closed litter boxes are more prone to trapping smells and producing negative odors. High-sided litter boxes provide the best of both worlds that can prevent messy litter from the area and avoid trapping odors.
Litter boxes should be about 1.5 times the length of cats giving them enough space to dig and bury their waste. Usually, multi-cat pet owners have a single litter box per cat and an extra one, usually on each floor of a home. For multi-cat homes, you can use extra large boxes and clean them more often.
Clumping litter is easier to clean up since you literally just scoop out the clumps once or two times a day. You do not need to deep clean the box as often as non-clumping litter boxes. In the best-case scenario, you can wait up 2 to 5 weeks before switching out the entire litter material.
Proper disposal of a litter depends on the type of litter you use. In most cases, the litter is disposed of in an airtight trash bag. Some litter such as corn cat litter can be flushed down the toilet in smaller clumps. Avoid flushing the full litter box contents all at once down your toilet. This can cause damage to the sewage system.
Flushing material that is not for flushing can cause more than just harm to your sewage system but also to local wildlife. The US Environmental Protection Agency lists pet waste as a pollutant that can introduce harmful microorganisms such as coliform bacteria and parasites into rivers, streams, and groundwater.
It can also cause toxoplasmosis, a type of parasitic infection in humans and animals. In humans, it can cause severe issues during pregnancy and in those with weakened immune systems. Some evidence has shown that cat feces with toxoplasmosis has increased mortality in sea otters.
When cleaning your litter box, giving it a deep clean, you can empty the contents first and give it a good scrub and with unscented dish soap, rinse, and dry with paper towels.
Your cat deserves the best. If you want a one-stop-shop for finding all your pet supplies, cat litter, litter boxes, and other pet essentials, visit Wilco farm stores in-store or online to shop from a variety of high-quality brands
We are proud to carry the best cat litter brands including:
Stop by in-store, give us a call, or send us an email to find out more about our cat litter products. We want to provide the best for you and your pet family.
Bentonite cat litter is one of the most popular litter fillers around the world. Bentonite clay, the main ingredient of this product, holds distinctive properties that make it a reliable substance. It is a natural clay with high clumping and absorbing qualities and powerful odor control. Moreover, the substance is presented in the market with different scents and colors to suit every taste. Still, many pet owners need a comprehensive analysis of this substance to determine whether it is their cup of tea. In this bentonite cat litter review, we will discuss different aspects of this substance and make a holistic picture for all of those who are concerned about the use of bentonite in cat litter. So, keep reading to unlock more fascinating insights in this article.
Before going through this topic, it seems helpful to mention the name of a reliable supplier of bentonite in various grades, namely Pet Litter Bentonite. The company, which is called Iran Bentonite Co, is a reputable bentonite manufacturer, supplier, and exporter in the international market. This company takes pride in providing its customers with a pure product suitable for your litter box. Iran Bentonite Co. also offers dependable packaging methods and transportation options that enable every customer to purchase their product without any hassle. You can find out more about this company by clicking on About Us.
Bentonite cat litter, a widely used type of filler litter, has the natural properties of bentonite clay as its main component. Renowned for its high absorbency, this clay effectively soaks up moisture, making it ideal for use in litter boxes. One of its most valued qualities is its clumping capability, allowing easy removal of soiled litter, thereby maintaining a cleaner litter box environment.
In addition to these benefits, bentonite cat litter is appreciated for its odor-control properties. These attributes collectively contribute to its popularity among cat owners, providing a practical solution for daily feline hygiene management. Its effectiveness in absorbing and containing moisture and odors helps maintain a pleasant and hygienic home environment, making it a preferred choice for many. In this bentonite cat litter review, we will talk about this substance from various perspectives.
This section of our bentonite cat litter review will discuss different kinds of this substance. Bentonite cat litter comes in various forms, each tailored to enhance certain aspects of litter box maintenance. A notable variant is the Tofu mixed bentonite cat litter, which combines the natural clumping and odor control properties of bentonite with the eco-friendly aspects of tofu cat litter. This blend results in a product with strong water absorption, rapid clumping, and efficient deodorization, making it a popular choice among environmentally conscious pet owners.
Besides this innovative combination, bentonite cat litters are categorized based on the type of bentonite clay used. The two primary categories are sodium and calcium bentonite, each offering unique benefits. Sodium bentonite, known for its superior clumping and moisture-absorbing properties, is particularly effective in litter boxes. To gain a deeper understanding of how sodium bentonite enhances the functionality of cat litter, interested readers can explore more detailed information in the article What is Sodium Bentonite Cat Litter? Its Characteristics and Additional Information.
In this part of our bentonite cat litter review, discussing the advantages of using this clay as a litter filler is vital. This substance stands out in the pet care market for its impressive array of advantages. Foremost among these is its exceptional clumping ability, which activates upon contact with liquids like cat urine, swiftly creating tight, hard clumps. Additionally, bentonite’s high absorbency is a key benefit, efficiently soaking up moisture and trapping odors. This characteristic plays a vital role in controlling unpleasant smells, ensuring a more pleasant living environment for both cats and their owners. For further insights into the benefits of this litter type, you can explore additional information under Bentonite for Cat Litter: Explore Its 5 Key Advantages.
While bentonite is praised for its clumping and odor control capabilities, it is not without its drawbacks. So, it is the time in this bentonite cat litter review to discuss the potential disadvantages of the substance. A significant issue arises if clumps are left unattended for over 24 hours; they emit a strong ammonia odor, noticeable at close range and even from afar. Thus, regular scooping becomes a necessity, not just for odor control but also to manage the weight of these heavy clumps. The dense, non-biodegradable nature of these clumps leads to another concern: environmental impact. Once scooped, they must be disposed of in landfills, contributing to waste accumulation as they are insoluble in water.
For sensitized cats, the dust generated by bentonite litter can be problematic, potentially triggering respiratory or urinary issues. This aspect raises concerns among some pet owners about the safety of bentonite cat litter for their feline companions. Debates continue regarding its safety, leading to a divided opinion among cat owners and experts alike. For those interested in delving deeper into this topic, exploring the article Is Bentonite Cat Litter Safe? Exploring the Myths and Facts can provide further insight.
The user experience with bentonite cat litter can vary, influenced by several factors, including the sensitivities and allergies of individual cats. For cats without specific issues related to clay-based litters, bentonite often proves to be an effective choice. Its notable clumping ability simplifies the cleaning process, allowing for easy removal of soiled litter, while its odor control properties help maintain a fresher environment.
However, some pet owners have expressed concerns over some problems that should be mentioned in this bentonite cat litter review. Bentonite litter tends to stick to cats’ paws, potentially leading to tracking and minor cleanliness issues in the home. Despite this, for many, the practical benefits, like easy clump removal and odor management, outweigh these inconveniences, making bentonite cat litter a popular choice.
As every part of a useful review, in this bentonite cat litter review, we must discuss the price of this substance. The pricing of bentonite litter, a common necessity for cat owners, is shaped by several key factors. The cost encompasses not just sourcing raw materials like clay, but also their processing and packaging into a usable form. Bentonite, primarily derived from natural clay, undergoes various manufacturing stages to become effective cat litter, each contributing to its final cost. Additionally, the expenses involved in transportation and distribution play a significant role in determining the retail price.
Despite these factors, bentonite cat litter is considered an affordable option in the global market. Its widespread availability and the efficiency of production methods help keep costs relatively lower compared to other types of cat litter, such as those made from silica gel or natural fibers. This affordability makes bentonite cat litter a practical choice for many consumers, balancing cost-effectiveness with its functional benefits.
Continuing our bentonite cat litter review, it is vital to note that, when considering the environmental impact of this substance it’s important to recognize that its biodegradability largely depends on its production method. Predominantly made from clay, a natural but non-biodegradable mineral, bentonite is a common ingredient in many cat litters. This means that while derived from a natural source, it does not break down or decompose in the environment.
As a result, bentonite cat litter, once disposed of, typically remains intact in landfills. However, it’s worth noting that bentonite is generally compatible with most landfill requirements, posing minimal issues in terms of disposal regulations. Despite this, various biodegradable options are available for those seeking eco-friendly alternatives.
When it comes to bentonite cat litter review, another crucial topic is the substitutes of this substance in the industry. For those seeking alternatives to this substance, various options are available, each with unique attributes.
Tofu cat litter is another substitute that presents an eco-friendly alternative. It offers a different set of benefits and drawbacks compared to traditional litters. To explore this option further, refer to Tofu Cat Litter vs Bentonite Cat Litter; A Review on Their Pros and Cons, which provides a detailed analysis of both types.
The last part of our detailed bentonite cat litter review explains some crucial tips for properly using this substance. Paying attention to certain tips can significantly benefit your pet’s health.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Premium Bentonite Cat Litter. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.