In this comprehensive guide, we’ve researched and tested dozens of cat litter products to bring you the top recommendations across seven key categories. Whether you’re looking for superior clumping ability, natural ingredients, or budget-friendly options, we’ve got you covered with expert insights and practical advice to help you make the best choice for your cat and home.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Cat Litter
Before diving into our top picks, let’s explore the most important factors to consider when selecting cat litter:
Clumping Ability
Clumping litter forms solid masses when it comes into contact with moisture, making it easier to scoop waste while preserving clean litter. High-quality clumping litter creates firm, cohesive clumps that don’t fall apart during scooping, allowing you to remove waste completely without wasting clean litter.
Odor Control
Effective odor control is essential for maintaining a fresh-smelling home. Some litters use activated carbon or baking soda to neutralize odors, while others rely on tight clumping to trap smells. The best odor-controlling litters work without heavy artificial fragrances that can irritate sensitive cats.
Dust Level
Low-dust formulas are better for both cats and humans, especially those with respiratory sensitivities. Dusty litter can cause breathing issues and leave a fine layer of particles around your home. Many clay litters claim to be “99% dust-free,” but actual performance varies significantly.
Tracking
Tracking refers to how easily litter particles stick to your cat’s paws and spread beyond the box. Heavier litters with larger granules typically track less than lightweight, fine-grained options. A good litter mat can help catch stray particles, but low-tracking litter makes a significant difference.
Material Type
Cat litter comes in various materials, each with distinct advantages:
- Clay (bentonite): Excellent clumping and odor control, but heavier and creates dust
- Silica/crystal: Highly absorbent with good odor control, low-tracking but more expensive
- Corn: Natural option with good clumping and biodegradable properties
- Paper: Dust-free, gentle on paws, and good for kittens or cats recovering from surgery
- Wood/pine: Natural odor control with a pleasant scent, biodegradable but variable clumping
- Grass: Fine texture cats enjoy, good clumping, but can be pricey
Cat’s Preference
Perhaps most importantly, your cat needs to actually use the litter. Cats can be particular about texture, scent, and feel under their paws. If introducing a new litter, do so gradually by mixing it with the current litter to increase acceptance.
Price and Value
Cat litter costs can add up over time. While premium options might offer better performance, they need to justify their higher price. Consider how frequently you’ll need to replace the litter and how much waste you’ll generate with each type.
Overall Best Cat Litter: Editor’s Choice
World’s Best Cat Litter
Made from whole-kernel corn, World’s Best Cat Litter earns our top overall recommendation by excelling in nearly every category. This natural, biodegradable litter forms tight clumps for easy scooping while providing exceptional odor control without artificial fragrances. The medium-sized granules create less dust than clay alternatives, making it healthier for both cats and humans.
Pros
- All-natural corn formula is biodegradable
- Forms solid, scoopable clumps
- Excellent odor control without added fragrances
- Very low dust compared to clay litters
- Works well in automatic litter boxes
Cons
- More expensive than budget clay options
- Some users dislike the natural corn smell when wet
- Clumps may take slightly longer to harden than clay
World’s Best Cat Litter is available in multiple formulas, including Multi-Cat, Original, and Lavender-scented varieties. The Multi-Cat formula offers enhanced odor control for households with multiple felines. While it costs more than budget clay options at around $1.20 per pound, its superior performance and the fact that you’ll use less over time make it a worthwhile investment.
Best Clumping Cat Litter
Dr. Elsey’s Ultra Unscented
Dr. Elsey’s Ultra forms exceptionally hard clumps that don’t break apart during scooping, making litter box maintenance quick and efficient. This clay-based formula is heavy with medium-sized granules that help reduce tracking.
- Forms rock-hard clumps that don’t crumble
- Excellent odor control without added fragrances
- Affordable at around $0.50-$0.60 per pound
- Low tracking compared to many other options
Ever Clean Extra Strength
Ever Clean Extra Strength creates firm, scoopable clumps while providing superior odor control. The premium clay formula contains activated carbon for additional odor-fighting power without relying on artificial fragrances.
- Forms solid clumps that resist breaking
- Activated carbon for superior odor control
- Low dust formula is better for sensitive respiratory systems
- Heavy granules help minimize tracking
Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal
Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal combines the clumping power of clay with the odor-neutralizing properties of baking soda. The formula creates tight clumps that seal in odors on contact and don’t break apart during scooping.
- Baking soda helps neutralize odors on contact
- Forms tight, sealed clumps for easy scooping
- 7-day odor control guarantee
- Reasonably priced at around $0.70 per pound
Best Cat Litter for Odor Control
Fresh Step Advanced Extreme Odor Control
Fresh Step Advanced Extreme Odor Control uses activated carbon and ClumpLock technology to trap and eliminate odors on contact. The formula is designed specifically for multi-cat households where odor control is a top priority.
- Activated carbon traps and eliminates odors
- 10-day odor control guarantee
- Forms tight clumps that don’t break apart
- Available in scented and unscented varieties
Arm & Hammer Double Duty
Arm & Hammer Double Duty combines baking soda with moisture-activated odor neutralizers to tackle both urine and fecal odors. The dual-action formula works immediately upon contact with waste.
- Baking soda neutralizes odors on contact
- Specially formulated to handle fecal odors
- Forms hard clumps for easy scooping
- Very affordable at around $0.50 per pound
Ever Clean Extra Strength Unscented
Ever Clean Extra Strength Unscented uses a premium blend of activated carbon and antimicrobial agents to stop odor-causing bacteria before they start. The unscented formula is ideal for cats sensitive to fragrances.
- Activated carbon and antimicrobial agents fight odors
- Unscented formula won’t irritate sensitive cats
- Forms hard clumps that seal in odors
- Low dust formula for cleaner air
Best Natural and Biodegradable Cat Litter
World’s Best Cat Litter
World’s Best Cat Litter uses whole-kernel corn to create a natural, biodegradable litter that performs as well as clay options. The plant-based formula is flushable in small quantities and septic-safe.
- 100% natural corn formula is biodegradable
- Forms solid clumps for easy scooping
- Flushable in small quantities (check local regulations)
- Very low dust compared to clay alternatives
ökocat Natural Wood Clumping
ökocat Natural Wood Clumping litter is made from reclaimed wood fiber that naturally inhibits bacteria growth and controls odors. The wood fibers create surprisingly firm clumps for a natural product.
- Made from sustainable, reclaimed wood fiber
- Natural wood enzymes inhibit bacteria growth
- Forms solid clumps for easy cleaning
- Biodegradable and compostable (not in food gardens)
Sustainably Yours Multi-Cat
Sustainably Yours is made from a blend of corn and cassava, creating a biodegradable litter with excellent clumping ability. The light color makes it easier to monitor your cat’s urinary health by spotting changes.
- Made from sustainable corn and cassava
- Light color helps monitor urinary health
- Forms hard clumps similar to clay litter
- Flushable in small amounts (check local regulations)
Best Low-Dust Cat Litter
Arm & Hammer Cloud Control
Arm & Hammer Cloud Control is specifically designed to reduce airborne dust during pouring and scooping. The formula also includes dander blockers to help reduce allergens in the home.
- Significantly reduced dust compared to standard clay litters
- Includes dander blockers to reduce allergens
- Forms tight clumps for easy scooping
- Baking soda helps control odors
Fresh News Recycled Paper
Fresh News is made from 100% recycled paper pellets that produce virtually no dust. The non-clumping formula is ideal for cats with respiratory issues or recovering from surgery.
- Made from 100% recycled paper
- Virtually dust-free formula
- Soft pellets are gentle on sensitive paws
- Baking soda helps control odors
SmartCat All Natural Clumping Litter
SmartCat All Natural is made from 100% grass, creating a fine-grained, clumping litter that produces minimal dust. The natural formula is free from chemicals, additives, and fragrances.
- Made from 100% grass with no additives
- Extremely low dust compared to clay
- Forms solid clumps for easy scooping
- Lightweight formula is easier to carry
Best Non-Toxic Cat Litter
sWheat Scoop Natural Wheat
sWheat Scoop is made from naturally renewable wheat with no added chemicals or fragrances. The wheat starches form clumps when wet and the natural enzymes help control odors without synthetic additives.
- Made from 100% renewable wheat
- No added chemicals, dyes, or fragrances
- Biodegradable and flushable in small amounts
- Natural enzymes help control odors
Naturally Fresh Walnut Shell
Naturally Fresh uses fibrous material from walnut shells to create a non-toxic, biodegradable litter. The walnut shells naturally neutralize odors without added chemicals or fragrances.
- Made from walnut shells, a renewable resource
- No chemicals, additives, or fragrances
- Forms hard clumps for easy scooping
- Low dust and minimal tracking
Feline Pine Original
Feline Pine uses 100% natural pine pellets that are highly absorbent and naturally control odors. The non-clumping formula is free from chemicals, additives, and fragrances.
- Made from 100% natural pine
- No chemicals, clay, or additives
- Natural pine scent helps control odors
- Large pellets track less than granular litters
Most Affordable Cat Litter
Dr. Elsey’s Precious Cat Ultra
Dr. Elsey’s Precious Cat Ultra offers premium performance at a budget-friendly price. At around $0.50-$0.60 per pound, this clay litter forms hard clumps and controls odors effectively without breaking the bank.
- Priced at approximately $0.50-$0.60 per pound
- Forms hard clumps that don’t break apart
- Excellent odor control without added fragrances
- Medium-heavy granules help reduce tracking
Arm & Hammer Super Scoop
Arm & Hammer Super Scoop combines affordability with the odor-fighting power of baking soda. At around $0.50 per pound, this clay litter offers good clumping and odor control at a budget-friendly price.
- Priced at approximately $0.50 per pound
- Baking soda helps neutralize odors
- Forms solid clumps for easy scooping
- Low dust formula compared to other budget options
Frisco Multi-Cat Clumping
Frisco Multi-Cat Clumping is Chewy’s house brand that offers solid performance at a very affordable price. At around $0.40 per pound, this clay litter provides good clumping and odor control for budget-conscious cat owners.
- Priced at approximately $0.40 per pound
- Forms decent clumps for the price
- Good odor control for a budget option
- Available in large quantities for multi-cat homes
Cat Litter Comparison Table
| Product | Material | Clumping | Odor Control | Dust Level | Tracking | Price/lb | Best For |
| World’s Best Cat Litter | Corn | Excellent | Excellent | Very Low | Moderate | $1.20 | Overall performance, natural option |
| Dr. Elsey’s Ultra | Clay | Excellent | Very Good | Moderate | Low | $0.55 | Budget, clumping ability |
| Arm & Hammer Cloud Control | Clay | Very Good | Excellent | Very Low | Low | $0.70 | Dust sensitivity, allergies |
| Fresh Step Advanced | Clay | Excellent | Excellent | Moderate | Moderate | $0.80 | Odor control, multi-cat homes |
| sWheat Scoop | Wheat | Good | Good | Low | Moderate | $1.10 | Non-toxic, natural option |
| Feline Pine Original | Pine | Non-clumping | Good | Very Low | Very Low | $0.70 | Low tracking, natural scent |
Frequently Asked Questions About Cat Litter
Is clumping litter safe for kittens?
There’s some debate about the safety of clumping clay litter for very young kittens. The concern is that curious kittens might ingest the litter while grooming or playing, and the clumping properties could cause intestinal blockages. Most veterinarians recommend using non-clumping litter for kittens under 3-4 months old.
Safe alternatives for kittens include non-clumping clay, paper-based litters like Fresh News, or pine pellets. Once kittens are older and less likely to eat litter, you can transition to a clumping formula if desired.
How often should I change cat litter?
For clumping litter, scoop waste daily and completely replace the litter every 2-4 weeks, depending on usage and number of cats. For non-clumping litter, remove solid waste daily and replace the entire litter box contents every 5-7 days.
Regardless of litter type, wash the litter box with mild soap and water when you do a complete litter change. Avoid using harsh chemicals that might leave residues your cat could find offensive.
What’s the healthiest type of cat litter?
The healthiest cat litters are typically those made from natural, biodegradable materials that produce minimal dust and contain no added fragrances or chemicals. Options like corn, wheat, grass, and paper litters tend to be better for cats with respiratory sensitivities or allergies.
Clay litters, particularly those containing sodium bentonite, can produce silica dust when disturbed, which may irritate respiratory systems in both cats and humans. If you choose clay litter, look for low-dust formulas like Arm & Hammer Cloud Control.
How much litter should I put in the litter box?
Most cats prefer a litter depth of about 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm). This provides enough material for them to dig and bury their waste comfortably. Too little litter may not allow proper burying, while too much can be wasteful and may cause excessive tracking.
For non-clumping litters, you might need a slightly deeper layer (3-4 inches) to adequately absorb moisture. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific litter type.
Can I flush cat litter down the toilet?
While some natural litters are marketed as “flushable,” flushing cat waste is generally not recommended for several reasons:
- Cat feces can contain Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that can survive water treatment and harm marine life
- Clay litters should never be flushed as they can cause serious plumbing issues
- Many municipal water systems and septic tanks aren’t designed to handle cat waste or litter
Even with litters labeled as flushable, check your local regulations, as some areas (like California) have restrictions on flushing cat litter due to environmental concerns.
Final Verdict: Finding Your Perfect Cat Litter
After extensive testing and research, it’s clear that the best cat litter depends on your specific needs and your cat’s preferences. Here are our top recommendations based on different priorities:
Best Overall
- World’s Best Cat Litter offers the best balance of performance, environmental impact, and cat acceptance
- Forms solid clumps for easy scooping
- Excellent odor control without artificial fragrances
- Low dust and moderate tracking
- Natural, biodegradable formula
Best for Odor Control
- Fresh Step Advanced Extreme Odor Control provides superior odor-fighting ability
- Activated carbon traps and eliminates odors
- 10-day odor control guarantee
- Ideal for multi-cat households
- Forms tight clumps that seal in odors
Best Budget Option
- Dr. Elsey’s Precious Cat Ultra delivers premium performance at a budget price
- Around $0.50-$0.60 per pound
- Forms hard clumps that don’t break apart
- Good odor control without added fragrances
- Low tracking compared to many other options
Ready to Find the Perfect Litter for Your Cat?
Remember that cats can be particular about their litter. When switching to a new type, introduce it gradually by mixing it with the current litter over several days. This helps your cat adjust to the new texture and scent without causing litter box avoidance.
