Different Types of Cat Litter and Their Pros & Cons - BYMiT

25 Aug.,2025

 

Different Types of Cat Litter and Their Pros & Cons - BYMiT

Cat litter is one of the vital supplies for all indoor felines. It helps make life much easier for cat owners worldwide. It's used intuitively by a cat to hide its pee and feces. However, cat owners have different options regarding cat litters and which type of litter they would prefer for their felines to use. Cats are pets of habit; you can't expect your cat to quickly feel easy by using a new type of litter. There are several Cat litters that have different pros and cons. Some of them have been discussed below:

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Wood Cat Litter 

Wood cat litter is an all-natural cat litter commonly made out of cedar or pine wood. Compared to clay-based litter, wood litter has large granules made from compressed wood materials that break down into sawdust when wet.

Wood litter is a type of cat litter that helps absorb the liquid and smell of your cat's urine and feces, after which it crumbles into sawdust. The sawdust eventually ends up in the bottom of the cat litter box, although fresh wood pellets stay on top. You may also choose a special sifting cat litter box that takes away the sawdust immediately. Although wood cat litter is good, but when a cat breathes in wood dust, it might inhale some small particles, which can lead to discomfort. Moreover, non-clumping wood cat litter can change to mush.

Advantages

  • Wood litter is all-natural. 
  • Wood pellet cat litter does not have additional chemicals or scents.
  • Wood litters are lighter in weight than clay litter.
  • They're safer for the cats. The likelihood of swallowing wood pellet is very low; however, the cat will be okay even when she does.

Disadvantages

  • Wood litters are a little more expensive than clay litter.
  • Several cats might not like the aroma of pine, or they might be allergic to the stuff.

Tofu Cat Litter

Tofu cat litter is manufactured out of food-grade soy pulp. It's among the best long-lasting, easy to clean and smell absorbing litter available in the market. It is an all-natural choice that's bio-degradable and could be flushed down. Moreover, most felines like the very soft texture of the beans. Tofu Cat litter has good absorbing qualities and non-stick features, making it one of the best cats litters available on the market.

Advantages

  • Tofu cat litter is 100% all-natural.
  • It's not very harmful if ingested by your cat.
  • Tofu cat litter is 99% dust-free that helps prevent several respiratory system problems resulting from clay-based litter.
  • Tofu litter has superb smell control and absorbing features.

Disadvantages

  • As a result of plant material, Tofu litter can get mold very quickly if it's wet.
  • The price is a bit higher than bentonite cat litter.

Clay Cat Litter

Clay cat litter has quickly turned into the most popular cat litter used by most cat owners. This cat litter is made from granulated bentonite clay that clumps whenever wet and forms a solid mass separate from the thoroughly clean litter within the box. The best thing about this cat litter is that it doesn't need to be replaced as often as non-clumping, conventional cat litter. 

Clay cat litters are made to ensure that feces and urine can be cleaned up and removed very quickly from the box without needing to empty the entire litter box. Most cat litters include a material referred to as bentonite, which enables the cat litter to produce a good solid clump as the litter soaks up liquid. There are also different natural materials that may help clump the cat litter firmly. 

Clay cat litter is associated with several cat health issues such as looseness of the bowels, nausea, renal system problems, drowsiness, etc. If your cat suffers from these problems and has been defecating more time, you can benefit from clumping cat litter. 

Advantages

  • Clay cat litter is easy to clean.
  • Great at drying cat feces.
  • Clay cat litter is good at absorbing bad odors.
  • Clay is naturally occurring and readily available, so it is by far the most popular type of litter.

Disadvantages

  • The clumping might cause obstructions if mistakenly swallowed.
  • It is extremely dusty for some brands and possibly it will leave a film on everything in the room.
  • Not eco-friendly at all.

New Coconut Litter 

Coconut litter is light-weight; thus, if you over-fill the litter, it can get expelled from the top when your cat digs and scrapes. Use a long-sided cat litter if you face this problem. Coconut fibers are also called coir and hypo-allergenic materials; therefore, they are the best choice for felines or owners with allergies. 

The darkish color of coconut litter makes it harder to determine what parts have to be cleaned out, as well as the coconut fibers often cover all hard waste. When you remove waste, you may mix the remaining cat litter; thus, any liquid will be absorbed. New coconut cat litter is somewhat expensive compared to other clay litters and other products. Moreover, it must be stirred to help soak up the liquid.

Advantages

  • New coconut litter is dust-free.
  • This litter type is non-toxic for your cat.

Disadvantages

  • New coconut litter has a different texture than other cat litter that can be uncomfortable for your cat.
  • This cat litter is harder to scoop waste. 

Silica Gel Litter

Silica gel is another modern litter and is likely the strangest on this list. Silica gel is a highly absorbent material that can quickly absorb and hold any moisture it contacts, so it does a good job of absorbing moisture and reducing odor despite being a non-clumping litter. The downside to silica gel is that you need to mix it frequently to distribute the urine so it absorb better, and it’s quite expensive.

Corn Litter

Corn is inexpensive and renewable, so it makes a great choice for an alternative to clay.  It’s relatively lightweight and forms tight clumps that are easy to scoop out.  We found that the tight clumping helped us use less litter, so it pays for itself over time.

Why Dr. Elsey's Cat Litter is the Best Choice for Cats?

Dr. Bruce Elsey is a renowned veterinarian who has provided veterinary services for more than thirty-five years. Because of his outstanding services, he is well-reputed and respected around the globe. After decades of experience in cat care, he introduced an exciting litter box and some other cat litter products. 

Dr. Elsey's Ultra Clumping Cat Litter 

Dr. Elsey's Ultra-Clumping Cat Litter is an exclusive formula that includes heavy non-tracking granules and medium grain clay. The result is an excellent clumping cat litter that stops moisture from hitting the bottom part of the cat tray while offering a clump that won't break down. 

Features of Dr. Elsey's Ultra Clumping Cat Litter 

  • This cat litter is best for multi-cat homeowners and cat owners with mechanical or shifting cat litter boxes.
  • Elsey's Ultra Clumping cat litter is an excellent odor absorbent.
  • Elsey's Ultra Clumping cat litter is 99.9 % percent dust-free.
  • It doesn't include deodorants or perfumes.
  • Elsey's Ultra Clumping Cat Litter has excellent smell control properties.

Package Weight

  • 18 Pound or 8.16 Kilograms
  • 20 Pound or 9.07 Kilograms
  • 40 Pound or 18.14 Kilograms
  • 7.5 Pound or 3.4 Kilograms
  • Pound or 3.64 Kilograms

Instructions to Use Elsey's Ultra Clumping Cat Litter

Fill up a dry, clean litter box with three or four inches of Dr. Elsey's cat litter. This depth lets your felines cover their waste efficiently. Scoop waste two times a day and re-fill the box as required. Change the entire box every month, and the cat owner must discard used cat litter in the garbage. Don't bury, flush, or remove waste outside the house, in storm drains or gutters to prevent ecological pollution.

With competitive price and timely delivery, Mimine sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.

Dr. Elsey's cat litter is a superb option. The hard clumping action is highly cost-effective, making it suitable for multiple-cat homeowners. This cat litter can often be a little dusty at the start; however, it is low-tracking and significantly less messy than several clay litters.

Types of Dr. Elsey's Cat Litter

  1.  Dr. Elsey's Respiratory Relief Clumping Clay Litter

This hypo-allergenic and dust-free cat litter helps prevent respiratory system problems in felines.

  1. Dr. Elsey's Unscented & Scented Hard Clumping Multi-Cat Litter

It is the best odor control cat litter suitable for multi-cat owners. This litter helps control dampness from reaching the bottom part.

  1. Dr. Elsey's Touch of Outdoors Litter

This litter is made from Prairie bromegrass, including chlorophyll, to control odor. The Prairie grass of this litter helps cats reduce stress and provides them a soothing environment.

  1. Dr. Elsey's Senior Litter

This cat litter is best for absorbing urine odor and dehydrated feces that keep the cat's genital area clean which helps prevent kidney and urinary tract problems.

  1. Dr. Elsey's Clean Tracks Litter

This cat litter is an exclusive formula of medium grain clay that keeps litter in the box and controls smell without added scents or deodorants.

Different Types of Cat Litter: Which is Best? | Petmate

As a pet parent to an adorable little kitty, you already know the importance of cat litter. For some cat owners, the process is relatively simple. They buy a litter box and a popular brand of kitty litter, and aside from the potty training, everything seems to fall into place.

For others, there's some trial and error involved. You might begin to notice some interesting odors around your cat's litter box, or perhaps your cat may be avoiding them altogether. This might be a sign that it's time to try out a different type of cat litter.

While we definitely celebrate having different choices, with so many options to choose from, knowing which type of litter to try out next can be a confusing and overwhelming process. To give you a hand, we've put together this helpful guide covering different types of cat litter and tips for transitioning to a new one. 

1. Non-Clumping Cat Litter

Non-clumping cat litter is the grandfather of commercial cat litter. As the name indicates, this type of cat litter doesn't clump when your cat uses it. Your cat's dropping stays where they are left rather than forming easier chunks to scoop out. Despite its inability to clump, this variety of litter still absorbs moisture, which helps to remove odors.

As the litter becomes more saturated, urine may begin to accumulate at the bottom, making it difficult to clean soiled chunks without emptying and cleaning the entire litter box. For some, this may be an incentive to use a non-clumping variety. For those who are used to periodically cleaning out smaller chunks, it may be more of an inconvenience.

Non-clumping cat litter is often made of wood, pine, walnut shells, recycled paper, and silica.

Pros of Non-Clumping Cat Litter:

  • Less expensive than clumping varieties
  • More choice of materials
  • Less dust
  • Less daily maintenance

Cons of Non-Clumping Cat Litter:

  • Doesn't clump
  • Shorter shelf life (and litter box life)
  • Entire tray needs to be cleaned more often (once a day)
  • Cat waste can be harder to locate

2. Clumping Cat Litter 

Clumping cat litter is the most common commercial cat litter available on the market today and the most popular choice. Most varieties contain bentonite that facilitates clumping as the litter absorbs liquid. Clumping cat litter is often made of materials such as clay, corn, coconut husk, and wheat.

Since urine doesn't pool at the bottom of the litter box, the urine and feces can be quickly scooped out without having to change out the entire box. Cleaning litter can be added to their place as the soiled chunks are removed. However, this doesn't mean you won't ever need to empty your litter box. Rather, the litter box must be emptied once a week instead of daily with non-clumping varieties. Clumping clay litter is particularly beneficial for multi-cat households due to its easy cleaning and effective odor control.

If you're shopping for a kitten, we recommend staying away from clumping varieties to avoid the risk of ingestion. Kittens may try to eat their feces out of curiosity, and ingesting litter may lead to an intestinal blockage.

Clumping cat litter is often made of clay, corn, coconut husk, and wheat.

Pros of Clumping Cat Litter:

  • The litter clumps after your cat has used the restroom
  • Better at absorbing odors
  • Easier to clean
  • Easier to find cat waste

Cons of Clumping Cat Litter:

  • Can be more expensive
  • Fewer choices of materials
  • More dust and tracking
  • Not suitable for kittens

3. Unscented or "Odorless" Cat Litter

Unscented cat litter is made without additional scent agents. Many varieties still contain odor-neutralizing agents such as carbon, baking soda, or even fragrances designed to smell like nothing, so you'll see many unscented types branded as "odorless."

Pros of Unscented Cat Litter:

  • Traps urine and odors
  • Odor neutralizers can mask the ammonia smell
  • Ideal for cats and owners who are sensitive to smells

Cons of Unscented Cat Litter:

  • "Odorless" quality may contribute to a "cat box smell."
  • It can require more frequent cleaning, depending on your tolerance for odors

4. Scented Cat Litter

Scented cat litters have additional scent agent ingredients to emit a more pleasant, intentional smell. Most scents already come mixed with the cat litter, but some varieties offer separate deodorizes to be added later.

Humans may be more receptive to scented varieties of cat litter, but are cats? Scented options may give off a slight whiff of a smell like lavender to us, but cats have a much more developed sense of smell than humans do. What seems like a light spritz of fragrance to us could be an overpowering inconvenience for your cat. 

Additionally, while many pet parents are drawn to scented litter for odor control, it's important to consider the potential allergic reactions or aversion in cats due to the strong chemical scents.

Pros of Scented Cat Litter:

  • Odor-blocking scents
  • Keeps litter box fresher between changes
  • Can make the litter box easier to hide in the home

Cons of Scented Cat Litter:

  • Can be too overpowering for some cats and humans
  • Your cat may smell like the litter

Recommendations Based on Cat Needs

Choosing the right litter often depends on specific needs:

  • Multi-cat households might benefit from strong multi-cat formulas. It is also recommended that multiple litter boxes be placed to provide adequate space and prevent stress.
  • Long-haired breeds could do better with a low-tracking, larger grain litter.
  • Kittens require non-clumping litter as they may ingest it during grooming.
  • Elderly cats benefit from softer litters, such as recycled paper, due to their gentle texture. Paper litter is also suitable for cats with allergies or post-surgery care.
  • Corn cat litter is an environmentally-friendly option that is flushable and clumps decently, but it may not have the best odor control and can be prone to tracking. Additionally, cats with food sensitivities to corn may not do well with this type of litter.

Petmate's Top Entry Litter Pan & Accessories Value Pack

For a cleaner and more contained litter solution, consider the Petmate Top Entry Litter Pan & Accessories Value Pack. This kit is ideal for homes with dogs or small children, keeping the litter in and the curious out. Its high walls and textured lid trap litter from your cat’s paws as they exit, reducing spillage and scattering on your floor. The included liners simplify cleaning by allowing all the contents to be lifted out without scooping, while the custom-designed scoop aids in regular maintenance.

Cat Litter Choices: Simplifying Your Decision

Finding the right cat litter can significantly improve your living environment and your cat’s happiness and health. By considering factors like odor control, maintenance level, and your cat’s preferences, you can choose a litter that works best for you and your pet.

For those looking to enhance their cat care arsenal with premium products, Petmate offers innovative solutions that cater to pet parents and furry friends' needs. Visit us today to explore how Petmate can help you maintain a clean and welcoming home for your cat.

Choose wisely, and you’ll find that the best cat litter is the one that meets the unique needs of your household and the preferences of your cat, making your life easier and your cat’s more comfortable.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Mixed Cat Litter Wholesale.