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Let’s be honest, cat litter can be a messy and odorous challenge—particularly if your feline companion isn’t fond of it. Cats can turn exceptionally picky (even more than their usual selves) if the litter doesn’t meet their specific preferences.
As stated by Dr. Rebecca Greenstein, chief veterinarian at Kleinburg Veterinary Hospital in Ontario, Canada, and veterinary medical advisor for Rover.com, the perfect cat litter differs for each cat, and there’s no universal solution to determine the best choice.
“Cats are highly sensitive to texture, so [many] will naturally favor the feel, scent, and consistency of a particular litter type or brand,” Dr. Greenstein explains to Mytour. For pet owners, she emphasizes that the ideal litter should be cost-effective, effective at controlling odors, low in dust, and “[have] particles large enough to prevent tracking around the house, yet small enough to allow cats to bury their waste comfortably.”
To help you determine the best choice for your feline friend, we consulted several veterinarians and pet specialists for their advice on what to consider, including their preferred brands and even what they use for their own pets at home.
What Type of Litter Is Ideal for Cats?
Clumping cat litter is a favorite among veterinarians and pet owners, but there are other options available. | CasarsaGuru, E+ Collection, Getty ImagesSelecting the right cat litter involves choosing from various types, such as clay, silica gel, natural pine, cedar, and plant-based options like wheat and corn. Additionally, there are important factors to consider, such as whether the litter is clumping or non-clumping, and whether it is scented or unscented.
Clumping cat litter, typically made from clay, forms clumps when wet, making it simple for owners to remove urine and solid waste directly from the box. “It simplifies the process of locating and completely eliminating soiled litter with a standard scooper, unlike non-clumping litter where urine can remain and cause odors if not all contaminated pieces are removed,”
Due to its affordability and widespread availability, clumping litter is a favorite among veterinarians and pet owners. However, it does have its drawbacks. Dr. Greenstein notes that many clay-based clumping litters come in large, heavy bags that are difficult to transport, and the litter can generate significant dust—enough for your pet to spread it throughout your home.
Non-clumping cat litter, which can be composed of clay, silica gel, or natural materials, might appear to be a superior option as it produces far less dust (some varieties are entirely dust-free). Rather than cleaning the litter box daily, you might only need to dispose of waste every few weeks since it absorbs more liquid and odors. However, as Randy Klein, president of Whiskers Holistic Petcare in New York City, highlights, non-clumping litters often “have a stronger odor,” and because the litter cannot be separated from the waste, it tends to deplete faster, leading to higher long-term costs.
When shopping, the market offers an overwhelming array of options. | CasarsaGuru, E+ Collection, Getty ImagesRegarding odor control, Dr. Greenstein highlights that certain litters include additives like baking soda or charcoal to neutralize strong odors, while some eco-friendly options (such as wheat-, corn-, or cedar-based litters) are biodegradable and may contain enzymes that enhance their natural absorbency and odor-eliminating properties, making them a great choice for some pet owners.
However, Dr. Greenstein and other experts typically advise against using artificially scented litters. “Fragrances are added for human convenience—not because cats naturally prefer them,” Dr. Fadl explains. While some cats may accept scented litter, others—particularly those with allergies or respiratory conditions like asthma—might reject it and potentially avoid the litter box altogether. Additionally, scented litters often mask odors rather than eliminate them, offering limited effectiveness. “The best way to manage odors is through regular and thorough cleaning of the litter box and prompt disposal of waste,” Dr. Greenstein emphasizes.
No matter which cat litter you believe is the best, experts agree that your cat’s preference ultimately decides. “Cats thrive on routine, so introducing a new litter they’re unaccustomed to might lead to litter box avoidance,” Dr. Fadl notes. If you observe any changes in your cat’s bathroom behavior after switching litters or have other concerns, Dr. Greenstein suggests consulting a trusted veterinarian for advice.
Top Cat Litters to Purchase Today
1. Best Clumping Litter: World’s Best Cat Litter; Starting at $12
While every cat has unique preferences, experts agree that the original, unscented World’s Best cat litter—starting at $12 for an 8-pound bag on Amazon—meets all the essential criteria.
This corn-based litter is free from artificial fragrances and virtually dust-free. It’s also a flushable clumping litter, simplifying scooping and cleanups, while providing effective natural odor control. “Generally, low-dust, hypoallergenic options minimize mess and benefit both humans and cats, particularly those with asthma or allergies,” Dr. Greenstein explains.
Free from harmful chemicals, this litter is environmentally friendly and wheat-free, making it suitable for cats with wheat allergies. “I personally use World’s Best cat litter, but litter choice is highly subjective—it’s like choosing toilet paper,” Klein remarks.
2. Best Value: Dr. Elsey’s Precious Cat Ultra Clumping Cat Litter; Starting at $18
For a cost-effective option, experts like Dr. Greenstein suggest purchasing in bulk to save. “Opt for larger bags of litter instead of multiple smaller ones, as they tend to be more economical,” she advises.
Greenstein also recommends opting for clumping cat litter, as it “lets you remove only the clumped waste instead of emptying the entire litter box, reducing overall waste.”
Priced from $18 for an 18-pound bag (approximately 6 cents per ounce), Dr. Elsey’s Precious Cat ultra clumping cat litter strikes a balance between quality and affordability. This bentonite clay litter is hypoallergenic and highly absorbent, effectively controlling odors while forming quick clumps to prevent liquids from pooling or sticking to the box. Additionally, the brand claims it’s virtually dust-free and features uniquely sized clay particles to minimize tracking. (A 40-pound bag is also available for just $21.)
3. Best for Multiple Cats: Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Platinum Clumping Cat Litter; Starting at $18
Most widely available cat litters are clumping varieties, containing ingredients that absorb liquids and form clusters around waste. “Clumping litter makes it easy to scoop out your cat’s waste,” Klein explains. “The clumps typically extend the litter’s usability, provide a cleaner litter box experience, and reduce the need for frequent complete litter changes.”
For its exceptional clumping performance, Arm & Hammer’s Clump & Seal Platinum clumping cat litter is a standout choice. Available in 18-, 27.5-, 37-, and 40-pound bags, this clay litter incorporates baking soda crystals to neutralize odors on contact for up to 14 days. The brand also highlights its near dust-free formula and suitability for households with multiple cats.
4. Best Non-Clumping Litter: PrettyLitter Cat Litter; Starting at $24 Per Month
PrettyLitter Cat Litter | PrettyLitterCrafted from silica gel crystals, PrettyLitter is a subscription-based, non-clumping cat litter that offers more than just basic functionality.
Dr. Fadl, who uses this brand for her own pets, highlights that the litter “changes color if there’s an irregularity in the cat’s urine.” While she emphasizes that this shouldn’t replace regular veterinary checkups, it can help pet owners “detect urinary issues sooner than they might have otherwise.”
PrettyLitter is also free from dust and fragrances, making it a suitable option for cats and owners with respiratory conditions like asthma. Dr. Greenstein believes this “smart” litter could be particularly beneficial for older cats or younger male cats with a history of urinary tract problems, as it tracks pH changes in their urine. However, like Dr. Fadl, she emphasizes that it’s best utilized as a supplementary monitoring tool rather than a standalone solution.
Additionally, as a subscription-based service (starting at $24 per month), PrettyLitter ensures automatic deliveries every three to four weeks. Dr. Fadl notes that this feature can be helpful, as it “encourages cat owners to maintain a regular cleaning or replacement schedule for the litter box.”
