If your cat isn’t using the litter box, it could be the type of litter that’s the problem. Maybe they don’t like the way it gets stuck in their paws. Maybe they’re irritated by the perfumes that were added to reduce odors. (Or maybe they just want you to scoop it more often.) But the type of litter you use really does matter to your cat—here’s how to choose the right kind.
What Is the Best Kitty Litter?
When it comes to cat litter, a lot of the choice is up to you. If you want kitty litter that’s biodegradable, you’ll probably go with a plant-based litter made from sawdust or grain. If you want an odor-absorbing type, you’ll probably go for crystal cat litter. If budget is a concern, clay or pine pellet kitty litters are your best options.
A lot depends on your cats, too. Are you buying litter for kittens, seniors, or multiple cats? Kittens will prefer a fine-grade litter that’s gentle on their paws. Older cats may need softer litter as well, especially if they suffer joint pain from arthritis or because they’re overweight. If your cat has asthma, anything scented is out of the question.
Let’s take a closer look at the three most common types of cat litter and see how they compare.
Clay Litter: Pros and Cons
- Clay-based litter clumps easily, which makes scooping a breeze. It’s usually the cheapest type of cat litter, but it needs to be replaced more often.
- Bentonite clay and sand litters typically contain crystalline silica, which produces a toxic dust. Inhaling silica dust can cause respiratory issues and lung disease in cats, and also in the humans who scoop their litter.
- If your cat accidentally swallows some clay litter while they’re cleaning their paws, it could be dangerous. Bentonite clay can expand in the stomach and may cause intestinal blockage.
- Clay litters often contain irritants like perfumes and deodorizers that can cause coughing, wheezing, asthma, and allergic responses in cats.
Plant-Based Litter: Pros and Cons
- Biodegradable cat litter is eco-friendly, but often more expensive. It comes in clumping and non-clumping varieties (paper vs. pine pellets) so check which kind you’re getting before you buy.
- The finer-grade bio litters are easier on a cat’s (or kitten’s) paws. However, many people complain that they’re too messy and that the litter gets scattered and “tracked” all over the house.
- Plant materials (like wheat, corn, walnut, etc.) may contain harmful herbicides and pesticides. Similarly, milled wood and paper products may be contaminated with toxic chemicals.
- If plant-based litter gets moldy, it can produce poisonous aflatoxins that cause illness and liver damage.
Crystal Litter: Pros and Cons
- Crystal cat litters are made from amorphous silica, which produces less dust and is non-toxic. It’s safe for both cats and humans.
- The crystals absorb urine to eliminate odors, and the litter does not need to be changed as often.
- Some types of crystal litter (like Pretty Litter) can alert you to potential health problems by changing color.
- The crystals are inorganic, so they are less likely to harbor mold than clay or plant-based litters.
- Some cats may not like the texture, as the crystals can feel sharp to their paws. Others might prefer the finer grade crystal litter, but like any fine-grade litter, it can get messy.
- Crystal litter is usually more expensive, and does not biodegrade, so it is not environmentally friendly.
Ask a Vet to Recommend the Best Kind of Cat Litter
If you’re still stumped about how to choose the best litter for your cat, why not ask a vet? When you make an appointment at East Valley Animal Hospital, our doctors always reserve plenty of time for Q&A. We want you to feel free to ask us anything about cat care, from kitty litter to catios. Contact us to schedule a checkup for your cat today.
Photo by Yulin Wang on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 5/28/25.