Choosing the right cat litter might seem like a small decision, but it’s one that can have a big impact on your cat’s comfort and your home’s cleanliness. With so many options on the market, we know that it can be overwhelming to figure out what’s best for your feline friend. Do you go with classic clumping clay, innovative silica or an eco-friendly option made from renewable materials? Each type has its perks and quirks, and the right choice can make a world of difference — not just for your cat, but for your daily routine too. Two of our Pet Valu experts — Tammy Clairmont, brand marketing manager, and Zana Ellis, manager of learning and development — shared some insight on how to sort through all the litter options available and pick the best type for you and your cat(s).
When it comes to cat litter, there’s no shortage of choices. “We have a lot of different types to meet both customer needs and, of course, what their cat prefers,” Clairmont explained. She went on to describe the most common categories of litter, which include:
Clay litters: Available in clumping and non-clumping varieties*, this is the go-to option for many. As Clairmont noted, good clay litter has “strong absorbency, low dust and options that are fragrance-free or lightly scented.” (If you’re looking for something that’s easy to pick up and pour, lightweight clay litter offers similar benefits while being up to 50% lighter.)
Silica litter: This high-performance option is virtually dust-free, which is great for cats (and humans) with respiratory issues or sensitivities. Silica litter is also lightweight, and particularly absorbent, making it good at masking odours. Moreover, its texture is soft on cats’ paws, offering a comfortable experience for your feline.
Eco-friendly litters: Made from renewable materials like grass, paper, wheat and pine, these are ideal for environmentally conscious pet parents. Clairmont pointed out that eco litters are highly absorbent and come in both granular and pelleted formats. She added, “The natural pine scent in some options is great for controlling odours while keeping things natural.”
*FYI, clumping litter tends to be popular for its ease of cleaning, particularly in multi-cat households, as it allows for quick removal of waste. Non-clumping litter can produce less dust though and be more absorbent of odours (i.e. less smelly) over time. It also tends to be less expensive.
Not all cats are created equal, and their litter preferences can be as individual as their personalities. As Ellis emphasized, “you have to narrow it down to what the kitty is going to need versus what the pet parent wants to introduce as well.” To figure out what works best:
Start with your cat: Consider their habits. Do they cover their business or kick litter around? Are they sensitive to fragrances? Ellis noted, “Dust and tracking can be an issue for some cats, and even for pet parents, since dust isn’t great for kitty’s respiratory health.”
Consult an expert: Visit a Pet Valu store and talk to an Animal Care Expert (ACE), Ellis recommends. They can help you navigate the many options and recommend the best fit based on your cat’s age, size, health and habits, as well as for your home.
Experiment: If you’re switching litters, introduce the new type gradually to help your cat adjust. Gradually mixing the new litter with the old one allows your cat to become familiar with the change without feeling stressed or deterred from using their box.
Keeping your cat’s litter area clean and inviting is essential. “Cats like things clean and fresh,” Clairmont advised. She recommends daily scooping and fully changing the litter every two to three weeks. This is also the perfect time to give the litter box a thorough cleaning with warm water. “Replace plastic litter pans and scoops every year to keep things fresh and hygienic,” she added. For those dealing with litter tracking, Clairmont suggested using litter mats. “These help catch any litter that might stick to your cat’s paws, keeping it from being tracked through your home,” she explained.
Managing litter for multiple cats can be a bit more complex. Clairmont said, “Always have one litter box per cat, plus an extra one.” She also stressed the importance of placement. “Litter boxes should be on different levels of your home and in quiet, low-traffic areas. Cats don’t like an audience when they’re doing their business,” she shared. Choosing the right litter and maintaining a clean setup doesn’t just keep your cat happy — it also ensures your home stays fresh and pleasant. As Ellis put it, “It’s not as simple as grabbing any old bag of litter, but with the right advice, you can find the perfect solution for you and your kitty.”
Your complete guide to cat litter boxes: options, cleaning and maintenance
Experts share tips for choosing the right litter box for your cat(s), as well as insight on where to place the box(s) in your home, and cleaning best practices.
