Picking the best cat litter can feel like an impossible task. The options are endless—log onto Takealot or walk into a pet store, and you’ll be hit with hundreds of choices. Clumping, non-clumping, scented, unscented, silica, wood, soya… the list goes on. But what does it all mean, and why should you care?
The truth is, choosing cat litter isn’t about what you want—it’s about what your cat likes. They’re the ones using it, after all. That said, you do have a little say in the matter. You’re the one cleaning up after them, so factors like odor control, dust levels, ease of scooping, and even environmental impact should be on your radar.
To make things easier, we’ve put together this guide to help you navigate the different types of litter—especially the ones available at Healthy Pet Accessories.
Types of Cat Litter
There’s no shortage of cat litter types, and while companies are great at marketing their latest “miracle” formula, your cat doesn’t care about fancy labels—just comfort. Here’s what actually matters when picking the right litter.
Traditional Clay Litter
Clay litter, made from bentonite, is one of the most popular and widely available options. Since it’s mined straight from the earth, it mimics the texture of sand, which most cats naturally prefer. Older cats especially love clay litter because it’s soft on their paws, unlike coarser materials like crystal or wood litter.
There are two main types of clay litter: clumping and non-clumping. Clumping litter forms solid clumps when wet, making cleanup easier since you can scoop out only the dirty parts. Non-clumping litter, on the other hand, absorbs moisture but doesn’t form clumps, so you’ll need to do full litter changes more often.
At Healthy Pet Accessories, we offer three premium clay litter options. Healthy Pet Clumping Litter is 100% natural bentonite with zero additives. Healthy Pet Non-Clumping Litter has the same natural formula but requires more frequent changes. ClumpEasy Premium Litter is a lab-formulated litter that clumps better, locks in odors, and has ultra-soft, rounded granules that are gentle on your cat’s paws. Plus, it produces significantly less dust than traditional clay litter—perfect for sensitive cats and allergy-prone households.
Clay litter is widely used because it’s absorbent and affordable, but it does create dust. If your cat has respiratory issues, opt for a low-dust formula like ClumpEasy. Keep in mind that while clay litter is effective, it’s not biodegradable, making it less eco-friendly than other options.
Crystal Litter
Crystal litter is made from silica gel—the same material found in those tiny packets inside new shoe boxes. It’s great at absorbing moisture and controlling odor, but there are a few downsides to consider.
First, crystal litter doesn’t clump, so while it locks in moisture, urine can pool at the bottom of the litter box. Second, the granules are usually large and rough, which some cats may find uncomfortable on their paws. And third, silica gel can be harmful if ingested, so it’s not the best choice for kittens who like to nibble on everything.
That said, if you’re looking for a low-maintenance litter that fights odor effectively, crystal litter might be a good option. Just be prepared for the higher price tag and the need for full litter box cleanouts at least once a week.
Wood Chip Litter
If you want an eco-friendly alternative, wood chip litter is a great biodegradable option. Instead of forming clumps, wood pellets break down into dust when they come into contact with moisture. While this can be a drawback for some, pairing it with a Ferplast Ariel sieve litter tray makes cleanup much easier.
Wood litter is popular among environmentally conscious pet parents because it’s sustainable, naturally absorbs odors, and doesn’t contain artificial chemicals. However, some cats don’t like the rough texture, and because it doesn’t clump, it requires more frequent full litter box changes.
Other Litter Types: Soya, Paper, and Corn-Based Litters
Beyond clay, crystal, and wood chip litters, there are plenty of other options. Soya litter is made from soybean waste and is fully biodegradable. It clumps well, has low dust levels, and is soft on your cat’s paws. Paper litter is another eco-friendly choice, made from recycled paper, but it doesn’t clump and requires frequent changing. Corn-based litter is another alternative that clumps naturally and is flushable, making it a convenient choice for pet owners looking for easy disposal.
What Will Your Cat Prefer?
Most cats prefer soft, fine-grain litter that feels natural under their paws. Before modern cat litter was introduced in the 1940s, cats instinctively used sand and dirt for their bathroom needs. That’s why a litter with smaller, rounded granules is usually the most comfortable for them.
If you want to keep your cat happy while making cleanup easy for yourself, a clumping clay litter like ClumpEasy is a solid choice. For the best odor control, go for crystal or a premium clumping litter. If you’re environmentally conscious, wood chip litter is a great alternative.
For kittens and sensitive cats, avoid crystal litter until they’re past the stage of putting everything in their mouths. If your cat has sensitive paws, choose a soft, low-dust clumping litter.
Another thing to consider is scent. While scented litters may smell pleasant to humans, many cats dislike artificial fragrances and may refuse to use a scented litter box. If you’re unsure, go for an unscented option and add baking soda for natural odor control if needed.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the importance of litter box placement and maintenance. Make sure the litter box is in a quiet, easily accessible location, and scoop it daily to keep things fresh. Cats are clean creatures, and they’ll avoid a dirty litter box if it’s not properly maintained.
At the end of the day, the best cat litter is the one your cat will actually use. Experiment with different options, pay attention to your cat’s preferences, and find the perfect balance between their comfort and your convenience. Whether you prioritize odor control, dust levels, or sustainability, there’s a litter out there that will keep both you and your furry friend happy.
