iHeartCats is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
Alright feline lovin’ folks, let’s dig down deep into the untold story of cat litter. Yes, despite popular belief, there is much more to that gray, almost sand-like substance we empty into a box and use as our cat’s transportable toilet than most people think. Thoughts start stirring and questions start forming, like where on earth does it even come from? What genius is behind this amazing creation? Is this brand really made to support my cat’s more heavy duty bathroom breaks? And is that brand actually releasing a refreshing scent into the air in attempts to save my entire house from smelling like urine every time Mr. Fluffy drops a load off?
Well your curiousness has been saved because we’ve got the full scoop on the subject! Take notes, here we go…
Let’s start off with a brief history lesson:
Thanks to a beautiful man named Edward Lowe and his determination in the mid 1900’s to better sanitize his cats litter box (or at the time, poo and pee box?), the idea to use the very absorbent dried, ground clay also used by the Michigan Industrial Materials Plant was brought to the table. Now ever since the 60’s, when Lowe’s creation originally hit pet shop shelves, our lovely felines have a well-approved place to use as a toilet and the world of cat owning is truly a beautiful and sanitary place, as it should be.
Of course since the 1960’s multiple brands of cat litter have surfaced and naturally some are better than others. I mean let’s be real, each cat is unique and so is their poop, therefore, different kinds of kitty litter required to take on different jobs is completely necessary.
Now before you run off to your closest pet store and drop some major bucks on pricy kitty litter, take a look at this list of the different kinds out there for you and your cat to test out:
Related: 8 Best Self Cleaning Litter Boxes for Cats
Clay Based Vs. Alternative Litter Materials & Our Favorites Of Both
So, let’s start with the old trusty clay-based cat litter. It’s the traditional choice that’s been around for a long time. The clay absorbs your kitty’s waste, and that can really help with the odor control. Some types of clay litter even have additives that can further neutralize any stinky odors. The downside? It’s heavy to lug around, it can be dusty, and it doesn’t biodegrade – so it isn’t exactly the best friend of the environment.
Now, on to these other options. Silica gel litter, for example, is pretty futuristic stuff. It’s lightweight, super absorbent, and some types can even change color to indicate potential health issues in your feline friend. Corn-based litter and paper-based litter are biodegradable options that can be more eco-friendly. They’re dust-free and have good odor control, but they may not clump as well as clay or silica. Remember, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution here. Your choice might depend on your cat’s preferences, any allergies they might have, and of course, your own environmental or health concerns. Oh, and let’s not forget, how heavy of a bag you’re willing to carry!
Clay Litter Options
Tidy Cats Lightweight Clumping Litter
This kitty litter is known for its Glade fragrance that almost makes the litter box a pleasurable scent adventure. And it’s so lightweight, don’t be too alarmed when you move your cat’s litter box and it feels like air!
Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Platinum Cat Litter
Moisture-activated Micro-Granules seal and destroy odors in this clay clumping litter for multiple cat households. And when it seals in moisture, the rock solid clumps formed won’t crumble when you scoop. Plus, this Arm & Hammer offering is specially formulated with baking soda, known for its powerful odor-neutralizing properties. Good-bye stinky potty scent!
Dr. Elsey’s Ultra Premium Clumping Cat Litter
This clay litter stops moisture from reaching the bottom of the litter box, instead capturing urine in tight clumps that scoop no problem. That fast action capture makes this choice great for a home with multiple cats. It’s unscented, promises low tracking, and delivers good litter box action at an affordable price.
Other Materials For Great Litter Experiences
PrettyLitter
This silica gel litter changes colors to monitor your cat’s health while providing excellent odor control with no added perfumes. It works by soaking up the urine and trapping it inside to block odors. When it comes to pooping business, PrettyLitter dries out the pile, leaving stink-free logs to scoop away.
Swheat Scoop
Put your green thumbs up because this kitty litter is chemical-free! This litter contains all natural wheat enzymes and apparently, according to reviews, contains a scent that is quite similar to that of walking on your grandmother’s farm…? Hey, that just might be right up you and your feline’s alley!
Arm & Hammer Natural Clumping Litter
Not only does the litter leave a pleasant scent behind, but it’s clumping abilities are out of this world! Literally, the word ‘magical’ comes to mind when trying to describe how beautifully this litter clumps Mr. Fluffy’s bathroom business. Cats instantly feel right at home while attending to their bathroom duites when using this litter made of natural corn fibers, plant based clumping agent, baking soda, plus mineral oil for dust control.
And there you have it, cat friends! Here’s to hoping for a neat and tidy kitty headquarters!