10 Best Natural Cat Litters in 2024 - Reviews & Top Picks
10 Best Natural Cat Litters in - Reviews & Top Picks
When caring for your feline friends, choosing the right litter can be just as important as finding the perfect food. Today, we bring you this year&#;s top picks for natural cat litter. With a focus on environmentally-friendly options that don&#;t sacrifice performance, here are the best litters to keep your cat&#;s commode clean, natural, and odor-free.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website taotaohui.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in
Image Product DetailsBest Overall
Arm & Hammer Feline Pine Non-Clumping Cat Litter
Best Value
sWheat Scoop Clumping Fresh Linen Litter
Premium Choice
World&#;s Best Multi-Cat Unscented Clumping Corn Cat Litter
O.R.I./GRAYSTONE NATURAL Tofu Litter
sWheat Scoop Unscented Wheat Litter
The 10 Best Natural Cat Litters
1. Arm & Hammer Feline Pine Non-Clumping Cat Litter &#; Best Overall
Material: Wood, pine Features: Unscented, non-clumping, odor control
Taking our top spot for the best overall natural cat litter is Arm & Hammer Feline Pine Non-Clumping Cat Litter. It&#;s clear that this product is a favorite among cat parents, and rightfully so. The litter, derived from sustainably sourced pine shavings, presents an eco-friendly approach to cat hygiene.
It&#;s not only kind to the environment but also to your home. With its low-dust formula, Feline Pine keeps your home clean while protecting your lungs from dust particles.
But what really sets this litter apart is its ability to absorb liquids and odors on contact, thanks to the moisture-locking property of pine. The result is a fresh, naturally pine-scented home, free from unwanted cat-related odors. Its lightweight texture is easy on your cat&#;s paws, making it perfect for both active cats and older ones that may find heavier litters a struggle.
Pros
- Naturally absorbs liquids and odors on contact
- Low-dust formula, perfect for clean homes and sensitive lungs
- Made from sustainably sourced pine
- Lightweight and gentle on cat&#;s paws
Cons
- Higher price point compared to clay litters
2. sWheat Scoop Clumping Fresh Linen Litter &#; Best Value
Material: Wheat Features: Natural, odor control, clumping
sWheat Scoop Clumping Fresh Linen Litter provides an eco-friendly, all-natural litter solution with superior odor control. This litter uses the power of natural wheat starches to form quick, easy-to-scoop clumps, simplifying your cleanup process.
As well as being excellent at odor control, this product delivers a light, fresh fragrance using natural oils. This can contribute to a more pleasant, cleaner-smelling home environment. The dust-free formula results in minimal tracking, reducing the amount of cleanup necessary around your home. This is a great feature for maintaining cleanliness, especially in busy households.
The litter&#;s environmentally-conscious design extends to its disposal. It&#;s both biodegradable and flushable, making it a renewable choice friendly to the earth. We think this is the best natural cat litter for the money.
Pros
- Effective odor control with a clean, natural scent
- Quick clumping formula for easy scooping
- Minimal tracking due to dust-free composition
- Biodegradable and flushable, promoting eco-friendliness
Cons
- The scent, while natural, may not be preferred by all cats
3. World&#;s Best Multi-Cat Unscented Clumping Corn Cat Litter &#; Premium Choice
Material:
Corn
Features:
Clumping, odor control, flushable
World&#;s Best Multi-Cat Unscented Clumping Corn Cat Litter provides an all-natural solution for your cat&#;s litter box needs. The formula is derived from whole-kernel corn and is free of harmful chemicals and artificial perfumes, prioritizing safety for pets, people, and the planet.
This product&#;s clumping ability is fast and efficient, reducing the need for scraping and making cleanup more manageable. It offers impressive, long-lasting odor control, swiftly trapping any unpleasant scents left by your feline companion. As a result, you&#;ll maintain a fresher, more pleasant home environment.
The litter is 99% dust-free, ensuring cleaner air and less mess in your home. This is especially beneficial for households where members may have allergies or sensitivities to dust.
Pros
- An all-natural multi-cat litter with efficient odor control
- A quick clumping formula that requires no scraping
- Flushable and safe for most septic and sewer systems
- Lightweight and 99% dust-free for less mess and cleaner air
Cons
- Some cats may need time to adjust to the corn material of the litter
4. O.R.I./GRAYSTONE NATURAL Tofu Litter
Material: Tofu Features: Natural
O.R.I./GRAYSTONE NATURAL Tofu Litter takes litter box cleanliness to the next level. Designed to work seamlessly with automatic self-cleaning litter box robots, it is also well-suited to traditional and sifting litter boxes. This versatile product fits perfectly in a range of settings.
Made from soy tofu and edible starch, the litter clumps quickly to capture and contain ammonia smells. This makes it suitable for both single and multi-cat households. The granulated, plant-based litter is entirely natural and contains no artificial ingredients or harmful chemicals.
Its ease of use and cleanliness stand out with this product. It doesn&#;t stick to your pet&#;s paws, minimizing the tracking of litter around your home. It&#;s also 99.9% dust-free, meaning you can pour it without causing a cloud of dust. This makes it a healthier choice for you and your pet.
One of the standout features of this product is its environmentally friendly design. It&#;s not only biodegradable but also compostable and flushable, allowing you to dispose of your cat&#;s litter directly into the toilet.
The packaging is thoughtfully designed too. The easy-pour handle makes refilling the litter box a breeze, while the lightweight nature of the bag reduces strain when lifting and carrying it.
Pros
- Fast clumping and highly effective at trapping odors
- 99.9% dust-free and lightweight for easy handling
- Natural, biodegradable, compostable, and flushable
- Doesn&#;t stick to your pet&#;s paws, minimizing litter tracking
Cons
- An initial adjustment period may be required for cats not used to tofu litter
5. sWheat Scoop Unscented Wheat Litter
Material: Wheat Features: Unscented, clumping, odor control
If you&#;re a multi-cat household and looking for a highly effective and environmentally friendly litter, look no further than sWheat Scoop Unscented Wheat Litter. Made from renewable and biodegradable wheat, this is a top choice for eco-conscious cat parents.
This litter harnesses the power of natural enzymes and wheat starches to neutralize urine and ammonia odors. The unscented formula means you can say goodbye to ammonia and urine odors without replacing them with artificial scents.
Moreover, this is an excellent option if you have several cats as it offers 2x stronger odor elimination and clumping capabilities compared to sWheat Scoop&#;s fast-clumping litter.
Pros
- Odor control through natural enzymes and wheat starches
- Strong clumping properties, ideal for multi-cat households
- Flushable, low tracking, and dust-free for easy maintenance
- Made from renewable, biodegradable wheat
Cons
- Some cats may need time to adjust to the texture
6. Okocat Original Wood Clumping Litter
Material: Wood Features: Flushable, odor control, clumping
Okocat Original Wood Clumping Litter offers a sustainable and natural choice for cat owners. This product is crafted from responsibly sourced wood fiber, providing a biodegradable option that&#;s healthy for your pet and the planet.
The unique wood fiber blend used in this litter prevents enzymes from bonding with liquid and waste, effectively neutralizing ammonia odors before they can begin. This contributes to a fresher-smelling environment around the litter box.
Efficient liquid absorption enables the litter to create solid clumps upon contact. These clumps are easy to scoop out, making litter maintenance a breeze. Additionally, this litter is flushable, providing even greater convenience in disposal.
This litter is 99% dust-free, ensuring cleaner air for both you and your feline friend. This feature is great for households concerned about respiratory health and cleanliness.
Pros
- Effective odor control with a fresh, natural scent
- Quick clumping action for easier scooping
- Flushable for convenient disposal
- Minimal dust for cleaner air and reduced tracking
Cons
- Not all cats acclimate to this material
7. Naturally Fresh Unscented Walnut Litter
Material: Walnut Features: Clumping, multi-cat, odor control
Naturally Fresh Unscented Walnut Litter provides a natural and effective solution for multi-cat households. Made from 100% natural walnut shells, this litter stands out for its superior odor-neutralization capabilities, even compared to alternatives such as clay, pine, corn, and wheat.
This litter employs triple-action odor defense enzymes, along with impressive absorbency to control odors from feces, urine, and ammonia effectively. This ensures a fresher environment around your cat&#;s litter box, maintaining a pleasant smell in your home.
The quick-clumping feature of this litter makes scooping and cleaning an easy task. Clumps form rapidly, and the litter&#;s high absorbency means less litter is wasted.
Another standout feature of this litter is its dust-free formula. This reduces tracking, helping to keep your floors clean. It also contributes to healthier air, which is especially beneficial for cats and pet parents with respiratory issues.
Pros
- Superior odor control using natural walnut shells and triple-action enzymes
- Quick clumping action and high absorbency for easy maintenance
- Dust-free formula reduces tracking and promotes healthier air
- Free of chemicals, toxins, clay, corn, and grains, making it safe for your cat
Cons
- Some cats might need time to adjust
8. Frisco Natural Lightly Scented Grass Litter
Material: Grass Features: Clumping, scented, multi-cat
The Frisco Natural Lightly Scented Grass Litter offers an alternative approach to conventional clay litter with a nature-friendly material&#;grass. Ideal for multi-cat households, this litter is not only soft on your kitty&#;s paws but also provides easier sifting for pet parents.
The litter&#;s fast and solid clumping action allows for easier scooping and disposal. Plus, the resealable bag ensures easy storage. This grass cat litter delivers exceptional odor control and absorbency, locking in wetness and pet mess smells, thus ensuring a more pleasant litter box area.
Besides, the litter is lightly scented, enhancing its odor control capabilities and providing a fresh and pleasing aroma to the litter box area. This can make a noticeable difference, particularly in multi-cat households.
Pros
- Excellent odor control and absorbency
- Lightly scented to provide a fresher litter box area
- Low-dust formulation for a cleaner and healthier environment
- Natural grass ingredients
Cons
- Grass texture might bother come cats
9. Weruva Fresh Scented Wood Litter
Material: Wood Features: Scented, odor control, clumping, natural
Weruva Fresh Scented Wood Litter is an innovative choice for maintaining a clean and fresh-smelling litter box. This unique product employs hinoki wood, also known as Japanese cypress, and green tea, both of which are known for their ability to help control the growth of bacteria and odor.
This litter is formulated to quickly clump, facilitating easy cleaning and enhancing overall hygiene. Moreover, it&#;s free from both clay and grain, making it a healthier choice for your feline companion. The low-dust content further adds to its appeal, reducing respiratory discomfort for both you and your pet.
An added advantage of this product is its fresh aroma, which can help keep your home smelling great. The use of natural ingredients such as hinoki wood and green tea not only provides effective odor control but also contributes to a pleasant and refreshing scent.
Pros
- Uses hinoki wood and green tea to control bacteria and odor
- Quickly clumping for easy cleaning
- Clay-free and grain-free formulation for healthier use
- Low-dust content reduces respiratory discomfort
Cons
- The premium price might not suit all budgets
10. Vetbasis Herbal Lavender Corn Litter
Material: Corn Features: Clumping, scented, odor control, natural, eco-friendly
Vetbasis Herbal Lavender Corn Litter offers a sustainable and renewable choice for your feline companion&#;s hygiene needs. It is formulated from ground corn cobs, making it an eco-friendly and biodegradable litter solution.
The litter has a unique clumping ability that allows for easy and convenient waste disposal. The ground corn cobs naturally trap odors, maintaining a clean and fresh atmosphere in your home. The product is further enhanced with a pleasant lavender scent, adding a soothing fragrance to your environment.
What sets Vetbasis litter apart is its safety for your furry friend. It is devoid of harsh chemicals and harmful clumping agents, making it an excellent choice for pet owners concerned about their cats&#; well-being. This product is suitable for both single and multi-cat households and meets all your litter needs with a simple yet efficient formula.
Are you interested in learning more about Dust Free Tofu Cat Litter? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
Pros
- Made from renewable and sustainable ground corn cobs
- Eco-friendly and biodegradable
- Free from harsh chemicals and harmful clumping agents
- Ideal for both single and multi-cat households
Cons
- Might not mask strong odors in multiple-cat households
Buyer&#;s Guide for the Best Natural Cat Litters
Choosing the right cat litter is vital for maintaining your cat&#;s hygiene and comfort. In recent years, natural cat litter has become a popular choice among cat owners due to its environmental benefits and safe composition.
However, with numerous brands and types on the market, making a selection can be overwhelming. Here are a few key factors to consider when buying natural cat litter:
Material
Natural cat litters are made from various biodegradable materials, including corn, wheat, pine, walnut shells, grass, and paper. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks.
For instance, corn and wheat are known for excellent clumping and odor control, while wood materials are often dust-free and have a natural, woodsy scent.
Clumping vs Non-Clumping
Clumping cat litters make waste cleanup easier and more convenient, as they form solid clumps when they come in contact with urine. Non-clumping litters, on the other hand, tend to last longer and are often cheaper. Decide based on your preference for convenience and cost.
Odor Control
Odor control is one of the main concerns for any cat owner. While some natural litters have excellent odor control properties, others may need help from added ingredients like baking soda or artificial fragrances.
If you prefer a litter with a scent, make sure it&#;s a smell that both you and your cat will enjoy, as cats can be particularly sensitive to strong fragrances.
Dust Production
Dust can cause respiratory problems and allergies in both cats and humans. Look for low-dust or dust-free natural litters to keep your home cleaner and healthier. However, keep in mind that even some natural litters can produce dust, so always check the product description and reviews.
Eco-Friendliness
One of the significant advantages of natural cat litters is their minimal impact on the environment. Biodegradable litters are made from renewable resources and will decompose over time.
Some litters are even flushable, although it&#;s crucial to check local regulations as some areas prohibit flushing cat litter due to the risk of toxoplasmosis.
Cat&#;s Preference
Each cat has its own preferences when it comes to litter. Some cats may prefer finer, sand-like litters, while others might be okay with larger granules. If your cat isn&#;t comfortable with the litter, they might avoid using the litter box, leading to unwanted messes.
Remember, finding the right natural cat litter might require a bit of trial and error. But with patience and observation, you can find a product that suits both your and your furry friend&#;s needs while supporting a more sustainable future.
Conclusion
Each of our top four choices showcases a commitment to natural, environmentally-friendly cat litter options, which were selected based on factors such as their high performance, value for money, premium materials, and suitability for kittens.
Arm & Hammer Feline Pine Non-Clumping Cat Litter stood out as the best overall due to its powerful moisture absorption, low-dust formula, and sustainable sourcing. It is a testament to the effectiveness of wood-based litters, offering a healthy and pleasant environment for both cats and their owners.
The sWheat Scoop Clumping Fresh Linen Litter claimed the best value spot with its affordable price tag, excellent odor control, and biodegradability. It demonstrates that eco-friendly products can be both high-quality and accessible.
For our premium choice, World&#;s Best Multi-Cat Unscented Clumping Corn Cat Litter brought forward the power of corn as a base material, focusing on safety, efficient odor control, and convenience. It delivers outstanding quality and performance, justifying its higher price point.
Each of these products demonstrates a clear commitment to providing natural, effective alternatives to traditional cat litters, bringing you superior performance without compromising environmental sustainability.
Featured Image Credit: Mari_Piman, Shutterstock
How useful was this post?
Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)
Help us improve Catster for pet parents!
Your feedback really matters.
The Best Cat Litter, According to Cat Parents
Bathroom business is serious business, so there&#;s quite a bit to consider before selecting a litter. Read on for everything you need to know about the best cat litter on the market today, including expert tips and product picks from pet parents like you.
There are a wide range of litters available today, each offering unique benefits to cats and cat parents. Which one you choose can impact how easy it is to keep your space clean, your home smelling fresh and your cat happy .
As every cat parent knows, cleaning the litter box is one of the least rewarding aspects of the job. However, the right cat litter for your and your pet&#;s needs can make all the difference.
To help you choose, we&#;ve rounded up the best cat litters as tested and approved by Chewy customers. These top-selling, top-rated cat litter brands get two paws up from cat parents like you.
At first glance, the amount of cat litters available today can be overwhelming. Where to start? First, consider these important factors:
Types of Cat Litter
Cat litters are available in a wide range of materials and offer a number of features. Here, Joey Lusvardi, CCBC, a Minneapolis-based certified cat behavior consultant and founder of Class Act Cats, helps us break it down.
Clay
The most common types of cat litters are made from clay&#;specifically bentonite clay, which is highly absorbent, although other types of clay may be present depending on the type of litter. Clay litters can be clumping or non-clumping, and with a consistency reminiscent of sand or dirt, offer an alluring, natural texture.
&#;For most cats, a basic unscented clay clumping litter will work great, as it is easy to scoop; controls odor well if you scoop regularly; and it meets the preferences of most cats,&#; says Lusvardi.
Best for: most cats without special litter needs; budget-conscious pet parents
Silica Gel
Also known as crystal litter, silica gel litter is a mineral-based litter made from silica gel granules. The lightweight granules trap odors and absorb urine without clumping, and produce minimal dust. Some brands, such as PrettyLitter, change colors to help monitor the cat&#;s urine content.
While many cats happily use crystal litter, others may not like the texture. &#;Crystal litter tends to have sharp edges, and may not be very comfortable for cats to walk on,&#; Lusvardi says.
Best for: pet parents who prefer a lighter litter; cats with respiratory and urinary health concerns; households concerned about litter dust and tracking
Natural
Natural cat litters are made from sustainable, biodegradable materials including paper, corn, tofu, cedar, walnuts and grass. Natural litters rely on their fiber-heavy compositions to absorb urine.
Because natural cat litter is made with renewable materials, it&#;s one of the most eco-friendly options you can choose, says Lusvardi. &#;I often recommend clients try a grass litter if they are thinking of switching to a natural litter. It has qualities that are pretty close to a typical clay litter but is less dusty.&#;
Best for: ingredient-conscious and environmentally friendly pet parents; cats who do not like the texture of more traditional litters; cats who are sensitive to chemicals and fragrances
Multi-Cat
Multi-cat litters typically contain extra odor neutralizers and fragrances, making them effective at keeping households with multiple pets smelling fresh. Multi-cat litters can be made from a variety of materials, and many cats tolerate them. However, if your cat is sensitive to fragrance, these litters may not be appropriate.
&#;If your cat has a sensitivity, try to find as boring a litter as possible,&#; says Lusvardi. &#;Unscented litters are going to have fewer chemicals than scented litters.&#;
Best for: households with multiple cats; pet parents concerned about odors
Flushable
Flushable litter is made with 100% biodegradable ingredients, meaning that&#;unlike clay or silica litters&#;clumps and soiled portions can be flushed down the toilet. Not every toilet or septic tank can effectively manage flushable litter, though, so it&#;s important to research your system before selecting a litter.
Best for: pet parents who don&#;t want solid waste in the trash can
Clumping
Clumping cat litter is a popular variety of clay litter that is extra absorbent, causing the clay to form firm clumps when it comes into contact with liquid. A clumping formula makes it easy to scoop out urine, meaning the box smells fresher and has to be emptied less frequently.
While most pet parents who purchase clay litter would prefer the clumping variety, non-clumping can be better for some cats. &#;For long-haired or even some medium-haired cats, clumping litter may get stuck in their fur,&#; Lusvardi says. &#;This is incredibly uncomfortable, so they may prefer a non-clumping litter that won&#;t try to tag along after they use the litter box.&#;
Best for: pet parents who want to easily scoop and conserve litter; short-haired cats
Low-Tracking
While no litter is 100% non-tracking, low-tracking varieties are typically made from larger, heavier granules that are more likely to stay in the box instead of clinging to kitty&#;s feet or fur. Low-tracking litters are great for keeping the house tidy, but not all cats enjoy the texture.
Best for: pet parents concerned about stray litter
How to Litter Train a Cat or Kitten
Litter-training a cat or kitten doesn&#;t have to stink! Follow these easy steps for bathroom success:
- Choose the right equipment. Set your cat up for success with a shallow box that&#;s easy to get into, as well as a kitten-friendly litter, such as Dr. Elsey&#;s Kitten Attract Clumping Clay Cat Litter.
- Place the box in a safe space. Cats like privacy and easy access, so put the litter box in a low-traffic area that&#;s effortless to find.
- Show your cat the boxes. Almost immediately after bringing a new cat or kitten home, show them the litter box. As they get acclimated to their new home, continue to place them in the box a few times a day.
- Scoop the box daily for feces and urine. Cleaning litter boxes isn&#;t a glamorous chore, but it&#;s an important one. A dirty litter box is stressful to cats, and many will refuse to use it.
- Be patient. Your new pet may have a few accidents, and that&#;s OK. Never scold your cat; instead, calmly and thoroughly clean up the mess to avoid your cat going in the same place again.
For more litter-training tips, check out our comprehensive Chewtorial guide.
Cat Litter Troubleshooting
Sometimes, a perfectly trained cat will stop using the litter box. Some common reasons include:
- The box is different. Cats don&#;t like change. If you recently bought a new box, moved the box or switched to a new litter, your cat might not be comfortable with the new arrangement. If you must change your cat&#;s bathroom setup, try to make the changes subtle and gradual.
- The litter is dirty. Many cats won&#;t use a dirty box, even if it contains the greatest cat litter on the planet. Scoop your litter at least once a day, and replace it at least once a week.
- The box is too small. Your cat should be able to comfortably turn around in the litter box. If it&#;s the same box you purchased when your cat was a kitten, it might be time to buy something bigger.
- You have a kitty bully. In multi-cat households, one cat might &#;claim&#; the litter box. Make sure you have separate boxes for each cat, and place them in separate parts of the house.
- Stress. Cats can sense household stress, so a change in the family dynamic (such as a new baby or home renovations) can cause litter box issues. Try to stick to daily routines, and consult your veterinarian about ways to reduce your pet&#;s stress.
- Underlying medical issues. If your cat is sick, they may have trouble using the litter box. Always contact your veterinarian about any abrupt changes to litter box habits.
For more troubleshooting tips, check out our handy guide on solving cat litter problems.
How We Chose These Products
The right kitty litter can make all the difference for both cats and cat parents. That&#;s why we rounded up these top-selling, top-rated products, as chosen by satisfied Chewy customers. Backed by thousands of ratings and stellar cat litter reviews, these best-in-class litters are kitty-tested and pet-parent approved.
Talk to Your Veterinarian
The litter box is an important part of your cat&#;s routine and health, so before making changes, discuss them with your veterinarian. They can make suggestions about the best litter for your cat.
It&#;s also important to consult your veterinarian if you notice changes to your cat&#;s litter box habits, including accidents outside the box or straining to go. &#;The occasional lapse in litter-box usage may not be cause for concern, but recurrent or abrupt issues require immediate veterinary attention,&#; says Dr. Bethany Hsia, DVM, a Clovis, California-based veterinarian and co-founder of CodaPet.
Cat Litter FAQs
Q: What is the least messy cat litter?
A: The least messy cat litters are clumping, low-tracking litters made from heavier granules, which are less likely to stick to a cat&#;s feet or fur. If dust is a concern, silica litters are virtually dust-free.
Q: How often should you change cat litter?
A: Cats prefer clean boxes, so plan to scoop your box at least once a day (and twice when possible). Once a week, empty the litter pan completely; clean it with unscented dish soap; and refill with new litter.
Q: Why did my cat stop using the litter box?
A: Cats may stop using the litter box for a variety of reasons, including a change to the litter box, litter or location; dirty litter; an uncomfortably small box; intimidation from another cat; stress; or an underlying health issue. If you notice a change in your cat&#;s litter box habits, consult your veterinarian.
Cat Litter: Next Steps
Cats bring immeasurable joy, comfort and companionship to our lives, enriching every corner of our homes&#;except, perhaps, the litter box corner. Fortunately, we&#;ve come a long way since messy, one-size-fits-all litters.
Next order of business? Finding the perfect litter box for your feline friend. Read our guide on everything you need to know about buying litter boxes, from the latest high-tech options to tried-and-true favorites.
Expert input provided by Dr. Bethany Hsia, DVM, a Clovis, California-based veterinarian and co-founder of CodaPet, and Joey Lusvardi, CCBC, a Minneapolis-based certified cat behavior consultant and founder of Class Act Cats.
For more information, please visit Bentonite Cat Litter Lavender.