The ultimate guide to different types of cat litter

The Ultimate Guide to Different Types of Cat Litter

Choosing the right cat litter isn’t just about what sits under your cat’s paws, it creates daily comfort, supports their health, and keeps your home from having unwanted odours.

Here in Australia, where our love for our furry friends knows no bounds, picking the purr-fect litter is more than just a choice – it's a commitment to the comfort and joy of our whiskered companions.

With so many options available, from traditional clay to highly absorbent recycled paper cat litter, finding the right fit comes down to understanding what works best for your cat, your lifestyle, and the environment.

What Kind of Litter Is Best for Cats?

For most cats, the ideal litter should be:

Low dust to support respiratory health and reduce tracking around the house.
Unscented or lightly scented, as strong artificial fragrances can be overwhelming to a cat's sensitive nose.
Soft on paws, which is especially important for kittens, senior cats, or cats recovering from surgery.
Highly absorbent with effective odour control for manageable maintenance.

Veterinarians and behaviour specialists generally suggest that highly absorbent, low-dust litters are well-suited for everyday use, as they help maintain hygiene and protect respiratory health.

Quick Comparison: Cat Litter Types at a Glance

If you are looking for a quick recommendation based on your household's specific needs, here is how the primary litter types compare:

Priority	Recommended Litter Type
Best for Kittens & Post-Surgery	Paper (Soft, non-toxic if accidentally ingested)
Strong Odour Control	Crystal / Clumping Clay
Best Eco-Friendly / Low Dust	Paper / Wood
Easy Scooping (Firm Clumps)	Clay / Tofu / Corn

Types of Cat Litter

There are several common litter types available. Here is a quick comparison of the most popular options to help you choose the right fit for your cat.

Litter Type	Main Ingredient	Clumping?	Odour Control	Main Benefit	Best For
Paper	Recycled paper pellets	No	Very Good (Natural)	Virtually dust-free, non-toxic, and sustainable.	Kittens, sensitive paws, post-surgery, eco-conscious homes (e.g., Breeder's Choice)
Clay	Mined clay (Bentonite)	Yes & No	Good	Highly absorbent and forms solid, easy-to-scoop clumps.	Adult cats, budget-conscious households
Wood / Pine	Recycled timber or pine	No	Very Good (Natural)	Natural earthy scent and biodegradable.	Eco-conscious owners, adult cats
Corn / Tofu	Plant-based byproducts	Yes	Good	Biodegradable clumps that are easy to scoop.	Adult cats (requires strict cleaning to prevent mould)
Crystal	Silica gel	No	Excellent	Absorbs liquid quickly and traps odour for long periods.	Single-cat households (Not recommended for kittens)

There are several common litter types available, each with its own benefits and trade-offs.

Clay Litter

A traditional and widely available option known for its strong absorbency. It comes in both clumping and non-clumping varieties. While highly effective at forming scoopable clumps, clay can be heavy, prone to tracking, and very dusty. Additionally, clay is obtained through strip-mining and is not biodegradable, making it less suitable for environmentally conscious households.

Wood / Pine Litter

Often made from recycled timber or pine, wood litter is highly absorbent and offers a natural, earthy odour control. It’s considered a sustainable alternative to traditional clay, though some cats can find the texture slightly rougher on their paws.

Corn and Tofu Litter

These are biodegradable, plant-based alternatives that form clumps when wet, making them easy to scoop. While they are sustainable and gentle on paws, they can be more expensive. Because they are organic food byproducts, they require strict and regular cleaning to prevent mould, and are generally not recommended for young kittens who may try to eat the clumps.

Crystal Litter

Made from silica gel, this litter absorbs moisture well and controls odour effectively for a period of time. However, it is non-biodegradable and can be uncomfortable on sensitive paws. Vets advise against using crystal litter for kittens, as ingesting the synthetic crystals can be harmful.

Paper Litter

Made from recycled paper, this option is highly absorbent, low dust, and soft underfoot. Brands like Breeder’s Choice use recycled paper pellets that provide natural odour control without relying on harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances. Because paper litter is non-toxic and non-clumping, it is commonly recommended for kittens, cats with respiratory sensitivities, or post-surgery care. It is also one of the most sustainable litters available.

What Do Vets Recommend?

Veterinarians generally advise looking for:

Low-dust, unscented litter for everyday respiratory health.
Soft, non-toxic materials (such as paper pellets) for kittens, seniors, or post-surgery care.
Consistent cleaning routines to maintain hygiene and prevent litter tray aversion.

They also advise caution with:

Very dusty litters, especially for cats with asthma or respiratory issues.
Strongly perfumed litters that may discourage tray use.
Clumping or synthetic litters (like crystals) for kittens who are prone to nibbling and ingesting particles.

Open vs Covered Litter Boxes

While covered litter boxes may seem neater to owners, many vets and behaviour specialists prefer open trays because they:

Allow better airflow, reducing concentrated odour build-up.
Help cats feel safer by maintaining visibility of their surroundings.
Make it easier for you to visually monitor your cat’s bathroom habits.

Closed boxes can trap smells inside, which may discourage a cat from using them. In most cases, a spacious, open tray paired with a highly absorbent litter is the most comfortable setup for the cat.

How Do You Keep Cat Litter from Smelling?

Managing odour effectively comes down to choosing the right litter and maintaining a consistent routine:

Scoop solid waste daily to keep the tray fresh.
Fully change the litter regularly, based on the specific type you use (for example, paper pellets typically need a full change every 1–2 weeks).
Maintain the right depth (around 5–7 cm) for proper absorption.
Place trays in well-ventilated areas, away from your cat's food and water bowls.
Use enough trays (the standard guideline is one tray per cat, plus one extra).

Choosing the Best Litter for Your Cat and Home

There is no single “best” option for every feline. Finding the right litter is about balancing your cat’s preferences with your lifestyle priorities—whether that involves seeking low dust, natural odour control, or sustainability.

With a bit of observation and a consistent routine, you can find a solution that keeps your cat comfortable and your home hygienic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of cat litter overall?

For most households, a low-dust, highly absorbent, and unscented option is ideal. The best choice ultimately depends on your cat's preferences, any underlying health needs, and your preferred cleaning routine.

Which cat litter is best for kittens?

Soft, non-toxic, and low-dust options are generally recommended. Paper pellet litters, such as Breeder's Choice, are often utilised because they are gentle on paws and contain a natural attractant to encourage litter box usage.

Is eco-friendly cat litter better?

Eco-friendly options, such as paper or wood, can help reduce landfill waste compared to clay, which is strip-mined. They offer effective absorbency and natural odour control while being more sustainable for the environment.

How do I choose the right litter?

Start with a low-dust, unscented option. Monitor your cat's behaviour; if they use the tray consistently and the home remains relatively odour-free, you have likely found a suitable match for your household.