Let’s be real: A cat’s purr can make your day, but their litter box can ruin it. For decades, clay litter has been the go-to. However, as pet parents, we are getting smarter about what goes in our homes and what impacts our planet. You may be wondering what alternative cat litter options are out there.
I’ve been in the pet industry for a while now, and a question I get a lot is, “What’s the deal with clay litter?” The answer is, there are a few potential issues you should know about. For starters, clay litter can create a lot of fine dust. This is more than a simple cleaning headache. That dust often contains crystalline silica, it can be a concern for both you and your feline friend, especially if either of you has respiratory sensitivities.
On top of that, there’s the environmental elephant in the room. Clay for cat litter is a mined material. The process of strip mining to get the clay for litter is incredibly destructive. It removes large areas of topsoil and vegetation, destroying habitats. This material also does not break down. It simply sits in landfills forever, contributing to a growing waste problem.
The good news is, you have options. Let’s look at some of the best alternatives that are better for your cat, your home, and the planet.
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Hemp: A Sustainable Alternative Cat Litter
This stuff is a game-changer. Made from the fibers of the hemp plant, this litter is highly absorbent, controls odors naturally, and is incredibly sustainable. Plus, because hemp is so efficient, a little bit goes a long way, which means less waste and a longer-lasting bag.
Small Pet Select – Hemp Pelleted Cat Litter: This is a top-notch, biodegradable option that’s great for odor control.
Happy Cat Litter – Natural Clumping Cat Litter: This is USDA organic and super lightweight. It’s also flushable and made in the USA, so you know exactly where it’s coming from.
Recycled Paper Cat Litter: A Green Alternative
Don’t toss out those old newspapers just yet—they might be the key to your next litter box solution. Recycled paper litter often comes in pellets that are very absorbent and virtually dust-free, making it a great choice for cats (or humans) with allergies.
Fresh News Recycled Paper, Original Pellet Cat Litter: A well-known brand that turns old paper into a fresh start
Plant-Based Cat Litter: Another Natural Option
Litter from Walnut Shells
It sounds nuts, but walnut shells are a fantastic base for cat litter. They’re an upcycled material from the food industry and have incredible natural odor-neutralizing power. They also create a soft texture that’s gentle on paws.
Naturally Fresh Cat Litter Made From Walnut Shells: This brand is a personal favorite because it uses a material that would otherwise be discarded, making it a truly sustainable choice.
Litter from Grains
Grains can be used for more than just breakfast. Litters made from wheat or corn offer superior clumping and natural enzymes that knock out odors.
Natural Wheat Multi-Cat Litter: This option is known for its strong clumping and odor-neutralizing power.
Sustainably Yours, Cat Litter: A fantastic mixed-grain formula that is lightweight and clumps hard for easy scooping.
Wood: The Original Eco-Friendly Alternative Cat Litter
Made from reclaimed wood like pine or hinoki, these litters are naturally scented and have a fresh aroma. They are super absorbent and can be a great option for odor control.
ökocat Original Low-Dust Natural Wood Clumping Cat Litter: A favorite for its eco-friendly credentials and impressive odor control.
KOCHO Hinoki Wood Cat Litter: Uses upcycled Japanese cypress, giving it a light, natural aroma that’s pleasant without being overwhelming.
Feline Pine Platinum Non-Clumping Cat Litter: A classic wood-based option that uses the power of pine to neutralize odors.
Crystal Cat Litter: The Long-Lasting Alternative
This is a popular choice for its lightweight nature and powerful odor control. Silica crystal litter is non-clumping and works by absorbing moisture, so a bag can last a long time. It’s a great alternative cat litter if you’re looking for a low-dust and long-lasting option.
You might have heard “silica” and thought back to the dust we talked about earlier in this article. Rest assured, the silica used in crystal cat litter is different. It’s a porous, non-toxic form of silica gel, also known as amorphous silica. Unlike the crystalline silica dust that can be a health concern, this type is safe and works by absorbing moisture, trapping odors without releasing harmful dust.
PrettyLitter Health Monitoring Cat Litter: This brand is a clever choice because it changes color to alert you to potential health issues in your cat’s urine.
Silica Crystal Cat Litter: A reliable and straightforward option that delivers on low dust and long-lasting odor control.
How to Make the Big Switch
You can’t just change the litter box and expect your cat to go with the flow. Cats are creatures of habit! To make the transition as smooth as possible, mix their old litter with the new one. Start with about 75% old and 25% new, gradually adjusting the ratio over a week or two until the litter box is filled with the new material. Your cat will get used to the new texture and smell in their own time.
Final Thoughts
Switching from clay to an eco-friendly alternative cat litter is a great way to be a more conscious pet parent. These brands show that you don’t have to compromise on quality or performance to make a responsible choice.
Making smart choices for your cat’s litter is just one part of their overall well-being. To learn more about how to keep your cat happy and healthy, check out our other posts in the pet wellness category.
