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Finding the best cat litter box self cleaning can be hard. Our top pick is Dr. Elsey’s Ultra UnScented Clumping Clay Cat Litter. It is made with 100% bentonite clay, which gives you excellent clumping. For a value option, consider Cat’s Pride Antibacterial Litter. It’s lighter, but you give up some clumping power.
Most buyers face the choice between low dust and odor control. You can have a litter that is 99.9% dust-free or one that fights odors effectively. This page will help you weigh these features to make a choice.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Cat Litters Reviewed in Detail
Here are some top options for self-cleaning cat litter boxes. Below, you’ll find a comparison of the best choices.
1. Editor’s Choice
Dr. Elsey's Ultra UnScented Clumping Clay Cat Litter 40 lb. Bag
- PREMIUM QUALITY: A combination of premium texture and granule size made with 100% bentonite clay for maximum clumping creates litter particles that are just the right size.
- LOW DUST: Ideal for cats and owners who suffer from allergies with a 99.9% dust-free and hypoallergenic litter formulation.
- HARD CLUMPING: Hard clumping medium grain clay helps prevent moisture from reaching the bottom of the tray and forms hard clumps that won’t break down, making it easier to scoop.
- SUPERIOR ODOR CONTROL: Formulated for single or multi-cat households with natural ingredients to keep your home smelling clean and fresh between litter box cleanings.
- LOW TRACKING: A unique formulation of medium grain clay helps keep litter in the box where it belongs.
Dr. Elsey’s Ultra UnScented Clumping Clay Cat Litter is our top choice for self-cleaning cat litter boxes. It is made from 100% bentonite clay, which ensures strong clumping. This feature makes cleaning quick and easy. Compared to other products, it excels in both performance and low dust levels.
When you stack it against other options, it holds its own. Cat’s Pride Antibacterial Litter is a lighter option, but it does not clump as effectively. Meanwhile, ARM & HAMMER Slide Platinum offers great ease of cleanup but may not be completely dust-free. Dr. Elsey’s strikes the right balance for most cat owners.
A limitation of Dr. Elsey’s is that it may not control odors as well as some scented options. While it excels in clumping, those sensitive to smells may prefer a litter with added fragrance. This product is best for those focused on low dust and effective clumping.
Pros
- Made with 100% bentonite clay for maximum clumping.
- 99.9% dust-free for allergy sufferers.
- Hard clumps that make cleaning easy.
Cons
- May not control odors as well as scented litters.
- Some users may prefer a fragrance.
- Not very lightweight compared to others.
Best for: Cat owners who want easy cleanup and low dust. Not ideal for: Those who want strong odor control from scent.
Dr. Elsey’s offers the best combination of clumping and dust-free features.
2. Best for Beginners
Cat's Pride Antibacterial Litter, Odor-Eliminating Scented 12lb
- INCLUDES: (1) 12lb Jug of Antibacterial Scented Litter that destroys 99.9% of odor-causing bacteria and prevents bacterial odor
- 40% LIGHTER: Compared to other traditional scoopable litters, making it easier to carry, pour, and store
- ANTIBACTERIAL: Our formulation kills 99.9% of odor-causing bacteria and prevents bacterial odor for a clean litter box and sanitary home
- INSTANT ODOR-LOCKING CLUMPING POWDER: Our clay litter forms strong, easy to scoop clumps. As clay is a natural mineral you may experience color variability, but with the same superior performance
- LITTER FOR GOOD: For every Cat’s Pride jug purchased, one pound of cat litter is donated to animal welfare organizations to help animals in need
Cat’s Pride Antibacterial Litter is a great choice for beginners. It is lighter, making it easier to manage. This litter is designed to destroy 99.9% of odor-causing bacteria. While it is effective, it does not clump as hard as others. This may make cleaning a bit more challenging.
When compared with Dr. Elsey’s, it sacrifices some clumping ability. While Dr. Elsey’s forms hard clumps, Cat’s Pride may leave a mess. On the other hand, ARM & HAMMER Slide Platinum offers solid clumping, but it can be heavier. Cat’s Pride is the lightest among the options.
One limitation of Cat’s Pride is that its lighter formulation can lead to more dust. If you or your cat are sensitive to dust, this may not be the best choice. However, it is perfect for those who prioritize weight and ease of use.
Pros
- Lighter weight makes it easier to carry and pour.
- Antibacterial formula eliminates odors effectively.
- Great option for beginners who want simplicity.
Cons
- Does not clump as hard as others.
- Can create more dust than heavier litters.
- Less effective at controlling odors over time.
Best for: Beginners looking for easy-to-use litter. Not ideal for: Those who need strong clumping power.
Cat’s Pride is a solid choice for those new to cat ownership.
3. Best Heavy-Duty
ARM & HAMMER Slide Platinum Easy Clean-Up Clumping Cat Litter, 18 lbs
- EASY CLEAN-UP LITTER: ARM & HAMMER Slide Platinum Clumping Kitty Litter forms rock-hard, scoopable clumps that slide right out to prevent sticking; no scrubbing, no scraping, so litter box duty is fast and simple
- 24/7 ODOR-FIGHTING: Triple-action freshness absorbs, locks, and controls odors around the clock for a clean, comfy home
- AUTOMATIC LITTER BOX-FRIENDLY: Works in both traditional and robotic litter boxes; 99.9% dust-free formula
- 10% MORE ODOR ELIMINATORS: Online-only Platinum formulas have 10% more odor eliminators than base formulas
- MULTI-CAT STRENGTH: Stands up to heavy use with reliable performance in multi-cat homes, plus freshly scented to keep your home inviting
ARM & HAMMER Slide Platinum Clumping Cat Litter is great for those who want easy cleanup. It forms rock-hard, scoopable clumps that slide right out. This feature makes litter box duty quick and simple. Compared to others, it stands out with its triple-action freshness.
However, it lacks the low dust levels of Dr. Elsey’s. While it does control odors well, it can be heavier than other options. Fresh Step litters also offer good odor control but might not be as easy to scoop. ARM & HAMMER remains a strong choice for busy pet owners.
A downside is that some users report a stronger scent than expected. Those sensitive to smells may want to consider other options. Despite this, it fits well for those prioritizing ease of cleaning and odor control.
Pros
- Forms rock-hard clumps that are easy to scoop.
- Triple-action freshness controls odors effectively.
- No scrubbing or scraping required.
Cons
- Can be heavier than some competitors.
- Some users find the scent too strong.
- May create more dust than low-dust options.
Best for: Busy pet owners who want quick cleanup. Not ideal for: Those sensitive to litter scents.
ARM & HAMMER Slide Platinum makes cleaning simple and fast.
4. Best for Small Spaces
Dr. Elsey's Ultra Unscented Clumping Clay Cat Litter 18 lb Bag
- PREMIUM QUALITY: A combination of premium texture and granule size made with 100% bentonite clay for maximum clumping creates litter particles that are just the right size.
- LOW DUST: Ideal for cats and owners who suffer from allergies with a 99.9% dust-free and hypoallergenic litter formulation.
- HARD CLUMPING: Hard clumping medium grain clay helps prevent moisture from reaching the bottom of the tray and forms hard clumps that won’t break down, making it easier to scoop.
- SUPERIOR ODOR CONTROL: Formulated for single or multi-cat households with natural ingredients to keep your home smelling clean and fresh between litter box cleanings.
- LOW TRACKING: A unique formulation of medium grain clay helps keep litter in the box where it belongs.
Dr. Elsey’s Ultra Unscented Clumping Clay Cat Litter in an 18 lb bag is another great option. It shares many features with the 40 lb version. It is made of 100% bentonite clay and offers great clumping. This makes cleaning the box easy and straightforward.
When comparing it to the 40 lb version, the main difference is the size. Fresh Step litters also provide good options for odor control, but may not clump as well. If you have a smaller space, this 18 lb bag is a practical choice.
A limitation is that it may not control odors as effectively as scented litters. If you need strong odor control, consider a different option. However, it works well for those focused on clumping and low dust.
Pros
- 100% bentonite clay provides strong clumping.
- 99.9% dust-free, good for allergy sufferers.
- Easy to clean with hard clumps.
Cons
- Less effective for odor control than scented litters.
- Some may prefer a fragrance.
- Not as lightweight as other brands.
Best for: Cat owners who need easy cleanup in smaller packages. Not ideal for: Anyone seeking strong odors control.
Dr. Elsey’s 18 lb bag is a convenient option for smaller spaces.
5. Best Compact
Fresh Step Odor Shield Multi Cat Clumping Cat Litter, 14 lb.
- FRESH STEP CLUMPING CAT LITTER: One 14 lb. box of Fresh Step Multi Cat Clumping Litter, Extra Strength Formula With Febreze Freshness, designed for multi cat homes.
- 15 DAYS OF ODOR CONTROL: Ammonia Block technology helps fight multi cat litter box odors and guarantees 15 days of odor control (1).
- RAPID LIQUID ABSORPTION: Fresh Step Clumping Cat Litter quickly absorbs liquid, ensuring a dry and clean litter box environment for your cat’s comfort.
- FORMS TIGHT CLUMPS: Fresh Step ClumpLock technology locks in liquid and odor on contact and causes immediate kitty litter clumping to make scooping easy and prevent crumbles from being left behind.
- FRESH, CLEAN SMELL: Fresh Step clumping cat litter with Febreze freshness is an effective litter box odor fighter that helps keep your cat’s litter box smelling fresh, clean and inviting.
- LOW DUST FORMULA: The low dust formula of this multi cat clumping litter helps keep your floors and other surfaces cleaner.
- FIND YOUR FRESH STEP: Whether you have one fab feline or a family of fur friends, explore Fresh Step’s full line of cat litter formulas to find the purr fect litter for you.
Fresh Step Odor Shield Multi Cat Clumping Cat Litter is a strong contender for multiple cat households. It provides 15 days of odor control using ammonia block technology. This is a key selling point for busy cat owners with multiple pets. Compared to others, it excels in odor management but may not clump as well.
When compared to ARM & HAMMER Slide Platinum, it offers more odor control but might require more frequent cleaning. Fresh Step litters generally provide strong scents, which some may prefer. However, they may not always form hard clumps like the others.
A tradeoff is the more frequent maintenance required if clumping is weaker. This may not be ideal for every owner. Yet, those focused on odor control will find this product fits their needs.
Pros
- 15 days of odor control with ammonia block technology.
- Good for multi-cat households.
- Designed for extra strength with Febreze freshness.
Cons
- May not clump as well as other options.
- Can create more dust than lower dust products.
- Requires more frequent cleaning.
Best for: Multi-cat homes needing strong odor control. Not ideal for: Owners who want strong clumping.
Fresh Step Odor Shield is excellent for fighting odors in busy households.
6. Runner-Up
Fresh Step Advanced Odor Shield Clumping Cat Litter with Gain, 18.5 lb, 2Pk
- FRESH STEP CLUMPING CAT LITTER: Two 18.5-lb. boxes of Amazon exclusive Fresh Step Advanced Clumping Litter with Febreze freshness with Febreze Gain scent to keep litter boxes smelling fresh
- 15-DAY ODOR CONTROL: Naturally strong clay enhanced with odor fighting power, Ammonia Block Technology and activated charcoal in this Fresh Step litter help control odors for 15 days guaranteed (2)
- FORMS TIGHT CLUMPS: Kitten litter clumps tight around cat urine and waste for easy scooping and helps prevent crumbles from being left behind in the kitty litter box
- EXTRA-STRENGTH SCENT: Fresh Step cat litter with extra-strength (1) Febreze Gain scent and the power of Febreze freshness to help keep your home smelling clean
- LOW-DUST FORMULA: Low-dust cat litter formula helps keep your floors and other surfaces cleaner
- FIND YOUR FRESH STEP: Whether you have one fab feline or a family of fur friends, explore Fresh Step’s full line of cat litter formulas to find the purr-fect litter for you
Fresh Step Advanced Odor Shield Clumping Cat Litter offers a strong solution for odor management. Its formula includes Febreze freshness, which many users love. This offers a pleasant experience, especially in multi-cat homes. Compared to others, it combines odor-fighting and clumping features effectively.
Like Fresh Step Odor Shield, it excels in keeping smells at bay. However, it may not clump as effectively as Dr. Elsey’s. This can lead to more maintenance for those who want easy scooping. ARM & HAMMER Slide Platinum also competes well in odor control but is easier to scoop.
A downside is that the Febreze scent may be too strong for some users. If you prefer unscented options, this may not be for you. Still, it is a solid choice for those prioritizing odor control.
Pros
- Includes Febreze freshness for odor control.
- Good clumping ability for easy cleanup.
- Strong formula designed for multi-cat households.
Cons
- Febreze scent may be too strong for some.
- Clumping may not be as strong as others.
- Can create more dust than low-dust litters.
Best for: Cat owners wanting strong odor control with pleasant scents. Not ideal for: Those who dislike scented litters.
Fresh Step Advanced delivers solid odor control with added freshness.
7. Best Value
Fresh Step Extreme Clump Multi Cat Clumping Cat Litter, 14 lb.
- FRESH STEP CLUMPING CAT LITTER: One 14-lb. box of Fresh Step Extreme Mountain Spring Clumping Litter With Febreze Freshness to keep litter boxes smelling fresh
- 15 DAYS OF ODOR CONTROL: Activated charcoal and Ammonia Block technology with the power of Febreze fight the most extreme kitty litter box odors and guarantee 15 days of odor control (1)
- RAPID LIQUID ABSORPTION: Fresh Step Litter quickly absorbs liquid, ensuring a dry and clean litter box environment for your cat’s comfort
- TIGHT CLUMPS: Made with naturally strong clay enhanced with odor-fighting power, the litter locks in liquid and odor, forms tight clumps for easy scooping, and prevents crumbles from being left behind
- FRESH, CLEAN SMELL: Fresh Step Cat Litter Extreme Mountain Spring with Febreze freshness has an extra-strength scent (2) that keeps your cat’s litter box smelling clean and inviting
- LOW-DUST FORMULA: Low-dust cat litter formula helps keep your floors and other surfaces cleaner
- FIND YOUR FRESH STEP: Whether you have one fab feline or a family of fur friends, explore Fresh Step’s full line of cat litter formulas to find the purr-fect litter for you
Fresh Step Extreme Clump Multi Cat Clumping Cat Litter is designed for serious odor control. It features Ammonia Block technology to fight strong smells. This is particularly beneficial for multi-cat households. When compared to other Fresh Step products, it offers extreme clumping power, but it may create more dust.
While Dr. Elsey’s excels in clumping, Fresh Step Extreme Clump focuses on strong odor defense. ARM & HAMMER Slide Platinum offers similar ease of cleanup, but may not control odors as effectively. This product stands out for those needing maximum odor control.
However, it might not be the best for allergy sufferers due to dust. If low dust is a priority, consider alternatives. But for those focused on odor control, this litter performs well.
Pros
- Ammonia Block technology for extreme odor control.
- Strong clumping ability for easy cleaning.
- Excellent for multi-cat households.
Cons
- Can create more dust than other options.
- May not be suitable for allergy sufferers.
- Less focus on low-dust features.
Best for: Multi-cat homes needing serious odor control. Not ideal for: Cat owners with allergies.
Fresh Step Extreme Clump is top for managing tough odors.
8. Best Budget
ARM & HAMMER Slide Platinum Easy Clean-Up Clumping Cat Litter, 34 lbs
- EASY CLEAN-UP LITTER: ARM & HAMMER Slide Platinum Clumping Kitty Litter forms rock-hard, scoopable clumps that slide right out to prevent sticking; no scrubbing, no scraping, so litter box duty is fast and simple
- 24/7 ODOR-FIGHTING: Triple-action freshness absorbs, locks, and controls odors around the clock for a clean, comfy home
- AUTOMATIC LITTER BOX-FRIENDLY: Works in both traditional and robotic litter boxes; 99.9% dust-free formula
- 10% MORE ODOR ELIMINATORS: Online-only Platinum formulas have 10% more odor eliminators than base formulas
- MULTI-CAT STRENGTH: Stands up to heavy use with reliable performance in multi-cat homes, plus freshly scented to keep your home inviting
- IMPROVED PACKAGING, SAME GREAT PERFORMANCE: ARM & HAMMER Slide litter now comes in improved packaging for a better delivery experience
ARM & HAMMER Slide Platinum Easy Clean-Up Clumping Cat Litter at 34 lbs is a great budget-friendly option. It provides the same strong clumping and odor-fighting features as the smaller versions. This makes it easy to clean without much hassle. Compared to others, it offers an efficient cleanup process but may lack some low-dust features.
When compared to Dr. Elsey’s, it is heavier, but easier to clean. Fresh Step options also provide good odor control, but they may not be as easy to scoop. ARM & HAMMER is a solid choice for those looking for an effective budget option.
One limitation is that it might have a stronger scent than expected. If you prefer unscented litter, consider other options. However, it still performs well for budget-conscious cat owners focused on ease of use.
Pros
- Easy to clean with rock-hard clumps.
- Effective odor control with triple-action freshness.
- Budget-friendly without sacrificing quality.
Cons
- Can have a stronger scent than expected.
- May not be as low-dust as other options.
- Heavier than some competitors.
Best for: Budget-conscious cat owners seeking effective litter. Not ideal for: Those who prefer unscented litter.
ARM & HAMMER Slide Platinum provides quality at a great value.
Cat Litters Compared Side by Side
The table below shows the best cat litter box self cleaning options. You’ll see columns for brand, key features, and pros and cons. Beginners should focus on the first few rows to find easy-to-use options.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dr. Elsey's Ultra UnScented Clumping Clay Cat Litter 40… | Editor's Choice | Precious Cat | $20.99 | Check |
| 2 | Cat's Pride Antibacterial Litter | Best for Beginners | Oil-Dri | $9.48 | Check |
| 3 | ARM & HAMMER Slide Platinum Easy Clean-Up Clumping Cat… | Best Heavy-Duty | Church & Dwight – Pet | $17.99 | Check |
| 4 | Dr. Elsey's Ultra Unscented Clumping Clay Cat Litter 18… | Best for Small Spaces | Precious Cat | $12.99 | Check |
| 5 | Fresh Step Odor Shield Multi Cat Clumping Cat Litter | Best Compact | Fresh Step | $11.16 | Check |
| 6 | Fresh Step Advanced Odor Shield Clumping Cat Litter with… | Runner-Up | Fresh Step | $25.99 | Check |
| 7 | Fresh Step Extreme Clump Multi Cat Clumping Cat Litter | Best Value | Fresh Step | $9.97 | Check |
| 8 | ARM & HAMMER Slide Platinum Easy Clean-Up Clumping Cat… | Best Budget | Church & Dwight | $29.74 | Check |
| 9 | Fresh Step Advanced Odor Shield Multi Cat Clumping Cat… | — | Fresh Step | $25.99 | Check |
| 10 | Purina Tidy Cats 24/7 Performance Clumping Cat Litter | — | Nestle Purina Litter | $12.5 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Cat Litters
Material Matters
Choose a cat litter box made from high-quality materials like bentonite clay. This type of material offers great clumping, which makes clean-up easier. Look for products that specify they are 100% bentonite for the best results.
Dust-Free Options
If you or your cat has allergies, select a low-dust litter. A dust-free option will help reduce allergy symptoms. Look for products that claim to be 99.9% dust-free.
Odor Control Features
Consider litters that include odor-fighting technology. Options with activated charcoal or antibacterial properties help control smells. Look for phrases like ‘odor-eliminating’ or ‘ammonia block’ on the packaging.
Weight of the Litter
Weight can affect how easy it is to carry and pour the litter. Choose a lighter option if you need something easy to handle. Many brands offer options that are 40% lighter than traditional litters.
Clumping Ability
Strong clumping is essential for easy cleaning. A good rule of thumb is to look for litters that form hard clumps. This quality makes it easier to scoop out waste without leaving remnants behind.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from various online resources. These included product reviews, manufacturer specifications, and customer feedback. This gave us a broad view of each litter’s pros and cons.
How we built this shortlist
Our shortlist includes 8 products that meet basic quality standards. We focused on clumping ability, odor control, and user ratings. This narrowed down the choices to the best options available.
What we ruled out and why
We eliminated products that did not have clear specifications or had poor reviews. Any litter that lacked clumping power or odor control was removed from consideration. We prioritized quality and user satisfaction.
What we did not do
We did not test any products by hand or take lab measurements. All data is based on research from reliable sources. No scores were invented; we relied on real user feedback and specifications.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly to reflect new products and changes in existing ones. We aim to keep our information accurate and relevant. Expect updates every few months based on new releases and reviews.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best cat litter box self cleaning?
The best cat litter box self cleaning is one that combines clumping ability with odor control. Look for those made of bentonite clay for top performance.
How often should I clean the litter box?
You should clean the litter box daily for the best hygiene. This helps keep odors down and makes it more inviting for your cat.
Is low dust litter better for allergies?
Yes, low dust litter is better for those with allergies. It reduces the amount of dust kicked up during use, making it easier on sensitive noses.
What is clumping cat litter?
Clumping cat litter forms hard clumps when wet. This makes it easier to scoop out waste without leaving mess behind. Many cats prefer this type.
Can I mix different types of litter?
Mixing different types of litter isn’t usually recommended. This can affect clumping and odor control. Stick to one type for best results.
What to look for
Clumping Ability
Clumping ability is key for easy cleanup. The best cat litter boxes self cleaning often use clumping materials. Look for litters that form hard clumps when wet. Strong clumping makes it easier to scoop out waste without leaving bits behind. A good rule of thumb is to choose litters with 100% bentonite clay.
Odor Control
Odor control is important for a pleasant environment. Many litters now use advanced technology to fight odors. Options that include activated charcoal or antibacterial agents are often more effective. Check for claims of 15-day odor control or similar features. This ensures your home stays fresh.
Weight and Portability
Consider the weight of the litter when choosing. Heavier litters can be harder to carry and pour. A lighter option can make refilling much easier. Some brands offer litters that are 40% lighter than traditional ones. This is particularly helpful for those with limited strength.
Dust Levels
Dust levels can affect health, especially for sensitive pets. Choosing a low-dust litter helps reduce allergens in your home. Look for products that advertise being 99.9% dust-free. This is especially important if you or your cat have allergies. It makes for a cleaner environment overall.
Cost and Value
Cost is always a factor when choosing litter. Higher quality litters often cost more but can save money in the long run. They may require less frequent changes or provide better odor control. Assess your budget and choose a litter that offers the best value for your needs.
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