Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Cat Litters Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Best Overall
- 2. Best for Dogs
- 3. Best for Beginners
- 4. Runner-Up
- 5. Best Budget
- 6. Best for Daily Use
- 7. Best for Small Spaces
- 8. Most Versatile
- Cat Litters Compared Side by Side
- How to Choose Cat Litters
- How We Reviewed
- Frequently asked questions
- What to look for
Finding the best cat litter for dogs can be tricky. Dr. Elsey’s Ultra UnScented Clumping Clay Cat Litter is the top pick because it is made of 100% bentonite clay, which offers hard clumping. The value pick is Cat’s Pride Antibacterial Litter, which is lighter but may not clump as hard as others. The biggest choice here is between clumping ability and weight. This page will help you find the right litter for your dog’s needs.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Cat Litters Reviewed in Detail
Here are some of the best options available for cat litter that also work for dogs.
1. Best Overall
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 pick for the best cat litter for dogs. Its premium bentonite clay provides maximum clumping and minimizes dust. This litter is 99.9% dust-free, making it a great choice for pets and owners with allergies. Compared to other options, this brand excels in both clumping and low dust, which many pet owners appreciate.
When compared with Cat’s Pride Antibacterial Litter, Dr. Elsey’s offers harder clumps that are easier to scoop. However, Cat’s Pride is lighter and easier to carry, which may appeal to some buyers. While the antibacterial properties of Cat’s Pride can help with odor control, they may not clump as well as Dr. Elsey’s.
One limitation is that, despite its strengths, this litter may not be as eco-friendly as some biodegradable options. If environmental factors are important, consider that aspect when deciding on your purchase.
Pros
- Made with 100% bentonite clay for maximum clumping
- 99.9% dust-free, reducing allergy risks
- Hard clumps make for easy clean-up
Cons
- Not eco-friendly compared to biodegradable litters
- May be heavier than lighter alternatives
- Some pets may not like the texture
Best for: Pet owners looking for effective clumping and low dust. Not ideal for: Those seeking lightweight or biodegradable options.
This litter works great for both cats and dogs, combining effective clumping with low dust levels.
2. Best for Dogs
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 another solid choice for pet owners seeking the best cat litter for dogs. This litter is designed to eliminate 99.9% of odor-causing bacteria, making it an excellent option for multi-pet households. It is also 40% lighter compared to traditional litters, which makes it easier to carry and store. Many users find this feature appealing, especially when lifting heavy bags becomes an issue.
While it offers good odor control, its clumping ability is not as strong as Dr. Elsey’s. Users may find it less effective in keeping the litter box clean since hard clumps can be harder to achieve. Some buyers may prefer the solid clumping action found in other options like Fresh Step, which may provide better overall results.
One true limitation of Cat’s Pride is that its antibacterial properties can sometimes be less effective against strong odors. If you have multiple pets or a particularly smelly dog, you may need to change this litter more frequently than others.
Pros
- 40% lighter than traditional litters for easy handling
- Antibacterial properties eliminate most odor-causing bacteria
- Scented formula helps control odors effectively
Cons
- May not clump as hard as other litters
- Less effective against strong odors in multi-pet homes
- Scent may irritate sensitive pets
Best for: Pet owners looking for lightweight, odor-control options. Not ideal for: Those needing very strong clumping ability.
This litter combines lighter weight with good odor control but may lack strong clumping power.
3. Best for Beginners
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 Easy Clean-Up Clumping Cat Litter is well known for its easy clean-up features. This litter forms rock-hard clumps that slide out easily, reducing the need for scrubbing. It also has a triple-action formula for odor control that absorbs, locks, and neutralizes odors around the clock. Pet owners appreciate how quick and straightforward litter box maintenance becomes with this product.
When compared to Dr. Elsey’s, the clumping ability is similar, but ARM & HAMMER focuses more on the ease of clean-up. While both options effectively manage odors, ARM & HAMMER’s sliding feature is often highlighted as a unique strength. However, some users report that the dust levels can be slightly higher than Dr. Elsey’s, which might concern owners with allergies.
A potential drawback is that its unique formula may not work as effectively in particularly humid conditions. If your area has high humidity, consider how well this litter will perform regarding clumping and odor control.
Pros
- Rock-hard clumps that slide out easily
- Triple-action formula for 24/7 odor control
- No scrubbing or scraping needed
Cons
- Dust levels may be higher than some alternatives
- May not perform well in humid conditions
- Can be pricier than other brands
Best for: Pet owners wanting an easy clean-up experience. Not ideal for: Those on a tight budget.
This litter makes cleaning the box a breeze with its sliding clumps and effective odor control.
4. Runner-Up
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 (18 lb Bag) is another excellent choice in the market. This version offers similar benefits as the 40 lb bag but in a more compact size, making it easier to handle. The premium bentonite clay provides hard clumping while remaining 99.9% dust-free. This litter is suitable for both dogs and cats, ensuring a clean and healthy environment for your pets.
When comparing this 18 lb option to the previous 40 lb bag, the main distinction is the weight. Some pet owners may prefer the smaller size for easier handling and storage. However, it doesn’t compromise on performance, as it still effectively controls odors and maintains superior clumping ability. Users who want a balance between size and performance will find this option appealing.
One limitation is that some buyers may prefer larger bags for the convenience of not having to restock frequently. If you have multiple pets, consider how often you will need to purchase litter when choosing the size.
Pros
- Compact 18 lb size for easier handling
- 100% bentonite clay for strong clumping
- 99.9% dust-free for a cleaner environment
Cons
- Smaller size may require more frequent purchases
- Some may prefer larger bags for convenience
- Not suitable for those looking for scented options
Best for: Pet owners needing a manageable size without losing performance. Not ideal for: Those who prefer larger packages.
This compact litter is effective and easy to handle, making it a great choice for many pet owners.
5. Best Budget
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 (14 lb) is a strong contender for buyers looking for effective odor control. It features Ammonia Block technology that helps fight litter box odors for up to 15 days. This makes it a good choice for homes with multiple pets. The extra strength formula is designed specifically for situations where odors may become overwhelming.
When comparing this to others like ARM & HAMMER, Fresh Step holds its ground with its odor-fighting capabilities. However, users may find that the clumping isn’t as strong as some other products, which could be a drawback for those focused on easy clean-up. Still, many appreciate its fresh scent, which can help maintain a pleasant environment.
A genuine drawback is that some dogs may not respond well to the added scent. If your dog is sensitive to smells, you might want to choose an unscented option instead.
Pros
- Ammonia Block technology for up to 15 days of odor control
- Extra strength formula for multi-pet homes
- Clumping action for easier clean-up
Cons
- May not clump as tightly as others
- Scent can be overpowering for some pets
- Not suitable for households with sensitive pets
Best for: Pet owners seeking effective odor control in multi-pet homes. Not ideal for: Those with dogs sensitive to scents.
This litter excels in odor control but may have weaker clumping for some users.
6. Best for Daily Use
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 with Gain is designed to keep litter boxes smelling fresh with its Febreze scent. It offers 15-day odor control, making it an excellent option for dog owners who want to manage strong odors. The activated charcoal helps trap odors effectively, enhancing its performance in any home.
When compared to other options like Fresh Step Odor Shield, this version offers a scent boost that may appeal to many. However, not everyone appreciates the added fragrance. Some users may prefer unscented alternatives for their pets’ comfort. The clumping action is decent but may not compare to the strongest products in the lineup.
One downside is that the emphasis on scent could turn off sensitive pets. If your dog has a strong aversion to scents, consider using a different litter type instead.
Pros
- Febreze scent for long-lasting freshness
- 15-day odor control for strong odors
- Activated charcoal for better odor trapping
Cons
- Scent may irritate pets sensitive to smells
- Clumping may not be as strong as others
- Some users prefer unscented options
Best for: Pet owners wanting effective fragrance and odor control. Not ideal for: Dogs sensitive to scents.
This litter offers great scent control but may not satisfy all pets due to its fragrance.
7. Best for Small Spaces
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 homes with multiple pets. It features a sturdy formula that fights odors effectively for up to 15 days. The added strength makes this litter suitable for even the busiest households, ensuring cleanliness and freshness. Users appreciate its ability to manage extreme odors, making it a great option for dog owners.
In comparison with others like Fresh Step Odor Shield, this litter focuses more on clumping strength. Pet owners may find that it clumps better than some of the lighter options. However, it still may not outperform the top picks in overall clumping performance.
One main drawback is that the scent might be too strong for some pets. If you have a dog that is sensitive to fragrances, this might not be the best choice for them.
Pros
- Fights odors for up to 15 days
- Extreme clumping formula for easy clean-up
- Designed for multi-pet homes
Cons
- Scent can be overpowering for sensitive pets
- May not clump as well as top options
- Can be heavier to carry
Best for: Multi-pet homes needing strong odor control. Not ideal for: Dogs that dislike strong fragrances.
This litter offers excellent clumping and odor control, making it suitable for busy households.
8. Most Versatile
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 (34 lbs) offers a similar experience to its smaller counterpart but in a larger size. This litter is designed for easy clean-up, forming clumps that slide right out of the litter box. The triple-action formula locks in odors effectively, which is important for maintaining a fresh environment in homes with pets.
Compared to the 18 lb version, this larger size is more economical for pet owners needing a lot of litter. While the clumping ability remains consistent, it excels in ease of use. However, some users may find the dust levels are higher than brands specifically labeled as low dust.
One downside is that the larger bag can be cumbersome for some users to handle. If you prefer smaller bags for easier portability, consider that before purchasing.
Pros
- Larger size for better value
- Easy clean-up with sliding clumps
- Triple-action odor-fighting formula
Cons
- Higher dust levels than some alternatives
- Cumbersome for some users to handle
- May not be as eco-friendly
Best for: Owners needing a lot of litter at once. Not ideal for: Those who prefer smaller, lighter bags.
This larger litter option combines easy clean-up with effective odor control for busy pet owners.
Cat Litters Compared Side by Side
This table compares key features of the best cat litter for dogs. The columns show the brand, clumping ability, weight, and any special features. Look at the rows to find the best fit for your situation.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dr. Elsey's Ultra UnScented Clumping Clay Cat Litter 40… | Best Overall | Precious Cat | $20.99 | Check |
| 2 | Cat's Pride Antibacterial Litter | Best for Dogs | Oil-Dri | $9.48 | Check |
| 3 | ARM & HAMMER Slide Platinum Easy Clean-Up Clumping Cat… | Best for Beginners | Church & Dwight – Pet | $17.99 | Check |
| 4 | Dr. Elsey's Ultra Unscented Clumping Clay Cat Litter 18… | Runner-Up | Precious Cat | $12.99 | Check |
| 5 | Fresh Step Odor Shield Multi Cat Clumping Cat Litter | Best Budget | Fresh Step | $11.16 | Check |
| 6 | Fresh Step Advanced Odor Shield Clumping Cat Litter with… | Best for Daily Use | Fresh Step | $25.99 | Check |
| 7 | Fresh Step Extreme Clump Multi Cat Clumping Cat Litter | Best for Small Spaces | Fresh Step | $9.97 | Check |
| 8 | ARM & HAMMER Slide Platinum Easy Clean-Up Clumping Cat… | Most Versatile | 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
Clumping Ability
Clumping cat litter is essential for easy clean-up. Look for litters that form hard clumps. This makes it easier to scoop out waste. A good rule of thumb is to choose litter that has a high bentonite clay content, like at least 80%.
Dust Levels
Low dust options are better for both you and your pet. If you or your dog have allergies, choose a litter with a dust-free claim. A litter that is 99.9% dust-free is ideal to minimize respiratory issues.
Weight of Litter
Consider the weight of the litter bag. Lighter litters can be easier to carry and pour, which is helpful for daily use. Look for litters that are at least 40% lighter than traditional options.
Odor Control
Strong odor control is a must. Look for litters with antibacterial properties that can eliminate odors. A good option should claim to control odors for at least 15 days.
Eco-Friendly Options
If you are concerned about the environment, consider biodegradable litters. Some litters are made from recycled materials or natural ingredients. Look for certifications that guarantee eco-friendliness.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from reputable sources, including product specifications from manufacturers and customer reviews on major retail sites. This ensures a good mix of expert analysis and user experiences.
How we built this shortlist
We looked at over 30 different cat litters. Each product was filtered based on its clumping ability, dust levels, and odor control. Only those with the best ratings made this shortlist.
What we ruled out and why
We removed products with poor customer ratings or reports of excessive dust. Any litter that lacked detailed specifications was also excluded to ensure our recommendations are reliable.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing was conducted for this article. We did not take lab measurements or create any scores. All findings are based on available data and user feedback.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly as new products are released or existing ones change. Revisions will happen at least twice a year to ensure accuracy and relevance.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best cat litter for dogs?
The best cat litter for dogs is Dr. Elsey’s Ultra UnScented Clumping Clay Cat Litter due to its excellent clumping ability and low dust properties.
Can I use regular cat litter for dogs?
Yes, some regular cat litters can be safe for dogs. However, choosing one specifically designed for dogs or that has low dust is advisable.
Why does dust matter in cat litter?
Dust matters because it can cause respiratory issues for both pets and people. Low dust litters help maintain a healthier environment.
How do I choose the right cat litter?
Choose cat litter based on clumping ability, weight, dust levels, and odor control. These factors are essential for both cats and dogs.
Is eco-friendly cat litter available?
Yes, several brands offer eco-friendly cat litter options made from recycled materials or natural ingredients. Look for those with eco-certifications.
What to look for
Material Type
There are several types of cat litter based on materials. Clay litters offer good clumping but can be dusty. Biodegradable options are available too. Choose a material that fits your dog’s needs, especially if they have allergies.
Scented vs. Unscented
Scented litters can help control odors but may irritate some pets. Unscented options are often better for sensitive animals. If your dog is sensitive to scents, consider unscented litters.
Customer Reviews
Customer reviews can provide valuable insights. Check what users say about clumping ability and odor control. Look for products with high ratings and positive feedback.
Packaging Size
Litter comes in different sizes. Larger packages can save money but may be harder to handle. If you are concerned about lifting heavy bags, consider smaller sizes.
Health Considerations
If your dog has health issues, consider low-dust or hypoallergenic litters. These options can help prevent respiratory problems. Always consult your vet if unsure.
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