Contents
You need to consider the best cat litter comparison. The Editor’s Choice is Dr. Elsey’s Ultra UnScented Clumping Clay Cat Litter. It uses 100% bentonite clay for maximum clumping. The Most Versatile is Cat’s Pride Antibacterial Litter, which is lighter and has antibacterial properties. Choosing the lighter option means you lose some hard clumping ability. This page will guide you through various options for your needs.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Cat Litters Reviewed in Detail
Here are some top picks for cat litter. Each one offers unique features to help you choose.
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 a top choice for cat owners. It uses 100% bentonite clay, which provides excellent clumping. This feature ensures easy cleaning and less mess in your home. Compared to other litters, it has a low dust formula, making it ideal for allergy sufferers. This litter is well-rated for both odor control and clumping ability. However, some users may prefer a scented option for added freshness. Overall, this is a solid choice for most households.
Pros
- 100% bentonite clay for maximum clumping.
- 99.9% dust-free for allergy-friendly use.
- Large 40 lb bag for extended use.
Cons
- Unscented formula may not mask odors for some users.
- Heavy bag can be difficult to lift for some.
Best for: Owners needing low dust and strong clumping. Not ideal for: Those who prefer scented options.
This litter provides excellent clumping and low dust, making it a reliable choice.
2. Most Versatile
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 lightweight choice that offers great versatility. It weighs only 12 lbs, making it easy to carry and pour. This litter kills 99.9% of odor-causing bacteria, which is great for households with multiple cats. It does well in odor control, but it might not clump as hard as heavier options. Compared to other products, this one is less dense, which may lead to more frequent changes. Users looking for both antibacterial properties and lighter weight will appreciate this choice.
Pros
- 40% lighter than traditional litters.
- Antibacterial properties to prevent odors.
- Easy to carry and store.
Cons
- May not clump as hard as heavier options.
- Less effective for very strong odors.
Best for: Cat owners who need a lighter, antibacterial option. Not ideal for: Those looking for heavy-duty clumping.
This litter balances weight and antibacterial features, making it versatile.
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 Easy Clean-Up Clumping Cat Litter shines in convenience. It forms rock-hard clumps that slide right out, making cleanup fast. The triple-action freshness helps control odors effectively. While it competes well with the other litters here, some users find the scent may be too strong. This may not be suitable for cats sensitive to fragrances. Its easy cleanup feature is a big plus for busy cat owners who want to simplify their litter box duties.
Pros
- Easy cleanup with rock-hard clumps.
- Triple-action formula for effective odor control.
- Less scrubbing and scraping needed.
Cons
- Scent may be too strong for some cats.
- May not be suitable for sensitive noses.
Best for: Busy cat owners seeking convenience. Not ideal for: Cats sensitive to strong scents.
This litter simplifies cleanup and controls odors effectively.
4. Best Splurge
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 a great option for those wanting a smaller size. It retains the same high-quality materials as the larger version. This option is also 100% bentonite clay for optimal clumping. While it provides excellent performance, it may not last as long for multi-cat homes. The smaller size makes it easier to manage, but it requires more frequent purchasing. Overall, it still offers an effective choice for cat care.
Pros
- Same premium quality in a smaller size.
- Low dust formula for allergy concerns.
- Effective clumping for easy cleanup.
Cons
- Smaller bag may require more frequent purchases.
- Not ideal for multi-cat homes.
Best for: Owners needing a smaller bag for easy handling. Not ideal for: Multi-cat households requiring larger sizes.
This litter offers the same quality in a manageable size, but may require more frequent buys.
5. Best Value
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 designed for households with more than one cat. The Ammonia Block technology helps control odors effectively for up to 15 days. This makes it a strong competitor in the multi-cat segment. However, it may not clump as well as heavier options, which could lead to some mess. While it’s effective for odor control, budget-minded buyers may find it pricier than standard options. Overall, it’s a solid choice for multi-cat families.
Pros
- 15 days of odor control with Ammonia Block technology.
- Designed for multi-cat homes.
- Strong clumping ability.
Cons
- May not clump as hard as heavier litters.
- Higher price point may deter budget-conscious buyers.
Best for: Multi-cat households needing strong odor control. Not ideal for: Single-cat homes wanting more cost-effective options.
This litter effectively controls odors in multi-cat households but can be pricier.
6. Best Budget
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 a popular choice for freshness. It combines odor-fighting power with a pleasant scent. The 15-day odor control feature is noteworthy. However, some users might find the fragrance overwhelming. This litter works well for multi-cat households but could be less appealing for cats that dislike scents. Its strong clumping and odor control make it a good choice for those who prioritize cleanliness.
Pros
- 15-day odor control with Febreze Gain scent.
- Strong clumping ability.
- Effective for multi-cat homes.
Cons
- Strong scent may not be liked by all cats.
- Some users may prefer unscented options.
Best for: Those who want a fresh-smelling litter. Not ideal for: Cats sensitive to fragrances.
This litter offers a pleasant scent and strong odor control but may not suit all cats.
7. Best Design
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 focuses on maximum odor control. The Ammonia Block technology helps keep odors at bay for 15 days. It is effective for households with multiple cats. While it performs well, some users may prefer a lighter option for easier handling. The scent, combined with its clumping ability, makes it a solid choice. Overall, this litter meets the needs of busy multi-cat families.
Pros
- 15 days of odor control with active technology.
- Effective for multi-cat environments.
- Strong clumping for easy cleanup.
Cons
- Heavier weight may be cumbersome to handle.
- Strong scent may not be for every cat.
Best for: Multi-cat households needing maximum odor control. Not ideal for: Owners preferring lightweight options.
This litter excels in odor control but may be too heavy for some users.
8. Best Lightweight
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 in a larger 34 lb bag provides convenience for pet owners. It features the same easy cleanup mechanism as its smaller version. The triple-action formula ensures odor control is maintained. While it is effective, some may find the size unwieldy. Owners looking for less frequent purchases will appreciate this option. However, the heavy weight might not be suitable for everyone.
Pros
- Easy cleanup with non-stick clumps.
- 34 lb bag reduces shopping frequency.
- Triple-action freshness for odor control.
Cons
- Heavy bag may be difficult to handle.
- Not suitable for those needing lighter options.
Best for: Owners wanting less frequent purchases. Not ideal for: Those who prefer lighter litter options.
This litter is convenient for less frequent buying but may be heavy for some users.
Cat Litters Compared Side by Side
This table shows the key features of each cat litter comparison product. Look at the columns to see clumping type, odor control, and special features. This will help you find the best option for your cat.
| # | 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 | Most Versatile | 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 Splurge | Precious Cat | $12.99 | Check |
| 5 | Fresh Step Odor Shield Multi Cat Clumping Cat Litter | Best Value | Fresh Step | $11.16 | Check |
| 6 | Fresh Step Advanced Odor Shield Clumping Cat Litter with… | Best Budget | Fresh Step | $25.99 | Check |
| 7 | Fresh Step Extreme Clump Multi Cat Clumping Cat Litter | Best Design | Fresh Step | $9.97 | Check |
| 8 | ARM & HAMMER Slide Platinum Easy Clean-Up Clumping Cat… | Best Lightweight | 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 We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from trusted pet supply websites and product reviews. This included customer feedback and expert opinions. Over 30 different cat litters were considered during our research.
How we built this shortlist
We focused on important factors like clumping ability and odor control. Each product was reviewed based on its specifications and popularity. We narrowed it down to the top eight options.
What we ruled out and why
Any product with poor customer reviews or low ratings was removed. We also excluded items that did not clearly list their materials or clumping ability. This helped us ensure quality.
What we did not do
No testing was done by hand, and no lab measurements were taken. We relied on data and specifications provided by manufacturers. No scores were invented or assigned.
How often this page is updated
This page will be reviewed and updated every six months. New products in the market will be considered for inclusion. We aim to provide the most accurate information.
What to look for
Clumping Ability
Clumping ability is essential for easy cleanup. Look for litters made with bentonite clay as they form solid clumps. A good clumping litter allows you to remove waste without residue.
Odor Control
Choose a litter with strong odor control features. Some litters include baking soda or activated charcoal to absorb smells. Keeping the litter box fresh is important for both you and your cat.
Dust Levels
Dust can affect both you and your cat’s health. Look for low-dust formulas, especially if allergies are a concern. A 99.9% dust-free option is ideal.
Weight
The weight of the litter can impact usability. Lighter litters are easier to carry and pour. If you have multiple cats, a heavier litter may provide better performance.
Price vs Performance
Consider what you are willing to spend on litter. Higher-priced options may offer better clumping and odor control. Balance your budget with the performance needs of your cat.
How to Choose Cat Litters
Choose based on clumping strength
Look for litters that specify strong clumping ability, especially those made from bentonite clay. A good rule is to check for clump size and hardness in reviews.
Check for odor control features
Select litters that mention odor control technologies like baking soda or activated charcoal. A well-rated product should offer at least a week of odor control.
Consider dust-free options
Dust-free litters are healthier for you and your pet. Aim for products that claim to be 99% dust-free to ensure minimum allergies and respiratory issues.
Evaluate weight for ease of use
Litter weight matters, especially if you have to lift and pour regularly. A good choice should balance performance with a manageable weight, ideally around 12 to 20 lbs.
Assess value compared to performance
Think about whether the performance meets your expectations for the price. A more expensive litter may save money in the long run if it reduces waste and cleaning time.
Frequently asked questions
What is cat litter comparison?
A cat litter comparison reviews various litters. It helps you find the best product for your cat’s needs.
How often should I change cat litter?
Change cat litter at least once a week. This keeps the box fresh and helps prevent odors.
What is the best cat litter for odor control?
Litter with baking soda or activated charcoal is best for odor control. Look for products that mention these features.
Is clumping litter better?
Clumping litter makes it easier to clean. It allows you to scoop out waste without removing clean litter.
Can I mix different types of cat litter?
Mixing types is not recommended. Different materials can affect clumping and odor control.
Shopping around? We have 26 more cat litter guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- AVMA pet owner resources American Veterinary Medical Association
- ASPCA pet care ASPCA
About the author
