Bag Sizes
This is measured in either litre (the most common option) or gram/kilogram.
The most popular bag sizes are usually 4L, 6L, 10L, 20L and 30L. It is the norm to use around 4 litres of litter in a tray at any one time, so think about how large a bag you can store, how large a bag you can lift and how long you want it to last before having to buy a new one.
Prices are often pretty relative, so you shouldn’t really pay over the odds for a 4-litre bag compared to a 30 litre unless it is very special litter. We will say that ordinary plain litter tends to come in the larger bags, however, and that it is often great value so well worth giving a go if you know your cat likes that variety.
Cat Litter Varieties
Silica
Often come as gel crystals. The most absorbent type, hence their popularity. A natural material, they do this quickly so there’s less chance of smells or mess.
Wood
Usually come as solid pellets. As they’re plant-based, they’re often dust-free, biodegradable and naturally deodorise
Paper
The best option if you want something made from recycled material which is better for the planet. They cut down on the manufacturing of new materials while offering the same benefits as wood while being more absorbent
Clay
Often seen more with clumping litters due to its reaction when wet, but if made from forms other than bentonite it is less likely to clump. It is relatively cheap but can cause a lot of dust and mess
Litter Types
Crystals
Mostly found in the silica material. Almost round in shape, and usually the perfect size for cats
Pellets
Longer, thinner pellet-shaped grains. This increases their chance of absorption and also makes them better for cats who don’t seem to like finer materials under their feet
Granules
Ordinary litter shapes, usually round-ish and can come in fine or larger varieties anywhere between the texture of sand and gravel. The larger varieties are often good for younger cats
Scented Cat Litter
Your nose may not agree, but past studies have actually shown that cats will generally pick a litter which has no strong scent and is pretty neutral in smell. If there is too much fragrance coming from the litter tray, it could even mean they avoid going in altogether.
But if you feel that some sort of nice smell is a must then go for one which explicitly says the smell is only activated when the litter is used. You won’t be greeted with a strong whiff of lavender when you open the bag and your cat won’t be put off, but when they do nip to the loo, your house won’t be overcome with an unpleasant smell.
The most common scents are lavender, pine and aloe vera so are all pretty natural and smells which your cat could easily come into contact with in the normal world or your garden.
Things To Look Out For
- Low Dust – Not only is the amount of dust caused by changing the cat litter alarming and potentially harmful to your respiratory system but if your cat scoots when they’ve done their business, it creates more dust which could be harmful to your kitty. If you’re concerned about this and the mess it could make, opt for a no-dust litter
- No Tracking – Cat litter can stick to the paws of your kitty, which not only causes a mess on your floor but could also be harmful if they happen to lick it off when they’re cleaning themselves. Some varieties are better than others for no tracking
Litter Buying Tips
Cats can be creatures of habit, so don’t go switching between types or even brands. If your cat has found one which they like, swapping it out could mean they avoid using it.
If you do need to change, ensure it is a gradual swap, and perhaps mix slight bits into their existing litter so they get used to the change in smell or feeling.