Choosing the right cat litter isn't just about keeping the litter box clean. It's about creating a fresher, healthier, and more harmonious home for you and your feline companions. With so many options on the market—from clumping clay to tofu and plant-based alternatives—the modern cat parent has more choices than ever. But with choice comes confusion.
That’s where this ultimate guide comes in. Whether you're looking to reduce odour, make cleaning easier, support sustainability, or simply find something your cat actually likes, we’ve broken down the most trusted litter types, including their pros, cons, best uses, and links to detailed guides for deeper insights.
Understanding the Role of Cat Litter
Cat litter does more than absorb moisture. It can:
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Neutralise unpleasant odours
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Minimise dust and mess
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Provide a comfortable, natural-feeling surface for your cat
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Support your household’s environmental and health goals
Modern litter formulas now use renewable ingredients, advanced clumping agents, and low-dust technology—making litter box care easier and more responsible than ever.
Natural Clay Litter
Natural clay litter—especially those made from bentonite clay—remains one of the most popular options thanks to its superior clumping, odour control, and affordability.
Best for: Cat parents who want reliable, mess-free performance with minimal maintenance.
Key Benefits:
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Strong clumping for easier scooping
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Excellent odour control (especially with activated carbon)
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Low-dust, soft texture cats prefer
Read more: The Benefits of Switching to Natural Clay Cat Litter
Tofu Cat Litter
Tofu cat litter is a plant-based, biodegradable solution that offers excellent odour control, soft texture, and multiple eco-friendly disposal options.
Best for: Sustainability-focused households or cats with sensitive paws.
Key Benefits:
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Compostable and sometimes flushable
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Low-dust and low-tracking
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Lightweight and easy to manage
Read more: The Benefits of Using Tofu Cat Litter
Eco Plant-Based Litter
Made from reclaimed wood, soybean, bamboo, and other natural fibres, Eco Plant-Based Litter takes sustainable litter to the next level.
Best for: Eco-conscious cat parents who want high performance and zero waste.
Key Benefits:
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Fully biodegradable
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Made from renewable, compostable materials
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Naturally clumping and low-dust
Read more: Eco Cat Litter Choices: Making the Best Selection
Clumping vs Non-Clumping
Each litter type offers different benefits depending on your routine, cat habits, and tray preferences.
Clumping Litter:
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Easier to scoop
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Longer-lasting
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Less waste overall
Non-Clumping Litter:
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Often lower cost
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Simpler for short-term use
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Preferred for kittens in some cases
Read more: Clumping vs. Non-Clumping Cat Litter: Pros, Cons & Best for Your Cat
Litter Box Deodorisers
Even the best litter needs a little help sometimes. Deodorisers can support odour control, extend litter life, and improve indoor air quality.
Best for: Homes with multiple cats or heightened sensitivity to odours.
Key Benefits:
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Activated carbon and enzymes neutralise odours
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Comes in powders, sprays, or crystals
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Helps maintain a cleaner litter box for longer
Read more: A Guide to Choosing Litter Box Deodorisers for Freshness
Choosing by Cat and Home
Every cat is different. So is every household. Here’s how to match your litter choice to your needs:
If your cat is:
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Sensitive to dust or fragrance: Try tofu or plant-based litters
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Picky about texture: Clay or soft tofu formulas usually feel familiar
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Kittens or seniors: Choose low-dust, soft, non-toxic litters
If your home is:
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Busy or multi-cat: Go for strong clumping litters with odour control
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Low-waste focused: Choose tofu or eco plant-based options
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Fragrance-free: Opt for unscented, natural clay or tofu
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right litter isn't about trends—it's about finding a balance of cleanliness, comfort, sustainability, and convenience. Whether you're team tofu, loyal to clay, or exploring plant-based innovations, there’s a solution that fits your lifestyle and keeps your cat happy.
Use the articles linked in this guide to go deeper on each type, and don't hesitate to experiment until you find the one that works best for both of you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tofu and plant-based litters are the most sustainable. They are biodegradable, often compostable, and made from renewable materials.
Natural clay with activated carbon offers excellent odour absorption. Tofu litters with green tea extract or carbon also perform well.
Only if the packaging specifies it’s flushable and your local council permits it. Never flush clay or traditional litters.
Start with a 25/75 mix (new to old), then gradually increase over 1–2 weeks.