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Best Clumping Cat Litters for 2022

Cat litter is an essential piece of equipment for pretty much any cat, even if they spend a lot of time outdoors. You never know when they may not be able to go outside. Bad weather or health reasons can hit us at any time.

So ensuring your cat is comfortable with using a litter tray is really important. There are two kinds of litter available: clumping and non-clumping. Clumping litter is often easier for owners to deal with and can often be preferred by cats, too.

It is designed so that toilet waste can be removed easily from the box on its own. This saves owners having to change the entire litter tray daily. As the litter absorbs the liquid, the bentonite (a form of clay) in the litter allows it to clump. Don’t worry though – it is still safe for cats to use, and alternative natural litters are available if you prefer.

Litter boxes still need to be fully cleaned regularly, however. Clumping cat litter could be good for any cats with regular upset tummies, or who simply use the toilet a lot.

In general, cats usually prefer clumping cat litter as it is easier for them to scoop and push aside, but it could be a case of trial and error to find one that both you and your kitty like. If there’s a risk your cat will eat litter, opt for non-clumping.

Below are the best clumping cat litter options we found online. Dozens are available, but some do the job better than others.

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    Our Top Picks

    Image Product Details
    Worlds Best Natural Clumping Cat Litter
    • Made from sustainable corn
    • Flushable
    Check Price
    Ever Clean Multi-Crystals Clumping Cat Litter
    • Non-clay
    • Highly absorbent
    Check Price
    Catsan Natural Clumping Cat Litter
    • Biodegradable
    • Natural scent
    Check Price

    The Top Clumping Cat Litters Reviewed

    1.
    Worlds Best Natural Clumping Cat Litter

    A negative of having a cat litter tray indoors is the inevitable smell after it has been used, but thankfully there is an awful lot of litter out there now which can keep the whiffs at bay.

    The odour control is present thanks to the addition of all-natural plants, so there are no nasty chemicals. Two varieties are available, Original and Multiple Cat, so you can pick the option which is best for your lifestyle as both work equally well.

    It describes itself as one of the strongest odour prevention litters on the market, and smells stay trapped well inside the litter so can’t reemerge. Flushable, it has been tested for safety with septic and sewer systems so should cut down on the trips to the bin and inevitable landfill situation in small doses.

    As it is made from corn, you get the volume and efficiency there without the weight so it is easy to manage. It also makes it naturally free of dust and is a sustainable material. You can pick from a larger bag too if you like.

    Features

    • Made from sustainable corn
    • Flushable

    Specifications

    • Size: 6.35kg
    • Type: Granules
    • Dimensions: 11.1 x 26.7 x 54.6 cm

    2.
    Ever Clean Multi-Crystals Clumping Cat Litter

    Crystal clumping litter can be hard to come by but is ideal for those cats who seem to have an aversion to clay materials.

    Mixed into their ordinary clumping litter are small silica crystals, which further increase the absorption rate. There is no smell of urine, faeces or ammonia from cats with urine issues, and the fragrance-free property will be perfect for humans and cats with an aversion to scents.

    The activated carbon technology traps the odours as opposed to just masking them, and the 10-litre sized packet can last for up to two months based on average usage and emptying.

    The waste will need disposing of in the household refuse and can’t be flushed. This litter has dozens of comments saying that it is their favourite litter ever but hard to find, so we’d recommend stocking up.

    Features

    • Non-clay
    • Highly absorbent

    Specifications

    • Size: 10L
    • Type: Silica Crystals
    • Dimensions: 11.7 x 28.8 x 33.8 cm

    3.
    Catsan Natural Clumping Cat Litter

    Also one of the best for low dust properties, this 100% biodegradable, 100% made from plants litter is great for the planet, your kitty, and yourself.

    It automatically forms small clumps when it comes into contact with liquid, so you can clean up straight away. This also means that you can minimise your wasted litter as it will affect as little of the litter as possible.

    There is a natural scent given off so it won’t be unpleasant or offputting to your kitty’s nose, and the texture is soft to paws. Catsan is one of the best-known brands when it comes to litter, so you can trust the efficiency and reliability of this variation.

    Features

    • Biodegradable
    • Natural scent

    Specifications

    • Size: 20L
    • Type: Granules
    • Dimensions: 33 x 20 x 47.5 cm

    4.
    Pets at Home Ultra Freshness Premium Clumping Cat Litter

    A litter described by many users as one of the best in the Pets At Home range, this is an ultra-high performance blend which clumps fast and makes it easier for you to manage.

    The clumps formed are firm, almost concrete-like, for easier removal with a scoop, and it makes a very good option for homes with multiple cats. The clumps don’t fall apart on the scoop or make a mess in the waste disposal. 

    The size of the granules is a nice balance between being fine enough to be comfortable underfoot and large enough to not stick to paws to track. As a bonus, it is low dust. The lavender scent is weak enough to not put the cat off using the tray but is strong enough for human noses to smell the benefit and mask the unpleasantness.

    Features

    • Great size granules
    • Comes in a box for safe storage

    Specifications

    • Size: 10L
    • Type: Granules
    • Dimensions: 33.8 x 28.8 x 11.7cm

    5.
    Okoplus Cats Best Original Clumping Cat Litter

    Able to absorb up to three times more liquid than their closest rivals, this Cat’s Best litter would be just as perfect for multiple cats than a single feline.

    This makes it highly economical both in terms of cost and waste, and there is no bad smell released, even after a long time. Only the soiled area will need to be removed from the tray, cutting down on the frequency in which it needs to be emptied. Okoplus say you could go as long as 4-6 weeks with the same base content in the tray.

    Compostable and 100% biodegradable, it won’t still be around in years to come. You can even dispose of clumps in the toilet and wait for them to dissolve before flushing. It isn’t dusty, and the tracking is kept to a minimum and not enough to really bother anyone.

    Features

    • Top for absorption
    • Compostable and flushable

    Specifications

    • Size: 30L/13kg
    • Type: Granules
    • Dimensions: 14 x 36 x 90 cm

    6.
    Sanicat Clumping White Cotton Fresh

    When buying a scented cat litter, you need it to not be too overpowering but still ensure the odour is not just trapped, but the area smells nice in response. This is the best we found that isn’t overpowering.

    This particular grain is a cotton fresh scent, which is pleasant, like fresh laundry. Oxygen technology neutralizes unpleasant odours efficiently for superior hygiene and odour control, without putting your cat off using their tray.

    The granules are coarse, which further helps to prevent tracking and means there is no dust. It clumps really well, although do be warned that depending on your cat, the scent mixed with their toilet mess can start to smell unpleasant after a while.

    Features

    • Pleasant subtle scent
    • Dust-free

    Specifications

    • Size: 5L
    • Type: Granules
    • Dimensions: 28 x 18 x 10.5cm

    7.
    Lifelong Corn Cat Litter

    100% natural and biodegradable, this cat litter is high in odour control and absorption.

    It can be flushed down the toilet depending on your local guidelines, and clumps almost immediately on contact. This won’t stick to your cats paws, to prevent treading. It isn’t fragranced which is good too.

    Features

    • Low dust
    • Won't tread

    Specifications

    • Size: 10L
    • Type: Granules
    • Dimensions: 40 x 26 x 10cm

    8.
    Pettex Premium Dust Extracted Clay Granule Clumping Cat Litter

    With a dust-free specification which has a high level of odour control to clamp down on unpleasant smells, this litter will be great for anyone who is looking for something biodegradable and easy to manage.

    As it clumps, you can remove offending patches of litter to keep everything clean and topped up. There are no additives, just natural clay, and it also reduces the likelihood of bacterial activity.

    Clumps form after around 10 minutes so it isn’t the most immediate but still not an issue. It will be good for anyone with asthma or respiratory issues, and there is little tracking too.

    Features

    • Hygienic
    • Low tracking

    Specifications

    • Size: 20kg
    • Type: Granules
    • Dimensions: 50 x 36 x 10cm

    9.
    Clean 'n' Tidy Clay Fine Granule Ultra Clumping Multi Cat Litter

    A bit of a smaller bag for anyone who can’t keep a huge one in storage.

    It describes itself as maximum clumping, eco-friendly and with a triple layer of freshness. Perfect for high usage trays and homes with more than one cat.

    Moisture activated botanical scents mean it won’t give off any smell all of the time but will be there when it is needed the most. The addition of baking soda helps with the moisture control and will keep the whole tray fresher for longer, and it’s 99% dust-free so there will be no irritated eyes and noses, or tracking footpads.

    It should last up to four times as long as ordinary non-clumping litters when you follow the instructions, which is good for those who hate waste.

    Features

    • Low tracking and dust
    • Long lasting

    Specifications

    • Size: 7kg
    • Type: Granule
    • Dimensions: 30.5 x 25.2 x 31.3cm

    10.
    Tailmate Super Clumping Cat Litter

    In the USA, house cats are the norm, so when we are talking about litter, you will know that something from America is going to be good reliable stuff.

    It is really quick at clumping, as trapping the liquid limits the wetness from seeping, sinking to the bottom or sticking to the sides of the tray. This makes it easy to scoop up ASAP, reducing the likelihood of smells.

    Even if you can’t get to it straight away, special odour-reducing properties will ensure the smell is kept to a minimum. This reduces the need to change the litter frequently, and it is 99% dust-free so won’t make much mess from scooting either.

    It gives off a faint talcum baby powder scent, and it comes in a sturdy bag so you can ensure it won’t rip and tear when being stored.

    Features

    • Clumps super-quickly
    • Great at keeping smells at bay

    Specifications

    • Size: 15L
    • Type: Granules
    • Dimensions: 8 x 54 x 36cm

    Buying Guide

    How we chose the best clumping cat litters

    Clumping cat litter can be made from various materials, such as clay, silica or even corn. But the most vital attribute is that it clumps!

    So we ensured all of the litter we chose did just this. Some were incredibly dusty which kind of takes the efficiency away from the product. We avoided this. We ensured the reviews stated that the product was easy to use both for humans and for cats.

    While your cat may be fussy and prefer a particular material or feel, all of those on our list are easy to work with. We also believed that the choice of different materials and options was important, so tried to give a varied top 10.

    Clumping Cat Litter Varieties

    Clay

    By far the most popular and widely available. Clay naturally clumps when coming into contact with moisture, and it is often cheap to both manufacture and purchase. Unfortunately, though, it is not biodegradable and can cause a lot of dust which is bad for pets and owners with breathing difficulties

    Paper and Wood

    Clumping varieties of these materials are rare so can be pricey, but maybe worth it if you’re concerned about the environment

    Corn

    The most absorbent form of plant-based litter, which is why it is a good swap for the paper and wood pellets mentioned above. Because it is absorbent, it can naturally clump, but again it can be rarer to buy

    Other Buyers Ask...

    What is clumping cat litter?

    Clumping litter reacts with urine to bond together when used, making it easier to remove any ‘used’ pieces.

    You can take these out after each use, and top the litter up if your cat likes their tray to be the most sanitary it can be. You should still completely empty and clean the tray every week or so, but overall it should reduce waste as you’re not getting rid of unused litter.

    Why should I choose clumping cat litter vs non-clumping?

    It is thought that clumping litter is preferred by many cats, and this is before even mentioning that it is a lot easier for you to manage too.

    Cats seem to like the feel of clumping litter under their paws as it is often made from materials such as clay. And as mentioned above, you can ensure that the litter stays as clean as possible which helps the fussiest of kitties. It makes your job of scooping up any used parts a lot easier, too.

    How often should I replace clumping cat litter?

    Clumps should ideally be removed after each use, which is twice daily. Some litters will say how long they can go before needing to be replaced fully, but the general rule is that all litter should be dumped after a week, and the litter tray washed, dried and ready to go again.

    Is bentonite litter safe for my cats?

    Clay clumping litters contain bentonite, which is an absorbent swelling clay consisting mostly of montmorillonite. This can sound quite scary when you’re choosing something that your cat may use every day, but don’t worry – bentonite litter is perfectly safe for cats.

    Pet products are thoroughly tested before they go on sale, especially the ones we have picked out on our website. The only danger with any clumping litter would come if your cat ingests it. While most litters are relatively safe if ingested in small doses, clumping litters such as bentonite would obviously clump in the throat or stomach, causing illness.

    Should I pick a flushable cat litter?

    People may believe that flushable litter can cause issues in the long term, just like flushable wipes for humans which actually gather up en masse and can cause blockages.

    But if used correctly, flushable litter can actually be really great for cutting down on waste. Just place the clump in the toilet and wait for the litter to dissolve before flushing, so there’s nothing solid which can cause issues. You should only get rid of one clump at a time.

    However, we still say popping it in the bin is best, or at least splitting how you dispose of it every so often so as not to cause issues.

    If your cat is on treatment which makes them slightly radioactive (such as for hypothyroidism), then the flushable litter will be necessary.

    How much is clumping cat litter?

    You will often pay more for the clumping litter versus the non-clumping, even if it is just basic clay options. It also applies to the own-brand varieties.

    This could be a deciding factor if you’re wondering whether to go for clumping or not, but basic clumping options will generally not be too extortionate.

    For a 10kg bag, you could pay anywhere between around £10 up towards £20. Bear in mind that those at the higher end of the price scale may have extra properties which mean they don’t need to be changed as often which could save you some money in the long term.