Does your cat’s litter box sometimes feel like a dusty, stinky battlefield? You’re not alone! Many cat parents face the challenge of finding a litter that keeps both their feline friends and their homes happy. Traditional clay litters can sometimes be dusty, heavy, and not the most eco-friendly choice. Plus, with so many new types of litter popping up, figuring out which one is best can feel overwhelming.
You want a litter that controls odor, is easy to clean, and is comfortable for your cat. But the sheer number of choices – from wood pellets to corn cob and silica gel – can leave you scratching your head. Is it safe? Does it clump well? Will my cat even use it? These are all valid questions, and we’re here to help you find the answers.
In this post, we’ll dive deep into the world of non-clay cat litters. We’ll explore the different types available, their pros and cons, and what to look for to make the perfect pick for your furry companion. Get ready to say goodbye to litter box woes and hello to a cleaner, fresher home for everyone!
Our Top 5 Non Clay Cat Litter Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
ARM & HAMMER Naturals Clumping Cat | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
 |
Feline Pine Platinum Non-Clumping Cat Litter | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
 |
Fresh News Recycled Paper | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
 |
Naturally Fresh Cat Litter Made From Walnut Shells | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
 |
Dr. Elsey’s Ultra UnScented Clumping Clay Cat Litter 40 lb. Bag | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Non Clay Cat Litter Detailed Reviews
1. ARM & HAMMER Naturals Clumping Cat
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of litter box odors taking over your home? The ARM & HAMMER Naturals Clumping Cat Litter promises a fresh-smelling sanctuary, even with multiple feline friends. This 18 lb. bag is packed with natural ingredients designed to tackle the toughest smells and make cleanup a breeze.
What We Like:
- It absorbs twice as much liquid as regular clumping clay litter.
- It clumps into small, light pieces that are easy to scoop and remove.
- The natural corn fibers and baking soda work together for superior odor control, especially in multi-cat homes.
- It’s a great option for eliminating litter box smells.
- The formula is low dust, which is better for you and your cats.
- It’s 50% lighter than typical clay litter, making it easy to carry and pour.
- The natural ingredients like corn, plant extracts, and baking soda offer outstanding odor elimination.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it aims for low dust, some users might still notice a small amount.
- The 18 lb. bag might not be enough for very large or very busy multi-cat households, requiring more frequent repurchasing.
This ARM & HAMMER Naturals litter is a strong contender for keeping your home smelling fresh and making litter box duty simpler. It’s a natural solution for a common pet owner challenge.
2. Feline Pine Platinum Non-Clumping Cat Litter
Rating: 9.0/10
Tired of dusty, heavy cat litter? Feline Pine Platinum Non-Clumping Cat Litter in the 18lb bag offers a natural and effective solution for your feline friend’s litter box. This lightweight litter makes cleaning a breeze and tackles odors head-on.
What We Like:
- It’s super lightweight, making it easy to carry and change the litter box.
- This litter is highly absorbent and locks away smells, keeping your home fresh.
- Feline Pine is made from natural pine shavings, so no new trees are harmed.
- It contains no harsh chemicals or added perfumes, which is great for sensitive cats.
- The natural pine fibers and ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda work together to eliminate tough odors.
- It doesn’t create a dusty mess when you pour it.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some cats might need a little time to get used to the pine scent.
- It’s a non-clumping litter, so you’ll need to scoop solids regularly to keep it clean.
If you’re searching for a natural, lightweight, and odor-controlling cat litter, Feline Pine Platinum is definitely worth considering. It offers a refreshing change from traditional clay litters.
3. Fresh News Recycled Paper
Rating: 9.4/10
Say goodbye to stinky surprises with Fresh News Recycled Paper, Original Pellet Cat Litter! This 12-pound bag offers a fantastic alternative to traditional clay litters, promising a fresher home for you and your furry friend. Its unique pellet form is designed for maximum absorbency and odor control, making it a top choice for pet parents.
What We Like:
- It absorbs liquids really well, holding almost three times more than clay.
- The pellets don’t clump, which makes cleaning up easier.
- It has baking soda and special moisture-locking pellets that fight smells.
- This litter is made from 100% recycled paper, which is good for the planet.
- It’s safe for pets because it’s almost entirely dust-free and non-allergenic.
- The pellets stay in shape even when wet, helping to keep the litter box cleaner.
- It’s biodegradable, so you can compost it to help reduce landfill waste.
- Fresh News offers a healthy, non-toxic environment for your cat.
What Could Be Improved:
- The packaging can sometimes change, which might be a little confusing.
- Some users may prefer clumping litter for scooping.
Overall, Fresh News Recycled Paper Litter is an excellent option for a cleaner, fresher-smelling home and a healthier environment for your cat. It’s a smart choice for both your pet and the planet.
4. Naturally Fresh Cat Litter Made From Walnut Shells
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of stinky litter boxes and dusty messes? The Naturally Fresh Cat Litter, made from walnut shells, offers a refreshing change. This unscented litter is designed for homes with one to two cats, promising a cleaner and more pleasant environment for both pets and people. Its unique formula is upcycled and sustainable, making it a smart choice for eco-conscious pet parents.
What We Like:
- This litter truly neutralizes odors better than many other types, including clay, pine, corn, and wheat litters.
- It forms hard clumps in just 15 minutes, making scooping a breeze.
- The clumps don’t stick to the litter box, which simplifies cleaning.
- It provides excellent control over ammonia odors.
- Made from upcycled walnut shells, it’s a sustainable and eco-friendly option.
- The litter is a food byproduct and produced in solar-run facilities.
- It’s a low-tracking material, meaning less litter ends up on your floors.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for odor control, some users might prefer a scented option.
- For very large households or cats with particular preferences, 40 lbs might run out quicker than expected.
This walnut shell cat litter is a fantastic alternative for those seeking a natural, effective, and easy-to-manage solution for their cat’s litter box. It delivers on its promise of superior odor control and minimal mess, making your home a fresher place.
5. Dr. Elsey’s Ultra UnScented Clumping Clay Cat Litter 40 lb. Bag
Rating: 8.5/10
Say goodbye to dusty messes and lingering odors with Dr. Elsey’s Ultra UnScented Clumping Clay Cat Litter. This 40 lb. bag offers a premium solution for cat owners, focusing on quality and your cat’s comfort. It uses 100% bentonite clay, carefully chosen for its texture and size. This means you get litter particles that are just right.
What We Like:
- Premium Quality: Made with 100% bentonite clay, the texture and granule size are just right for maximum clumping.
- Low Dust: This litter is 99.9% dust-free and hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for cats and people with allergies.
- Hard Clumping: The medium grain clay forms hard clumps that don’t break apart, preventing moisture from reaching the bottom of the litter box and making scooping easy.
- Superior Odor Control: Natural ingredients work hard to keep your home smelling fresh, even in homes with multiple cats.
- Low Tracking: The special medium grain clay formula helps keep the litter inside the box where it belongs.
What Could Be Improved:
- While unscented is a pro for many, some users might prefer a very subtle, natural scent.
- The 40 lb. bag can be heavy to carry and pour for some individuals.
Dr. Elsey’s Ultra UnScented Clumping Clay Cat Litter is a top-notch choice for a clean and fresh home. It truly delivers on its promises of low dust, hard clumping, and superior odor control.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: A Purrfect Choice
Finding the right cat litter makes a big difference for both you and your feline friend. Clay litter is common, but many cat owners are looking for alternatives. Non-clay cat litters offer different benefits and might be a better fit for your home. This guide helps you understand what to look for.
Why Choose Non-Clay Litter?
Many cat owners switch from clay litter because it can be dusty. Some clays also don’t handle moisture as well. Non-clay litters often control odor better and can be more eco-friendly. They come in many types, so there’s likely one that suits your cat’s preferences and your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for non-clay litter, keep these important things in mind.
- Odor Control: This is a big one! Good odor control means your home smells fresh. Look for litters that promise to lock away smells.
- Clumping Ability: Many non-clay litters clump, just like clay. This makes cleaning the litter box easier. You can scoop out the waste quickly.
- Dust Level: Less dust is better for everyone. It helps keep the air clean and is gentler on your cat’s lungs.
- Absorbency: How well does the litter soak up liquid? High absorbency helps keep the litter box dry.
- Texture: Cats can be picky! Some prefer finer textures, while others like coarser grains.
- Scent: Some litters have added scents to help with odor. Others are unscented. Your cat might prefer one over the other.
Important Materials in Non-Clay Litters
Non-clay litters are made from various natural and recycled materials.
- Corn: Many litters use dried corn. This material is good at absorbing liquid and controlling odor. It’s also biodegradable.
- Wheat: Similar to corn, wheat-based litters are absorbent and break down easily.
- Wood Pellets: These come from pine or other woods. They are very absorbent and often have a natural, pleasant scent. They can sometimes break down into sawdust.
- Paper: Recycled paper is used to make lightweight litters. These are often good for cats with allergies.
- Walnut Shells: Crushed walnut shells make a litter that is excellent at odor control. It has a darker color.
- Coconut Husks: These are another eco-friendly option that absorbs well.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a non-clay litter great, while others can make it less ideal.
-
Good Quality:
- Effective Odor Neutralization: The litter truly stops smells.
- Strong Clumping: Clumps hold together well for easy scooping.
- Low Dust: Minimal dust when pouring or when your cat digs.
- Natural Ingredients: Made from safe, plant-based materials.
- Biodegradable: Breaks down naturally, which is good for the environment.
-
Poor Quality:
- Weak Clumping: Clumps fall apart, making cleaning messy.
- High Dust: Creates a dusty environment.
- Poor Odor Control: Smells linger in the house.
- Sticky Texture: Can stick to your cat’s paws and be tracked around.
- Unpleasant Scent: A strong artificial scent might bother your cat.
User Experience and Use Cases
People choose non-clay litters for many reasons.
- For the Environment: If you want to reduce your environmental impact, biodegradable litters are a great choice.
- For Sensitive Cats: Litters made from paper or corn can be good for cats with allergies or sensitivities.
- For Easier Cleaning: Clumping non-clay litters make scooping a breeze.
- For Odor Issues: Many non-clay options excel at locking away smells.
- For Homes with Multiple Cats: Good odor control is essential when you have more than one cat.
Switching litters might take a little time. Most cats adjust well, especially if you introduce the new litter gradually. Mix some of the new litter with the old litter, then slowly use more of the new litter over a week.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main advantages of non-clay cat litter?
A: Non-clay litters are often less dusty than clay litters. Many also offer excellent odor control and are made from natural, biodegradable materials. They can be a good choice for cats with allergies.
Q: Is non-clay litter safe for my cat?
A: Yes, most non-clay litters are made from safe, natural ingredients. Always check the product details to ensure it’s suitable for your cat.
Q: Does non-clay litter clump?
A: Many non-clay litters do clump. This makes them easy to clean, similar to clay litters.
Q: What if my cat doesn’t like the new non-clay litter?
A: Cats can be sensitive to change. Try mixing the new litter with their old litter gradually. This helps them get used to the new texture and smell.
Q: How often should I change non-clay litter?
A: You should scoop out waste daily. The full litter box should be changed and refilled regularly, usually every 1-4 weeks, depending on the type of litter and how many cats use it.
Q: Is non-clay litter better for the environment?
A: Many non-clay litters are made from renewable resources and are biodegradable, which is better for the environment than traditional clay litters.
Q: Can I flush non-clay litter down the toilet?
A: Some non-clay litters are flushable, but it’s always best to check the product packaging. Flushing too much litter can clog your pipes.
Q: What is the best non-clay litter for odor control?
A: Litters made from walnut shells or wood pellets are often praised for their odor control. Corn and wheat-based litters can also be very effective.
Q: Is non-clay litter more expensive than clay litter?
A: The price can vary. Some non-clay litters are similar in price to clay litters, while others might be a bit more expensive. Consider the benefits like odor control and biodegradability when comparing costs.
Q: What should I do if my cat tracks non-clay litter around the house?
A: Some litters are more prone to tracking than others. Consider a litter mat outside the litter box to catch stray pieces. Litters with larger granules or those that clump well may track less.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Mallory Crusta, the heart and mind behind LovelyPetSpot.com.. As a passionate pet enthusiast, I created this space to share my experiences, expertise, and love for all things pets. Whether it’s helpful tips, heartfelt stories, or advice for pet parents, my mission is to make the journey of caring for your furry, feathery, or scaly friends as joyful and fulfilling as possible. Join me in celebrating the incredible bond we share with our animal companions!