Litter is one of those unglamorous choices that quietly shapes daily life with a cat. Pick well and the box practically takes care of itself; pick poorly and you’ll know it. This complete guide covers every litter type, how to choose, and how to keep things fresh — with picks available on ASM Pet Market.
The main types of cat litter
- Clumping clay — forms scoopable clumps, great odour control, the most popular choice.
- Non-clumping clay — absorbent and economical, usually changed more often.
- Crystal / silica — highly absorbent, low dust, controls odour well between changes.
- Natural (corn, wood, paper, tofu) — biodegradable options, often low-dust and lightweight.
Compare them in the cat category.
How to choose for your cat
Your cat gets the final vote. Most cats prefer unscented, soft, fine-grained litter that feels good under their paws. Factor in your priorities too — odour control, dust, weight, eco-friendliness and budget. If you’re setting up for a new arrival, our new kitten checklist covers the whole litter station.
Boxes and placement
The box matters as much as the litter. Provide one box per cat plus a spare, sized so your cat can turn around comfortably, in quiet, easy-to-reach spots away from food and high traffic. Covered boxes suit some cats and trap odour for humans, but others prefer open boxes — watch your cat’s preference.
Odour control and scooping
Nothing beats a clean box for odour. Scoop once or twice daily, top up litter to maintain depth, and do a full change and wash on a regular schedule. Good clumping or crystal litter buys you time between changes, but consistent scooping is what keeps a home smelling fresh.
Switching litter without protest
Cats dislike sudden change. To switch types, mix a little of the new litter into the old and gradually increase the proportion over one to two weeks. A slow transition lets your cat adjust and keeps them using the box happily.
Solving common litter problems
If your cat starts avoiding the box, run through the checklist first: Is it clean enough? The right litter? A good location? Enough boxes? Fixing the setup resolves most issues. If avoidance continues despite a clean, well-placed box, consult your vet to rule out a medical cause.