iHeartCats is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
As an expert in cat health and nutrition, I know that selecting the right type of cat litter can be a crucial decision for both your cat’s well-being and your own convenience. While clumping litters have their own set of advantages, non-clumping litters offer unique benefits that might better suit your feline friend or household needs. In this article, we’ll explore the best non-clumping cat litters available on the market, taking into account factors such as odor control, dust levels, and eco-friendliness.
#1 – Feline Pine Platinum Non-Clumping Cat Litter 18lb.
The Feline Pine Platinum Non-Clumping Cat Litter is an odor-eliminating cat litter made with natural pine shavings and ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda. It effectively locks away ammonia odors and neutralizes odors on contact, without the use of harsh chemicals or synthetic perfumes. This lightweight litter is highly absorbent, making it easy to clean and refill the litter box, and it is also an eco-friendly choice, as it is made from reclaimed pine shavings.
Best For: Best natural odor control with no added fragrances
#2 – Litter Pearls Micro Crystals Unscented Non-Clumping Crystal Cat Litter with Odorbond, 7 lb, White, Clear and Blue Crystals (LPMC7)
Litter Pearls Micro Crystals is a fragrance-free, non-clumping crystal cat litter that offers superior odor control. It is designed to be soft on cats’ paws for maximum comfort and has a 30-day odor control feature that neutralizes ammonia odors. The litter is made from non-toxic silica gel crystals that are 99.9% dust-free and ultra-absorbent, making it easy to scoop and maintain a clean litter box.
Best For: Odor control and sensitive cats.
#3 – Eco-Shell Naturally Fresh Cat Litter Made from Walnut Shells, Pellet Non-Clumping, Biodegradable, Dust-Free, Sustainable, 26 Lbs
Eco-Shell Naturally Fresh Cat Litter is an eco-friendly cat litter made from all-natural walnut shells. It is biodegradable, dust-free, and sustainable, and it neutralizes odors more effectively than other types of litter. It forms hard clumps quickly without sticking to the litter box, and it is virtually dust-free, making it safer for pets and owners with respiratory problems.
#4 – (1 Bag) Skoon All-Natural Cat Litter -Lavender Scent- light-weight, non-clumping, low maintenance & eco-friendly. Absorbs & seals liquids for best odor control
The Skoon All-Natural Cat Litter is a lightweight, non-clumping litter option that is low maintenance and eco-friendly. It has high absorption, effectively sealing in liquids and eliminating odor. The litter is non-tracking, low dust, and hypoallergenic, making it a healthy choice for both cats and their owners.
Best For: Budget-friendly and eco-conscious cat owners.
#5 – Skoon All-Natural Cat Litter + Free Pooper Skooper, Non-Tracking, Non-Clumping, Low Maintenance, Eco-Friendly – Absorbs, Locks and Seals Liquids for Best Odor Control
The Skoon All-Natural Cat Litter is a non-clumping, low-maintenance, and eco-friendly litter that is designed to absorb and lock in liquids for optimal odor control. It is also non-tracking, preventing any messes or unhealthy licking by your cat. Additionally, the litter is hypoallergenic, low in dust, and free of chemicals or fragrances.
Best For: Best Overall
#6 – Purina Tidy Cats Non Clumping Cat Litter, Glade Clear Springs Multi Cat Litter – 10 lb. Bag
The Purina Tidy Cats Non-Clumping Cat Litter, Glade Clear Springs Multi Cat Litter is a 10 lb. bag of cat litter that is designed to defend against tough odors. It features integrated odor erasers that neutralize ammonia, fecal, and urine smells, while also offering a pleasant Clear Springs scent. This cat litter is ideal for budget-conscious consumers looking for an effective odor-control solution.
Best For: Best on a budget.
#7 – Fresh Step Non-Clumping Clay Cat Litter, Scented with Febreze, 21 Lb
The Fresh Step Non-Clumping Clay Cat Litter is a scented premium clay litter that effectively traps and eliminates kitty litter odors. Its high-absorbing clay neutralizes and inhibits the growth of bacterial odors, leaving a fresh Febreze scent. This low-dust formula is designed to keep surfaces cleaner with reduced tracking and provides superior odor control for up to 7 days.
Best For: Best overall. A premium clay litter with superior odor control.
#8 – (1 Bag) Skoon All-Natural Fine Grain Cat Litter, Unscented & Safe for Kittens. Light-weight, Non-clumping, Low Maintenance. Absorbs and seals Liquids for Best Odor Control. Self-Cleaning Box Compatible.
The Skoon All-Natural Fine Grain Cat Litter is a lightweight and non-clumping litter that is safe for kittens and cats with sensitive paws. It absorbs and seals liquids to control odor, making it a good choice for multi-cat households. The litter is also non-tracking, low dust, and hypoallergenic, providing a mess-free and healthy environment for both cats and their owners.
Best For: Budget-conscious cat owners looking for an all-natural litter option.
What is a Non-Clumping Cat Litter and What Are The Pros and Cons?
A Non-clumping cat litter is a type of cat litter that does not form solid, cohesive clumps when it comes into contact with liquid waste. Instead, the liquid tends to spread throughout the litter, increasing the surface area that absorbs the moisture. Non-clumping litter are usually made from materials like clay, silica gel crystals, recycled paper, or wood shavings.
Pros:
- Low Maintenance: Non-clumping litters are generally easier to maintain on a day-to-day basis. You won’t have to scoop out clumps daily, though you will still need to remove solid waste.
- Less Dust: Many non-clumping litters, particularly those made from paper or wood, produce less dust compared to clumping varieties, making them a good option for cats or humans with respiratory sensitivities.
- Easy Disposal: Non-clumping litters can be easier to dispose of, especially those made from biodegradable materials like recycled paper or wood.
- Low Tracking: Due to their larger particle size, non-clumping litters are often less likely to be tracked around the house, which can help to keep your home cleaner.
Cons:
- Frequent Replacement: Because they don’t isolate waste in clumps, non-clumping litters generally require more frequent complete replacements to prevent odor and maintain hygiene.
- Less Effective Odor Control: Non-clumping litters are often less effective at controlling odors because the liquid waste spreads throughout the litter rather than being isolated in clumps.
- Waste of Material: You might end up discarding more litter than you would with a clumping variety, as soiled litter cannot be easily separated from clean litter.
- May Be Less Comfortable: Some cats prefer the texture of clumping litter, so there might be an adjustment period or even resistance when transitioning to a non-clumping option.
By understanding the pros and cons of non-clumping cat litter, you can make an informed decision based on your lifestyle, your cat’s preferences, and any specific health concerns you may have.
Frequently Asked Questions About Non-Clumping Cat Litters
1. What is non-clumping cat litter made of?
Non-clumping cat litter can be made from a variety of materials, including clay, silica gel crystals, recycled paper, and wood shavings. The choice of material can impact factors like odor control, absorbency, and eco-friendliness.
2. How often should I change non-clumping litter?
Because non-clumping litter does not isolate waste in clumps, it generally requires more frequent complete replacements to prevent odor and maintain hygiene. It’s advisable to replace the entire litter box at least once a week, although this can vary depending on the number of cats and the type of litter.
3. Is non-clumping litter less dusty?
Many non-clumping litters, especially those made from recycled paper or wood, produce less dust than clumping litters. This can be beneficial for both cats and humans with respiratory sensitivities or allergies.
4. Can I flush non-clumping cat litter?
Whether you can flush non-clumping cat litter depends on the material and local sewage guidelines. Biodegradable options like paper may be flushable, but it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s guidelines and local regulations before flushing any type of litter.
5. Is non-clumping litter eco-friendly?
Some non-clumping litters, such as those made from recycled paper or sustainably sourced wood, are eco-friendly and biodegradable. However, traditional clay-based non-clumping litters are not usually considered eco-friendly.
6. How does non-clumping litter control odor?
Non-clumping litters generally rely on the absorbent properties of the material to control odor. Some may also contain added deodorizers or baking soda. However, they are generally less effective at odor control compared to clumping litter.
7. Is non-clumping litter suitable for kittens?
Non-clumping litter is often recommended for young kittens, especially those under 3 months old, who might be more prone to ingesting litter. Always consult your veterinarian for age-appropriate recommendations.
8. Is non-clumping litter good for multiple cats?
Non-clumping litter can work in multi-cat households, but it will require more frequent replacements due to the increased waste. Some multi-cat households use non-clumping litter in additional boxes for solid waste, alongside clumping litter for urine.
9. Can I use non-clumping litter in a self-cleaning litter box?
Generally, non-clumping litter is not suitable for self-cleaning litter boxes, which rely on the ability to remove clumps. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for both the litter and the litter box to ensure compatibility.
10. How do I transition my cat from clumping to non-clumping litter?
To transition your cat, start by mixing a small amount of the non-clumping litter with the clumping litter. Gradually increase the proportion of non-clumping litter over several days to allow your cat to adjust to the new texture and smell.
Conclusion: Best Non-Clumping Cat Litters
Choosing the right cat litter involves more than just picking a popular brand off the shelf; it’s about understanding your cat’s needs and your own lifestyle preferences. Non-clumping litters can be an excellent choice for those looking for lower maintenance, less dust, or specific types of odor control. While they may require more frequent litter box changes, their advantages in other areas like easy disposal and lower tracking can outweigh the drawbacks. With the options discussed in this article, you are now equipped to make a well-informed decision that will benefit both you and your feline companion.