Let's be honest – choosing cat litter isn't the most glamorous part of pet parenting, but it is one of the most important.
The right litter keeps your home smelling fresh, your clean-up routine simple, and your cat comfortable every time they need to go.
From clumping clay to natural pine and plant-based options, there's plenty to choose from. But which type of cat litter is best for your cat?
Different types of cat litter – and how they compare
Not all cat litter is created equal. Some types are designed for easy scooping and odour control, while others prioritise absorbency, low tracking, or natural materials.
Here are the four main types of cat litter available at Petstock.
Clay cat litter
Clay cat litter is a popular choice thanks to its absorbency and clumping abilities. Usually made from bentonite clay, it forms solid clumps that can be easily scooped out, keeping the remaining litter clean and fresh.
For example, Swyft Hard Clumping Clay Cat Litter uses Australian-sourced bentonite clay, while Swyft Soft Clumping Clay Cat Litter offers a finer, sand-like texture that's gentle on paws.
Pros: Excellent absorbency, effective clumping and easy cleaning.
Cons: Not biodegradable, can be dusty, and may track outside the tray.
Paper cat litter
Paper cat litter is typically made from recycled paper compressed into absorbent pellets. It's a popular low-dust, biodegradable option, particularly for cats that prefer a gentle texture.
Paper litter generally doesn't clump, meaning soiled litter needs to be removed and replaced regularly.
Swyft Paper Cat Litter is made from 100% recycled paper, with absorbent pellets designed to manage moisture and odours while offering reduced tracking.
Pros: Biodegradable, low dust and tracking, absorbent and gentle on paws.
Cons: Usually non-clumping, requires regular replacement and odour control varies.
Pine cat litter
Pine cat litter is made from compressed pine wood, offering natural absorbency and odour control. Its larger pellets also help reduce tracking.
Many non-clumping pine pellets break down into sawdust when wet, helping absorb moisture and manage odours naturally.
Swyft Pine Cat Litter is made from 100% Australian-sourced pine and offers natural absorbency, low dust, effective odour control, and the added benefit of being compostable.
Pros: Biodegradable, naturally absorbent, low tracking, offers natural odour control.
Cons: Usually non-clumping, some cats dislike the pellet texture and regular maintenance is needed.
Plant-based cat litter
Plant-based cat litter is made from materials such as tofu, soy, corn, bamboo and pea fibre.
Many plant-based litters are biodegradable, highly absorbent and offer effective clumping, making them a popular option.
For example, Swyft Plant-Based Cat Litter combines corn starch and soya fibre to create an absorbent, clumping litter, with Activated Carbon and Milk Scented varieties available for odour premium control.
Pros: Biodegradable, often clumping, absorbent and available in various textures.
Cons: Can be more expensive, and odour control, tracking levels vary.
What about clumping vs non-clumping cat litter?
Clumping cat litter forms solid clumps when wet, making it easier to remove waste without replacing the entire tray. Clay and some plant-based litters typically offer clumping formulas.
Non-clumping cat litter, such as paper and pine, absorbs moisture without forming solid clumps and may require more frequent replacement.
Neither is necessarily better – it comes down to your cat's preferences and cleaning routine.
Cat litter comparison: Which type is right for your cat?
Use the table below to compare common cat litter materials and their key features.
| Cat litter type | Clumping | Siftable | Tracking | Dust | Biodegradable |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper | Usually no | Usually no | Low | Low | Yes |
| Clay/bentonite | Usually yes | Yes | Medium–high | Varies | No |
| Pine/wood pellets | Usually no | Usually no | Low | Low–medium | Yes |
| Bamboo | Varies | Varies | Low–medium | Varies | Yes |
| Tofu/Plant-Based | Usually yes | Usually yes | Low–medium | Usually low | Yes |
| Corn | Usually yes | No | Medium | Varies | Yes |
| Pea husk | Usually yes | No | Low–medium | Usually low | Yes |
These are general characteristics and may vary by product. Siftable refers to litter that can easily pass through a sifting tray or scoop, separating solid or clumped litter waste. Biodegradable litter isn't necessarily suitable for composting or flushing; always check the back of the pack, follow disposal instructions and local guidelines.
These are general characteristics and may vary by product. Siftable refers to litter that can easily pass through a sifting tray or scoop, separating solid or clumped litter waste. Biodegradable litter isn't necessarily suitable for composting or flushing; always check the back of the pack, follow disposal instructions and local guidelines.
How to choose the right litter for your cat
Every cat is different, so the 'best' litter comes down to their preferences and what works for your household.
Consider the following:
- Texture: Some cats prefer fine, sand-like litter, while others are comfortable using larger pellets.
- Odour control: Clumping litter makes waste removal easier, while pine offers natural odour control.
- Dust and tracking: Low-dust formulas and larger pellets can help reduce mess outside of the tray.
- Cleaning routine: Clumping litter is easy to scoop, while non-clumping options may need more frequent replacement.
- Sustainability: Paper, pine, and plant-based litters offer biodegradable alternatives to clay.
You might need to try a couple of types before finding 'the one' – and that's completely normal!
Litter box hygiene and maintenance
How often should you change cat litter?
A clean litter box makes a big difference to your cat's comfort – and your home. Many cats avoid dirty trays, which can lead to accidents.
Scoop at least once a day, particularly in multi-cat households. How often you completely replace the litter depends on the type, number of cats and manufacturer's instructions.
When changing litter, wash the tray with a pet-safe, unscented cleaner, rinse and dry before refilling.
Tips to keep the litter area tidy
If your cat loves to dig, a litter mat can catch scattered litter, while a high-sided tray can help contain mess.
A good litter scoop also makes daily clean-up easier. Choose one suited to your litter's texture so you can remove waste without discarding too much clean litter.
Keep the tray in a quiet, well-ventilated spot, and clean it regularly.
How many litter boxes should you have?
The general rule? One tray per cat, plus one extra.
So, two cats means three trays. This helps reduce stress and territorial behaviour that can lead to litter box avoidance.
Even single-cat homes can benefit from a second tray, particularly in larger or multi-level houses.
Why is my cat peeing outside their litter box?
There are several reasons your cat might avoid their litter box.
Your first stop should be the vet, as medical issues like urinary tract infections can cause changes in toileting habits.
It could also be the litter itself. Perhaps the texture has changed, the tray isn't clean, or there's a scent your cat dislikes.
If switching litter types, introduce the new litter gradually over several days, or offer it in a separate tray.
Stress, changes in routine and poor litter box placement can also contribute, so keep the tray clean, accessible and somewhere quiet.
From clumping clay to recycled paper, pine and plant-based options, finding the right litter can make everyday clean-up easier for you and your cat.
Ready for a litter refresh? Explore Swyft cat litter and accessories alongside our full range of cat litter at Petstock.