Clumping * Non-Clumping * Which to Choose
Cat litter comes in two basic types: clumping and non-clumping. Each has advantages and disadvantages. Litters come in a wide range of materials with very different properties when it comes to length of use, odor control, etc., so be sure to compare each material too.
Clumping
Advantages
- Allows you to remove only the used portion of the litter when cleaning the box.
- Often considered long-lasting because of the ability to leave unused litter in the box.
- Gives a visual cue for how much your cat urinates, allowing you to spot potential health changes early if the urine clumps change in size or frequency.
Disadvantages
- Many clumping materials, like Bentonite clay, can be dusty
- Can stick to cat’s fur, which is a problem for kittens, or cats with mobility issues that prevent proper grooming
Non-Clumping
Advantages
- Often available in totally dust-free materials
- Some varieties of non-clumping litter are inexpensive
- Generally considered a safe choice for kittens, or for cats recovering from injuries or surgery because it’s less likely to stick to their bodies
Disadvantages
- Many non-clumping litter materials are not good at controlling odors
- Some litters will have added ingredients to mask or suppress odor
- Often requires frequent total box changes to stay clean/fresh
- Some varieties of non clumping litter are expensive
Which to Choose
| Clumping | Non-Clumping | |
| Kittens (<6 months old) | ✓ | |
| Juvenile /Adult (6 months to 6 years) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Senior (7 years to 15 years) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Super Senior (>16 years) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Asthma / Allergies | ✓ | ✓ |
| Obese / Overweight | ✓ | |
| Arthritis or Other Mobility Problems | ✓ | |
| Injury or Surgery Recover | ✓ |
Feline Disease Management 