When looking to give your cat the happiest, healthiest lifestyle possible, the type of cat litter you choose is often overlooked. Cat and kitten litter can affect the health of your cat, your home, and even you. By choosing the best, healthiest cat litter, you can reduce the risk of causing harm to your precious pet while also keeping your home smelling fresh.
What makes cat litter healthy?
Cat litter is healthy for many different reasons, most of which regard your kitten or cat. However, not all cat litter are created equal, and some litter rise well above the rest in terms of healthiness. In most cases, choosing a natural cat litter is the best option for health. Your cat’s litter can affect health in multiple ways.
Clumping vs non-clumping litter
A quick walk down any cat care aisle will show a range of both clumping and non-clumping litter. While both options can be healthy, many cat owners prefer to choose clumping vs non-clumping litter. Many natural cat litter may not clump, clumping litter can help you, and your cat, keep the litter box clean. If your cat shows more interest in clumping litter than a non-clumping alternative, then be sure to go with clumping.
Cat litter dust
Sometimes overlooked by owners, cat litter dust can be a huge health issue for cats and humans. Most cat litter release some amount of litter dust, an issue for any cats or people that suffer from asthma or a related respiratory condition.
The best cat litter for dust depends on you and your little loved one. For example, while clay litter might dust more than pine litter, people with pine allergies may prefer clay for the overall health of the home. A cat that’s irritated by clay litter might benefit more from a corn or wheat litter. Try different options with your cat and see how they react to pick the best litter for dust.
Natural vs. traditional cat litter
Many proponents of healthy cat living believe that natural cat litter is by far the healthiest option for your cat. While this is usually true, the healthiest option depends on your cat. If your cat shows an aversion to their litter box when you use natural cat litter, then you’re better off going with a more traditional type like clay or silica cat litter.
Healthiest types of cat litter
Pine cat litter
A natural litter, pine litter is great for absorbing odors. As a natural option, this choice of litter is also environmentally friendly, not to mention low-dust and incredibly absorbent. Pine cat litter comes in both clumping and non-clumping options, so you can try out both to see which your cat prefers.
Corn cat litter
Corn cat litter is a popular option for cat owners thanks to it being environmentally friendly and natural. However, some cat owners find that corn cat litter can pose some health hazards when not properly managed. As corn, this litter can mold and produce aflatoxins, a dangerous toxin for pets. If this happens and the litter gets stuck in your cat’s paws, they may accidentally ingest the toxins while cleaning their paws. Fortunately, this rarely happens and can be easily avoided with regular litter box cleanings.
Grass cat litter
While not as common as other litter options, grass cat litter is perhaps as natural as can be. Low-dust, no odor, and environmentally friendly, grass cat litter is lightweight and easy to clean. This is a great option for many cats.
Wheat cat litter
Another environmentally friendly cat litter, wheat litter works a lot like pine litter. Most wheat litter are easy to clean out of the box, and they don’t come with a strong scent.
Clay cat litter and silica cat litter
Clay cat litter continues to be the most popular option for cats thanks to its versatility. You can find clay litter that are clumping or non-clumping, scented or unscented, and even low-to-no dust. While not a “natural” option, clay litter is perfect for most cats.
Silica cat litter, also known as crystal cat litter or silica gel, takes clay litter to the next level. This litter lasts much longer than clay litter and typically comes with much less dust. While the cost is higher, silica gel litter usually lasts a lot longer than clay litter — so, you could end up saving money by switching to silica litter.
However, this option could pose a risk to your cat’s health over a long period of time. Consider this option carefully before making a purchase.
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