10 Best Cat Litters 2026 in the United States

Fresh Step Advanced Simply Unscented Clumping Litter is designed for cat owners looking for effective odor control without added fragrances. This litter uses an advanced formula with Activated Charcoal Technology to neutralize odors on contact, which is excellent for homes sensitive to strong smells. It forms tight clumps quickly, making scooping easier and keeping the litter box clean. The low dust formula helps keep surrounding areas cleaner, which is a big plus for those concerned with dust.

However, being made from clay, this litter may not be the best choice for those seeking eco-friendly options. Additionally, while it claims low dust, some users may still notice minor dust when pouring or scooping. At 37 pounds, the package is quite heavy, which could be cumbersome for some individuals to handle.

Despite these minor drawbacks, its strong odor control and clumping capabilities make it a reliable choice for maintaining a fresh and clean litter box environment.

The PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Litter Tray Refills are a convenient choice for cat owners using the ScoopFree self-cleaning litter boxes. Made of crystal gel material rather than traditional clay, this non-clumping litter absorbs urine quickly and dries solid waste, helping control odors efficiently. Its lavender scent adds a fresh touch without being overpowering. The litter is low-dust and low-tracking, meaning less mess around the house and better air quality for sensitive cats and owners.

A big plus is the disposable tray with a durable plastic liner that prevents leaks, making cleanup straightforward and reducing worries about spills on floors. However, since this is a non-clumping type, it might not satisfy those who prefer scooping solid clumps. Also, crystal litter tends to be less eco-friendly compared to natural options, as it’s made from silica gel and involves plastic components. While absorbent and effective at odor control, some cats may take time to adjust to the different texture.

This product is best suited for busy pet parents who want a low-maintenance, hygienic solution and are already using the ScoopFree system. It offers great odor control and easy disposal but might not be the best pick for those focused on environmentally friendly litters or traditional scoop-style cleaning.

The PetSafe ScoopFree Disposable Crystal Cat Litter Tray is made of silica gel crystals, which absorb moisture quickly and control odors much better than traditional clumping clay litters. Thanks to its fresh scent crystals, it keeps your home smelling cleaner for longer. Designed specifically for the ScoopFree self-cleaning litter boxes, it offers convenience by eliminating the need for daily scooping — the entire tray is disposable, making cleanup easy and hands-free for weeks.

This litter is low-dust, benefiting both your cat's respiratory health and your home's cleanliness. The trays are leak-proof and lightweight, making them travel-friendly and easy to move around. Since it uses silica crystals rather than clumping clay, it doesn’t form clumps, which may not appeal if you prefer scooping clumps out regularly. Additionally, while silica gel efficiently absorbs moisture, it is not biodegradable and thus less eco-friendly compared to some natural litters like wood or corn-based options.

Tracking, where bits of litter stick to your cat’s paws and get scattered, is generally low with crystal litters, though some users notice a bit of tracking compared to heavier clay-based litters. This product suits busy cat owners or those seeking a low-maintenance, odor-controlling solution effective indoors and especially designed for use with the ScoopFree automatic system. However, if natural materials or clumping litter for manual scooping are priorities, other options may be preferable.