10 Best Clumping Cat Litters 2025 in the United States

Fresh Step Clumping Cat Litter with Febreze Gain Scent offers several benefits for cat owners looking to maintain a fresh-smelling and clean home. One of its standout features is its 10-day odor control guarantee, thanks to the combination of Febreze’s Ammonia Block Technology and activated charcoal. This ensures that unpleasant odors are effectively neutralized, resulting in a more pleasant environment. Additionally, the Gain scent adds a fresh fragrance that is activated by your cat’s movement, keeping the litter box area smelling nice for longer periods.

Another significant advantage is the litter's low dust formula, boasting 99.9% dust-free performance. This is beneficial for keeping surfaces and the air cleaner, which is especially good news for those with dust sensitivities. The clumping capability of this litter is also strong, making it easier to scoop and helping to maintain a cleaner litter box.

There are a few considerations to be aware of. The product is made from clay, which may not be the most environmentally friendly option for some users. Additionally, the Gain scent, while refreshing to some, might be overpowering or undesirable to others, particularly those sensitive to fragrances. The litter is also on the heavier side at 14 pounds, which could be inconvenient for those with lifting restrictions. Fresh Step Clumping Cat Litter with Febreze Gain Scent is a solid option for controlling odors and maintaining a clean litter box, though the scent and weight might not suit everyone.

Dr. Elsey's Ultra Unscented Clumping Clay Cat Litter is made from 100% bentonite clay, which is known for strong clumping. This means it forms firm clumps that are easy to scoop without breaking apart, helping keep the litter box clean and dry. It is unscented, making it a good choice for cats or owners sensitive to fragrances. The litter is also very low in dust—about 99.9% dust-free—which is great for reducing mess around the box and better for allergy sufferers. Odor control is designed to handle both single and multi-cat households by using natural ingredients to keep smells fresh between cleanings.

Additionally, it has a medium grain size that helps minimize tracking, so less litter gets scattered outside the box. On the downside, since it is clay-based, the litter is not biodegradable and can be heavier compared to other materials like silica or plant-based litters. Some cat owners may prefer scented options if odor is a bigger concern. While it performs well in clumping and controlling dust, it requires regular scooping and full replacement about once a month.

This litter is suitable for indoor cats and those who need an unscented, low-dust option with reliable clumping performance.

The Arm & Hammer Cloud Control Platinum Multi-Cat Clumping Cat Litter is designed to cater to multi-cat households that require effective odor control and minimal dust. This litter stands out with a guaranteed 14-day odor control, thanks to its moisture-activated odor eliminators combined with ARM & HAMMER baking soda, making it a robust option for homes with multiple cats. Its hypoallergenic light scent is a noteworthy feature, catering to those sensitive to strong fragrances, yet it still manages to keep odors at bay without the presence of 26 known allergens.

One of the product's strengths is its 99.9% dust-free composition, which helps in reducing the dust clouds often associated with litter box cleaning. This makes it suitable for owners and cats sensitive to airborne dust. The product's Dander Shield Technology further assists in minimizing airborne dander, promising a cleaner scooping experience.

The clumping strength is also notable, as the litter forms rock-solid clumps which can simplify cleanup and help in maintaining a fresh litter box environment. However, it's important to note that this product is clay-based, which might not align with preferences for more environmentally sustainable material options. While the unit is 18 pounds, the packaging size may be surprising to some users at first glance due to the compact dimensions listed, which are likely meant for the packaging of the bag rather than its actual contents. This product is best for households seeking a high-performance, low-dust option that effectively manages odors and is gentle on allergies, all while handling the demands of multiple cats.