10 Best Clumping Cat Litters 2025 in the United States

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.

Fresh Step Simply Unscented Clumping Litter is designed to cater to cat owners who prefer an unscented option. One of its significant strengths is its odor control capability, thanks to the activated charcoal technology that prevents bacterial odor growth and keeps the litter box fresh for up to 15 days. This makes it suitable for households that are sensitive to artificial scents and dyes, as it contains no added fragrances or dyes.

The litter is also recommended by veterinarians, indicating its consideration for your cat's health and happiness. Additionally, the low dust formula helps to keep your floors and the litter box area cleaner, which is a strong point for minimizing mess and potential respiratory issues for both cats and owners. The clumping strength of this litter is notable, forming tight clumps that make scooping easy and help maintain a clean litter box environment by quickly absorbing liquids.

However, a potential drawback is that being unscented might not completely mask very strong odors for extended periods, which might require more frequent cleaning in multi-cat households. Additionally, the 14-pound box might be a bit cumbersome for some users to handle. Nonetheless, this product is well-suited for indoor cats and owners who prioritize a low-dust and fragrance-free environment. It is important to follow the usage instructions carefully to achieve the best results and maintain the litter box at the recommended levels for optimal performance.

Fresh Step Clumping Cat Litter is designed specifically for homes with multiple cats, offering strong odor control thanks to its Activated Charcoal and Ammonia Block technology, which promises up to 15 days of odor protection. This makes it a solid choice if you want to keep the litter box smelling fresh and inviting. The litter uses a low dust formula, which helps minimize mess on floors and around the litter box—great if you’re sensitive to dust or want to keep your home cleaner.

It forms tight clumps quickly due to its ClumpLock technology, making scooping easier and reducing leftover crumbles, so maintenance is straightforward. The material is clay-based, a common choice that balances absorbency and clumping well. The scent is marked as 'Multi-Cat' with Febreze freshness, meaning it’s lightly scented to mask odors without being overpowering, though if you prefer completely scent-free options, this might not be ideal. Some users might find clay litter a bit heavier to handle and dispose of compared to alternative materials.

Fresh Step’s 14-pound box is a reliable option for multi-cat households looking for effective odor control, low dust, and strong clumping performance, but if you or your cats are sensitive to scents or prefer eco-friendlier materials, you might want to explore other options.