We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Kitty Litters 2026 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Dr. Elsey's Ultra Unscented Clumping Clay Cat Litter 18 lb Bag

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,363
Dust Levels
Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Odor Control

Most important from
94925 reviews

Dust Levels
This litter produces almost no dust, making cleanup much cleaner and reducing allergens in the home.
Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Clumping is incredibly strong, often forming hard clumps that sometimes require a little effort to break, but make scooping very effective.
Odor Control
Odor control is excellent even without any added scent, keeping the litter box fresh enough that odors are barely noticeable until the very end of its use.
Tracking
Tracking is minimal, with very little litter scattered outside the box, which is especially helpful in small living spaces.
Absorbency
This litter significantly reduces the need to frequently replace the entire box’s contents due to its superior clumping and minimal residue left behind.
Material
Despite being a clay-based litter and heavier to carry, its low dust and strong clumping qualities justify the weight and handling.

Dr. Elsey's Ultra Unscented Clumping Clay Cat Litter uses 100% bentonite clay, which is known for strong clumping and good absorbency. This litter forms hard clumps that make scooping easier and help keep the litter box cleaner by preventing moisture from sinking to the bottom. It is unscented, making it a good choice for cats or owners sensitive to fragrances. The litter is very low in dust (99.9% dust-free), which helps reduce allergens and mess in the home. It also has a medium grain size that minimizes tracking, so less litter ends up outside the box. Odor control is strong enough to handle single or multiple cats, using natural ingredients to keep smells in check between cleanings. The 18-pound bag size is practical and suitable for regular household use.

One drawback is that being a clay-based litter, it can be heavier to carry and isn’t biodegradable like some alternatives. Also, while it controls odor well, some users may find it less effective compared to scented litters in extremely high-traffic litter boxes. This litter is a solid pick for cat owners who want a reliable, unscented, clumping option with good dust control and minimal tracking.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,363
Dust Levels
Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Odor Control

Most important from
94925 reviews

Dust Levels
This litter produces almost no dust, making cleanup much cleaner and reducing allergens in the home.
Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Clumping is incredibly strong, often forming hard clumps that sometimes require a little effort to break, but make scooping very effective.
Odor Control
Odor control is excellent even without any added scent, keeping the litter box fresh enough that odors are barely noticeable until the very end of its use.
Tracking
Tracking is minimal, with very little litter scattered outside the box, which is especially helpful in small living spaces.
Absorbency
This litter significantly reduces the need to frequently replace the entire box’s contents due to its superior clumping and minimal residue left behind.
Material
Despite being a clay-based litter and heavier to carry, its low dust and strong clumping qualities justify the weight and handling.
#2

ARM & HAMMER Clump & Seal SLIDE Platinum Multi-Cat Clumping Cat Litter, 14-Day Odor Control, EZ Clean Technology, 37 lbs – No Scrubbing, Powerful Odor Eliminator

Rating
9.7
Material
Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Odor Control

Most important from
19621 reviews

Material
The fine, sand-like texture is gentle on cats’ paws and significantly reduces tracking compared to traditional clay litters.
Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Clumps form rock-solid masses that make scooping effortless and reduce waste by needing less litter per use.
Odor Control
Odor control is impressive, effectively locking in smells for days without overwhelming artificial scents.
Dust Levels
Extremely low dust levels create a much cleaner scooping experience, even benefiting cats sensitive to dust or allergies.
Tracking
The fine, sand-like texture is gentle on cats’ paws and significantly reduces tracking compared to traditional clay litters.
Absorbency
The litter doesn’t stick to the box, eliminating the need for scrubbing and simplifying maintenance.

The ARM & HAMMER Clump & Seal SLIDE Platinum cat litter is designed specifically for homes with multiple cats, offering strong odor control for up to 14 days thanks to added baking soda and powerful odor eliminators. Its clumping formula creates rock-hard clumps that make scooping easier and help lock in moisture and smells effectively. The patented EZ Clean Technology means the litter doesn’t stick to the box, making cleaning less of a chore with no scrubbing needed.

This litter is granular and has a fresh scent, which many users find pleasant without being overwhelming. It’s known for having low dust levels, which is great for cats and people sensitive to dust, and it tends to track less around the house compared to some other litters. The 37-pound size is generous and suited for households with more than one cat.

Some users might find the litter a bit heavier to handle and the scent, while fresh, may not appeal to everyone. Additionally, while the litter seals odors well, extremely strong smells might still occasionally require more frequent cleaning. This litter is a solid choice if you want a strong, low-dust clumping litter that controls odors and simplifies cleaning, especially in multi-cat environments.

Rating
9.7
Material
Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Odor Control

Most important from
19621 reviews

Material
The fine, sand-like texture is gentle on cats’ paws and significantly reduces tracking compared to traditional clay litters.
Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Clumps form rock-solid masses that make scooping effortless and reduce waste by needing less litter per use.
Odor Control
Odor control is impressive, effectively locking in smells for days without overwhelming artificial scents.
Dust Levels
Extremely low dust levels create a much cleaner scooping experience, even benefiting cats sensitive to dust or allergies.
Tracking
The fine, sand-like texture is gentle on cats’ paws and significantly reduces tracking compared to traditional clay litters.
Absorbency
The litter doesn’t stick to the box, eliminating the need for scrubbing and simplifying maintenance.
#3

PrettyLitter Health Monitoring Cat Litter (Unscented, Non Clumping) | Lightweight & Low Tracking, Color Changing Silica Gel Crystals, Advanced Odor Control — 6 Lbs, Pack of 2 (Two Month Supply)

Rating
9.7
Material
Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Odor Control

Most important from
3718 reviews

Material
Veterinarians see no concerns with the silica-based formula, and it is safe for kittens and adult cats alike.
Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
The non-clumping nature speeds up scooping by only requiring removal of solid waste, making litter box maintenance quicker and easier.
Odor Control
Odor control is exceptional—urine is absorbed into the crystals, eliminating smells rather than just masking them.
Dust Levels
This litter dramatically reduces dust and tracking, keeping cats' paws clean and your home tidier.
Tracking
This litter dramatically reduces dust and tracking, keeping cats' paws clean and your home tidier.

PrettyLitter is a silica gel-based cat litter designed without clumping, which sets it apart from many clay litters. Its lightweight formula is about 80% lighter than traditional clay litters, making it easier to handle and reducing the strain of frequent refills. It is low dust and low tracking, so it tends to keep your home cleaner by minimizing litter scatter and airborne dust. One standout feature is its health monitoring capability; the litter changes color when detecting shifts in your cat's urine pH or presence of blood, which can help spot health issues like urinary tract infections or kidney problems early. This makes it especially useful for cat owners who want an extra layer of health awareness.

Odor control is handled well through the silica crystals, which trap moisture and neutralize smells by dehydrating waste rather than just clumping it. However, since it’s non-clumping, you will still need to scoop out feces regularly, and the urine absorbs into the crystals instead of forming clumps. Some cats may take time to adjust to silica gel litter if they are used to clay. Also, while it’s effective at odor control, it may not mask strong smells indefinitely without regular cleaning. This litter is unscented, making it suitable for cats sensitive to fragrances, and it fits most types of litter boxes, including automatic ones. It’s safe for kittens and adult cats alike.

PrettyLitter provides a low-maintenance, health-aware option for cat owners who prefer lightweight, low-dust litter and value the added health monitoring feature, though those wanting clumping action for urine might look elsewhere.

Rating
9.7
Material
Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Odor Control

Most important from
3718 reviews

Material
Veterinarians see no concerns with the silica-based formula, and it is safe for kittens and adult cats alike.
Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
The non-clumping nature speeds up scooping by only requiring removal of solid waste, making litter box maintenance quicker and easier.
Odor Control
Odor control is exceptional—urine is absorbed into the crystals, eliminating smells rather than just masking them.
Dust Levels
This litter dramatically reduces dust and tracking, keeping cats' paws clean and your home tidier.
Tracking
This litter dramatically reduces dust and tracking, keeping cats' paws clean and your home tidier.

Buying Guide for the Best Kitty Litters

Choosing the right kitty litter is essential for both your cat's comfort and your convenience. The right litter can help control odors, reduce mess, and make cleaning easier. When selecting kitty litter, consider your cat's preferences, any health concerns, and your own needs for maintenance and cleanliness. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing the best kitty litter for you and your feline friend.
MaterialKitty litter comes in various materials such as clay, silica gel, recycled paper, and natural/biodegradable options like corn, wheat, or pine. The material affects absorbency, odor control, and dust levels. Clay is highly absorbent and good at controlling odors but can be dusty. Silica gel is excellent for odor control and low dust but can be more expensive. Natural options are eco-friendly and often less dusty but may not control odors as well. Choose a material based on your cat's sensitivity to dust, your preference for eco-friendly products, and the level of odor control you need.
Clumping vs. Non-ClumpingClumping litters form solid clumps when they come into contact with moisture, making it easier to scoop out waste and keep the litter box clean. Non-clumping litters absorb moisture but do not form clumps, requiring more frequent complete changes of the litter. Clumping litters are generally more convenient for daily maintenance, while non-clumping litters may be better for cats with respiratory issues or those who prefer a different texture. Consider how often you want to clean the litter box and your cat's preferences when choosing between clumping and non-clumping.
Odor ControlOdor control is crucial for maintaining a pleasant-smelling home. Some litters have added fragrances or baking soda to help mask odors, while others rely on the natural odor-absorbing properties of the material. If you or your cat are sensitive to fragrances, opt for an unscented litter with good natural odor control. If odor is a significant concern, look for litters specifically designed for maximum odor control. Your choice should balance your tolerance for scents and your need for effective odor management.
Dust LevelsDust levels in kitty litter can affect both your cat's health and the cleanliness of your home. High-dust litters can cause respiratory issues for both cats and humans and can create a mess around the litter box. Low-dust or dust-free litters are better for cats with respiratory problems and for keeping your home cleaner. If dust is a concern, look for litters labeled as low-dust or dust-free. Consider your cat's health and your cleaning preferences when evaluating dust levels.
TrackingTracking refers to how much litter gets stuck to your cat's paws and is carried outside the litter box. High-tracking litters can create a mess around your home, while low-tracking litters help keep the area cleaner. Some litters are designed to minimize tracking with larger granules or special coatings. If you want to reduce the amount of litter tracked around your home, look for low-tracking options. Consider your tolerance for cleaning up tracked litter and your cat's comfort when choosing a litter with the right tracking level.
AbsorbencyAbsorbency is the litter's ability to soak up moisture and keep the litter box dry. Highly absorbent litters help control odors and make the litter box more comfortable for your cat. Clay and silica gel litters are typically very absorbent, while some natural litters may vary in their absorbency levels. If you want a litter that keeps the box dry and controls odors effectively, choose a highly absorbent option. Consider how often you want to change the litter and your cat's comfort when evaluating absorbency.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now