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Danny's Cats

Litter and hygiene

Clumping litter

Also called Scoopable litter

Updated

What is clumping litter?

Clumping litter is cat litter that binds into a firm lump where urine soaks in, so you can scoop out the wet part and leave the rest clean. Most is bentonite clay, but corn, wheat, tofu and some pine litters clump too. The AAFP and ISFM guidelines say cats most commonly prefer fine, unscented clumping litter.

How does clumping litter work?

The granules swell and stick together when they get wet, so urine forms a solid lump instead of soaking through the tray. You lift the clumps and solid waste out with a scoop and top up with fresh litter. Clay clumping litter uses bentonite, a clay that swells in water. Plant litters use the natural starch or fiber in corn, wheat or soybean to bind. Cornell Feline Health Center says that with clumping litter you should remove feces and clumps daily and add clean litter as needed.

Do cats prefer clumping litter?

Most do, according to welfare guidance. The AAFP and ISFM house-soiling guidelines say that in most cases the litter should be a fine, sand-like, unscented, clumping material at least 1.25 inches (3 cm) deep. Cornell says most cats prefer unscented, finer-textured litter about one to two inches deep. Some cats have their own preferences, so the same guidelines suggest offering a few litter types and letting your cat choose.

What to look for

  • Unscented, if your cat is sensitive to smell
  • A fine, sand-like texture
  • Firm clumps that lift out in one piece
  • A low-dust claim from the maker, if dust bothers your household

Switching litter all at once

A sudden change of litter can put a cat off the box. Cornell advises switching gradually, adding small amounts of the new litter to the old.

Questions about clumping litter

Is all clumping litter made of clay?

Not all clumping litter is made of clay. Bentonite clay is the most common, but some corn, wheat and tofu litters clump too, using the natural starch or fiber in the plant. Some pine litters clump; others are pellets that do not, so check the label for the word clumping.

How deep should clumping litter be?

The AAFP and ISFM guidelines say at least 1.25 inches (3 cm). Cornell Feline Health Center says most cats prefer litter about one to two inches deep. Deep enough to form a clump that does not stick to the bottom of the tray is the practical aim.

Where this comes up

Sources