After testing over 40+ products we choose the 10 best non-clumping cat litters available in all forms of materials including paper, pine, clay, and even crystal so that you can get the perfect one as per your requirement.
Do you know ingesting clumping cat litter may cause intestinal blockage?
This problem is common with younger kittens because they have a habit of eating whatever they come across.
Hence to avoid any mishaps it is best recommended that you get a non-clumping litter for your kitty.
Moreover, not only the kittens but some adult cats also have the habit of eating their litter. So a non-clumping would be a safe option for them in that case.
Additionally, the non-clumping litters are made from naturally derived products and mostly are dust-free thus it will be soothing and comfortable for your feline.
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The 10 Best Non-Clumping Cat Litters Reviews of 2023
1. Purina Yesterday’s News Unscented Paper Cat Litter
The Purina Yesterday’s News Unscented Paper Cat Litter is the best non-clumping litter in our list. In addition to being the best product in our list, this unscented soft texture litter is also available at a very convenient price.
It delivers effective odor control to block the bad smell from cat urine and feces for a pleasant environment in and around the litter box. Moreover, its odor control effectiveness is provided with properties of only natural material used in it and no artificial fragrance is added to it.
Key Features:
- Quantity: 13.2 and 26.4 lbs
- Material: Paper
- Unscented
It is made up of paper so it is dust-free and hence it won’t irritate your cat while breathing while she is using the litter box. Additionally, it is also low tracking because of which it won’t track throughout your house.
“To conclude, we think this is the overall best non-clumping cat litter.”
Pros:
- No added fragrance hence it is safe even for cats with any allergy
- Highly effective in odor control
- Easy to scoop and clean formula
Cons:
- Needs to be changed frequently for its effectiveness
2. Fresh Step Extreme Clay Non-Clumping Cat Litter
The Extreme Clay Non-Clumping Litter from Fresh Step is a premium litter that is very effective in blocking odor and absorbing liquid waste. The non-clumping formula also makes the scooping and cleaning process very easy on a daily basis.
This litter, with the help of activated carbon, traps & eliminates urine and feces odor. It also contains an antimicrobial agent that inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria on the litter.
Key Features:
- Quantity: 21 pounds
- Material: Clay
- Scented
It features paw-activated fragrance which is released when the litter box is used by your cat to provide a pleasing environment around the litter box. It also weighs 30% less than other conventional clay litters making it easy to handle while cleaning and changing.
Pros:
- Paw activated fragrance makes the litter box and place around it pleasing
- It contains an antimicrobial agent that inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria
Cons:
- Costlier as compared to other cat litters
The Cat’s Pride Premium Fresh & Clean Scented Non-Clumping Clay Litter is the cheapest non-clumping cat litter in our list. Being cheapest does not mean that you will have to compromise on its quality because we only listed this product on our list after carefully testing it. Moreover, the customers who have used this non-clumping litter also have positive feedback for this.
This non-clumping litter has sponge-like minerals that provide it with the highest quality absorbing. Because of this, it is not only effective in absorbing the liquid waste but also locks up the odor by absorbing the moisture and drying up the solid waste.
Key Features:
- Quantity: 20lb bag
- Material: Clay
- Scented
It is a low-maintenance cat litter efficacy of which lasts longer than the litters available for the same price. Additionally, it is designed with a low-dust and tracking formula hence it will cause no irritation to your cat while breathing, and neither it will spread all over around your house.
Pros:
- This non-clumping cat litter is available at a very affordable price
- Made with superior odor control
Cons:
- The litter is not very effective once it reaches its saturation of absorption
#4. Purina Yesterday’s News Fresh & Clean Scent Paper Litter
The Purina Yesterday’s News non-clumping cat litter is available in the fresh scent variant that is perfect for you if you are looking for the best non-clumping scented cat litter.
This paper litter has a “Soft Texture” that is very comfortable on your cat’s paws. Due to this, it is even very much safe to be used for kittens. It is even recommended to be used by US veterinarians.
Key Features:
- Quantity: 13.2, 20, 26.4 lb
- Material: Paper
- Scented
- 99.9% dust-free
Do not worry about the bad smell while using this litter. It is very much effective in controlling the odor. You also don’t have to worry about the tracking of this litter as it is for low-tracking with no small particles.
Pros:
- Soft texture litter that is very comfortable on your cat’s paws
- Specially designed for low tracking with no small particles
Cons:
- The effectiveness of odor control is not enough if the litter is not changed frequently
#5. Feline Pine Original Unscented Non-Clumping Wood Cat Litter
This non-clumping wood cat litter from Feline Pine is an unscented cat litter made from pine wood. Its highly absorbent pine fibers work like thousands of tiny sponges to lock the odor and absorb the liquid waste. This makes it highly effective in masking the odor and eliminating the bad smell from and around the litter box.
This non-clumping litter is made from 100% natural pine wood and free from clay. Due to this, it leaves no irritating dust when you pour it or while your cat is using it. Moreover, no dust means your floors will also remain clean from any mess.
Key Features:
- Quantity: 7, 20, 40 lb
- Material: Pinewood
- Unscented
This non-clumping litter comes with an improved formula that absorbs liquid and moisture two times faster than any other pinewood litter. It also used no harsh chemicals, additives, or synthetic perfumes, so it is even safe if your kitty ingests it accidentally.
Pros:
- Made from 100% natural pine wood and used no artificial additives, chemicals or synthetic perfumes
Cons:
- It has a moldy wood-like smell which might not be liked by some of the cats or even people
Give a glance look at
#6. Tidy Cats Breeze Cat Litter Pellets Refill
The Tidy Cats Breeze Cat Litter from Purina comes in pellet shape that works best with the Tidy Cats Breeze litter system. Because of the pellet shape of the litter, the solid waste remains on the top and it allows it to pass through the urine to the bottom. Due to this, solid waste can be easily scooped and cleaned from the litter box.
These Tidy Cats Breeze Cat Litter pallets are 99.9% dust-free so they will not create any dust clouds while pouring or while your cat is using the litter box. The litter also dehydrates the solid waste by absorbing the moisture from it and hence controls odor.
Key Features:
- Quantity: 7 lb, 3.5 lb (pack of 6)
- Material: Clay
- Unscented
The pellet-size litter does not have fine granules and hence does not track. This not only reduces the messed up litter in your home but also reduces the consumption of litter because it will not go wasted.
Pros:
- Formulated for a multi-cat household to fight even with the strongest odor
Cons:
- Not very much effective in controlling the odor if not changed when required
#7. Tidy Cats 24/7 Performance Non-Clumping Clay Cat Litter
As the name of the product, the Tidy Cats 24/7 Performance Non-Clumping Cat Litter from Purina controls the odor with high performance throughout the day. It is formulated for multi-cat litter and is effective in delivering long-lasting litter odor control.
The odor-controlling feature of this non-clumping litter is featured by the extended release of a deodorizing system of fresh and clean scents. Due to this, it provides long-lasting odor control against urine, feces, and ammonia.
Key Features:
- Quantity: 10, 20, 40 lb
- Material: Clay
- Scented
Being a non-clumping formula, it is easy to scoop and clean as you can easily separate the solid waste from the litter. The liquid waste, in this case, also gets absorbed limiting the odor from and around the litter.
Pros:
- Triple odor protection technology keeps your home smelling fresh and pleasant
- The non-clumping formula that is easy to scoop and clean
Cons:
- Since it is made up of clay so it is not recommended if your cat has a habit of ingesting the litter
#8. Purina Tidy Instant Action Non-Clumping Clay Litter
The Purina Tidy Cat Litter is a non-clumping litter made out of natural clay products with a deodorizing system. It has a fast-acting deodorizing system that helps it eliminate the strongest odor from and around the litter box.
Its instant action formula provides great absorption and powerful odor control. It is also formulated for multiple cats so you can effectively use it even if you have multiple cats at your home.
Key Features:
- Quantity: 10, 20, 30 lb
- Material: Clay
- Unscented
Since the litter is non-clumping so it is easy to scoop and clean. Moreover, it is designed for low tracking so it will not track around your home and the consumption of litter will also be less as it will not be wasted much.
Pros:
- Designed for low tracking
- Natural clay product with a deodorizing system
Cons:
- Since it is made up of clay so it might be harmful if ingested
The ScoopFree Premium Crystal Non-Clumping Cat Litter from PetSafe works with any traditional litter box and the PetSafe ScoopFree Reusable Litter Tray. It is a lightly scented fragrance of which is soothing to your cat as well as you.
This non-clumping litter comes in two pre-portioned bags that are convenient for making proportions. It is also low tracking and hence does not make your house messed up with litter.
Key Features:
- Quantity: 9 pounds
- Material: Crystal
- Scented
- Available in three variants- Lavender, Original, and Sensitive
Moreover, it is 99% dust-free and it will not make dust clouds hence it will not cause any irritation to your cat neither you. It also absorbs urine and dries solid waste five times better odor control than clumping clay litters.
Pros:
- It has a lightly scented fragrance that will soothe you as well as your cat
- Absorbs urine and dries solid waste better than any other clumping litter
Cons:
- Since it is made up of crystal consisting of fine and large grains so it might not be comfortable for a few cats
#10. Fresh Step Febreze Scented Non-Clumping Clay Cat Litter
The non-clumping clay cat litter from Fresh Step is paw-activated for Febreze freshness with the Febreze scent. With its superior odor control system, it has the longest lasting odor control to eliminate even the strongest bad smell from and around the litter box.
It is formulated with activated carbon that helps it in eliminating odor from the litter. Moreover, it weighs 30% less than other clay litters so being lightweight it is also easy to clean and maintain.
Key Features:
- Quantity: 7, 14, 21, and 35 lb
- Material: Clay
- Scented
- Natural high-absorbing clay
Its low dust formula makes cleaner surfaces and air as it won’t make any dust clouds. In addition to this, the non-clumping formula makes the scooping and cleaning process very easy as the solid waste can be easily separated from the litter.
Pros:
- The scented litter contains activated carbon to eliminate odors
- Low dust formula makes cleaner surfaces and air
Cons:
- Few cats may not like the Febreeze scent
Buyer’s Guide for Non-Clumping Cat Litter
Whether the best non-clumping cat litters should be scent-free or scented? Do you get this and many other questions in your head? If yes, then here we have made the descriptive buyer’s guide and have solved your doubts.
Non-clumping litters seem to be like they would not clump and make the scooping and cleaning process difficult. But this is not the case, a non-clumping litter will be beneficial in many ways. Go no reading this buyer’s guide to find out more.
Moreover, purchasing a non-clumping cat litter is not like debating over “non-clumping vs clumping litter” for its effectiveness but it is about the requirement and the convenience of the non-clumping litters.
What is Non-Clumping Cat Litter?
Non-clumping cat litters are mostly organically derived using clay or sometimes also made from plant-based alternatives like pine, corn, wheat, beet pulp, and wood. Unlike the clumping litters, it does not form crumbs upon being in contact with the cat’s waste.
The non-clumping litters have a high capacity of absorbing the cat’s urine and odor. This makes it very effective in eliminating the odor from and around the litter box. The scooping process is also easy as the solid waste can be directly scooped out of the litter box.
One major drawback of the non-clumping litter is that upon absorbing the cat’s urine it will become saturated in some days and you need to replace it so as to maintain its effectiveness.
Who Should Buy Non-Clumping Cat Litter?
Non-clumping litter is one of the most conventional litters that were commercially available. It is still preferred by people who are looking for a cheaper alternative to clumping litter as the non-clumping litters are the cheapest of any of the types.
The non-clumping litters are also very good at absorbing cat urine than any other litter. Besides absorbing the cat urine, it also absorbs moisture from solid waste and helps in masking the odor. So it is also recommended to be used by those who are getting rid of the bad odor in and around their kitty’s litter box.
Most of the naturally-derived cat litters are also non-clumping in variety. That means your cat won’t have to deal with any of the harmful artificial chemicals while using the non-clumping cat litter. So it is also the best option if your cat has any allergies to the clumping clay litters.
Eventually, the non-clumping litter is recommended and almost already used by the pet parents whose cats prefer the non-clumping litter only. So no arguments with your little kitty, get her what she likes and what is best for her.
Note: The non-clumping cat litters are best for kittens as felines in their younger age tend to have a habit to eat anything that they find. Since the non-clumping cat litter are derived from natural ingredients so it won’t harm your small kitty even if she ingests it accidentally.
Types of Non-Clumping Cat Litter
The non-clumping cat litters are mostly available in three common types depending upon their shape and the material used. Here we have mentioned those three types with their benefits and drawbacks that will help you to choose the best non-clumping cat litter:
Pellet
Non-clumping cat litter in the form of a pellet is made from different materials like paper, wood, walnut, soybeans, and even clay. Since the pellet cat litters are mostly derived from natural ingredients and are plant-based in most cases hence they are also biodegradable.
These are made by compressing the materials into a uniform pallet-like shape. Since they are made from different materials so their absorbency will be different depending upon different materials.
The pellet non-clumping cat litters serve as the best alternative to the traditional clay litters. One common drawback of pellet litter is its shape and texture. Some of the cats mostly prefer fine grain like texture as their litter, so pellet is not a good option for them.
Paper
Paper litters are mostly available in pellet form or torn paper that is made from recycled paper. These litters are very soft in texture and hence gentle on the cat’s paws and legs.
The cat litters made out of paper are dust-free, however, they don’t provide enough absorbency in controlling the odor if not changed frequently.
Note: The paper litter is highly recommended if your cat has undergone any stitches or has any wound that is being healed.
Wood
The wood litters are made from recycled materials made out of wood or the excess wood from the timber industry. The wood-based cat litters are also very much safe for cats especially if your feline is allergic to any of the artificial substances used in other forms of cat litters.
These litters also do a good job of absorbing the odor and hence eliminate the bad smell. They also have a woody smell naturally, which might also be liked by many people as well as your kitty.
Non-Clumping Clay Litter
The clay litters are the conventional litters that were firs available commercially. It is primarily made from using any highly absorbent non-clumping clay. Attapulgite, montmorillonite, sepiolite, and calcium bentonite are common examples of non-clumping clay.
These litters are good at absorbing the cat’s urine and moisture and this help in eliminating the odor. The scooping and cleaning process is also easy as you simply have to scoop out the solid waste out of the litter box.
Unlike the clumping litters, you do not have to scoop out the clumps formed due to the cat’s urine. These litters are effective in absorbing until it reaches saturation. So once it reaches you need to change the litter.
Crystal Litter
The non-clumping crystal litters have an extraordinary absorbing capacity. These litters are mostly made up of silicon beads. The working mechanism of a non-clumping crystal litter is similar to other conventional non-clumping litters. Just like the conventional litters, in the crystal litters you can scoop out the solid waste as the cat’s urine will get absorbed into it.
These litters are made up of silicon crystals that can be large as well as fine. These hard crystals can be uncomfortable to some of the cat’s paws and hence not recommended in this case. Use this type of non-clumping cat litter only if your cat prefers it.
How to Choose the Best Non-Clumping Cat Litter?
Choosing a cat litter whether it is non-clumping or any other one would not be difficult if you about its features and the factors that might affect its quality and usage.
So here we have mentioned the important factors and features that you need to consider before purchasing a non-clumping litter in order to get the best one as per your requirement.
Material
The material out of which the non-clumping litter is made up of is very important to know before purchasing it. Based on the material the absorbency and overall efficacy will differ. However, the selection of the material should be based on your cat’s preference. If your cat does not prefer the traditional clay litter then you should go with other alternatives such as plant-based litter.
Contains Deodorizer
While purchasing a non-clumping cat litter make sure that it contains deodorizer especially if you have multiple cats at your home. If a litter box is used by multiple cats then the deodorizer will be required to effectively eliminate the odor.
Dust
Dust coming out of the litter will not only make the floor messy but it will also make the air dusty that will irritate your cat as well as you while breathing. If the litter is not dust free then most of the dust will fly while it is being used by the cat or while it is being scooped or cleaned.
To avoid this it is recommended that you use dust-free litter as it will not only keep your floors clean but it will also keep the air clean for breathing.
Tracking
Tracking is the most common problem faced by most pet parents. This problem mostly happens when you purchase the litter in a hurry without seeing its features.
A litter that tracks more will not only make your house messy full of litter wherever your cat goes along with it. Due to this, you also have to refill the litter box more frequently as most of the litter will end outside the litter box.
To avoid this problem, always make sure that you only purchase a litter that does not track at all or tracks the least. Due to this, you will not only reduce the mess at your home but your regular usage of litter will also reduce.
Scented or Unscented
The scented and unscented litter is not all about the fragrance. Because if this were the case then definitely everyone would have been using the scented litter only.
Most of the scented litters contain artificial fragrance that helps in masking the odor. Because of this, the scented litters are highly effective in blocking the bad smell from and around the litter box.
The unscented litters, on the other hand, use the natural properties of the material of which the litter is made up. But since there is no artificial fragrance used in the unscented litter so it is not allergic to any cat nor to people. Whereas, the scented litter is only recommended if your cat and you prefer the fragrance of the scented litter and do not have any allergy to it.
Odor Control
Odor control depends upon a lot of factors when it comes to cat litters. Factors like ventilation, daily cleaning scooping & maintenance, whether the litter is scented or not, absorbency, etc. All these factors affect the odor control of the litter.
While purchasing the litter what you can see in it to determine its odor-controlling effectiveness is by checking its absorbency. If the litter is highly absorbent then it will be able to absorb the cat’s urine and moisture properly and hence will eliminate the door effectively.
How to Clean Non-Clumping Cat Litter?
Cleaning a non-clumping cat litter is easier as compared to clumping litters. But with the non-clumping cat litters, you have to be extra careful and regularly clean it since it does not clump so the litter that has absorbed the liquid waste also remains with the litter that has not absorbed anything.
The process of scooping is however similar to what you would do with any other type of litter. All you need to do is scoop out the solid waste at least once a day after your cat uses the litter box. It is also recommended to do it twice a day right after your cat uses the litter box, as in this case, it will not automatically reduce odor in the litter.
In addition to scooping, it is also necessary to keep changing the non-clumping litter. This is because the non-clumping litters absorb the cat’s urine and get mixed up entirely and cannot be removed as you would do in a clumping litter. Because of this, the litter will also get saturated after being used for some time, so it is also recommended to keep changing the litter depending upon the number of days suggested by the brand of the litter you are using.
FAQs About Non-Clumping Cat Litter
Which is the best non-clumping cat litter?
A non-clumping litter that can absorb urine & moisture from feces and has good odor control is the best non-clumping litter. All the products that we have added to the list have the best features that make it control odor and control and easy for cleaning and scooping. However, the best clumping litter amongst all the products is the Fresh Step Extreme Clay Non-Clumping Cat Litter with highly efficient odor control and absorption.
How much do non-clumping cat litters cost?
One of the many reasons why people buy a non-clumping cat litter is its affordable price. The non-clumping litters are available for as low as around $5 for 20 pounds. Some of the premium non-clumping litters may cost around $20, which is also not very expensive. Considering this price, your monthly spending will be between $4-$15 (depending upon the litter that you use) for a single cat even if you change the litter once a week.
Is non-clumping litter safe for kittens?
Kittens, especially the younger ones, have the habit of chewing and eating whatever they come across. If any cat ingests the clumping litter then it might cause intestinal blockage. Using a non-clumping litter that is not toxic is the safest option for kittens as even if it is ingested in smaller amounts then it will not harm your kitty.
Is paper litter better for cats than clumping litter?
Paper litter is more preferable over clumping litter in many conditions. The paper litters are not only safe if ingested accidentally but they are also very comfortable for your cat. Moreover, since the paper is bio-degradable so the paper litter is also eco friendly.
How often should you change non-clumping cat litter?
The best way to find out the frequency of when you need to change the non-clumping litter is by observing its effectiveness of absorbency. Once the litter stops absorbing the cat’s urine and moisture then it is time to clean the litter box and replace the litter.
If you have one cat then generally you would need to clean the box and change the litter once every week. Changing the litter every week will maintain its effectiveness and healthy hygiene for your cat.
Can you flush non-clumping cat litter?
The non-clumping clay can be flushed as it will not expand and nor clog in the pipes. Although it is not a good idea to do so if it is not a biodegradable one. In the case of non-clumping cat litters that are biodegradable, you can flush them without worrying.
The Final Note
We hope you got the best non-clumping litter for your kitty from our list. Always make sure to consider your cat’s as well as your preference before selecting any litter. If you are ever confused about the allergy from fragrance then always go for the unscented one.
Moreover, the non-clumping litters for kittens are also the best option. As they are not harmful even if ingested accidentally. So a non-clumping litter is a good-to-go option if you pet a young kitty.