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10 Best Kitty Litters 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Fresh Step Advanced Clumping Litter with Febreze Freshness with Gain Scent, Fights Odor on Contact, 37 lbs. (2 x 18.5 lb. Box) (Package May Vary)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,265
Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Odor Control
Dust Levels

Most important from
140138 reviews

Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Clumps quickly and tightly, making scooping effortless and keeping the litter box cleaner.
Odor Control
Odor control is exceptional, effectively masking unpleasant smells with a fresh detergent-like scent.
Dust Levels
Low dust levels during regular use make it comfortable for cats and owners sensitive to dust.

Fresh Step Advanced Clumping Litter is a clay-based litter that comes in two 18.5-pound boxes, making it a good option if you want a larger supply at once. It’s clumping, which means it quickly forms tight clumps when your cat urinates, making scooping easier and helping keep the litter box cleaner by preventing crumbly messes. This product excels in odor control; it uses a combination of Febreze freshness, Gain scent, ammonia-blocking technology, and activated charcoal to fight smells right away and keep the area smelling fresh longer. If odor is a major concern, this litter does a strong job in that area. The dust levels are low, which is helpful if you or your cat are sensitive to dust or if you want to keep floors near the box cleaner.

However, like many clay litters, some tracking outside the box may still happen, though the product doesn’t specifically claim to reduce tracking. Absorbency is rapid, so liquid is soaked up quickly, which adds to the comfort for your cat and keeps the box drier. On the downside, this litter is scented, which some cats or owners may not prefer, especially if your cat has allergies or sensitivities. Also, since it’s clay-based, it’s heavier and less eco-friendly compared to some alternatives like plant-based litters.

This litter is well-suited for cat owners who prioritize strong odor control and easy scooping, especially in indoor settings. If you want a fresh-smelling, low-dust, and effective clumping litter, Fresh Step’s Gain-scented option is a solid pick.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,265
Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Odor Control
Dust Levels

Most important from
140138 reviews

Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Clumps quickly and tightly, making scooping effortless and keeping the litter box cleaner.
Odor Control
Odor control is exceptional, effectively masking unpleasant smells with a fresh detergent-like scent.
Dust Levels
Low dust levels during regular use make it comfortable for cats and owners sensitive to dust.
#2

Fresh Step Advanced Multi Cat Clumping Litter with Febreze Freshness, Fresh Step Clumping Cat Litter Extra Strength Formula, 37 lbs. (2 x 18.5 lb. Box)

Rating
10.0
Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Odor Control
Dust Levels

Most important from
140138 reviews

Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Clumps beautifully, making cleanup so much easier.
Odor Control
Does an excellent job of controlling odors—no strong smells lingering in the house.
Dust Levels
Minimal dust when pouring it out.
Tracking
Low tracking is better than any other low tracking litter I've tried.
Absorbency
Less crusty residual litter in the boxes when cleaned out.

Fresh Step Advanced Multi Cat Clumping Litter with Febreze Freshness is a clay-based litter designed for households with multiple cats. Its key feature is the clumping ability, thanks to ClumpLock technology which ensures tight clumps and easy scooping, reducing the amount of crumbles left behind. This makes maintaining the litter box less tedious. The litter also boasts rapid liquid absorption, which helps to keep the litter box cleaner and more comfortable for cats.

Additionally, it has a 15-day odor control guarantee, with the added benefit of Febreze freshness to seal odors and keep your home smelling clean. This is particularly useful for multi-cat homes where odor control can be a significant issue. Another strength is its low dust formula, which minimizes the mess around the litter box and is better for both cats and owners who might be sensitive to dust. However, being clay-based, this litter might be heavier and harder to handle compared to some lighter alternatives.

The weight may also make it less convenient for frequent changes or if you need to transport it. Tracking, where litter particles end up outside the box, could be a concern though the product does not highlight specific anti-tracking measures. While it offers excellent features for odor control and clumping, the higher price point might be something to consider especially if you have to buy litter frequently. Fresh Step Advanced Multi Cat Clumping Litter with Febreze Freshness is a good choice for those seeking powerful odor control and easy maintenance in a multi-cat household, but may require consideration regarding weight and cost.

Rating
10.0
Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Odor Control
Dust Levels

Most important from
140138 reviews

Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Clumps beautifully, making cleanup so much easier.
Odor Control
Does an excellent job of controlling odors—no strong smells lingering in the house.
Dust Levels
Minimal dust when pouring it out.
Tracking
Low tracking is better than any other low tracking litter I've tried.
Absorbency
Less crusty residual litter in the boxes when cleaned out.
#3

Fresh Step Advanced Simply Unscented Clumping Litter, Fresh Step Unscented Cat Litter Fights Odor on Contact, 37 lbs. (2 x 18.5 lb. Box)

Rating
9.4
Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Odor Control
Dust Levels

Most important from
140138 reviews

Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Clumps tightly even with a large, frequent-using cat, forming solid clumps that make scooping easy and mess-free.
Odor Control
Effectively eliminates all urine and feces odors without any artificial fragrance or overpowering smells.
Dust Levels
Low dust levels help maintain cleaner floors and air, despite a slight dustiness when pouring.

Fresh Step Advanced Simply Unscented Multi Cat Clumping Cat Litter is made from natural clay and designed to clump tightly around cat urine and waste, which makes scooping easier and helps reduce mess. It’s an unscented formula that avoids added fragrances or dyes, relying instead on activated charcoal and Ammonia Block Technology to control odors effectively for up to 15 days. This makes it a great choice for households with multiple cats or owners sensitive to artificial scents. The low-dust formula helps keep your floors and air cleaner, which is especially useful if you or your cats have allergy concerns. It's also compatible with automatic litter boxes, adding convenience for busy pet owners.

The large 37-pound package is good for frequent use and multiple cats, though the clay material might be heavier and a bit dustier compared to some newer plant-based litters. Some users may notice slight tracking beyond the box, which is common with clay litters but not excessive here. Its strong clumping and odor control make it well suited for multi-cat homes seeking an effective, fragrance-free litter option, though if you prioritize completely dust-free or lightweight litters, there might be alternatives better suited to those needs.

Rating
9.4
Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Odor Control
Dust Levels

Most important from
140138 reviews

Clumping vs. Non-Clumping
Clumps tightly even with a large, frequent-using cat, forming solid clumps that make scooping easy and mess-free.
Odor Control
Effectively eliminates all urine and feces odors without any artificial fragrance or overpowering smells.
Dust Levels
Low dust levels help maintain cleaner floors and air, despite a slight dustiness when pouring.

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.

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