Non-Clumping Cat Litter

Unlike clumping options, non-clumping litter absorbs moisture without forming solid clumps. This means that while you can easily remove solid waste, the soaked litter will need to be changed more frequently to keep the litter tray clean and comfortable for your cat.

Non-clumping cat litter is often chosen by cat owners thanks to its simple composition and a range of practical advantages. Below are some of the main reasons why some owners prefer non-clumping cat litter.

• Lower dust levels: Non-clumping litters typically produce less dust, which minimises tracking outside of the litter box and may be gentler for cats and owners with sensitivities.
• Suitability for longer coat types: It may also suit long-haired breeds such as Maine Coons, Siberian Cats and Norwegian Forest Cats, as the larger or heavier granules are less likely to stick to their coats compared to finer clumping litters.
• Affordability: Non-clumping litters are often more budget-friendly, sometimes up to 50% cheaper than clumping varieties.
• Eco-Friendly options: Many non-clumping litters are available in biodegradable or flushable forms, such as wood pellet litter or recycled paper, which offer a more environmentally friendly alternative to standard clay litters.

With so many cat litter options available, it can be challenging to choose the most suitable one for your cat. One of the main things to consider is whether you prefer clumping or non-clumping cat litter.

To help guide your decision, here’s a closer look at the typical advantages and considerations of clumping versus non-clumping litters, based on different cat and owner needs:

Tip: Whether you opt for clumping or non-clumping cat litter, consider factors like dust levels, odour retention, and your cat’s individual preferences. For a deeper look at how to select the right option, explore our cat litter how-to guide.

With non-clumping litter, it’s generally advised to change the entire contents of litter boxes at least once a week. Because the urine is not encapsulated into discrete clumps, the absorbed urine stays in the box until the next full change, making regular total replacements essential for hygiene. If you have multiple cats, you may need to do this more frequently to help keep the tray clean and well-maintained. Solid waste should still be removed daily to keep the tray fresh and hygienic.

Not necessarily. However, it is often chosen by owners for kittens since young kittens are curious and may sometimes nibble or chew on their litter. Non-clumping kitty litter is generally safer in these cases, as it doesn’t swell or cause blockages if ingested, unlike clumping litter which expands when wet. Once your kitten matures (usually after a few months), you can consider transitioning to clumping litter if desired. Always supervise your kitten’s initial litter box visits and gently discourage playful digging or eating of litter.

Mixing clumping and non-clumping litter is generally not recommended, as it can reduce clumping performance and complicate cleaning. That said, some owners choose to combine both types during a transition period, especially when switching from cat litter non-clumping to clumping options, or vice versa, to see what their cat prefers.