Cat Litter: Choose The Most Suitable One

With so many types and brands of cat litter, perhaps choosing the best one for your pet can be a not-so-simple task. Scented? Silica? Binder? In that article we share some information so that you can choose which is the most appropriate for your little furry one. 

How do I know which is the best cat litter?

 Cats have their own preferences when it comes to the litter you put in their bathroom. This may be the result of your pet’s legs being very sensitive, habits created during its first months of life, or simply a whim. Why your cat prefers one type of litter and not another can be an enigma shrouded in mystery.

In reality, what matters is that you provide your kitten with the one that they feel comfortable with. Otherwise, they may reject the litter box entirely.

 Binder or non-binder

The most notable characteristic of kitty litter is whether or not it clumps together in the presence of liquid. The one that clumps contains a substance called bentonite that absorbs urine and creates a solid, compact knot, leaving the rest dry and clean. When you scoop it out, you remove a hardened lump of urine along with the stool.

The non-binding sand  allows to sift the absorption of some odors through additives such as sodium bicarbonate or charcoal. Only stool can be removed. The only way to clean the urine from the box is to change all the litter, usually once a week. Some types are based on silica crystals. These silica crystals are very similar to those used in desiccant papers. They absorb urine more quickly than clay grains, allowing the water to evaporate slowly.

For cats, binder or non-binder products is a matter of preference. Homeowners are often inclined to clumping sand, because it is easier to clean the box and there is no need to change the entire contents. It is generally more expensive, but requires less work and is more practical.

One of the disadvantages of this type of product is that some owners find that the clumping tends to “stick” to the cat. This can be very uncomfortable in those kitties that have long hair, since they are more likely to attract more litter and, when they are cleaned, they run the risk of ingesting it.

Cats can ingest sand, either by inhaling its dust or accidentally licking grains that often get stuck on their skin or between their toes. Manufacturers are aware of this problem, so this type of product is not toxic to felines.

If dust is a feline health concern,   you can find formulas that are dust-free or low-dust.

With or without smell

Another important point is odor control. It is probably one of the most relevant points for owners and, of course, for cats. There are some products that are scented. They may be a good choice for humans, but not for felines. They have a very sensitive sense of smell and can sometimes be bothered by the floral scent.

Therefore, to avoid the presence of odor, it is best to ensure that the litter box is cleaned regularly.

Sand change

Another point to keep in mind is what to do with the sand that accumulates. These types of products usually have a fairly significant impact on the environment.  So what is the best way to get rid of this product? You have two options: one of them is to flush it down the toilet. The other, place it in bags and then take it to the garbage container.

Other considerations

• Remember that some cats tend to have allergies to some products. That is why it is recommended that you pay close attention to what are the ingredients that the type of sand you choose has so that it does not harm the health of your pet.
• You must consider the cost of the product you choose,  and how long it can be used. You should also assess whether it is necessary to completely change all of the sand in the box.

So which one do I choose? Usually clumping sand seems to be an option, but so is plant-based sand. By the way, if you are thinking of changing products, remember that the transition should be done gradually.