There are basically six types of cat litter in the marketplace. Like any product, there are advantages and disadvantages. Here is an analysis of each type of kitty litter.
Traditional Clay Cat Litter
Cheapest price and most products have additives to make it dust free. Some are scented.
When you change the litter, all of it must be disposed because the urine pools everywhere.
Clumping Clay Cat Litter
Odor control is easier because the clumps can be scooped out. No need to change the entire litter box at once. Some brands are scented.
It can be dusty due to containing silica and it can track on the floor. Many brands are not flushable or biodegradable.
Non-Clay Clumping Cat Litter
Various brands consist of ground corn cob or wheat, sawdust or other plant material.
The clumps are flushable, less dusty and environmentally friendly. Good at odor control and no need to change the entire litter box at once.
Some materials can become moldy.
Silica Gel Cat Litter
Extremely good at absorbing moisture and it is flushable. It can be used for at least a month before the odor sets in (except for scooping poop).
Silica dust is harmful to cats with respiratory problems.
Cat Litter Pellets
It is made from recycled newspapers. This product is very absorbent, biodegradable, flushable, burnable and environmentally friendly. Although it generates very little dust, it is not good at odor control.
Self-Washing Cat Litter System
This is a complete litter box system new to the marketplace. Water circulates over the permanent granules and dissolves cat feces, then flushes it along with urine down the drain. A cleaning solution is automatically sprayed on the granules and a built-in dryer blows hot air in order to make them dry for the cat’s next visit. This is an environmentally friendly product because no waste goes to the landfill. The price of this product is expensive but it appears to be convenient for owners and sanitary for your cat.
Getting the Best Deal on Cat Litter
Because of all the assets and liabilities to each product, the choice can be difficult. What may cost less on the shelf could end up costing you more money due to more frequent changes. The more expensive products could be cost effective because of less changes and better odor control. Some owners are not concerned over price and choose to do what is best for the environment. Those are factors you have to consider when choosing litter for your cat.