Cat litter has become a hotly debated topic lately largely because there are just so many options available on the market to choose from. There are so many things to consider when choosing which type and brand is right for your cat. I have extensively researched this and rounded up all the best options on the market today to make the decision a little easier for you.

Here are all my top recommendations for cat litters 

Hypoallergenic Cat Litters

If you have one of the hairless breeds of cat, the choice of litter is not just a matter of cleanliness but also of health. Hypoallergenic cat litters are crafted with the delicate skin of these pets in mind.

But what is it that makes a cat litter hypoallergenic? 

At its core, hypoallergenic litters are designed to minimize dust, perfumes, and chemical additives that could trigger allergic reactions in both cats and humans. 

Pros: 

The most significant advantage of hypoallergenic litters lies in their ability to provide a healthier environment for cats and their human families. For hairless cats, whose skin can be more susceptible to irritation, hypoallergenic litters offer a reduced risk of skin issues. Additionally, these litters are often more environmentally friendly, breaking down naturally without adding to the landfill.

Cons:

Despite their benefits, hypoallergenic litters can come with a higher price tag. Additionally, some may not clump effectively, leading to more frequent cleanings and replacements.

When considering hypoallergenic litters, especially for hairless breeds, think of the broader picture: the comfort, health, and wellbeing of your feline friend. The investment in a hypoallergenic litter pays dividends in the form of a happier, healthier pet and a cleaner, fresher home environment.

Here are my favorite hypoallergenic litters:

• Dr Elsey’s Crystal litters - they have a number of great options like the stress protection, the litter with an attractant and even a special option for older cats.

• Skoon Litter - these all natural litters have a number of fabulous options, from their unscented non-clumping litter, to the natural lavender scented, and even one with very fine grains for extra sensitive paws.

• Urine Health indicator litters - Pretty Litter and Genius Litter do great litters that detect any health problems by their innovative color change technology.

• Coconut Litter - use this with caution as a small percentage of cats may have a coconut allergy

• Breeze Litter Pellets - a great low tracking alternative to clay litters

Non-Hypoallergenic Cat Litters

When it comes to cat litter, the term "non-hypoallergenic" doesn't necessarily mean a compromise on quality or a return to synthetic materials. In fact, natural non-hypoallergenic litters offer a harmonious blend of practicality and environmental consciousness.

These natural litters may include materials like non-clumping clay, untreated wood shavings, bamboo, and grass seeds—each providing unique benefits while avoiding the perfumes, dyes, and chemical additives found in many conventional litters. While they don't specifically target allergen reduction, these natural options significantly lower the chemical exposure for both cats and their owners.

Pros: 

The beauty of natural non-hypoallergenic litters lies in their simplicity and environmental friendliness. These litters often offer excellent odor control naturally and can be more biodegradable than their synthetic counterparts. For hairless cats, who may have sensitive skin, these natural materials can be gentler than heavily processed products, even if they're not labeled as hypoallergenic.

Cons: 

The drawbacks include potentially less effective clumping and moisture absorption compared to some hypoallergenic varieties, which may lead to more frequent litter changes and box maintenance. Additionally, while less likely to cause irritation than synthetic litters, there's still a chance for dust or natural fragrances to affect extra sensitive kitty’s.

For those considering switching to natural non-hypoallergenic litters for their hairless cats, it's important to observe how your cat responds to the new litter type. Start with a small amount mixed into their current litter and gradually increase the proportion to allow your cat to adjust. Watch for any signs of respiratory discomfort or skin irritation, which could indicate sensitivity to the natural dust or textures present in these litters.

Allergy signs to watch out for include: watery eyes, increased eye discharge, red, itchy eyes, sneezing, runny nose, coughing, wheezing, dry skin, skin rash, red skin or frequent scratching from being itchy.

Here are the non-hypoallergenic litters I recommend:

• Dr. Bales One Source Litter - this is a clumping litter 

• Paper Litters - try these from Okocat and Fresh News

• Pine Litters - I like these ones: Feline Pine, OkoCat, Catalyst, and Dr. Elsey’s.

• Naturally Fresh Walnut Shell Litter

• Hemp Litter - I like this one and this one by Boxio.

• Grass Litter - Smartcat and Only Natural Pet are great options

• Catfidence Organic Bamboo cat Litter

So there you have it folks, my ultimate guide to every type of cat litter that is healthy and safe for your precious kitty.

Keep giving your pets the best of natural life!

~PetCoachApril 

April Arguin A.S., C.P.N., M.P.H

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