Cat litter is an essential part of life with cats, but sometimes it can get pretty expensive. Luckily, there are many ways to save money on cat litter these days. In this article we'll go over everything you need to know about the best cheap cat litter options, what to look for, and the tradeoffs that come with buying cheaper litter.
Here at tuft + paw, we are cat experts. We've spent countless hours determining which litter features are most important to cats and cat parents alike. The information in this article is based on consultation with a cat behaviorist, veterinarian, online research, and our own experience as cat parents.
What to Look For In a Cheap Cat Litter
When searching for cat litter at any price point, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you're getting a product that meets both your cat's needs and your human preferences. Here's what to keep in mind:
Low Tracking & Dust
One of the primary concerns with cat litter is tracking and dust. Look for a litter that minimizes both, as excessive tracking and dust can lead to messes throughout your home and potential respiratory issues for both you and your cat. A good option could be natural pellet litters, which come in a range of prices.
Easy to Clean
Opt for a cat litter that is easy to clean and maintain. This is largely about your personal preference between clumping and non-clumping, flushable or not, etc. Most cat parents like a litter that clumps well for easy scooping, which can reduce the frequency of complete litter box changes and keep your home smelling fresh.
Paw-Friendly Texture
Consider the texture of the litter, ensuring it is gentle on your cat's paws. A softer texture will provide comfort for your cat and encourage them to use the litter box consistently. If they have sensitive paws and don’t like the feel of their litter, they’re more likely to do their business elsewhere.
Odor Control
Effective odor control is crucial for maintaining a pleasant living environment. Where possible, choose a cat litter that controls odor, keeping your home smelling clean and fresh between litter box cleanings.
Unscented
While scented litters may seem appealing, they can be overwhelming for both you and your cat. Go for an unscented cat litter to avoid potential irritation or discomfort caused by artificial fragrances.
Eco-Friendliness
Many cat parents consider the environmental impact of the cat litter they choose. Look for natural litter options that are sustainably sourced and biodegradable, but still provide excellent performance.
Tradeoffs With Cheap Cat Litter
While cheap cat litter options can be budget-friendly, they also may cut corners on certain features to keep costs low. It’s important to understand the potential tradeoffs associated with lower quality litters, then make a decision based on what you’re willing to forego.
Health Risks
Clay is one of the cheapest materials for cat litter, but it can pose health risks to both you and your cat. The main issue is they contain crystalline silica dust, which is a known carcinogen when inhaled according to the CDC. Some clay litters have more dust than others, but in general the pricier clay litters are more likely to be screened to remove dust. There’s also a theoretical risk that cats who ingest clumping clay litter may be at risk for digestive blockages, but this is not a commonly documented occurrence.
More Dust + Tracking
Cheap cat litters, especially clay, tend to produce more dust and track more easily compared to their higher-priced counterparts. This can lead to messes throughout your home and potential health concerns for you and your cat.
Clumping vs Non-Clumping
In general, non-clumping litters are cheaper than clumping litters, though there are some exceptions. Some cheap cat litters may not clump as effectively as pricier options, making them more challenging to clean and maintain. However, this largely depends on which brand you buy, so always read reviews before purchasing.
Cheap Cat Litter Options
Despite the tradeoffs, there are several cheap cat litter options available that offer decent performance without breaking the bank.
Wood Pellet Cat Litters
Wood pellet cat litters are an affordable alternative litter. They are typically made from compressed sawdust and offer solid odor control and low tracking. Popular brands include Feline Pine and Tractor Supply Co Horse Bedding, which may be the single cheapest litter option available.
Cheap Clay Litter
Basic clay litters are among the most inexpensive options available. While they may not offer the same level of performance as premium brands, they can still provide adequate odor control and clumping action. Popular brands include Dr Elsey’s and Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal.
Paper Pellet Cat Litter
Paper pellet cat litters are another budget-friendly option made from compressed paper particles. They are lightweight, eco-friendly, and offer low dust and tracking compared to traditional clay litters. Popular brands include Fresh News and the now defunct Yesterday’s News.
Are Expensive Cat Litters Worth It?
While expensive cat litters may offer additional features and benefits, such as enhanced odor control or eco-friendliness, whether they are worth the extra cost depends on your priorities and budget.
Tofu Cat Litter
Tofu cat litter is a premium option made from soybean fiber, offering super low tracking and dust and solid clumping action. While more expensive than some traditional litters, it is flushable and eco-friendly. Popular brands include tuft + paw Really Great Cat Litter and Pidan tofu litter.
Crystal Cat Litter (Silica Gel)
Crystal cat litter, made from silica gel, is another high-end option known for its exceptional absorbency and odor control. While pricier than other litters, it requires less frequent changes, potentially saving you money in the long run. Popular brands include Pretty Litter and Genius Litter.
Conclusion
Finding the best cheap cat litter requires careful consideration of your cat's needs, your budget, and the performance of the product. While inexpensive options may have tradeoffs, such as increased dust or tracking, there are still plenty of affordable cat litters available that provide excellent performance without breaking the bank. Read lots of reviews, ask you cat parents friends for recommendations, and don’t be afraid to try a couple different brands. Good luck!
