If you’re welcoming a feline friend or have noticed stronger odours, it may be time to research litter options.
How to find the right cat litter
Prevent feline stress and other issues by experimenting with different types and textures to find the best match for your cat.
Litter comes in both scented and unscented varieties |
Scented cat litter |
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Unscented cat litter |
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Cat litter can also be clumping or non-clumping, impacting how pet parents clean and empty the litter box |
Clumping cat litter |
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Non-clumping cat litter |
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Litter type |
Scented or unscented |
Clumping or non-clumping |
Features & benefits |
Things to consider |
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Clay |
Available in both scented and unscented varieties |
Quick clumping |
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Corn |
Available in natural and scented varieties |
Natural clumping |
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Wheat |
Naturally scented |
Natural clumping |
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Wood |
Naturally scented |
Does not clump |
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Recycled paper |
Unscented |
Does not clump |
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Silica |
Unscented |
Clumping |
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Grass |
Naturally scented |
Natural clumping |
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Ready to make the switch?
When changing litter, transition slowly by adding small amounts of new litter to the old over the course of 7 to 10 days until you have switched over entirely.
Shop NowFinding the best cat litter for your cat can result in better odour control, less dust and less tracking. Canadian Tire has a range of cat litter options that is sure to suit a variety of cats and their preferences.
Finding the best cat litter for your cat can result in better odour control, less dust and less tracking. Canadian Tire has a range of cat litter options that is sure to suit a variety of cats and their preferences.
Does it matter what kitty litter you use?
Since there is such a wide range of cat litter on the market, it is worth experimenting with scented and unscented varieties as well as clumping or non-clumping litter. There are also many litter types, ranging from clay to wheat and grass. Each presents its own features and benefits that you can consider. Cats can have strong opinions about litter, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different types and textures.
What’s better clumping or non-clumping?
Non-clumping litter is good for removing urine odours as it is very absorbent. This is because most non-clumping types have additives such as baking soda which help control unpleasant smells. Clumping litter has the benefit of being easily removed from the box without having to empty all the litter at once. This means your litter box will stay cleaner longer and can simply be replenished with some fresh litter. Ultimately, your decision should depend on which your cat prefers and takes to.
Do you have to transition cat litter?
Most cats will adapt to a new litter without incident if you commit to a slow transition. Simply add a small amount of new litter to the old litter over a 7 to 10-day time span until you have switched over. Transitioning slowly is especially important when changing litter forms, as the new texture may cause your pet to alter their litter box behaviour. If your cat or kitten is avoiding their litter box, try giving them a simultaneous selection of different litter types to choose from. Put down three or four boxes with different litter in each one and see if your cat has a preference.
What do I do if my cat goes to the bathroom outside of their litter box?
When this happens, your first call should always be to your veterinarian. Many medical conditions can cause a change in a cat’s litter box habits.