The Best Cat Litter for Picky Cats (and Kittens!)

Written by Kristin Hitchcock
Updated: February 10, 2023
© Natasha Zakharova/Shutterstock.com

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The litter you use for your cat’s litterbox is extremely important. Not only will it affect the smell and ease of use on your end, but it also impacts your cat’s quality of life as well. Therefore, only the best will do.

Of course, some cats are pickier about their litter than others. Whether these cats have a particular allergy or sensitivity that causes skin problems or they simply don’t like certain litters, it is vital that you choose an option that’s suitable for both you and your cat.

Knowing what litter is best suited for your cat can be challenging. You can’t exactly ask them, after all. Therefore, we’ve carefully reviewed some of the more natural and gentler cat litters on the market to help you pick one that might work best for your feline.

  1. World's Best Picky Cat Unscented Clumping Corn Cat Litter
    • Made from corn
    • Free from harsh chemicals, silicone, and artificial perfumes
    • Clumps for easy cleanup
    • Compostable and flushable and safe for most septic systems
    • Virtually dust-free
    Check Chewy
  2. Purina Yesterday's News Non Clumping Paper Cat Litter, Unscented Low Tracking Cat Litter in Recyclable Box - 30 lb. Bag
    • Environmentally friendly -- made from recycled paper
    • Few cats are allergic to paper
    • Completely unscented
    • Extremely low tracking
    • Very absorbent and virtually dust-free
    Check Amazon
  3. World's Best Multi-Cat Unscented Clumping Corn Cat Litter
    • Clumps extremely quickly
    • Won't stick to the sides of the litterbox so it's easy to clean
    • Dust-free
    • Made from corn
    • Flushable and safe for most septic systems
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  4. sWheat Scoop Multi-Cat Unscented Clumping Wheat Cat Litter
    • Made of wheat
    • Contains natural enzymes that trap odors
    • The unscented clumping option performs similarly to clay litter without dust
    • Available in a multi-cat version for superior odor trapping
    • This litter clumps, so it's easy to scoop out waste
    • Flushable
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  5. Feline Pine Original Non-Clumping
    • Non-clumping
    • Made from pressed sawdust
    • Available in money-saving 20 lb. and 40 lb. sizes
    • Dust-free
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  6. Okocat Original Cat Litter
    • Small pellets absorb cat's waste
    • Prevents ammonia odors
    • Easy to scoop
    • Clumps like clay litter
    • Fragrance-free — Great for cats and owners who are sensitive to fragrance, chemicals, or dyes
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  7. Frisco All Natural Unscented Clumping Grass Cat Litter
    • Made from grass
    • Fragrance-free and chemical-free
    • Grass is not a common allergen for cats
    • Very low dust
    • Grass absorbs liquids and odors effectively
    Check Chewy

Top Picks for the Best Cat Litter for Picky Cats (and Kittens!): Ranked and Rated

#1 Best Overall: World’s Best Picky Cat Unscented Corn Cat Litter

For the pickiest cats, we found the #1 Best Overall cat litter to be World’s Best Picky Cat Unscented Corn Cat Litter. It is free from just about everything that may upset your sensitive feline, including harsh chemicals and artificial perfumes.

However, it is a clumping formula, which makes it easier for you to clean. With that said, some cats don’t like a clumping litter, so it all depend on the cat.

Furthermore, we liked that this formula is flushable and pretty safe for most septic systems. You can simply flush it down the toilet when you’re done since it is corn and completely compostable.

Plus, this formula is also lightweight and basically completely dust-free. Therefore, cats and people with respiratory problems shouldn’t be bothered by this formula. There is no silicone dust since this formula is not made from silicone.

Some reviewers reported that this litter is dusty and that it tracks.

Pros and Cons of the World’s Best Picky Cat Unscented Corn Cat Litter

ProsCons
This cat litter is free from harsh chemicals and artificial perfumes.Some cats don’t like clumping litter.
It’s a clumping litter so it’s easier to clean.Some reviewers reported that this litter is dusty and that it tracks.
It’s flushable and safe for most septic systems.
This corn-based litter completely compostable.
It’s completely dust-free so it should be safe for people and cats with respiratory problems.
There’s no silicone dust since it’s not made from silicone.
Best Overall
World's Best Picky Cat Unscented Clumping Corn Cat Litter
  • Made from corn
  • Free from harsh chemicals, silicone, and artificial perfumes
  • Clumps for easy cleanup
  • Compostable and flushable and safe for most septic systems
  • Virtually dust-free
Check Chewy

2. Best Paper Cat Litter: Yesterday’s News Original Paper Cat Litter

Yesterday’s News Original Paper Cat Litter is ideal for felines with lots of allergies. It’s made out of paper, which very few cats are allergic to. Plus, it is also completely unscented, so you don’t have to worry about reactions to fragrances (or cats refusing to use the litter because it smells).

This litter is also environmentally friendly because it is made from recycled paper. It is much more environmentally friendly than traditional cat litter, for instance. It is also extremely low-tracking, so you don’t have to worry about it spreading throughout the house.

Paper is extremely absorbent. It is more absorbent than most clay litters. For cats that only tend to use a litterbox once, this feature may help them use it again. Plus, because it is paper, it is almost completely dust-free. You and your cat will be able to breathe easily.

Some reviewers said that this product tracks. A few said that it smells bad after their cats urinate on it.

Pros and Cons of Yesterday’s News Original Paper Cat Litter

ProsCons
This litter is ideal for cats with lots of allergies since the only ingredient is paper.Some reviewers said that this product tracks.
It’s unscented.A few said that it smells bad after their cats urinate on it.
It’s eco-friendly because it’s made of recycled paper.
This litter is extremely low-tracking.
It’s more absorbent than most clay litters.
Best Paper Cat Litter
Purina Yesterday's News Non Clumping Paper Cat Litter, Unscented Low Tracking Cat Litter in Recyclable Box - 30 lb. Bag
  • Environmentally friendly -- made from recycled paper
  • Few cats are allergic to paper
  • Completely unscented
  • Extremely low tracking
  • Very absorbent and virtually dust-free
Check Amazon

3. Best Quick-Clumping Formula: World’s Best Multi-Cat Unscented Corn Cat Litter

World’s Best Multi-Cat Unscented Corn Cat Litter is very fast to clump. It also clumps completely without sticking to the sides of the litter box. Therefore, it is extremely easy to clean without needing to scrape the sides of the box.

Because this formula is made from corn, it is flushable and safe for most septic systems. Therefore, you can simply flush scoops down the litterbox, and it will degrade just like everything else.

This litter is extremely lightweight. However, it is also dust-free. Because it is corn, the dust it does make is safer for air quality than traditional litter. Because it’s made from the whole kernel of corn it’s 100% free from harmful chemicals and artificial perfumes.

A few reviewers said that this cat litter smelled bad straight out of the bag.

Pros and Cons of World’s Best Multi-Cat Unscented Corn Cat Litter

ProsCons
This cat litter clumps quickly and completely without sticking to the sides of the litter box so you don’t have to scrape the sides of the box.A few reviewers said that this cat litter smelled bad straight out of the bag.
It’s made from corn so it’s flushable and safe for most septic systems.
It’s extremely lightweight and dust-free.
It’s 100% free from harmful chemicals and artificial perfumes.
Best Quick-Clumping Formula
World's Best Multi-Cat Unscented Clumping Corn Cat Litter
  • Clumps extremely quickly
  • Won't stick to the sides of the litterbox so it's easy to clean
  • Dust-free
  • Made from corn
  • Flushable and safe for most septic systems
Check Chewy Check Amazon

4. Best Wheat Cat Litter: sWheat Scoop Multi-Cat Wheat Cat Litter

sWheat Scoop Multi-Cat Wheat Cat Litter may be a good option for cats that refuse to use corn, silicone, or paper. This formula is completely unscented, so you don’t have to worry about artificial fragrances driving your cat away. It is also made without dyes or other harmful ingredients. However, the wheat soaks up the waste very quickly, which helps control odors.

This formula is eco-friendly and very flushable. You can use it with most septic systems for much easier cleanup. It biodegrades very quickly, making it a more environmentally friendly option than other formulas.

This multi-cat formula delivers two time stronger odor elimination and clumping compared to the brand’s fast-clumping litter.

Some pet parents reported that this litter smelled bad when their cats urinated on it.

Pros and Cons of sWheat Scoop Multi-Cat Wheat Cat Litter

ProsCons
This litter may be a good option for cats that refuse to use corn, silicone, or paper.Some pet parents reported that this litter smelled bad when their cats urinated on it.
It’s unscented and free from dyes or other harmful ingredients.
It’s made from wheat, which soaks waste up quickly to control odors.
It’s eco-friendly, flushable, and safe for most septic systems.
It biodegrades quickly.
This multi-cat formula twice as much odor elimination and clumping compared to the brand’s fast-clumping litter.
Best Wheat Cat Litter
sWheat Scoop Multi-Cat Unscented Clumping Wheat Cat Litter
  • Made of wheat
  • Contains natural enzymes that trap odors
  • The unscented clumping option performs similarly to clay litter without dust
  • Available in a multi-cat version for superior odor trapping
  • This litter clumps, so it's easy to scoop out waste
  • Flushable
Check Chewy Check Amazon

5. Best Non-Clumping Cat Litter: Feline Pine Original Non-Clumping Wood Cat Litter

If your cat — or you — prefer non-clumping litter, look no further than Feline Pine Original Non-Clumping Wood Cat Litter. Most cats are not sensitive to clumping litter. However, some may be. It is also easier to use non-clumping litter in certain litter boxes, or it may be your personal preference. Either way, this pine litter is the best non-clumping cat litter for picky cats.

It is made from pine, which has a natural fresh scent and fights odors. It does not include any harsh chemicals or additives. All of the scent-fighting power is completely natural and safe for most cats.

The pine fibers are very absorbent, so they easily lock in the ammonia odors. This clay-free formula is also very dust-free, so you won’t have to worry about it harming your home’s air quality. It is also safe for felines with respiratory problems.

A few reviewers said that this cat litter was too expensive.

Pros and Cons of Feline Pine Original Non-Clumping Wood Cat Litter

ProsCons
This is the best non-clumping litter for picky cats.A few reviewers said that this cat litter was too expensive.
It’s made from pine, which has a naturally fresh scent and fights odors.
It’s free from harsh chemicals and additives.
The pine fibers are very absorbent and lock in ammonia odors.
It’s dust-free and safe for cats with respiratory problems.
Best Non-Clumping Cat Litter
Feline Pine Original Non-Clumping
  • Non-clumping
  • Made from pressed sawdust
  • Available in money-saving 20 lb. and 40 lb. sizes
  • Dust-free
Check Chewy Check Amazon

6. Best Wood Cat Litter: Okocat Original Premium Cat Litter

Okocat Original Premium Cat Litter is one of the most popular natural cat litters. This plant-based cat litter is biodegradable and sustainably sourced from wood fibers. It works naturally to prevent enzymes from bonding with liquid and waste in the litterbox, which also helps fight odors. For instance, it prevents enzymes from bonding to cat urine, which can prevent the formation of ammonia.

In this way, it is also very good at fighting odors, even though it does not include any artificial fragrance. It also clumps into very solid pieces, which makes it easy to clean. You can even flush the litter into your septic tank, which means that it is biodegradable.

Because it is made from wood and not clay, this formula is practically dust-free. It is great for those with respiratory problems, whether that describes you or your cat.

Plus, you’ll love that this formula is completely free from artificial fragrances, chemicals, and dyes.

Some reviewers reported that this cat litter tracks throughout the house.

Pros and Cons of Okocat Original Premium Cat Litter

ProsCon
This plant-based cat litter is biodegradable.Some reviewers reported that this cat litter tracks throughout the house.
It’s sustainably sourced from wood fibers.
This litter prevents enzymes from bonding with liquid and waste to help fight odors.
It’s free from artificial fragrance.
It clumps into solid pieces that are easy to remove.
This litter is flushable and safe for septic tanks.
It’s practically dust-free, so it’s great cats and people with respiratory problems.
It’s free from artificial fragrances, chemicals, and dyes.
Best Wood Cat Litter
Okocat Original Premium Wood Clumping Cat Litter
  • Made from sustainably sourced wood fibers
  • Biodegradable
  • Fights odors
  • Practically dust-free
  • Free from artificial fragrance, chemicals, and dyes
Check Chewy Check Amazon

7. Best Grass Cat Litter: Frisco All-Natural Unscented Cat Litter

If your cat isn’t allergic to grass — and most aren’t — you may want to try Frisco All-Natural Unscented Cat Litter. Grass is not a commonly used cat litter medium. However, it is very absorbable and environmentally friendly. This formula, which is made from 100% white sorghum grass, is completely fragrance-free and does not include any added chemicals. Therefore, it is also very safe for your feline.

This formula is extremely low-dust. Therefore, it is great for air quality. If you or your cat has respiratory problems, this formula may be a good option for you.

We also liked that it has a resealable bag for easy storage. Because this formula locks in wetness so easily, it also helps control odors. Grass soaks up things very fast, after all. It does not include any fragrances.

This litter is completely biodegradable, as well. It is better for the environment for this reason.

Several users said that it tracks badly. And some reviewers reported that it had “bugs” in it.

Pros and Cons of Frisco All-Natural Unscented Cat Litter

ProsCons
This litter is a good alternative for cats that aren’t allergic to grass.Several users said that it tracks badly.
It’s made from 100% White Sorghum Grass.And some reviewers reported that it had “bugs” in it.
It’s fragrance free and doesn’t include any added chemicals.
This cat litter is extremely low-dust so it may be good for cats and humans with respiratory issues.
It comes in a resealable bag.
The formula locks in wetness to help control odors.
Best Grass Cat Litter
Frisco All Natural Unscented Clumping Grass Cat Litter
  • Made from grass
  • Fragrance-free and chemical-free
  • Grass is not a common allergen for cats
  • Very low dust
  • Grass absorbs liquids and odors effectively
Check Chewy

Choosing the Best: What to Look For

Picking a cat litter for a picky cat can be challenging. You’ll need to keep several things in mind when choosing the perfect cat litter for your feline, including the material, added chemicals, and ease of use.

You need to pick a formula that is good for both you and your feline.

Material

Different litters are made out of all sorts of different things. While clay is the most common option, there are a lot of other options out there, including corn and paper. These natural materials may be better for picky cats, who may be sensitive to the dust and roughness of the clay.

For this reason, most of the materials we’ve recommended are made with these natural materials.

Added Chemicals

Fragrance is the most common chemical irritant in cat litter. Many cats and their humans are allergic or sensitive to chemical fragrances. In fact, fragrances in many cat litters can be toxic to cats. So it just makes sense to avoid them. Selecting a fragrance-free (unscented) formula is healthier for your cat, so it’s the logical best choice.

Ease of Use

You are the one that is going to be scooping the litter. Therefore, it is vital that you choose one you can work with as well.

For instance, you’ll need to consider whether you prefer clumping or non-clumping litter. The odor control of the litter is also important since you don’t want litter that reeks of ammonia as soon as your cat uses it.

The Different Types of Cat Litter for Picky Cats: Pros and Cons Compared

There are many different types of cat litter available. The best cat litter will be made of something that works for both you and your feline.

These different types include clay, silica, pine, wheat, grass, corn, walnut, and paper. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of these materials before we move forward.

  • Clay: The most popular type of litter, clay is the traditional material for cat litter. Usually, they are clumping and scented, though non-clumping and unscented versions are available too.
  • Silica: As a rising material, many companies are coming out with silica cat litter. They offer very good odor control, but they are also more expensive.
  • Pine: Pine is naturally fragranced, which makes it great for cat litter. It is a rising popular choice and is increasing in variations.
  • Wheat: There are not many wheat options out there. However, it is often chosen for cats that are sensitive to other options.
  • Grass: Grass is extremely biodegradable and environmentally friendly. Clumping options are available, and these formulas usually aren’t dyed or fragranced.
  • Corn: Corn cat litter is one of the more popular natural options. It is biodegradable and can be made to clump. Therefore, it is a natural alternative to clay litter.
  • Walnut: Walnut is not a popular cat litter. However, it is biodegradable and a natural option. It is very absorbent and environmentally friendly.
  • Paper: Paper is very gentle, which is why it is becoming more popular. Often, this kind of litter is also made from recycled materials.

Clay Litter

ProsCons
Many options availableNot environmentally friendly
Widely accessibleDusty
Heavy

Silica Gel Litter

ProsCons
Doesn’t need regular scoopingExpensive
Great odor control
Not dusty

Pine Cat Litter

ProsCons
Natural odor-fighting abilitiesFewer options available
Low-dust
Lightweight

Wheat Cat Litter

ProsCons
Environmentally-FriendlyIt can develop mold
Clumps

Grass Cat litter

ProsCons
BiodegradableOften more expensive
Clumps
Usually low-dust

Corn Cat Litter

ProsCons
ProsCons
BiodegradablePossibility of toxic mold growth
Clumps
Absorbs urine well

Walnut Shell Cat Litter

ProsCons
High absorbencyExpensive
Good odor-controlRare
Low-dust

Paper Cat litter

ProsCons
Contains little dustNo odor control
Usually made of recycled materialsDoes not clump
Soft and gentle

Verified Review: User Experience

Natural cat litters often have mixed reviews. While these litters are great for picky cats, they are not the same as clay litters. For example, if you’re expecting corn or paper litter to act like clay litter, you’re probably going to be disappointed.

Many negative reviews involved the litters not having as good odor control as clay litters. Many of the litters we reviewed are unscented, so this is to be expected to some extent. Some are also non-clumping, though this is becoming more popular.

Most other complaints were about the specific type of litter. For instance, some users complained that the Yesterday’s Newspaper cat litter tended to break down after use. However, it is simply recycled paper, so some breakdown is to be expected.

Similarly, one customer complained that the sWheat cat litter did not control odors well compared to other litters they used. However, they switched from Arm & Hammer Slide, which is artificially scented and made from clay. It likely wouldn’t work for a picky cat.

Still, overall, these litters had high praise from most cat owners.

Up Next…

Check out these related articles to learn more about cat litter!

About the Author

Kristin is a writer at A-Z Animals primarily covering dogs, cats, fish, and other pets. She has been an animal writer for seven years, writing for top publications on everything from chinchilla cancer to the rise of designer dogs. She currently lives in Tennessee with her cat, dogs, and two children. When she isn't writing about pets, she enjoys hiking and crocheting.

The Best Cat Litter for Picky Cats (and Kittens!) FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

What's the problem with clay cat litter?

Clay cat litter can contain crystalline silica dust, a non-biodegradable substance that that has been linked to some cancers in humans. If you or your cat inhale this dust for an extended period of time (usually years), it can accumulate in your lungs and cause a condition called silicosis. This is a long-term, incurable lung disease that causes cough, shortness of breath, weakness, and tiredness as well as susceptibility to other lung diseases.

 

 

 

What are the benefits of wood cat litter?

Cat litter that’s made of wood pellets are an ecologically sound choice because wood literally grows on trees! It’s renewable, biodegradable, and sustainable. It’s generally less dusty than other types of cat litter and it’s unlikely to track around the house because the pellets won’t stick to your cat’s paws.

 

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.