Eco-Friendly Cat Litter Options
Eight sustainable alternatives to clay, each with unique benefits. Find the perfect match for your cat and your values.
Beyond Clay: A World of Options
Traditional clay litter is strip-mined, non-biodegradable, and sits in landfills for generations. The good news? There are now eight major categories of eco-friendly alternatives, each made from renewable, sustainable materials. From wood pellets to grass fibers, there's an option for every cat and every household.
Quick Comparison: All 8 Eco-Friendly Litter Types
| Litter Type | Odor Control | Clumping | Dust Level | Biodegradable | Flushable | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bamboo | Good | Good | Very Low | Yes | Some brands | $$ | Eco-conscious households |
| Corn | Good | Excellent | Very Low | Yes | Yes | $$ | Easy transition from clay |
| Grass | Excellent | Excellent | Very Low | Yes | Yes | $$$ | Premium eco-conscious |
| Paper | Moderate | Poor | Very Low | Yes | No | $$ | Post-surgery, kittens |
| Tofu | Good | Good | Very Low | Yes | Yes | $$ | Apartments, flushability |
| Walnut | Excellent | Excellent | Low | Yes | No | $$$ | Multi-cat homes |
| Wheat | Good | Excellent | Low | Yes | Yes | $$ | Science-minded owners |
| Wood | Excellent | Moderate | Low | Yes | No | $ | Budget eco-switchers |
Plant-Fiber Litters
Bamboo Litter
Earth's fastest-growing resource
Made from the world's most renewable plant, bamboo litter offers excellent absorption and virtually no dust. Carbon-negative from cultivation to disposal.
Grass Litter
The newest innovation
Made from grass seed fibers, this newcomer offers exceptional clumping and odor control. Cats seem to love it instinctively—high acceptance rates.
Paper Litter
The gentlest choice
Made from recycled newspapers and cardboard. Virtually dust-free and extra soft—the veterinarian's choice for post-surgery recovery.
Wood-Based Litters
Wood Litter
Pine, cedar & sawdust options
Made from lumber industry byproducts, wood litter offers natural odor control from pine oils. Often the most affordable eco-option available.
Walnut Litter
Nature's odor fighter
Crushed walnut shells provide some of the best natural odor control available. Dark color hides stains. Firm clumps for easy scooping.
Grain-Based Litters
Corn Litter
Natural clumping power
Whole-kernel corn creates excellent clumping from natural starches. Texture closest to clay—cats transition easily. Flushable and safe.
Wheat Litter
Enzyme-powered performance
Natural wheat enzymes break down odor-causing compounds at the molecular level. Continues working over time for sustained freshness.
Tofu Litter
The Asian sensation
Made from soy fiber (okara), this litter is hugely popular across Asia. Unique pellet form reduces tracking. Dissolves easily for flushing.
Quick Decision Guide
Most affordable?
Wood pellets are often the cheapest option, especially when bought as horse bedding.
Best for picky cats?
Grass litter has the highest acceptance rate among cats who reject other alternatives.
Ready to Make the Switch?
Our step-by-step transition guide helps you switch your cat to eco-friendly litter without any drama. Pro tip: Adding Purrify activated carbon to your new litter helps with odor control during the transition.
Read the Switching Guide