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After learning that my cat was at risk for allergies and asthma, and getting tired of traditional clay litter’s toxic dust and tracking, I was motivated to find the best non clumping litter.
And to us, that is Feline Pine Platinum Non-Clumping Cat Litter for its natural pine composition and performance as a daily practical cat litter.
- Ultra absorbent
- Low dust and low tracking
- Awesome odor control with baking soda
- Affordable and lightweight
- Non-toxic and 100% pine
But the best non clumping cat litter for us may not be the best for you. Maybe your cat can’t stand larger grain litter, or you’re not a fan of the pine scent. That’s why I have listed other non clumping litters in other categories below.
These are the products we review in this article (not all shown):
PURINA Yesterday's News Paper Litter
- Paper Construction
- Pellets texture
- Zero fine particles for dust-free living
Fresh Step Non Clumping Cat Litter
- Clay Construction
- Large Grain texture
- Exceptional odor control
PetSafe ScoopFree Sensitive Crystal Litter Tray
- Crystal Construction
- Large Grain texture
- Maintains a fresh, clean box.
Purina Tidy Cats Non-Clumping Litter
- Clay Construction
- Large Grain texture
- Neutralizes odors quickly.
ökocat Natural Paper Litter Pellets
- Paper Construction
- Pellets texture
- Free of inks, dyes, fragrance, GMOs, and chemicals
Simply Pine Natural Wood Non-Clumping Litter Pellets
- Wood Construction
- Pellets texture
- 100% biodegradable
- Overall Best Non Clumping Cat Litter
- Awesome Non Clumping Cat Litter for Kittens
- Best Clay Non Clumping Cat Litter
- Top Crystal Non Clumping Cat Litter
- Best Non Clumping Cat Litter for Multiple Cats
- Great No Tracking, Non Clumping Cat Litter
- Best Non Toxic Non Clumping Cat Litter
- Also Fantastic
- Budget Pick and Classic
- Why Non Clumping Cat Litter?
- Benefits of Non Clumping Cat Litter
- Non Clumping Cat Litter vs Clumping Differences
- How to Clean Cat Litter That Doesn’t Clump?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Overall Best Non Clumping Cat Litter
- Ultra absorbent
- Low dust and low tracking
- Awesome odor control with baking soda
- Affordable and lightweight
- Non-toxic and 100% pine
This litter gets the job done without any harsh chemicals. It instead uses natural pine with baking soda for pure freshness.
The perk of pine pellets is that they are highly absorbent. The other neat thing is that pine pellets weigh less than half when compared to traditional clay litter.
This is a great dust free non clumping cat litter option with wonderful natural odor control. I’ll think you’ll be shocked by the way this litter keeps things so fresh without any added fragrances.
The eco-friendly tilt on this litter is also pretty cool. Feline Pine never cuts down new trees to make its products. These pellets are sustainably made using reclaimed pine lumber.
You’ll know that it’s time to switch out the litter when you see the pellets begin to turn to sawdust. Definitely one of my best non clumping cat litter picks.
Rating Breakdown:
- Performance 9/10
- Tracking 9/10
- Dust 8/10
- Odor Control 9/10
- Price 7/10
- Overall Rating 8.4
What We Liked:
- Ultra absorbent
- Low dust and low tracking
- Awesome odor control with baking soda
- Affordable and lightweight
- Non-toxic and 100% pine
What We Didn’t Like:
- Pine scent may not be for everybody
Best Non Clumping Litter for Kittens
- Paper Construction
- Pellets texture
- Zero fine particles for dust-free living
This is my top pick for a non clumping litter for kittens. It uses recycled paper that actually comes in a recyclable box.
You’ll appreciate the way this soft paper pellet litter provide a nontoxic option to go with a kitten litter box while toilet training without worries about toxic substances. These are one of the best unscented clumping cat litters as well.
I was really impressed to learn that these paper pellets can absorb three times the moisture by volume compared to traditional clay litters.
This non clumping kitten litter also provide a 99.9% dust-free experience with very low tracking. The odor control is also pretty powerful.
While all of the benefits I’ve mentioned so far are impressive, my favorite thing about this paper pellet litter is that they don’t contain any small particles that can create dusty messes, definitely one of the best non clumping cat litters.
Rating Breakdown:
- Performance 8/10
- Tracking 9/10
- Dust 9/10
- Odor Control 7/10
- Price 7/10
- Overall Rating 8
What We Liked:
- Zero fine particles for dust-free living
- Made from recycled paper
- Very soft on a kitten’s paws
- Essentially no tracking
- No fragrance
What We Didn’t Like:
- Can attract dampness
Best Clay Non Clumping Cat Litter
- Clay Construction
- Large Grain texture
- Exceptional odor control
This can be a good choice if you’re not totally ready to move into the realm of tree-based cat litter.
Fresh Step’s clay non clumping cat litter got my attention because it contains an antimicrobial agent capable of inhibiting bacteria growth in your litter box. It also shines for absorbing liquids quickly.
There’s another gem with this no clump litter. It uses activated carbon for supreme odor neutralization. In addition, it uses a paw-activated fragrance release to provide on-demand odor control.
Rating Breakdown:
- Performance 10/10
- Tracking 7/10
- Dust 7/10
- Odor Control 10/10
- Price 10/10
- Overall Rating 8.8
What We Liked:
- Exceptional odor control
- Crystals lose their blue color when it’s time to change litter
What We Didn’t Like:
- Doesn’t eliminate tracking
- Artificial fragrance
Top Crystal Non Clumping Cat Litter
- Crystal Construction
- Large Grain texture
- Maintains a fresh, clean box.
Note this is only for users of the PetSafe ScoopFree litter system. The crystal litter replacement tray here is disposable and you throw away the entire thing at the end. That means no scooping!
This option is great for sensitive cats and people because it’s free of dyes and perfumes. In addition to absorbing urine, it dries solid waste.
The fast-working action helps to create odor control that’s five times better than standard clumping clay litters.
These are low-tracking crystals that won’t stick to your cat’s fur and paws. They also create a 99% dust-free environment.
The ingenious plastic tray lining is great for creating a powerful barrier that fights against leaks. I really like this as one of the best non clumping cat litters for a busy household because the crystal tray self-cleans for weeks without needing your intervention.
Of course, the mileage you get from each tray varies based on everything from the number of cats you have to your cat’s box habits.
Rating Breakdown:
- Performance 8/10
- Tracking 7/10
- Dust 8/10
- Odor Control 7/10
- Price 6/10
- Overall Rating 7.2
What We Liked:
- Maintains a fresh, clean box
- Low tracking or dust
- No scooping
- Lasts for a long time
What We Didn’t Like:
- Requires a compatible litter box
Best Non Clumping Cat Litter for Multiple Cats
- Clay Construction
- Large Grain texture
- Neutralizes odors quickly.
While I have a one-cat household, I always like to include a pick that I think will work nicely for a household with multiple cats.
I’ve had enough cats in the past to know that you sometimes need a very specific product to keep up with all of the traffic hitting the litter box. That’s why I was so excited to find this cat litter that uses natural clay for powerful absorption.
The most important feature of this Tidy cats non clumping litter is its fast-acting deodorizing system that allows you to stay ahead of compounding cat odors without doing extra work.
People have lots of great things to say about the odor control with this litter. It’s also a low-tracking option with 99.6% dust-free promise.
You’ll need to stay on top of scooping solids daily to keep this litter fresh. Next, you’ll just toss out your used litter when it gets to the point of needing replacing.
Overall, this is a very highly rated cat litter that has helped many cat owners to finally have a neat, dust-free way to manage busy litter boxes.
Rating Breakdown:
- Performance 9/10
- Tracking 9/10
- Dust 7/10
- Odor Control 7/10
- Price 9/10
- Overall Rating 8.2
What We Liked:
- Neutralizes odors quickly
- Low tracking
- Low dust
What We Didn’t Like:
- Can get messy if your cats are digging
- You have to keep on top of scooping
Great Non Tracking Non Clumping Litter
- Easy system for getting rid of messy litter
- Separates solids from urine
- Creates a very clean box
- Good odor absorption
- Very little dust
I’m including this for anyone who needs to totally reinvent the way they’re handling cat litter. It’s actually a litter box system starter kit that’s going to help you make the changeover easily.
The whole thing includes a litter box with scoop, one pack of four cat pads, and two bags of 3.5-lb litter pellets. You should be set with refills for a month with this kit.
Why do I like it? First, the extra-large box with high sides is a real win if you’re struggling with litter that’s getting kicked over the sides of your box.
Next, I like the anti-tracking pellets. This non clumping cat litter system ensures that solids stay on top using a grated tray that traps the pellets.
However, urine gets locked into an ultra-absorbent pad below the surface to spare you from the hassle of ever having to deal with urine clumps. That means zero scooping. Simply toss and replace the litter when needed.
The separation of solids and urine really keeps things fresh with no worries of complicated clumps forming. I think you’ll really like this option if you have a cat that’s a “kicker.”
I routinely make the recommendation to upgrade to a litter box with tall sides when people ask me how to fix the problem of cats scattering litter with their paws.
This Tidy Cats non clumping litter system goes a step further by integrating high sides with pellets that don’t create dust.
Rating Breakdown:
- Performance 7/10
- Tracking 7/10
- Dust 10/10
- Odor Control 7/10
- Price 6/10
- Overall Rating 7.4
What We Liked:
- Easy system for getting rid of messy litter
- Separates solids from urine
- Creates a very clean box
- Good odor absorption
- Very little dust
What We Didn’t Like:
- The side entrance on the box is a little awkward
- Some cats might play with the pellets
Best Non Toxic Non Clumping Cat Litter
- A biodegradable, compostable, BPA-free, organic, and non-GMO product
I am a big fan of walnut shell cat litter as one of the best unscented clumping cat litters. It really feels like a great way to enjoy the perks of a natural cat litter that also happens to be an eco-friendly, sustainable choice.
This is an ultra-pure choice that’s free of chemicals, toxins, clay, corn, and grains.
One of the reasons why I love walnut shell litter is that this option is actually more powerful for neutralizing odors when compared to other good options like pine, corn, and wheat.
It’s also much better at neutralizing odors compared to clay.
These walnut pellets naturally won’t stick to your cat’s fur and paws. They are also heavy enough to prevent tracking. The solidness of walnut shell means that dust is never a concern!
Rating Breakdown:
- Performance 8/10
- Tracking 7/10
- Dust 6/10
- Odor Control 9/10
- Price 7/10
- Overall Rating 7.4
What We Liked:
- A biodegradable, compostable, BPA-free, organic, and non-GMO product
What We Didn’t Like:
- Pellets can disintegrate quickly when cats urinate frequently
- The dark color of the pellets sometimes makes spotting waste difficult
Also Fantastic Non Clumping Unscented Cat Litter
- Paper Construction
- Pellets texture
- Free of inks, dyes, fragrance, GMOs, and chemicals
This is the second paper pellet option to make my list. What I like about these pellets is how absorbent they are. I also love that they are so naturally lightweight for easy handling.
These pellets have great odor control. They are actually fortified with a natural plant-based odor to help suppress box odors.
In addition, they absorb wetness very quickly to keep the box fresh, dry, and sanitary without worries about your cat’s paws getting soaked.
While you’ll need to scoop daily to keep the box fresh with these pellets, the base litter lasts four to six weeks. This is a completely dust-free option that’s produced using clean paper fiber that doesn’t let off any airborne dust particles.
It can be an important product to know about if you need an ultra-clean litter for a cat with respiratory, allergy, or post-surgical considerations.
Don’t worry about waste with this one! These sustainable pellets are made from reclaimed paper.
Rating Breakdown:
- Performance 8/10
- Tracking 8/10
- Dust 9/10
- Odor Control 5/10
- Price 8/10
- Overall Rating 7.6
What We Liked:
- Free of inks, dyes, fragrance, GMOs, and chemicals
- Made of reclaimed paper
- Biodegradable
What We Didn’t Like:
- Daily scooping required for freshness
- Some people think the paper gives off an odd smell
Budget Pick and Low Dust Non Clumping Litter
- Wood Construction
- Pellets texture
- 100% biodegradable
If you’ve followed my review lists in the past, you know that I always throw in budget picks because I don’t believe that you have to go “boutique” to be able to enjoy safe, high-quality products for your cat.
I’m a big fan of these simple pellets made from natural pine because they bring the freshness in a big way.
These pine pellets are made from reclaimed and sustainable remnants of pine. They are actually put through a kiln-drying process that creates beautiful pellets without any added chemicals or scents.
As a result, you get natural control that leaves a clean, fresh scent in your home that never feels artificial and offensive.
These pellets are extremely effective at soaking up wetness in a litter box. They capture three times more liquid than traditional clay litters.
That leads to cost savings because you’re able to use litter pellets for longer without the need to change everything out.
I like that these pellets produce low dust with zero tracking. They turn to sawdust when wet to let you know when it’s time to change the litter.
You’ll need to remove solid waste daily to maintain a fresh environment in the box.
Rating Breakdown:
- Performance 7/10
- Tracking 9/10
- Dust 6/10
- Odor Control 10/10
- Price 7/10
- Overall Rating 7.8
What We Liked:
- 100% biodegradable
- 100% compostable
- No dyes
- No fragrances
What We Didn’t Like:
- Sawdust can get heavy if neglected
- Daily scooping is necessary to prevent a mess
- Odor control can be described as “decent”
Why Non Clumping Cat Litter?
I think that switching to a no-clump option is going to improve the quality of life in your home! I originally wanted to live the clump-free life because my Maine Coon cat is at risk for allergies and asthma.
She also has a long neck and belly ruff that is prone to getting clay stuck while in her litter box. It’s almost impossible for a cat with long fur to avoid ingesting litter during grooming.
Learning that there are “pure” litters out there allowed me to create a hygienic, hypoallergenic home.
However, I can say that all of the other benefits of ditching clay litter make the switch more than worth it before you even consider your cat’s health. Next, I’ll show you what I mean by that.
Benefits of Non Clumping Cat Litter
There are so many different benefits I want to run through.
More Natural
No-clump litters use natural, nontoxic ingredients like wood, coconut, or paper. They also don’t contain sodium bentonite. Ready for the scoop on this substance?
Sodium bentonite clay is an anti-odor and clumping agent that is the main ingredient in most cat litters. It’s also a known skin and eye irritant. Some research also links this substance to chronic illnesses and toxicity.
Environmentally Friendly
No-clump litters are often made from eco-friendly and renewable materials. You’ll see all the natural materials used when you continue reading my reviews of the best non clumping litter down below.
Let’s just say that it was a big moment when I discovered just how bad clumping clay litter is for everyone involved – the planet, producers, and consumers.
Odor Reducing
Something you’ll discover about no-clump litters is that they provide tons of natural odor reeducation. While many clumping litters leave strong scents behind that merge with cat waste, no-clump litters provide a natural freshness.
More Absorbent
I know that so many of you hate seeing wet, lumpy litter boxes. No-clump litters have strong absorption powers that soak up messes faster to ensure that you don’t cringe every time you walk by your cat’s litter box.
Less Tracking
This was the big one that sold me on no-clump cat litter. Is tracking a big problem at your home? I know that finding clay litter crystals all over my floors and furniture always bothered me.
My Maine Coon has free reign so stopping litter tracking is an ongoing issue. That meant that I often found clay litter everywhere around her litter box.
While I knew this was not hygienic at all, I didn’t realize there was a way to fix the problem.
Less Dust
The only thing that bothered me more than non tracking litter that was indeed tracking, was the dust that would get kicked up in my house from my cat’s old litter. It was always torture for my cat because she has allergy issues.
While I don’t have severe allergies, I admit that my nose would always flare up whenever it was time to change the litter.
I also noticed that some of my friends would get itchy, irritated eyes and noses when visiting my apartment. I actually shudder to think about how much clay cat litter we both probably inhaled over the years.
Great for Kittens
A no-clump litter can be the best kitty litter. Kittens are still getting the hang of grooming. That means that they’re not so great at avoiding lapping up clay that is stuck to their fur.
I love that non clump cat litter protects fragile kittens. Kittens are simply more likely to try to eat non-food items. Eating even just a little bit of a traditional clay clumping litter can be dangerous for a kitten’s health.
Of course, the fact that your cat won’t be ingesting clay crystals is a big perk at any age!
Clumping vs Non Clumping Litter
How does it all shake out when you do an apples-to-apples comparison of these two litters?
I think the benefits of switching to no-clump litter are really compelling once you stop to think about the hassles and hazards that many of us endure with clumping litters because we never really stop to examine what’s going on.
But it’s not for everyone! There will be changes to your daily litter routine that both you and your cat have to accept .
Here’s my quick rundown of differences in clumping vs non clumping litter:
- Less scooping
- More stirring
- More changing of the entire batch of litter
- Much better for allergies and respiratory conditions.
- Larger grain so it reduced tracking and dust, but may not be comfortable on all cat’s paws.
- Creates a more sanitary litter box overall since you’re swapping out all litter with fresh stuff more often
How to Clean Cat Litter That Doesn’t Clump?
This is the top question from people after they’ve made the switch to clump-free litter. First, you should know that instructions vary by litter product.
Keeping a litter box with non clumping litter clean usually requires you to scoop feces as soon as possible or daily. However, cat urine is absorbed naturally by the litter.
That means that you’re usually waiting for the material to turn into a sawdust-like substance before you need to worry about fully replacing litter.
Yes, you’ll need to change the litter a little more frequently when you pivot from classic clumping cat litter simply because non clumping litter doesn’t turn urine into hard clumps you can scoop up.
You can generally expect to be clearing out and replenishing your litter weekly with this system. It’s really nothing once you get into the new groove with it!
Some folks have found success with a sifting litter box for pellet litter, and it can be useful for separating soiled pellets vs the old.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best non clumping cat litter?
My reviews run through a bunch of different options for clump-free litter. I encourage you to read through the whole list to learn about the various natural materials used in different litters.
However, my personal favorite is Feline Pine Platinum Non-Clumping Cat Litter that consists of natural pine with the bonus of baking soda. To me, this best non clumping cat litter is a strong choice for absorption and odor control.
Why would you use non-clumping cat litter?
There are many reasons to switch to cat litter that doesn’t clump. Most people simply want to avoid the chemicals and potential toxins found in traditional clay clumping litter.
In addition, these litters help to reduce dust and tracking. This can create a cleaner house. It can also help if humans or pets have allergies or respiratory issues.
Why is non clumping litter better for kittens?
Many people like to start kittens off with “gentle” cat litter because of the small and delicate digestive systems of kittens. Kittens are simply more likely to try to eat non-food items.
This can include cat litter clay. Most traditional clumping litters are full of harmful materials that can be dangerous to a kitten’s health if ingested.
I’m Gary Hu, a proud cat dad to a 15 lb Maine Coon. Have taken care of outdoor and indoor cats for over 10 years, and learned tons on behavior, habits, health, and products. I help new Maine Coon (or any other cat) parents with common questions and issues based on real, practical experience.
