Cat Litter Comparison Guide: Which Type Is Right for Your Cat?

Let’s be honest—cat litter isn’t exactly the hottest topic out there. But if you live with a cat, it’s one of the most important products you’ll ever buy. We’re not just talking about odor control and scooping convenience—it’s about comfort, hygiene, and, let’s face it, peace of mind.

There are tons of litter types out there, and each has its own personality. Some are more eco-friendly, others are built for performance, and some try to do it all. Here's a straight-up guide to help you figure out what works best for you—and your picky little feline.

Bentonite Clay: The Classic Choice

This is the go-to for many cat parents. Made from clay that clumps when it touches moisture, it’s that greyish-beige stuff you’ll find in most stores.

Why it’s a crowd favorite

Clumps quickly and solidly

Easy to scoop

Great odor control

Affordable and widely available

Works well for multi-cat households

Heads up: It can get dusty and it’s not biodegradable. Not the best for the planet, but a solid choice if convenience is your top priority.

Soy-Based Litter: The Eco Darling

Made from leftover soy pulp (yep, like from tofu production), this litter is compostable, lightweight, and usually dust-free. Eco bonus? It often comes in biodegradable packaging too.

Why people love it

Planet-friendly and sustainable

Flushable in small amounts (check local guidelines)

Soft texture and low dust

Great for sensitive cats and allergy-prone humans

Worth noting: It’s usually a bit pricier than clay, but it’s the guilt-free option if you're trying to go green.

Corn-Based Litter: Nature with a Twist

Corn litter usually comes in pellets or granules and has this subtle, barn-fresh smell that’s oddly comforting.

Why it’s worth trying

Natural and chemical-free

Decent clumping ability

Compostable

Lightweight and gentle on paws

Heads up: If your home is humid, it can get funky fast. Mold is a possibility if you leave it sitting too long.

Silica (Crystal) Litter: High-Tech, Low Maintenance

Those sparkly white or blue crystals? That’s silica litter. Instead of clumping, it absorbs moisture and odor.

Why it stands out

Highly absorbent

Long-lasting—one fill can last weeks

Very low dust

Good for busy folks or frequent travelers

Downside: Some cats don’t like the texture, and the crystals can be noisy when they dig. Not great for anxious cats or light sleepers.

Wood Litter: Old School, But Good

Made from compressed sawdust, shavings, or wood pellets, this type of litter smells naturally fresh and rustic in the best way.

Why it works

Naturally masks odors

Super absorbent

Biodegradable and compostable

Minimal processing involved

Thing to know: It doesn’t clump like other types, so scooping works differently. Some cats aren’t into the texture either.

Recycled Paper: Soft and Safe

Usually shaped like little pellets, recycled paper litter is a favorite for post-surgery recovery or cats with paw sensitivity.

Why it’s a good option

Gentle on paws

Totally dust-free

Biodegradable

Absorbs well without harsh chemicals

The trade-off: Doesn’t hide smells as well and needs more frequent changing.

Noba Advanced: A Hybrid Litter That Actually Delivers

Some litters try to do it all—and a few actually succeed. Take Noba Advanced, for example. It’s a premium hybrid made from bentonite clay (for clumping), silica (for deep absorption), and activated charcoal (for odor control).

Why it hits the sweet spot

Fast and firm clumping

Excellent odor neutralization—even in covered boxes

Deep moisture absorption

Low dust, cat-friendly texture

Bottom line: It’s the best of three worlds and a real game changer for cat parents who want top-tier performance without compromise.

Final thoughts

There’s no single “best” litter out there—just the one that works for your lifestyle, your values, and your cat’s preferences. And if you’re thinking of switching, take it slow. Cats are creatures of habit (and drama), and sudden change doesn’t always go well.

Looking to simplify your litter routine? We’ve got options that make cleaning easier, reduce odors, and make the litter box less of a daily burden. Check out our full lineup here: Noba Cat Litter & Accessories