Whether you have one cat or many cats, litter tracking is one of the most troublesome parts of being a cat parent. Cat litter is often very hard to clean because of its size and because each type creates a different mess. Switching litters in the middle of your cat’s adjustment period once you discover how messy your original litter, would only mess up your cat’s routine.
So, what do you do? Fortunately, we can help you reduce litter tracking by introducing products that are tried and tested to assist in this regard. Here’s our quick guide on reducing litter tracking outside your cat’s litter box.
Tip 1: Pick the Right Cat Litter
Whether you are a new cat parent or looking for the right cat litter to replace your current one, the first step is to research and choose the right one for your needs. There are plenty of different types of litter, like clay, wood, and paper, but not every litter is the right one for you and your pet. cat. You do need to remember that there is no such thing as 100% non-tracking cat litter. But, there are specific types of litter that do produce low tracks, and they are as follows:
Dust-free or low-dust litter
As the name implies, dust from cat litter is a common problem for cat owners, as it can stick to their cat’s paws and track around the house. This also often happens to cats who like to dig in their litter box or when you replace the litter. But there are dust-free and low-dust litters you can try.
Pellet litter
You can also switch your cat’s pet litter from a fine-grain litter since this type of litter is heavier and less likely to stick in your cat’s paws or scatter outside the litter box. Tofu pellets are great for this purpose, thanks to their smooth texture, and are not unpleasant to your cat’s paws.
Crystal litter
Usually made from absorbent silica gel, it offers less tracking than the usual clumping clay litters. But we find it the least absorbent amongst the other types of litter. That said, it is less unsightly when scattered on the floor because it is translucent.
You should also take note of these factors when deciding which type of low-tracking cat litter to pick:
Unscented versus Scented
Most cat litter nowadays comes with unscented or lightly scented variants because cats are very sensitive to strong fragrances. Pick these options instead of strong-scented cat litter to avoid problems. You can also use deodorisers to mask the scent, so long as it is animal-friendly, or scoop the litter often if you are using a traditional litter box.
Paw-friendly
Some cats prefer fine-textured cat litter over crystals or large pellets, especially for sensitive paws. Try several types of litter with your cat and see which one they like best before buying
Easy to clean
Cat parents vary in how they want to clean their cat’s litter box. Normally, scooping it daily is ideal if you want to stay on top of the mess and own a traditional litter box. If you do own a traditional litter box, use either clumping cat litter or flushable litter so you can get rid of the litter easily. Automatic cat litter boxes reduce the time you spend cleaning up after your cat. Just remember to replace the litter when needed and monitor the litter box’s status through its app.
Dust
Some cats – and humans – are allergic to dust, which can trigger respiratory problems. It is best to check how much dust the litter you pick produces and choose the one that produces the least.
Health and safety
Is the litter safe to use for your cats and not harmful to your own health? Some cat litter may contain components that can cause health problems if inhaled for long periods.
Easy to use
Is the litter easy to store, transport, handle and discard? If the answer is yes, you may have found the perfect one for your needs. Remember that Singapore’s humidity is high, so if a cat litter is susceptible to moisture, it may clump prematurely, lose its effectiveness, and spoil before you can fully use it.
Price
If you are only using traditional litter boxes, you can definitely choose affordable cat litter made from any material. However, the same cannot be said for automatic cat litter boxes, since they are limited to the types of litter that can be used in their machines. So it is best to match the right litter with the right machine from the start. You may end up having to use branded litter for these machines, which can cost a lot of money each month or year if you do not know the alternatives.
Tip 2: Pick the Right Litter Box
Litter tracking can also be prevented with the right type of litter box. Litter boxes come in various shapes and sizes, and each would fit a specific type of cat or litter. When it comes to low-tracking litter boxes, these litter boxes are great for your consideration:
Large, high-sided litter boxes
These boxes feature high walls to prevent litter from scattering, especially when your cat digs into the litter or leaves the box after using it. Ideally, the walls should be as long as your cat’s length – from their nose to tail. The litter box should also be easy to access, which is ideal for elderly cats and those with mobility issues.
Top-Entry Litter Boxes
Much like the previous option, this litter box features a high ceiling, and cats enter through a hole in the top or the side. The only downside to this litter box is that it isn’t ideal for elderly or mobility-challenged cats. It is also very bad if your cat prefers to have a full view of everything around them. Some cats may become anxious if they can’t see the world around them while doing their business. Cats can be claustrophobic, too!
Covered litter boxes
Similar to top-entry litter boxes, they can prevent litter tracking by containing the litter inside the box. However, it is bad for cats, as the scent of used litter will be trapped inside the box. They also have no clear view around them, giving them anxiety. Once it’s time to clean, you may find the litter’s odour clinging to the box, making it harder to clean. You may end up replacing the box entirely.
Litter box enclosures
You can also add litter box enclosures to your litter box to contain the mess. There are litter box furniture pieces styled like cabinets that can definitely add ambience to your space. Just make sure it is well-ventilated inside, and your cat can move comfortably. You should also be able to clean the space easily while scooping the litter.
But do note the material of these litter box furnishings; certain materials, like plywood, may absorb the smell of cat waste, and you may end up having to get rid of them because you can’t get rid of the odour.
Another extra tip is to pick the right location for your litter box. It is ideal to place the litter box in areas far from the rooms you use most. You can also place a litter-tracking mat at your doorway to keep the litter in the room. It is also best to place the litter box on a smooth floor for easier cleaning. Putting it on carpet makes it harder to clean. The room must also be easily accessible to your cats.
Got no budget for an actual litter box? You can repurpose a large storage bin, cut an entry/exit way on one side, and sand the rough edges. It works perfectly as a temporary litter box for your cats.
Tip 3: Use a Litter Mat
Litter mats are also a great investment for your cat’s litter box. It has a textured surface that you can place under or around the litter box, and it will catch any particles that may escape. They are very easy to clean thanks to their silicone or PVC material.
But, if you don’t want to invest in specially designed litter mats, you can use any rug you have. Some great alternatives to rugs include deep bath mats, throw rugs, old carpets, and sisal rugs. Sisal rugs, in particular, can also double as a cat scratcher, so you don’t need to buy another.
So long as you have one of these mats under your cat’s litter box, you are creating a buffer zone where excess litter will be captured first by the rug before your cat tracks it to the rest of your house.
When buying a cat litter mat, you should consider the following:
Litter Capture
It is ideal for the mat to have a textured surface, as it can trap even the smallest particles from your cat’s litter. These mats should also be big enough to fit your litter box and have a few inches of space so the litter won’t immediately spill onto your floors.
If your cat is still new to using litter boxes or has bad aim when using the litter box, you should use a litter mat that is waterproof and has raised edges to contain it. The mat must also be easy to wash and odour-resistant, especially if you won’t be able to clean it immediately.
Build Quality
If you want your litter mat to last, it must be made from durable materials like silicone, PVC, and similar materials. However, it is important to note that durable materials may not be pleasant for your cats to use. So take note of what your cats like before buying a long-term litter mat.
Cleaning
Any litter mat should be easy to clean, as a complex structure or design can add to your cleaning time. If it is easy to shake clean, wash with water or vacuum, it’s a great pick.
Cat-friendly
These litter mats must be comfortable for your cat’s paws to use constantly. Some cats come with very sensitive paws, and if they are on surfaces they do not like, you will have to replace the mats until they are satisfied. It must not be made of toxic materials and must not be easily chewed or scratched off, so your cat won’t accidentally ingest it.
Tip 4: Trim Your Cat’s Fur
If you own a long-haired cat, chances are, they are guilty of litter tracking. Their fur catches the litter easily, especially in their paw and butt area. Have electric clippers with a safety guard on standby to trim their fur. Not scissors! If you have the budget, have a local groomer trim it for you.
Tip 5: Clean the Litter Box Regularly
You should always take the time to monitor your cat’s use of the litter box, because even with the precautions above, some litter will still track. When you spot litter, have a broom and dustpan nearby so you can clean it up immediately.
If you don’t want to use a broom, vacuuming is also good. Just remember to check whether your vacuum is safe to use with litter, since some types of cat litter can get stuck inside and be hard to clean.
Patience and A Lot of Love!
As a cat parent, you will face many battles each day you own your cat, and litter tracking will be one of them. Tired of finding litter everywhere but in the litter box? Reach out to us for practical, honest advice tailored to your home and your cat. We provide personalised consultations to help you reduce tracking and create a cleaner, more comfortable space for both you and your furkid.
Disclaimer: Grin Like Cheshire is not affiliated with the featured brands and trademark rights remain the property of their respective owners. When in doubt, always consult your vet — early detection makes all the difference.