How to Make Homemade Cat Litter in 3 Easy Steps

Cat in a litter box
cat litter

Litter is a vital part of cat ownership, but not all litter is created equal. Some litter is dusty, while other litter is not absorbent enough. Some litter is too expensive, while other litter is not adequately effective at controlling odor. If you are looking for the best litter for your cat, the best thing to do is make your own. Homemade litter is easy to make, affordable, and customizable to your cat’s needs.

The first step in making litter is to choose the right ingredients. There are many different materials that can be used to make litter, but some of the most common include newspaper, wood pellets, and clay. Newspaper litter is a good choice because it is absorbent and inexpensive. Wood pellets are also absorbent, and they are biodegradable. Clay litter is the most common type of litter, and it is effective at controlling odor. Once you have chosen your ingredients, you will need to mix them together in a large container.

The next step is to add water to the litter mixture. The amount of water that you add will depend on the type of litter that you are making. For example, newspaper litter will require more water than wood pellets. You will need to add water until the litter mixture is moist but not wet. Once the litter mixture is the right consistency, you will need to let it sit for several hours or overnight. This will allow the ingredients to absorb the water and become more absorbent.

Choosing the Right Litter Material

The choice of litter material depends on various factors, including your cat’s preferences, your own lifestyle, and the specific needs of your feline companion. Here are the key considerations to keep in mind when selecting the ideal litter:

Clumping vs. Non-Clumping

Clumping litter forms solid clumps around urine, making it easy to scoop and remove. Non-clumping litter absorbs moisture but doesn’t form clumps, which may require more frequent changing.

Particle Size

Smaller particles create a finer litter, which can be more comfortable for some cats but may track more easily. Larger particles provide a coarser texture, which may be less comfortable but less likely to stick to paws.

Scent

Some litters contain fragrances or deodorants to mask odors. While some cats may find these scents appealing, others may find them overwhelming or even aversive.

Natural vs. Synthetic

Natural litter is made from materials like clay, wood, or corn, which may be biodegradable and environmentally friendly. Synthetic litter, often made of silica or recycled paper, can provide excellent odor control but may be more expensive.

Cost

Litter prices can vary significantly depending on the material, brand, and quantity. Consider your budget and the frequency at which you need to change the litter when making a decision.

Material	Pros	Cons
Clay	Clumping, absorbent, affordable	Dusty, not biodegradable
Wood	Natural, biodegradable, less dusty	May not clump as effectively, more expensive
Corn	Natural, biodegradable, low-dust	May not clump as tightly, prone to tracking
Silica	Excellent odor control, long-lasting	Expensive, may be uncomfortable for cats

Preparing the Litter Box

Preparing the litter box is an essential step in creating a comfortable and inviting environment for your cat. Here are some tips to consider:

Choosing the Right Litter Box

Select a litter box that is spacious enough for your cat to move around in comfortably. It should be large enough to allow them to dig and bury their waste. There are various types of litter boxes available, such as covered, uncovered, and self-cleaning. Choose the one that best suits your cat’s needs and preferences.

Choosing the Right Location

Place the litter box in a quiet and private area of your home where your cat feels safe. Avoid areas with high foot traffic or loud noises. Consider placing the litter box in a room where the cat already spends a lot of time, such as a bathroom or utility room. If you have multiple cats, provide separate litter boxes for each one to minimize territorial disputes.

Choosing the Right Litter

There are numerous types of litter available on the market, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages. Some common types include clay, crystal, pine, and biodegradable litters. Consider factors such as your cat’s preferences, your budget, and your own personal preferences when choosing a litter.

Once you have chosen a litter, pour a layer of about 2-3 inches into the litter box. The depth of the litter allows your cat to dig and bury their waste properly. Avoid using scented litters, as they can be irritating to your cat’s sensitive nose and can deter them from using the litter box.

Cleaning the Litter Box

Regularly cleaning the litter box is crucial for maintaining hygiene and preventing unpleasant odors. It is recommended to scoop out solid waste daily and replace the entire litter every 1-2 weeks, depending on the type of litter used. Use a cat-safe litter scoop to remove waste and dispose of it in a sealed bag.

Maintaining Litter Box Hygiene

Maintaining the cleanliness of litter boxes is crucial for the well-being and health of cats. Here are some essential tips for optimal litter box hygiene:

Scooping Frequency and Depth

Regular scooping is key to prevent odor buildup and infection. Aim to scoop the litter box at least twice daily. Remove all solid and semi-solid waste and stir the litter to distribute the remaining waste evenly.

Complete Litter Change

Fully change the litter every 1-2 weeks, depending on the number of cats using it. Dispose of the old litter and wash the litter box thoroughly with warm water and mild dish soap. Rinse thoroughly to remove soap residue.

Deep Cleaning

Once a month, perform a deep clean of the litter box. Use a bleach solution (1:10 bleach to water ratio) to
disinfect the box. Allow the solution to sit for 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Note that bleach can be harmful to cats, so ensure that the box is completely dry before refilling it with litter.

Task	Frequency
Scooping	Twice daily
Complete litter change	Every 1-2 weeks
Deep cleaning	Monthly

Scooping and Changing Litter

Regularly scooping and changing your cat’s litter is essential for maintaining hygiene, reducing odors, and preventing health issues for both your cat and your home. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Scooping Litter

Scoop soiled litter from the box daily using a scooper. Focus on removing the clumps and urine-soaked litter. Discard the waste in a trash bag.

Changing Litter

Completely change the litter in the box every 1-2 weeks, or more frequently if necessary. Follow these steps:

Empty the old litter into a trash bag and dispose of it.
Wash the litter box with warm, soapy water and let it dry completely before refilling it.
Add 2-3 inches of fresh litter to the box.

Tips for Changing Litter:

Use different litter types: Consider experimenting with various litter materials (e.g., clay, crystal, pine) to find what your cat prefers.
Control odor: Add baking soda or activated charcoal to the litter box to absorb odors.
Provide multiple boxes: If you have multiple cats, provide one litter box per cat plus one extra.
Keep the box in a quiet area: Choose a location where your cat will feel comfortable using the litter box without distractions.
Don’t overfill the box: The litter should be deep enough for your cat to bury their waste, but not so deep that it becomes difficult for them to dig.
Consider a litter box liner: Liners make cleanup easier, as you can simply remove the used liner and replace it with a new one.
Monitor your cat’s litter box habits: Observe your cat’s litter box usage to detect any changes that could indicate health issues.

Dealing with Litter-Box Odors

Dealing with litter-box odors is a common challenge for cat owners. Here are several effective methods to minimize and manage these undesirable smells:

1. Scoop Regularly

Regularly scooping out solid waste helps prevent odors from accumulating. Scoop at least twice a day, removing both urine clumps and feces.

2. Use a High-Quality Litter

Choosing a litter specifically designed for odor control can make a significant difference. Look for litters that absorb moisture and neutralize odors effectively.

3. Change the Litter Regularly

Empty and replace the entire litter every 1-2 weeks. This helps remove accumulated odors and prevents bacteria from growing.

4. Place the Litter Box in a Well-Ventilated Area

Locate the litter box in a well-ventilated area with good air circulation. This helps disperse odors and prevent them from lingering.

5. Use Odor-Eliminating Products

Consider using odor-eliminating products specifically designed for litter boxes. These products can be added to the litter or placed around or under the litter box to absorb and neutralize odors. Here is a table summarizing the different types of odor-eliminating products you can use:

Product Type	Description
Odor-Absorbing Litter	Litter that incorporates odor-absorbing materials to trap and neutralize smells.
Litter Box Deodorizers	Powdered or granulated products that are added to the litter to neutralize odors.
Odor-Absorbing Gels and Crystals	Products designed to absorb and retain odors, such as activated charcoal or silica gel.
Enzyme-Based Cleaners	Products that contain enzymes that break down odor-causing bacteria and organic matter.

Preventing Litter from Scattering

Litter scattering can be a significant problem, especially in windy areas or during heavy rainfall. To prevent litter from scattering, consider the following measures:

Use Covered Trash Receptacles

Ensure that all trash receptacles are equipped with secure lids to prevent wind from blowing litter out. Consider using weighted or recessed trash cans to enhance stability.

Place Trash Receptacles Strategically

Locate trash receptacles in high-traffic areas and at regular intervals along trails or walkways. This encourages people to dispose of their litter properly and reduces the likelihood of it being scattered.

Secure Loose Items

When transporting loose items such as newspapers or plastic bags, use straps or bungee cords to secure them. This prevents them from blowing away and becoming litter.

Educate the Public

Raise awareness about the negative impact of litter scattering. Educate the public on the importance of properly disposing of waste and the consequences of littering.

Enforce Littering Laws

Establish and enforce strict littering laws. Imposing fines or penalties can deter individuals from littering and promote responsible waste disposal.

Foster Community Involvement

Encourage community members to participate in litter cleanup initiatives and volunteer to keep public spaces clean. This fosters a sense of ownership and reduces the accumulation of litter.

Factors Contributing to Litter Scattering	Preventive Measures
Strong winds	Covered trash receptacles, weighted or recessed trash cans
Heavy rainfall	Secure lids on trash receptacles to prevent waterlogging
Loose items (e.g., newspapers, plastic bags)	Straps or bungee cords to secure loose items during transportation
Lack of trash receptacles	Strategic placement of trash receptacles in high-traffic areas
Absence of public awareness	Education campaigns on the impact of litter and proper waste disposal
Weak enforcement of littering laws	Establish and enforce strict littering laws, impose fines or penalties

Training Cats to Use the Litter Box

1. Choose the Right Litter Box

Select a box large enough for your cat to comfortably turn around in, and place it in a quiet and private location.

2. Introduce Your Cat to the Litter Box

Gently place your cat in the litter box and let them explore it. Encourage them with treats or praise.

3. Establish a Regular Routine

Take your cat to the litter box at the same times each day, especially after meals and naps.

4. Use Positive Reinforcement

When your cat uses the litter box, reward them with treats, praise, or petting.

5. Clean the Litter Box Regularly

Scoop out waste daily and change the litter completely once a week. A clean litter box will encourage your cat to use it.

6. Avoid Punishment

Never punish your cat for using the litter box incorrectly. This will only make them avoid the box or associate it with negative feelings.

7. Address Any Problems

If your cat is having trouble using the litter box, consider the following:

Problem	Possible Causes & Solutions
Cat avoids the litter box	– Unclean litter box – Incorrect litter type – Stress or anxiety – Medical issues
Cat urinates or defecates outside the litter box	– Territorial marking – Health problems – Anxiety or stress – Unclean litter box
Cat exhibits straining or discomfort while using the litter box	– Urinary tract infection – Constipation – Stress or anxiety – Impacted anal glands

If you are unable to resolve the issue on your own, consult with a veterinarian for further guidance.

Troubleshooting Litter Box Issues

1. Cat Refuses to Use Litter Box

Ensure the litter box is clean, private, and in an easily accessible location.
Consider adding a second litter box or changing the type of litter used.
Rule out medical conditions such as urinary tract infections or arthritis.

2. Cat Urinating Outside the Box

Check for signs of stress or anxiety in the cat’s environment.
Ensure the litter box is large enough and has enough litter depth for the cat to dig and bury comfortably.
Try using a different type of litter or adding pheromone diffusers.

3. Cat Defecating Outside the Box

Similar to urination issues, rule out medical conditions like constipation or diarrhea.
Consider adding a second litter box or using a larger one.
Ensure the litter box is located in a private and easily accessible spot.

4. Cat Spraying Urine

Spraying is a territorial marking behavior typically seen in intact male cats.
Neutering the cat can reduce spraying.
Provide multiple litter boxes and ensure they are cleaned regularly.

5. Multiple Cats Not Using the Same Litter Box

Ensure there are enough litter boxes available for the number of cats.
Place litter boxes in different locations to cater to individual preferences.
Consider using different types of litter in different boxes.

6. Cat Scratching the Litter Box

Add a scratching post or a cardboard box filled with crumpled paper nearby.
Encourage the cat to use the scratching post by placing treats or catnip on it.

7. Tracking Litter

Use a litter-catching mat under the litter box.
Choose a litter that is less prone to sticking to the cat’s paws.
Consider a covered litter box to minimize scatter.

8. Cleaning and Odor Control

Scoop the litter box daily to remove waste and prevent odor buildup.
Empty and wash the litter box weekly with warm soapy water or litter box cleaner.
Use baking soda or activated charcoal to absorb odors.

Odor Control Methods
Baking Soda
Activated Charcoal
Odor-absorbing Litter
Litter Box Liners

Disposing of Used Litter Properly

Once your litter box is full, it’s important to dispose of the used litter properly to maintain a clean and healthy environment for your cat and to prevent odor from spreading. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Scoop the litter regularly: Scoop out the solid waste from the litter box every day using a litter scoop. This will help prevent the accumulation of waste and keep the litter fresh and clean.

2. Remove the entire litter: Once the litter becomes saturated or smelly, remove all of the litter from the box and replace it with fresh litter. This is usually necessary every 1-2 weeks.

3. Clean the litter box: Wash the litter box thoroughly with warm water and soap. You can also use a pet-safe disinfectant to kill any bacteria. Let the litter box air dry completely before adding fresh litter.

4. Dispose of the used litter: There are several ways to dispose of used litter properly:

Method	Recommended for
Landfill: Place the used litter in a plastic bag and tie it closed. Dispose of the bag in a regular household trash can that goes to a landfill.	Most common and convenient method.
Composting: Add small amounts of used litter to a compost pile specifically designated for pet waste. Note that compost should not be used for vegetables or fruit plants.	Eco-friendly option, but not suitable for all litter types.
Flushable litter: Choose a litter specifically designed to be flushed down the toilet. This method is convenient but may not be suitable for all plumbing systems.	Convenient for small amounts of waste, but can clog toilets if misused.

5. Avoid flushing non-flushable litter: Never flush clumping litter or non-flushable litter down the toilet. These types of litter can clog pipes and damage septic systems.

6. Check local regulations: Some municipalities may have specific rules for disposing of pet waste. Be sure to check with your local authorities for any special requirements.

7. Be responsible: Always dispose of used litter in a responsible manner to protect the environment and your community.

8. Keep your cat healthy: Regular cleaning and proper disposal of used litter helps prevent the spread of bacteria and parasites that can affect your cat’s health.

9. Consider the environmental impact: When disposing of used litter, consider the environmental impact of different methods. Landfill waste can take hundreds of years to decompose, while composting can reduce waste and create valuable soil amendments.

Advanced Litter Box Considerations

1. Ventilation

Many cats prefer enclosed litter boxes for privacy and to contain odors. However, enclosed boxes can trap odors and increase the likelihood of respiratory issues for cats. Some models feature ventilation systems or mesh lids to improve airflow while maintaining privacy.

2. Depth

Kittens and senior cats may prefer shallower litter boxes, while adult cats typically prefer boxes with a depth of at least 2-3 inches to allow for proper digging and burying. Too shallow boxes may not provide enough litter for comfortable elimination, while too deep boxes can be difficult for kittens or seniors to climb into.

3. Size

Litter boxes should be large enough to accommodate your cat’s entire body, including room to turn around and dig. A general rule of thumb is to choose a box at least 1.5 times the length of your cat from nose to tail. For multiple-cat households, it’s recommended to have one litter box per cat, plus one extra.

4. Shape

Litter boxes come in a variety of shapes, from rectangular to round to oval. Choose a shape that fits well in the available space and provides sufficient room for your cat.

5. Location

Place litter boxes in quiet, easily accessible locations where your cat feels safe and comfortable using them. Avoid placing litter boxes near high-traffic areas or loud noises.

6. Scoop Type

Choose a scoop that is appropriate for the type of litter you use. Some scoops have angled edges or slots to sift out solids, while others are flat and wide to scoop up large amounts of litter.

7. Frequency of Cleaning

Scoop solid waste daily and completely change the litter once a week. For multiple-cat households, cleaning and changing may need to be more frequent to prevent odors and health issues.

8. Litter Disposal

Dispose of used litter in a sealed bag and place it in the trash. Do not flush litter down the toilet, as it can clog pipes and harm aquatic life.

9. Litter Mats

Litter mats placed under litter boxes can help catch stray litter and reduce tracking around the house. Choose mats that are large enough to surround the box completely and have non-slip backing to prevent slipping.

10. Customizations

Some manufacturers offer customizable litter boxes with features such as raised rims to prevent spillage, hoods with filters to minimize odors, and automatic cleaning systems to reduce labor. Consider your cat’s needs and preferences when choosing customizations.

How to Make Litter

Tools and Materials

Cardboard box or plastic container with a lid
Newspaper or shredded paper
Sand or clay
Litter scoop
Cat litter brand (optional)

Instructions

Choose a container: A cardboard box or plastic container with a lid is the best choice for a litter box. The box should be big enough for your cat to move around comfortably, but not so large that it becomes a challenge for them to get in and out.
Line the box with newspaper or shredded paper: This will help to absorb moisture and make it easier to clean the litter box. You can also use a litter box liner if you prefer.
Add sand or clay: Fill the litter box with sand or clay to a depth of about 3 inches. This will provide a comfortable surface for your cat to dig in and bury their waste.
Optional: Add litter: If you prefer, you can add a layer of litter on top of the sand or clay. This will help to reduce odor and keep the litter box clean.
Place the litter box in a quiet location: Cats prefer to do their business in a private place, so it’s best to place the litter box in a quiet corner or spare room.

How Often to Clean the Litter Box

The frequency with which you clean the litter box will depend on how many cats you have and how often they use it. In general, you should aim to clean the litter box at least once a day, and more often if you have multiple cats.