Does Clumping Cat Litter Cause Respiratory Problems?

While still one of the most popular types of cat litter, clumping cat litter has some controversy attached. Anecdotal evidence indicates that some cats might have been harmed by the litter, developing serious respiratory problems from inhaling the clay dust.

  1. Ingredients

    • The clay compound sodium bentonite is a clumping agent in cat litter that can swell to 15 times its original size when wet. Also, dry sodium bentonite creates dust, which can be inhaled by pet cats.

    Theory

    • The theory linking clumping cat litter to respiratory problems is that clay dust particles breathed in by cats can swell in the moist environment of the lungs, causing respiratory distress, according to dogtime.com.

    Controversy

    • While many cat owners are concerned about the possibility of clumping cat litter causing dangerous respiratory problems in their cats, manufacturers present the counter-claim that no scientific studies have been conducted showing this to be the case.

    Warnings

    • Respiratory problems are not the only potential danger associated with clumping litter. Some natural pet care advocates also claim that the dust can cause gastrointestinal blockage if a cat ingests it.

    Other Options

    • Other options for those trying to avoid clumping cat litter are crystal litter, corn cob litter and recycled paper litter.