What Is Cat Litter Composed Of?

In the wild or feral state, cats prefer loose earth, sand, mulch or loose gravel in which to urinate and defecate. Kitty litter has been made to somewhat resemble in feel these materials, so the cat is more willing to use the litter box instead of a pair of shoes. The invention of the first commercial kitty litter is attributed to Ed Lowe, who began to sell it in 1943.

  1. Before 1943

    • Before the invention of kitty litter, owners of house cats filled small boxes with loose earth, sand or ashes from the wood-burning stoves. The disadvantage was that this material would get all over the house.

    Traditional Clay Litter

    • The litter Ed Howe made was composed of the clay minerals zeolite, diatomite and sepiolite. In modern times, perfumes have been added to improve the smell.

    Clumping Litters

    • Clumping litters use a different kind of clay called calcium betonite (also called betonite clay). When wet, it turns into a semi-solid form.

    Eco-Litters

    • These break down far more easily than clay-based litters. Many can also be flushed down the toilet. They are made from ground corn cob, hardened newspaper, wood shavings and wheat hulls, often with essential oils added.

    Silica Gel

    • Silica gel is another name for sodium silicate. It's often marketed as "crystal litter." It has a very high saturation point, but the litter should be cleaned at least once a day.