Best Cat Litter For Senior Cats (2024): What’s Right For Older Cats?

In this group test, we're evaluating, comparing, and reviewing some of the best cat litter for senior cats available right now. After all, as your cat gets a little older, their bathroom habits and specific needs can change. Many kitties can experience issues going to the bathroom when they age, and the wrong litter can exacerbate issues like discomfort, respiratory problems, and more. 

The best cat litter for senior cats will tackle unwanted urine and feces smells emanating from your elderly cat’s box, as well as make it easier for them to use the litter tray without pain or other issues.

Generally, these products are hypoallergenic, unscented, and produce minimal dust to protect your kitty’s respiratory system.

It can also be helpful if the litter is suitable for cats with sensitive paws because your cats skin can become less elastic and more sensitive with age.

With a little help from our own feline friends, we’ve tested some of the most popular senior cat litters available today, to bring you this list of the most valuable contenders. Let’s take a closer look.

Dr. Elsey's Senior Litter is our best overall choice as the best litter for older cats due to its unique blend of features tailored specifically to address the needs of our elderly kitties. This scent-free litter stands out for its exceptional quality and effectiveness in providing comfort, convenience, and health benefits.

It offers a softer and finer texture, making it gentler on those sensitive paws and joints, ensuring maximum comfort for senior cats experiencing arthritis or other mobility issues. It also has effective anti-odor qualities so your house will always smell fresh.

3 Top Cat Litter For Senior Cat Picks– Best, Value & Premium

Fortunately, there are quite a few great cat litters for senior cats out there, perfect for the needs of older kitties. Some options are specially formulated to tackle the issues senior cats face, while others minimize a range of bathroom problems for cats of all ages. 

We’ve narrowed our favorite products down to a selection of three top picks, focused on budget, overall performance, and luxurious components.

Thats a quick chart for our top 3 choices.

Below we'll look at those with more detail and a few other options that may suit your senior kitty's needs.

The Best Cat Litters for Senior Cats: Alternative Picks

The senior-friendly cat litters above were chosen to appeal to a wide range of pet parents, regardless of what your budget or specific needs might be.

However, if none of the options mentioned so far appeal to you and your cat, there are some great alternatives worth considering. Here are some of our other favorite cat litters for older cats:

Read this next:Best Cat Food for Older Cats: 14 Wet and Dry Senior Cat Foods

Buyer’s Guide

Hopefully, the list of reviews above has given you an insight into some of the top solutions on the market for senior kitties. However, before you make your purchase, you may still be wondering why you need to purchase a unique type of litter for your older cat in the first place. 

Notably, not every senior cat will require a specialist type of litter. Some older cats can continue to use the same litter they’ve always used without any problems.

However, issues like painful joints, sensitive paws, and increasing respiratory problems can sometimes make purchasing a different litter a good idea. If your cat has a vision or lung problem, a low-dust litter may be a must-have. 

Additionally, you may find your cat benefits from a non-scented, more natural cat litter option if they’re becoming more sensitive in their old age. Here are a few points to keep in mind when you’re choosing the ideal litter for your older cat:

Read this next: How Long Do Cats Live? Average Cat Lifespan and Life Expectancy Explained

FAQs

Does my cat need senior cat litter?

Different cats have unique needs as they get older. Some cats will be able to continue using the same litter they’ve always used. However, certain felines will benefit from a softer, more comfortable litter, with minimal dust. Non-fragranced litters can also be useful for kitties who have vision problems and may need to track down their litter trays using scent alone.

What litter is good for senior cats?

The right litter for your senior cat will depend on a number of factors, including your kitty’s personal preferences, and any health issues they may be dealing with in older age. Silica or crystal-based litters can be useful if you want to give your kitty a dust-free, more comfortable experience. You could also consider using a cat litter with an attractant built-in, to help them find and use the litter box. 

At what age is a cat considered a senior?

The age at which your cat reaches “senior” age can vary depending on your chosen breed. However, most cats are considered to be seniors when they’re aged between 11 and 14 years. Some common breeds can sometimes be considered seniors when they reach the age of 8 and above. It’s worth talking to your vet if you’re not sure whether your cat should be classed as a senior.

Best Cat Litter For Senior Cats: The Verdict

Purchasing a specialist senior cat litter can be an excellent choice if you’re looking for a way to keep your cat happy and comfortable in its older age. 

If your cat generally experiences issues with uncomfortable litter, or has problems with high levels of dust emanating from their senior cat's litter box, switching to a new form of litter could be a great way to reduce health issues. If issues continue pop them to your local veterinarian for a check-up and get some professional advice.

Choosing the right litter for your cat can also minimize the risk of messes, and inappropriate elimination as your kitty gets older. 

Our favorite product on the market today is Dr. Elsey’s senior litter, a silica gel product with minimal dust, and a comfortable, soft texture. The specially formulated product helps to reduce odors and even has its own herbal attractant built-in, to assist your cat in finding and using the litter tray regularly.