Do you have, or are you thinking, about buying an automatic litter box? You may be wondering what type of litter is compatible with these devices. This article will answer if you can use clumping litter in an automatic litter box and more.
You can use clumping litter in an automatic litter box. Most of the time, clumping litter is the best choice for these types of litter boxes. However, some self-cleaning litter boxes require more specific litter, like the Scoopfree.
Always research what type of litter your specific automatic litter box needs. Keep reading as we go into more detail on the litter required for the Scoopfree, and give you examples of the best clumping cat litters for automatic litter boxes.
Can You Use Clumping Litter in the Scoopfree?
The Scoopfree is a self-cleaning litter box created by The PetSafe. This litter box uses a raking system and disposable crystal litter trays. Essentially, creating a hands-off approach to cleaning a litter box.
The Scoopfree needs to have their unique crystal litter trays to work correctly. So, no, you cannot use clumping litter in the Scoopfree litter box. However, crystal litter has some significant benefits.
You will see a waste trap on one side of the crystal litter tray. After your pet uses the litter box, the raking system will pull soiled crystals and solids into the waste trap. Once full, you throw the entire tray into the garbage.
You can find a multipack of Scoopfree crystal litter trays here on Amazon.
For example, crystal litter has better odor control when compared to traditional litters and will absorb liquids within minutes. Additionally, crystal litter does not give off dust. This can be ideal for cats with respiratory risks, like asthma.
Each tray of litter should last about one month before you need to change to a new one. Of course, the actual timing between changes depends on your cat's bathroom habits, how many cats you have in the home, and other factors.
Some users report using other litter in the Scoopfree, but it is not recommended. Using non-brand-specific litters when called for can result in you damaging your automatic litter box or it not working as efficiently as it could.
You can either have an uncovered Scoopfree or add a plastic hood for privacy. With either, you and your cat can enjoy a mess-free litter box.
Read more on our blog post, "12 Top Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes."
Can You Use Pine Litter in Automatic Litter Box?
Pine pellet litter has been becoming more popular among pet owners. For good reason. This litter is eco-friendly, lightweight, and affordable. If you just bought an automatic litter box, you may be hoping you can use pine litter in the device.
Unfortunately, you cannot use pine litter in an automatic litter box. Pine pellets do not clump; they swell more than anything. The swell is due to the high absorption rate. Great for soaking up liquids, not ideal for scooping mechanisms.
Automatic litter boxes call for clumping litters, so urine and solids can be easily raked or pushed away. Scooping soaked pellets can eventually clog your automatic litter box. Leaving your cat with a dirty box and you with a mechanism to fix.
Even though pine litter won't work, there are eco-friendly litters out there you can use in an automatic litter box. One example of a safe and sustainable clumping litter is World's Best Cat Litter. Made entirely of kernel corn and great for multiple cat households.
We will talk more about recommended cat litters for your automatic litter boxes in the next section.
Read more on our blog post, "How To Switch From Clay Litter To Pine."
Best Clumping Cat Litter For Automatic Litter Boxes
If you own an automatic litter box or are looking into one, always check with the manufacturer for which type of litter they recommend. In general, most automatic litter boxes will call for a suitable clumping litter, like mentioned.
We gathered a list of some top litter choices for automatic litter boxes. The list includes the following five cat litters:
- Arm&Hammer Clump&Seal Slide
- Tidy Cats Free And Clean Clumping Litter
- Frisco Multi-Cat Unscented Clay Litter
- Dr. Elsey's Precious Cat Unscented Clumping Clay & Prairie Grasses Litter
- Boxiecat Air Fresh & Clean Scented Clumping Cat litter
Which cat litter you choose will depend on your and your cat's needs. Your decision can be influenced by budget, amount of dust or fragrances present, likelihood to track, and more.
Each brand has its unique pros and cons. Let's take a closer look at the details of each of these cat litters to find the best fit for you.
1. Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Slide
Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Slide is a dust-free clumping litter. This well-known brand ensures pet owners are purchasing a reputable product. On top of excellent odor control, this clumping litter will not stick to the sides of any type of litter box.
Find Arm&Hammer Clump&Seal here on Amazon.
The special formula used for this litter provides rapid clumping, which contributes to the ability to mask odors so efficiently. You can find Arm & Hammer litters in various sized boxes, and some even come scented.
2. Tidy Cats Free And Clean Clumping Litter
Tidy Cats offers their litter in various packaging, including bags, jugs, and pails. This is an excellent choice for homes with multiple cats. Free and Clean clumping litter is free of fragrance and dyes.
Amazon offers Tidy Cats Free And Clean Clumping Litter here.
Natural odor control is guaranteed for up to 10 days, thanks to the activated charcoal and ammonia blocker found in this litter. Another positive being this litter is about 50% lighter than other top clay clumping litter brands.
Between the weight and convenient packaging, pet owners can enjoy an easy pour as well as a simple clean-up.
3. Frisco Multi-Cat Unscented Clay Litter
If you are working with a tight budget, Frisco Multi-Cat Clay litter is a great choice. Additionally, this unscented litter does not contain dyes, or plant proteins, making it an excellent choice for allergy-prone cats.
Frisco Multi-Cat Unscented clay litter can be found at your local pet supply store or online on sites like Chewy.com. Enjoy the benefits of this low-track, low-dust clay litter. This low-cost litter does have some drawbacks to look out for.
The packaging can tear easily and needs to be moved and carried with care. With lower-cost litters, you may have to change them out more frequently, so ensure you regularly check your box.
4. Dr. Elsey's Precious Cat Unscented Clumping Clay & Prairie Grasses Litter
Are you looking for eco-friendly cat litter? Up to this point, our list includes only clay litters that will not break down further when tossed in the trash. However, Dr. Elsey's Clumping Clay & Prairie Grasses litter will break down.
Find this litter here on Amazon.
Made with natural clays, chemical-free prairie grass, and natural chlorophyll, this is the perfect litter for environmentally friendly pet owners. Furthermore, the type of prairie grass used in this litter can have stress-reducing properties for cats.
Dr. Elsey's litter brand includes a variety of other litter too. Such as kitten-specific formulas and attractant litter for cats experiencing behavior issues.
5. Boxiecat Air Fresh & Clean Scented Clumping Cat litter
The last litter we will mention is Boxiecat Air Fresh & Clean Scented clumping cat litter. This is another eco-friendly and sustainable litter choice due to the plant-based formula.
Purchase Boxiecat Air Litter here on Amazon.
Boxiecat Air is lightweight when compared to other clumping litters. Even the lightest clay clumping litter can't compare. Get the benefit of airtight clumps and a gentle herbal fragrance that your cat will enjoy.
The one drawback with this product is the tendency to track, possibly leaving a mess behind. Boxiecat sells clumping clay litter as well, but you won't be getting an eco-friendly purchase.
Find more on our blog post, "The 7 Types Of Cat Litter Every Cat Owner Must Know."
In Summary
Most automatic litter boxes work great with clumping cat litter. However, you should always check with your specific device requirements before deciding on a litter. We hope you found this article helpful when finding the proper litter for your box.
Are you looking for more insights into automatic litter boxes? Have a look through our blog post, "How Much Does An Automatic Litter Box Cost?"