Product selection
Five cat litter families: what an OEM buyer should compare
A material name is only the beginning. Compare format, bulk density, clump behaviour, dust, tracking, odor-control method and packaging as one commercial system.
TOFU / PLANT-FIBER PELLETS
A recognizable cylindrical format with a clear plant-based story. Particle length and diameter influence paw feel, tracking and scoop behaviour. Formula and binding system vary, so validate the approved sample.
CASSAVA / STARCH-BASED GRANULES
A finer, sand-like direction. Patent literature shows that cassava products may include several starches, mineral components and functional ingredients. Request a written formulation direction and evaluate moisture stability and bottom adhesion.
BENTONITE / MINERAL CLUMPING LITTER
Calcium bentonite is used for absorption while swelling sodium bentonite supports clump formation. Granule distribution, dust control, clump strength, bulk density and fragrance stability should be evaluated together.
MIXED LITTER
Plant and mineral components can be blended to balance weight, clumping, tracking, dust and price. Transport testing matters because particles with different sizes and densities may separate inside the bag.
SILICA GEL / CRYSTAL LITTER
A visually distinct absorbent crystal format. Crystal integrity, dust, absorption method, odor-control target and moisture-barrier packaging should be confirmed on the commercial SKU.
A PRACTICAL SAMPLE SCORECARD
Record test method and conditions for absorption, clumping time, wet clump weight, clump strength, scoop integrity, dust before and after transport, tracking, odor reduction, bulk density, moisture, storage stability, package seal and declared net weight. Do not compare supplier numbers unless the method and sample conditions are the same.
BUYER REFERENCES
Chapter 6 Bentonite Applications in Developments in Clay Science describes calcium bentonite absorption and swelling sodium bentonite use in clumping litter. Sustainability 2025 research comparing experimental and commercial litters demonstrates that water absorption, powder content and clump strength are separate measurements and can rank materials differently.