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Expert Pick: Dr. Elsey’s Unscented Litter for Long Haired Cats

Long haired cats need low dust litter to prevent matting. Our expert recommends Dr. Elsey's unscented clumping clay for firm clumps and coat health.

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Dr. Elsey's Precious Cat Ultra Unscented Clumping Clay Litter โ˜… Top Pick: Dr. Elsey's Precious Cat Ultra Unscented Clumping Cโ€ฆ Check Price on Amazon →
70%
of long-haired cat owners report litter tracking issues
2-3 lbs
average litter used per cat per week
1-2 weeks
recommended interval for complete litter change
10-15 minutes
daily scooping time for a single cat
โšก Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: Dr. Elsey's Precious Cat Ultra Unscented Clumping Clay Litter. This litter offers superior odor control with a blend of natural ingredients and baking so.
  • Best Odour Control: Arm & Hammer Super Scoop Unscented Clumping Litter. Arm & Hammer uses baking soda to neutralize odors effectively without added scents.
  • Best Low-Dust: World's Best Cat Litter Unscented (Multiple Cat). Made from whole-kernel corn, this litter is virtually dust-free, ideal for cats with respi.
  • Best Multi-Cat: Tidy Cats Free & Clean Unscented Clumping Litter. This litter is designed for multiple cats, with odor control that lasts up to 10 days.
  • Best Natural: Frisco Unscented Clumping Clay Cat Litter. Frisco's unscented clay litter is budget-friendly and provides decent odor control with ba.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Quick answer

Our top pick is Dr. Elsey’s Precious Cat Ultra Unscented Clumping Clay Litter. It offers excellent odor control, strong clumps, and very low dust, making it ideal for long-haired cats. If you prefer a natural option, World’s Best Cat Litter Unscented is a great alternative, though it may track slightly more. For heavy odor control, Arm & Hammer Super Scoop Unscented is a strong contender.

What to consider for Unscented Cat Litter For Long Haired Cats

Long-haired cats are prone to litter sticking to their fur, especially around the paws and rear. This can lead to discomfort, matting, and even litter tracking throughout the house. An unscented litter is crucial because scents can irritate a cat’s sensitive nose and may cause avoidance of the litter box. Low dust is also essential to prevent respiratory issues and keep the coat clean. Look for a litter that clumps firmly to allow easy removal of waste without crumbling, and consider larger granules that are less likely to get trapped in long fur.

What to look for in a cat litter or litter-area product

When choosing a cat litter for long-haired cats, prioritize strong clumping to make scooping easy and prevent urine from sticking to fur. Odor control is vital, especially in multi-cat homes, but it must come from natural ingredients or baking soda rather than perfumes. Low dust is critical for feline airways, as long-haired cats may inhale more dust when digging. Low tracking helps keep the area clean, though some tracking is inevitable with any litter. For multi-cat households, a litter that controls odors well and doesn’t break down under heavy use is key. Finally, ensure the litter is unscented to avoid deterring your cat from using the box.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated litter composition for low dust and unscented formulas.
  • Considered clumping strength to prevent litter from sticking to long fur.
  • Reviewed odor control effectiveness using natural or baking soda additives.
  • Assessed tracking potential based on granule size and texture.
  • Checked suitability for multi-cat households where applicable.
  • Read verified customer feedback focusing on long-haired cat owners.
  • Compared price per pound to ensure value for regular use.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • Heavily scented litters that can put cats off the box and cause respiratory irritation.
  • High-dust clay litters that may aggravate breathing issues in cats.
  • A litter box that is too small or too few boxes for the number of cats, leading to avoidance.
  • Sudden litter changes without a gradual transition, which can cause litter box aversion.

For more guidance, visit our cat guides, cat health, and cat care products sections.

Why this matters

Long-haired cats are more prone to litter tracking and matting, making low-dust, unscented clumping litters with firm clumps the best choice to maintain coat health and litter box hygiene.

The Options

Types Explained

Clumping Clay Litter

Traditional clay litter that forms solid clumps when wet. It is highly absorbent and provides good odor control when unscented. However, it can be dusty and is not biodegradable.

Best for: Owners who prioritize strong clumping and odor control, and don't mind non-renewable materials.

Natural Plant-Based Litter

Made from materials like corn, wheat, or walnut shells. These litters are biodegradable, often low dust, and unscented. They may track more and can be more expensive.

Best for: Eco-conscious owners and cats with respiratory sensitivities.

Silica Gel Crystal Litter

Crystals that absorb moisture and control odor without clumping. They are very low dust and long-lasting. However, they can be uncomfortable for cats with sensitive paws and may not be suitable for long-haired cats as crystals can stick to fur.

Best for: Owners who want minimal maintenance and low dust, but not ideal for long-haired cats.

Recycled Paper Litter

Made from recycled paper pellets. It is highly absorbent, low dust, and soft on paws. However, it does not clump well and may not control odors as effectively.

Best for: Cats with allergies or respiratory issues, and owners who prefer a soft texture.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
Dr. Elsey's Precious Cat Ultra Unscented Clumping Clay Litter
Best Overall

Dr. Elsey's Precious Cat Ultra Unscented Clumping Clay Litter

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This litter offers superior odor control with a blend of natural ingredients and baking soda. It clumps firmly, preventing urine from sticking to long fur. The low-dust formula is gentle on respiratory systems. However, it is a clay litter, so it is not biodegradable, and some users report slight tracking due to fine granules.

#2
Arm & Hammer Super Scoop Unscented Clumping Litter
Best Odour Control

Arm & Hammer Super Scoop Unscented Clumping Litter

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Arm & Hammer uses baking soda to neutralize odors effectively without added scents. It forms hard clumps that are easy to scoop, reducing mess in long fur. The litter is low dust, but it can be slightly heavier than other options, and some cats may dislike the texture if they are picky.

#3
World's Best Cat Litter Unscented (Multiple Cat)
Best Low-Dust

World's Best Cat Litter Unscented (Multiple Cat)

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Made from whole-kernel corn, this litter is virtually dust-free, ideal for cats with respiratory sensitivities. It clumps well and controls odors naturally. However, it is more likely to track outside the box due to its lightweight granules, and it may not be as effective in very humid environments.

#4
Tidy Cats Free & Clean Unscented Clumping Litter
Best Multi-Cat

Tidy Cats Free & Clean Unscented Clumping Litter

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This litter is designed for multiple cats, with odor control that lasts up to 10 days. It is unscented and low dust, with medium-sized granules that reduce tracking. The clumps are sturdy, but some users note that it can be dusty when poured, and it may not be as effective for single-cat households.

#5
Frisco Unscented Clumping Clay Cat Litter
Best Natural

Frisco Unscented Clumping Clay Cat Litter

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Frisco's unscented clay litter is budget-friendly and provides decent odor control with baking soda. It clumps well and has low dust. However, it may not control odors as strongly as premium brands, and the granules are fine, leading to some tracking. It is a good value option for long-haired cats.

Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Clumping Strength

Firm clumps prevent urine from soaking into the litter and sticking to long fur. Look for litters that form hard clumps that don't break apart when scooped.

02

Dust Level

Low dust is crucial for long-haired cats that may inhale particles when digging. Dust can also settle on fur, causing matting. Opt for litters labeled '99% dust-free' or similar.

03

Odor Control

Unscented litters should still control odors effectively, often using baking soda, charcoal, or natural enzymes. Avoid perfumes that can irritate cats.

04

Tracking

Larger granules or heavier litters tend to track less. Some litters have larger particle sizes designed to minimize scatter. Consider a litter mat to reduce tracking.

05

Material Type

Clay, corn, walnut, and paper are common. Clay offers strong clumping but is non-biodegradable. Natural options like corn or walnut are renewable but may track more.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Daily Scooping

Scoop solid waste and clumps at least once a day to prevent odors and keep the litter box clean. For long-haired cats, check for litter stuck to fur and gently remove it.

Weekly Deep Clean

Empty the entire litter box weekly, wash it with mild soap and water, and refill with fresh litter. This prevents bacterial buildup and ensures optimal odor control.

Monitor Litter Depth

Maintain 2-3 inches of litter to allow proper digging and clumping. Too little litter can cause waste to stick to the box bottom, while too much may lead to tracking.

Pro tip

Place a textured litter mat outside the box and trim the fur between your cat's toes to reduce tracking and keep litter from getting trapped in long hair.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I change the litter completely?
For unscented clumping litters, a complete change is recommended every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the number of cats and daily scooping habits. If you scoop daily and maintain good odor control, you can stretch to two weeks. However, if you notice persistent odors or the litter appears saturated, change it sooner. Always wash the litter box with mild soap and water during the change to prevent bacteria buildup.
Is clumping or non-clumping litter better for long-haired cats?
Clumping litter is generally better for long-haired cats because it forms solid clumps that can be easily removed, reducing the chance of urine or feces sticking to fur. Non-clumping litter absorbs moisture but turns into a wet, heavy mass that can be messy and more likely to cling to long hair. Clumping litter also helps control odors more effectively, which is important for encouraging consistent litter box use.
Can dust from cat litter affect my long-haired cat's breathing?
Yes, dust from cat litter can irritate a cat's respiratory system, especially in long-haired breeds that may already have breathing issues (e.g., Persians). Inhaling dust can cause sneezing, coughing, or even chronic respiratory problems. Choosing a low-dust or dust-free litter is crucial. Natural litters like corn or walnut are often lower in dust than traditional clay. Always look for litters labeled '99% dust-free' or 'low dust'.
How can I control odors without scented litter?
Unscented litters can control odors through natural ingredients like baking soda, activated charcoal, or plant-based enzymes. Scooping daily is the most effective way to prevent odors. Also, ensure the litter box is in a well-ventilated area. Using a litter deodorizer (unscented) can help, but avoid strong perfumes. A high-quality clumping litter that traps odors in clumps is key. For multi-cat homes, consider a litter with enhanced odor control.
What is the best litter setup for multiple long-haired cats?
For multiple cats, provide one litter box per cat plus one extra, placed in quiet, accessible locations. Use a low-dust, unscented clumping litter with strong odor control. Consider a larger box or a high-sided box to contain litter and reduce tracking. Scoop at least twice daily and change litter completely every week. A litter mat can help catch litter from paws. Monitor each cat's usage to ensure no one is avoiding the box.
What are the best low-tracking litters for long-haired cats?
Low-tracking litters typically have larger, heavier granules that are less likely to stick to fur or be carried out of the box. Examples include Dr. Elsey's Precious Cat Ultra (medium granules) and Tidy Cats Free & Clean (medium granules). Some natural litters like World's Best Cat Litter may track more due to lightweight corn. Using a litter mat with a textured surface can significantly reduce tracking. Also, trimming the fur around your cat's paws can help.
Should I use scented or unscented litter for my long-haired cat?
Unscented litter is strongly recommended for long-haired cats. Cats have a highly sensitive sense of smell, and artificial fragrances can be overwhelming, potentially causing them to avoid the litter box. Unscented litter also reduces the risk of respiratory irritation. If odor control is a concern, choose an unscented litter with natural odor neutralizers like baking soda. Scented litters may mask odors but do not eliminate them and can cause stress.
My cat is avoiding the litter box after switching to unscented litter. What should I do?
Cats can be sensitive to changes in litter texture or brand. If your cat avoids the box after switching, try mixing the new unscented litter with the old litter gradually over a week. Ensure the box is clean and placed in a quiet area. Check for any medical issues like urinary tract infections, which can cause avoidance. If the problem persists, consult your veterinarian. Also, consider that the litter may be too deep or too shallow for your cat's preference.
How can I prevent litter from sticking to my long-haired cat's fur?
To prevent litter sticking, choose a clumping litter that forms hard, dry clumps that don't crumble. Keep the litter box clean by scooping daily. Trim the fur around your cat's paws and rear end regularly to reduce the surface area for litter to cling. Use a litter mat to catch loose granules. If litter does stick, gently brush it out or use a damp cloth. Avoid using scented wipes as they may irritate the skin.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Cat Care Products, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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Sources and further reading

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.