• 20 Aug 2024

How to Choose Between Tofu Cat Litter and Bentonite Cat Litter

Cat litter is an object used by pet owners for their cats to bury their feces and urine. It has good water absorption and is generally used with a cat litter box (or cat toilet). An appropriate amount of cat litter is poured into the cat litter box, and a trained cat will go into the box to defecate when needed.

Currently, the more common types of cat litter on the market are tofu cat litter and bentonite cat litter. Both types of cat litter are good in terms of clumping, water absorption, and odor control. It's difficult to say which one is better. Instead, let's first look at the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of cat litter before making a choice.

1. Advantages of Tofu Cat Litter:

   Environmentally friendly, made from waste materials, and can be flushed down the toilet directly.

•    Dust-free, non-toxic, and harmless to both cats and humans.

•    Clumping, which is convenient for cleaning.

•    Natural ingredients with a bean scent, and there are many varieties (including tofu Chinese herbal litter, tofu color-changing litter, tofu pine core litter, tofu corn core litter), with options for fragrance, color, charcoal, and dust-free.

•    Can be flushed down the toilet, and easy to clean up if tracked outside.

   Replace entirely every 12, 7, or 5 days depending on the size of the cat. It is recommended for purebred cats with weak stomachs (prone to diarrhea) to use clumping type, which is safe if ingested (but choose manufacturers without industrial additives). It is highly suitable for cats postpartum, post-surgery, and kittens under six months old.

Disadvantages:

•    Prone to mold in summer or humid environments. (So try to store in a dry place)

•    Slightly more expensive than bentonite cat litter.

2. Advantages of Bentonite Cat Litter:

•    Good water absorption, can completely absorb moisture from feces and urine, and then clump into a large hard mass, making it convenient and sanitary for cleaning.

•    If cleaned regularly, there is little odor, and cats also have a good paw feel.

Disadvantages:

•    Bentonite cat litter has more dust, which can cover furniture with a layer of white powder over time, and cats may cough and sneeze after smelling it.

•    The small particles can get stuck between a cat's toes, which is not good if ingested.

•    Cannot be flushed down the toilet.

Both types of cat litter are good, and the choice depends on the cat and the owner's own situation. If the cat likes to play with the litter, the owner can choose tofu cat litter but should pay attention to choosing high-quality products.

So, how do you choose cat litter?

1. Cat Litter Selection Tips:

   Try small packages of cat litter from several brands to see which one your cat prefers, then decide.

   When choosing, pay attention to a few points:

•    Opt for litter that clumps easily for convenient scooping and odor absorption.

•    Cats prefer unscented litter, so don't just follow recommendations for heavily fragranced litter. This might make you happy but not your cat. If odor is a concern, consider using deodorizers or enclosed litter boxes.

•    If your cat dislikes the litter you've chosen, it may show by:

•    Scratching in the litter box, standing outside the box or jumping out quickly, or defecating next to the box.

   If you notice these signs, consider changing the litter promptly.

2. Cat Litter Selection Criteria:

•    Quick clumping

•    Strong water absorption

•    Effective odor control

•    Low dust

3. Usage Method:

•    Spread a layer of cat litter about 10cm thick in a clean litter box.

•    Regularly clean up waste to maintain hygiene.

•    Remove saturated litter from the box in a timely manner.

•    Place the litter box in a clean, dry area to extend its life.

Here are a few frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to cat litter selection:

1. Q: What is the main difference between tofu cat litter and bentonite cat litter?

   A: Tofu cat litter is made from plant fibers, is biodegradable, and often flushable, while bentonite cat litter is a natural clay that offers strong absorption and clumping but is not flushable.

2. Q: Are there any health concerns with using tofu cat litter?

   A: Tofu cat litter is generally safe and non-toxic, but ensure it's free from industrial additives. It's suitable for cats of all ages, including kittens and post-surgery cats.

3. Q: How often should I change my cat's litter?

   A: For tofu cat litter, it's recommended to change it every 5 to 12 days depending on the size of your cat and the litter's condition. For bentonite, regular daily scooping is needed, with a full change based on the manufacturer's guidelines.

4. Q: Can I flush tofu cat litter down the toilet?

   A: Yes, many types of tofu cat litter are flushable, making disposal convenient and eco-friendly. However, check the product label to confirm.

5. Q: How do I prevent my cat from tracking bentonite litter outside the box?

   A: Choose a litter with smaller granules that are less likely to stick to paws, and consider using a mat or tray under the litter box to catch any stray litter.

6. Q: What should I do if my cat doesn't like the new litter?

   A: If your cat shows signs of disliking the new litter, try a different type or gradually mix the new litter with the old one to help them adjust. Also, ensure the litter box is clean and in a quiet location.

7. Q: How can I control odors with cat litter?

   A: Both tofu and bentonite litters come in formulas designed to control odors. Regular cleaning, using an enclosed litter box, and adding litter deodorizers can also help manage smells.