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Quick answer: soya litter is a light, low-dust, clumping plant-based litter. It's easy to carry and to clean, but its granules differ from mineral litter, so some cats need a gradual transition. Switch over 1–2 weeks by mixing it with their usual litter, and follow the instructions on the pack to dispose of it.
Plant-based litters have become very popular in recent years. Soya is one of the most common: it's made from plant fibres and forms clumps when wet, just like a classic clumping litter.
Pros
- Lightweight: a bag weighs much less than a bentonite bag of the same volume.
- Low dust: useful in homes with sensitive people or cats.
- Clumping: forms clumps that are easy to scoop out.
- Plant-based.
- Varieties: scented or unscented, and versions for kittens.
Cons
- The long, light granules may not appeal to every cat at first.
- It usually costs a little more per litre than basic bentonite.
- Because it's light, more of it can get kicked out of the tray: a litter mat helps.
Soya, bentonite or silica
| Soya | Bentonite | Silica | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | Light | Heavy | Light |
| Clumps | Yes | Yes | No (absorbs) |
| Dust | Low | Variable | Low |
| Price | Mid-range | Budget | Mid-range |
How to switch to soya litter
- Days 1–3: 25% soya and 75% of their usual litter.
- Days 4–6: half and half.
- Days 7–10: 75% soya.
- After that: 100% soya, as long as your cat is using the tray normally.
If at any point your cat avoids the tray, go back to the previous mix and take it more slowly.
How to dispose of it
Some manufacturers give specific ways to dispose of their plant-based litter. Always follow what the pack and your local council's rules say; if in doubt, put it in the general waste in a sealed bag.
Recommended soya cat litters
Kit Cat Eco Original 7 LView product
Kit Cat Eco Kitten 7 LView product
Kit Cat Eco Green Tea 7 LView product
Litter tray matView product
See all our cat litter.
Frequently asked questions
Does soya litter smell?
Unscented versions have a very mild smell. Odour control depends mainly on scooping out clumps daily.
How long does a 7-litre bag last?
It depends on how many cats you have and how you clean. Note the date you open it to find out your actual usage.