How Often Should You Change Cat Litter?

August 19, 2025

Keeping your cat’s litter box clean isn’t just about odor control—it’s essential for your cat’s health and happiness. But one of the most common questions cat parents ask is: how often should you change cat litter? The answer depends on the type of litter you use, the number of cats in your household, and your cleaning routine.

Daily Maintenance

No matter what type of litter you use, scooping daily is the golden rule. Removing waste every day helps keep odors down and makes the litter box more inviting for your cat. Cats are very clean animals, and a dirty box may cause them to avoid it altogether.

Clumping Litter

Scooping: Daily
Full change: About once every 2–3 weeks (depending on use)

Clumping litter allows you to remove waste easily without replacing all the litter each time. Just top it up as needed to maintain the right depth.

Non-Clumping Litter

Scooping: As often as possible, though it’s less effective
Full change: Every 7 days or sooner

Since non-clumping litter absorbs liquid without forming solid clumps, it tends to hold odors more quickly and requires more frequent replacement.

Multi-Cat Households

If you have more than one cat, you’ll need to clean more often:

Scooping: 1–2 times per day
Full change: Every 1–2 weeks (for clumping), or every 5–7 days (for non-clumping)

Also, it’s best to have one litter box per cat, plus one extra, to reduce odor and territorial issues.

Signs It’s Time to Change the Litter

Persistent odor, even after scooping
Litter appears wet, sticky, or discolored
Your cat starts avoiding the box
Excessive dust when your cat digs

Final Thoughts

A clean litter box keeps your cat happy and healthy while also making your home more pleasant. Daily scooping combined with regular full changes is the best way to maintain a fresh, inviting space for your furry friend.

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