Scented Cat Litter – Choosing the Best Option for Odor Control

Scented cat litter either contains an added fragrance or the litter may be scent activated.

An added fragrance means the scent will probably be noticeable when you are in the vicinity of the litter box.

A scent activated litter means the scent is only activated, when the cat steps into the box and there is not a continuous fragrance emanating from the cat litter.

Some popular scents for cat litter include lavender, citrus, and pine. The goal is to create a more pleasant environment for both the cat and the owner.

Can Scented Cat Litter Mask odor?

It is worth remembering, that it is difficult for a scented litter to successfully mask odor 100% of the time.

Regular scooping of the litterbox plays a big part in eliminating odors.

By scooping the litter box regularly and removing the clumps, you are removing the worst of the odors. After removing the clumps, top up the litter and most odors if not all should be taken care of.

Do you have a preference for the type of cat litter you are looking for? For example, Fresh Steps Crystals is obviously a crystal litter. If crystal litter is not on your preference list, this is one litter you could eliminate.

The other litters here are all clumping clay litters.

Some Of The Best Scented Cat Litters Are:

1. Fresh Step Extreme With Febreze Freshness – Fresh Scent

2. Fresh Step Outstretch Concentrated Clumping Cat Litter

3. World’s Best Cat Litter – Proven Product

4. Fresh Step Crystals – Odor Control, Not Added Fragrance

5. Boxiecat Gently Scented Premium Clumping Clay Litter – Not Overpowering

Drawbacks and Concerns with Scented Cat Litter

Tips for Transitioning Your Cat to Scented Litter

1. Fresh Step Extreme With Febreze Freshness

Fresh Step litter has odor control and comes with a 10 day odor control guarantee.

Fresh Steps have partnered with Febreze to add the fresh smelling scent that is associated with Febreze.

It is paw activated so when kitty enters the litter box some fragrance is released. It is a clumping clay cat litter which makes it easy to scoop.

It does track a little, however this litter does have a good reputation regarding low tracking and is a low dust formula. A cat litter mat under or in front of the litter box is one way to help eliminate further tracking.

To refresh the litter box, every time you scoop just add a little more Fresh Step scented cat litter.

So in a nutshell, as far as odor is concerned this product smells like Febreze, it clumps well, is easy to scoop, is good value, cheap cat litter , good for multiple cats and has very good odor control.

2.Fresh Step Outstretch Concentrated Clumping Cat Litter

The fragrance in this cat litter is not overpowering, even in a small apartment. This litter lasts longer because it absorbs more waste and odor. These two points have made it very popular.

Note: When reading reviews, ensure that you are reading the review that matches the product you are using. The reviews of all of the “Advanced” cat litters are together. The litter you want to read about is identified near the top of the review. This is important as you may expect something from a product that it doesn’t actually do.

3.World’s Best Cat Litter Scented Multiple Cat Clumping Formula

This is the litter that people are generally have in mind when they are looking for a scented cat litter.

It is scented with all 100% natural lavender oil, no chemicals or artificial fragrances.

It is a clumping formula, so the standard procedure of regular scooping and then topping up the litter applies.

This litter is listed as flushable (with precautions), however, check regulations where you live. It is recommended that only 1 to 2 clumps are flushed at a time and the State of California does have regulations against using flushable cat litter.

Being able to flush solid waste is a bonus for many people however it is an argument that has its supporters and detractors.

This is information here about how flushing cat litter could impact the plumbing in your home in addition to damaging the environment. Definitely something to consider.

In a nutshell it smells good to humans and while we can’t ask the cats, the cats seem quite okay with it. It clumps well without sticking to the bottom of the litter box. It is made in the USA.

4. Fresh Step Crystals Premium Scented Litter

Love crystal litter or hate it, you may want to try this litter which is a crystal formula as it absorbs moisture quickly and traps odors.

This litter does not have a fragrance however it has odor control properties for approximately 30 days.

Crystal cat litter is easy to scoop because the crystals fall through the scoop and only the clumps remain making the product go further.

This is not a clumping litter. Dust is minimized. Crystal litter is light to pick up when the box needs a total clean. The weight of litter can be a deciding factor and this is a lightweight litter that also has odor control.

To get the most out of this crystal cat litter and the odor controlling properties, it is a good idea to stir the crystals every now and then to maximize absorbency which in turn helps with odor control.

Follow the instructions to learn how to use this litter properly.

5. Boxiecat Gently Scented Premium Clumping Clay Cat Litter

Boxiecat litter is a scented litter that has been specifically developed to not be overpowering for the cat. At the same time it is pleasant for humans.

It is moisture activated so the scent is stronger when the litter is actually being used.

This is a clumping litter with the clumps forming on the top, not sinking to the bottom of the box. This makes for easier scooping.

Boxiecat litter is soft on paws and is the consistency of fine granules however it still has the weight needed to resist tracking from the litter box.

It is made in the USA. The package is resealable, a necessary feature in my opinion, when handling and storing cat litter. The packaging also has a spout which makes it easier to pour the litter and at the same time have some control over the amount poured.

The larger size 28 pound has a built in handle on the side which is used to tilt the bag for pouring.

The manufacturer says

One 28 pound bag lasts two cats approximately one month. It is perfect for single and multiple cats and all litter box types. Cats take to Boxiecat right away, and it helps attract cats to use the litter box.

Cat litter doesn’t smell like a bed of roses however we do have options to improve the fragrance to suit our own homes.

We Like…

Potential Drawbacks and Concerns with Scented Cat Litter

Some cats may be sensitive or allergic to the fragrances used in scented cat litter.

This can lead to skin irritations, respiratory issues, or other health problems. Monitoring your cat’s reaction to scented litter is crucial.

The chemicals in some scented litters can be harmful if ingested during grooming.

Cats may lick their paws after using the litter box, ingesting small amounts of these chemicals, which could have long term health implications.

Certain strong scents might deter some cats from using the litter box altogether.

If a cat dislikes the smell, the cat may find alternative places to relieve itself, creating more problems for the owner.

Tips for Transitioning Your Cat to Scented Litter

Start by mixing a small amount of the new scented litter with the old unscented one.

Gradually increase the amount of the scented litter over a week or two. This helps the cat adjust without sudden changes.

Place the cat litter box in a quiet and accessible area. Cats prefer private spaces. The box should not be near noisy appliances or high-traffic areas.

Watch for any signs of stress or avoidance. If the cat stops using the litter box, slow down the transition. It’s crucial to make changes gradually to avoid any litter box problems.

Keep the cat litter box clean. Scoop waste daily and change the litter regularly. This maintains a pleasant environment and encourages the cat to use it.

Always provide a backup option if your cat refuses the scented litter. This ensures they have a suitable place to go and reduces the risk of accidents.

More Scented Cat Litter

Last update on 2026-02-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API