Some cats will simply refuse a litter they don't like the feel of underfoot, and a tray that goes unused for that reason is a much bigger problem than the litter itself. Wood pellets are a different texture to the fine clay most cats are used to, which is worth knowing before you commit a whole bag to a cat that has never met one.

Pettex make this from 100% recycled wood, formed into pellets rather than the granular clay most litters use. The pellets are described as free from chemicals and dust, and Pettex say they will absorb up to twice their own weight in liquid before the tray needs a full change — the pellets themselves break down as they absorb moisture, which is the visual cue for when a section needs scooping.

• Made from 100% recycled wood pellets
• Free from added chemicals and dust, according to the maker
• Absorbs up to 2x its own weight in liquid
• Non-clumping
• Biodegradable
• 30 litre bag

On the switch. Pettex don't publish a transition guide, and cats can be particular about a change in litter texture underfoot. If your cat is used to a fine clay litter, it's worth introducing this alongside the old litter rather than swapping the tray over in one go, so a fussy cat isn't faced with an entirely unfamiliar texture with no alternative.

Who it's for: owners who want a wood-based litter for a cat or kitten already comfortable with pellets, or who are willing to introduce the change gradually rather than swap trays overnight.