Introduction
You love your cat—but the trail of litter from the box to the living room? Not so much.
Litter tracking is one of the most frustrating side effects of cat ownership. From tiny grains stuck in paws to rogue pellets underfoot, the mess adds up fast.
But here’s the good news: you don’t have to live with it. In this blog post, we’ll show you why cats track litter, the most effective ways to reduce it, and the best cat litter mats and grooming tools to protect your floors and your sanity.
Why Do Cats Track Litter?
Litter tracking happens when small particles cling to your cat’s fur or paws and are carried around the house.
Common causes include:
- Fine-grain litter (easily sticks to paws)
- Overfilled litter boxes
- Poorly placed litter boxes near high-traffic areas
- Long-haired cats with furry toes
- Lack of grooming tools or mats
Litter isn’t dirty by default—but once it leaves the box, it becomes unwanted mess.
Best Ways to Stop Your Cat from Tracking Litter
1. Switch to Low-Tracking Cat Litter
Some litters are more prone to tracking than others. Consider:
- Pellet-based litter: Less likely to stick to fur or scatter.
- Heavier clay clumps: Reduces airborne dust and tracking.
- Crystal or silica gel: Larger granules stay in place better.
Look for packaging labeled "low-tracking" or "dust-free" for best results.
2. Use a Litter Box with High Sides or Top Entry
The type of litter box matters. High-sided or top-entry designs:
- Reduce spillage
- Contain kicks and scratches
- Force your cat to pause before exiting, which dislodges litter from paws
Pro tip: Make sure your cat can comfortably enter and exit, especially senior cats or kittens.
3. Place a High-Quality Litter Mat Outside the Box
A cat litter mat is your first line of defense.
Choose a mat that:
- Is large enough to capture stray litter
- Has grooves or mesh texture to trap particles
- Is easy to shake or rinse clean
At GauGauPet, our cat litter mats are available in both silicone and fabric—we’ll cover the pros and cons below to help you choose the best option.
4. Groom Your Cat’s Paws and Fur Regularly
Especially for long-haired cats, litter often clings to:
- Toe fur
- Belly fur
- Tail
Use gentle grooming tools like:
- Deshedding gloves
- Soft brushes
- Pet wipes for paws
This not only prevents tracking but also improves your cat’s hygiene and health.
5. Clean the Litter Area Frequently
Even the best mats and litter can’t do everything. Get into the habit of:
- Sweeping or vacuuming around the box daily
- Washing the mat weekly
- Wiping walls or corners where litter dust settles
Consistency keeps the mess from becoming overwhelming.
Choosing the Right Litter Mat
|
Feature |
Silicone Litter Mat |
Fabric Litter Mat |
|
Easy to clean |
✅ Rinse with water |
✅ Shake out or machine-wash |
|
Gentle on paws |
✅ Soft & non-slip |
✅ Plush surface |
|
Traps fine litter |
✅ Honeycomb or grooves |
✅ Textured weave |
|
Aesthetic appeal |
✅ Modern, sleek |
✅ Cozy, homey look |
Still unsure? For multi-cat homes, a combo of silicone and fabric mats near each litter box offers the best of both worlds.
FAQs
How often should I replace my cat litter mat?
A good mat should last 6–12 months with regular cleaning. Replace sooner if it shows tearing, odor, or loss of texture.
Can I make a DIY litter mat?
Yes—old towels or rubber doormats can help, but they’re often less effective and harder to clean.
Does grooming really help with litter tracking?
Absolutely. Removing loose fur and cleaning paws can dramatically reduce the amount of litter that sticks and spreads.
Will a covered litter box stop litter tracking?
It can help reduce scatter, but the type of litter and presence of a mat still matter most.
Conclusion
Litter tracking isn’t a life sentence—it’s a solvable problem.
With the right litter, a smart litter box setup, a well-placed mat, and regular grooming, you can dramatically cut down on mess and enjoy a cleaner, fresher home.
Read more: How to Use Deshedding Gloves the Right Way for Dogs and Cats