In the Beginning

• The original kitty litter was made from hardened clay-based granules of zeolite, diatomite and sepiolite that originally cleaned up small oil or chemical spills in workshops. Clay is so absorbent that it can take on its own weight in moisture and still remain solid. The kitty litter granule is able to alter the ammonia ions so that it doesn't transform into ammonium, causing cat urine to smell strongly. But there is a saturation point in traditional litter, even if essential oils and perfumes are added to it. This is why it should be changed at least twice a day.
  
  

Clumping Litter Products

• The popular clumping litter products have a higher saturation point and generally don't need to be cleaned as often. They make scooping out urine puddles easier. Betonite sodium clay is the agent in clumping litter that is able to become semi-solid if given a small amount of moisture. However, if allowed to sit for days, the betonite will eventually begin to dry out, and the clumps will crumble.
  
  

What About Eco-Friendly Litter?

• Recently, more and more litter products claiming to be earth-friendly are showing up on the market. They can be made of anything from leftover hardened newspaper, corncob, wood shavings or silica gel. These are absorbent to a point, but usually have a much lower saturation point than clay-derived litter and often have perfumes added to cover up the smell. However, these types of litters often can be flushed down the toilet without damaging the septic system.