The Ultimate Guide to Cat Litter in Australia: Why Corn & Cassava is Changing the Game
Published: February 2026 | Reading time: 8 minutes
If you're an Australian cat parent, you've probably stood in the pet store aisle feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of cat litter options. Clay, crystal, paper, wood, tofu, corn... the list goes on. With so many choices, how do you know which one is truly best for your cat, your home, and the environment?
Today, we're diving deep into the world of cat litter, with a special focus on an innovative option that's gaining popularity worldwide: corn and cassava-based litter. We'll compare it to every major type available in Australia, so you can make an informed decision for your feline friend.
What Makes Corn & Cassava Litter Different?
Before we dive into comparisons, let's understand what makes corn and cassava litter unique.
Corn litter is made from whole-kernel corn that's been processed into highly absorbent granules. The natural starches in corn create exceptional clumping abilities.
Cassava (also known as tapioca) is a root vegetable that's incredibly effective at neutralizing ammonia and trapping odors. When combined with corn, it creates a powerhouse formula that addresses the two biggest cat litter challenges: clumping and odor control.
The combination matters. While corn-only litters are good, adding cassava takes performance to the next level—especially for multi-cat households where odor control is critical.
The Great Australian Cat Litter Showdown
Let's compare corn & cassava litter against the most popular types available in Australia.
🆚 Corn & Cassava vs. Clay (Bentonite) Litter
Popular Australian brands: Catsan, Trouble & Trix, various supermarket brands
Clay Litter: The Traditional Choice
Pros:
- Strong clumping (when using clumping clay)
- Familiar to most cats
- Widely available
- Generally lower upfront cost
Cons:
- Environmental nightmare: Strip-mined from the earth, non-renewable
- Dust issues: Can cause respiratory problems in cats and humans
- Heavy: A 15kg bag is a workout to carry
- Non-biodegradable: Sits in landfills forever
- Tracking: Small particles stick to paws and spread everywhere
- Health concerns: Ingestion can cause blockages, especially in kittens
Corn & Cassava: The Modern Alternative
Pros:
- 100% natural and renewable: Made from sustainable crops
- 99% dust-free: Safe for cats with respiratory sensitivities
- Lightweight: Easy to carry and pour
- Biodegradable and compostable: Returns to the earth naturally
- Flushable: Convenient disposal (in small amounts)*
- Minimal tracking: Larger granules stay in the box
- Safe if ingested: Won't cause blockages like clay
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost per bag
- Some cats need transition time to adjust
The Verdict: If you care about the environment and your cat's health, corn & cassava is the clear winner. Yes, it costs more initially, but it lasts 2-3 times longer than clay, making it more economical in the long run.
🆚 Corn & Cassava vs. Crystal (Silica) Litter
Popular Australian brands: Catmate, POOWEE!
Crystal Litter: The Low-Maintenance Option
Pros:
- Excellent odor absorption
- Low dust
- Lasts longer between full changes (up to a month)
- Minimal tracking
Cons:
- Not eco-friendly: Made from silica gel (mined)
- Non-biodegradable: Can't be composted or flushed
- Expensive: High upfront cost
- Sharp texture: Some cats dislike the feel on sensitive paws
- No clumping: Must scoop solids, can't remove liquid clumps
- Indicator crystals change color: Can be disconcerting
Corn & Cassava: The Natural Performer
Pros:
- Natural odor control without chemicals or silica
- Clumps for easy removal (unlike crystals)
- Softer on paws—more like natural sand
- Biodegradable and sustainable
- Flushable convenience
Cons:
- Requires daily scooping (vs. weekly for crystals)
- Needs full replacement every 3-4 weeks
The Verdict: If you want low-maintenance litter and don't mind the environmental impact, crystals work. But if you prefer natural products with better value and clumping convenience, corn & cassava wins.
🆚 Corn & Cassava vs. Recycled Paper Litter
Popular Australian brands: Breeder's Choice (#1 in Australia), Yesterday's News
Paper Litter: The Eco-Conscious Classic
Pros:
- Highly sustainable: Made from 99% recycled paper
- Virtually dust-free: Great for cats with asthma
- Soft on paws: Especially good for declawed cats or those with injuries
- Biodegradable and compostable
- Lightweight: Easy to handle
- Vet-recommended: Safe for kittens and post-surgery cats
Cons:
- Doesn't clump: Pellets absorb but don't form scoopable clumps
- Requires complete litter change more frequently
- Less effective odor control than clumping litters
- Pellet texture isn't preferred by all cats
- Not flushable
- Can be more expensive in the long run (due to frequent full changes)
Corn & Cassava: The Clumping Upgrade
Pros:
- Also biodegradable and eco-friendly
- Superior clumping: Easy daily maintenance
- Better odor control: Especially with cassava addition
- Flushable for ultimate convenience
- Lasts longer between full changes
- Cats generally prefer the finer texture
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive per bag than some paper litters
- Not ideal for cats recovering from surgery (too dusty for wounds)
The Verdict: Both are excellent eco-friendly choices. Choose paper if you have a kitten, a recovering cat, or one with respiratory issues. Choose corn & cassava if you want superior clumping, odor control, and convenience.
🆚 Corn & Cassava vs. Tofu Litter
Popular Australian brands: Michu, Rufus & Coco Wee Kitty (tofu blend), various Asian imports
Tofu Litter: The Trendy New Kid
Pros:
- Biodegradable and flushable
- Made from soybean residue (sustainable)
- Low dust
- Lightweight
- Often clumps well
- Soft, sand-like texture most cats love
- Minimal tracking with pellet varieties
Cons:
- Can have a distinct smell when fresh (some users report a "Play-Doh" scent)
- Clumps can be soggy or break apart when scooping
- May stick to the bottom of the litter tray
- Less effective odor control than corn or corn-cassava blends
- Variable quality between brands (especially imported ones)
- Premium pricing
Corn & Cassava: The Proven Alternative
Pros:
- Firmer, drier clumps that won't break apart
- Superior odor neutralization (thanks to cassava)
- No odd smells out of the bag
- Doesn't stick to tray bottoms
- Backed by years of use in North America
- Professional endorsements (Jackson Galaxy's choice)
Cons:
- Similar price point to premium tofu litters
- Both require transition period for cats
The Verdict: Both are modern, eco-friendly options. Tofu is excellent, but corn & cassava offers more reliable clumping and odor control—especially important for multi-cat households.
🆚 Corn & Cassava vs. Wood/Pine Litter
Popular Australian brands: Catlux, Breeder's Choice pine variants
Wood Litter: The Natural Budget Option
Pros:
- Natural and sustainable
- Pleasant pine scent (to humans)
- Biodegradable and compostable
- Generally affordable
- Low tracking with pellet varieties
Cons:
- Doesn't clump: Pellets break down into sawdust
- Requires frequent complete changes
- Strong pine scent may bother some cats
- Less effective liquid absorption
- Sawdust can be messy
- Not flushable
Corn & Cassava: The Performance Leader
Pros:
- Clumping ability means less waste
- Neutral scent (no added fragrances)
- Better absorption (corn absorbs 4x its weight)
- Flushable
- Lasts longer between changes
Cons:
- Higher initial cost than basic wood pellets
- Some cats need time to adjust from pellets to granules
The Verdict: Wood litter is great if you're on a tight budget and don't mind the maintenance. But for superior performance and convenience, corn & cassava is worth the investment.
The Corn & Cassava Advantage: Why It's Worth Considering
After comparing corn & cassava litter to all major types in Australia, here's why it stands out:
✅ Best-in-Class Clumping
The natural starches in corn create rock-solid clumps that lift out easily without crumbling. No more breaking clumps or wasted litter.
✅ Superior Odor Control
Cassava is a game-changer for odor. It neutralizes ammonia naturally and instantly, without masking smells with artificial fragrances. Perfect for multi-cat homes or small apartments.
✅ Long-Lasting Value
Yes, it costs more per bag than clay or paper, but it lasts 2-3 times longer. Many users report a single 12kg bag lasting 6-8 weeks for one cat, compared to 3-4 weeks for other litters.
✅ Healthier for Cats
- 99% dust-free protects respiratory health
- Safe if accidentally ingested (unlike clay)
- No harsh chemicals or silica
- Light color makes it easy to monitor urine for health issues
✅ Eco-Friendly at Every Stage
- Made from renewable, fast-growing crops
- Biodegradable and compostable
- Flushable in small amounts*
- Reduces plastic waste (lasts longer = fewer bags)
✅ Practical Benefits
- Lightweight bags are easy to carry
- Minimal tracking keeps floors cleaner
- Neutral scent won't overwhelm sensitive noses
- Works with all litter box types, including automatic cleaners
Real Talk: The Drawbacks You Should Know
We believe in transparency, so let's address the cons:
💰 Higher Upfront Cost A 12-13kg bag of corn & cassava litter costs $90-100 AUD, compared to $25-35 for clay or paper. However, because it lasts longer, the cost per day is often comparable or even lower.
🔄 Transition Period Required Some cats are picky about change. You'll need to gradually mix the new litter with their current one over 7-10 days. (We provide a detailed transition guide with every purchase.)
🚽 Flushability Depends on Your Plumbing While corn & cassava litter is designed to be flushable, you should only flush small amounts (1-2 clumps at a time) and ensure your plumbing is well-maintained. Always check local regulations—some councils in Australia discourage flushing any pet waste.
🌾 Not for Cats with Corn Allergies Rare, but if your cat has a confirmed corn allergy, this obviously isn't the right choice. (Though most corn allergies relate to corn in food, not external contact.)
Who Should Choose Corn & Cassava Litter?
This litter is perfect for you if:
- ✅ You have multiple cats and struggle with odor
- ✅ You live in an apartment or small space
- ✅ You or your cat have respiratory sensitivities (asthma, allergies)
- ✅ You prioritize environmental sustainability
- ✅ You're tired of heavy clay bags and messy tracking
- ✅ You want easy daily maintenance (quick scooping)
- ✅ You're looking for a premium, high-performance option
Consider alternatives if:
- ❌ You're on a very tight budget (though consider the long-term value)
- ❌ Your cat has severe texture sensitivities (try a small bag first)
- ❌ You prefer pellet-style litters
- ❌ You want absolute rock-bottom pricing over performance
Making the Switch: Transition Tips
Switching to corn & cassava litter is easy with the right approach:
Week 1:
- Mix 25% corn & cassava with 75% old litter
- Monitor your cat's response
Week 2:
- Increase to 50/50 mix
- Most cats adjust by this point
Week 3:
- Transition to 75% corn & cassava, 25% old litter
Week 4:
- Switch to 100% corn & cassava
- Celebrate your success! 🎉
Pro tip: Start with a clean litter box to make the new texture more appealing.
The Bottom Line: Is Corn & Cassava Right for You?
After examining every major litter type available in Australia, corn & cassava litter offers the best overall combination of:
- Performance (clumping + odor control)
- Health (dust-free, non-toxic)
- Sustainability (renewable, biodegradable)
- Convenience (lightweight, flushable, long-lasting)
Is it the cheapest option? No. But it's one of the most cost-effective when you factor in how long it lasts, and it's definitely the best choice for cat parents who want premium performance without compromising on environmental values.
The Australian cat litter market is evolving, and cat parents are increasingly choosing natural, sustainable options like corn & cassava. Brands like Breeder's Choice pioneered the eco-friendly movement with recycled paper, and now corn & cassava is taking it to the next level with superior clumping and odor control.
What the Experts Say
Jackson Galaxy, renowned cat behaviorist, calls corn-based litter: "THE BEST cat litter I've ever used in the big three categories: clumping, tracking, and odor control."
Australian veterinarians consistently recommend natural litters over clay for cats with respiratory issues, and corn & cassava fits the bill perfectly.
Ready to Make the Switch?
Choosing the right cat litter doesn't have to be complicated. If you want a litter that:
- Clumps like a champion ✅
- Controls odor naturally ✅
- Is safe for your cat ✅
- Protects the environment ✅
- Actually saves you money long-term ✅
Then corn & cassava litter deserves a spot in your home.
Try it risk-free: We offer a satisfaction guarantee because we're confident you and your cat will love it. If you're not happy within the first 30 days, we'll make it right.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is corn & cassava litter safe for kittens? A: Yes! It's completely non-toxic if accidentally ingested. However, for very young kittens (under 8 weeks), we recommend non-clumping paper litter until they're older.
Q: Will it work in my automatic litter box? A: Absolutely! Corn & cassava litter works great with automatic litter boxes like Litter-Robot. Just adjust the cycle timer to account for the slightly different weight.
Q: How often do I need to change the entire litter box? A: With daily scooping, a complete change is only needed every 3-4 weeks for one cat, or every 2-3 weeks for multiple cats. This is much less frequent than most other litter types.
Q: Does it really last longer than other litters? A: Yes. Because the clumps are so firm and efficient, you waste less litter with each scoop. Most users report it lasts 2-3x longer than clay litter.
Q: Can I compost used corn & cassava litter? A: The litter itself is compostable, but we don't recommend composting litter that's been used by cats due to potential pathogens in feces. It's best to dispose of waste in the bin or flush small amounts (urine clumps only).
Q: Where can I buy corn & cassava litter in Australia? A: We're available online with fast shipping across Australia, and we're expanding into major retailers. Check our [Store Locator] for the nearest stockist.
The Future of Cat Litter in Australia
As Australian cat parents become more environmentally conscious and demanding of premium products, the market is shifting away from clay and toward sustainable, high-performance options.
Corn & cassava litter represents the next generation: combining the best of nature with modern innovation to create a litter that's better for cats, better for people, and better for the planet.
The question isn't whether natural litters are the future—it's which natural litter you'll choose.
Have questions or want to share your litter experiences? Drop a comment below or join our [Facebook Community] where Australian cat parents share tips, stories, and support.
Ready to try Australia's best-performing natural cat litter? [Shop Now] and experience the corn & cassava difference.
This guide was written by cat parents, for cat parents. We're committed to helping you make the best choices for your feline family members.
Last updated: February 2026
Disclaimer: Always consult your veterinarian if your cat shows signs of respiratory distress, urinary issues, or unusual litter box behavior. This article is for informational purposes and doesn't replace professional veterinary advice.
Note on flushability: While our litter is designed to be flushable, always check local regulations and flush only small amounts (1-2 clumps). Some Australian councils have specific guidelines about flushing pet waste.