How to Stop Cat Litter Tracking Forever: 7 Genius Solutions [Including the #1 Washable Mat]
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If you’re a cat owner, you know the struggle—litter scattered everywhere, tiny granules sticking to your socks, and the never-ending battle to keep floors clean. Litter tracking is one of the most frustrating parts of cat ownership, but it doesn’t have to be.
In this guide, we’ll cover 7 proven solutions to minimize (or even eliminate) litter tracking, including the #1 washable litter mat that traps mess before it spreads. Let’s dive in!
Why Does Cat Litter Track Everywhere?
Before we fix the problem, let’s understand why it happens:
- Lightweight Litter – Many litters (especially clay-based ones) are dusty and stick to paws.
- Cat’s Natural Digging Behavior – Cats love to bury waste, flinging litter out of the box.
- Litter Box Design – Open-top boxes allow more scatter than covered ones.
- Lack of a Proper Mat – Without a barrier, litter spreads across floors.
Now, let’s tackle these issues with 7 foolproof solutions.
1. Use a High-Sided or Covered Litter Box
Problem: Open litter boxes let litter fly everywhere.
Solution: Switch to a high-sided or covered box to contain the mess.
- Best for: Cats who kick litter aggressively.
- Pro Tip: If your cat dislikes covered boxes, try a top-entry design (they jump in, reducing tracking).
2. Switch to a Heavier, Low-Tracking Litter
Problem: Lightweight litters stick to paws and scatter easily.
Solution: Use pellet-based, silica, or heavier clay litters that don’t cling as much.
- Best Options:
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- Pine or Paper Pellets (minimal tracking, eco-friendly).
- Silica Crystal Litter (low dust, absorbs moisture well).
- Clumping Clay (Low-Dust Formula) – Avoid lightweight versions.
🔗 Recommended Product: PrettyLitter (Silica Crystals)
3. Place a Litter-Trapping Mat Outside the Box
Problem: Litter sticks to paws and gets tracked around the house.
Solution: A high-quality litter mat catches granules before they spread.
Why the Nova Nook Waterproof Cat Litter Mat is the #1 Choice:
✔ Double-Layer Design – Top grid traps litter, bottom layer prevents slipping.
✔ Waterproof & Washable – Just shake or rinse clean (no lingering odors).
✔ Extra-Large (56x76cm) – Fits most litter box setups.
🔗 Get Yours Here: Nova Nook Litter Mat
4. Try a Litter Box with a Built-in Tracking System
Problem: Even with a mat, some litter escapes.
Solution: Some litter boxes have built-in grates that remove excess litter from paws.
- Best for: Small spaces where litter tracking is a major issue.
- Example: The Modkat Litter Box has a recessed entry to catch litter.
🔗 Recommended Product: Modkat Flip Litter Box
5. Train Your Cat to Wipe Their Paws (Yes, It’s Possible!)
Problem: Cats naturally carry litter out of the box.
Solution: Encourage paw-cleaning behavior.
How to Train Your Cat:
- Place a small rug or textured mat just outside the box.
- Reward your cat with treats when they step on it after using the litter box.
- Over time, they’ll instinctively wipe their paws!
6. Keep a Small Vacuum or Litter Sweeper Nearby
Problem: Some tracking is inevitable—be prepared!
Solution: A handheld vacuum or litter sweeper makes cleanup effortless.
- Best Options:
-
- Dustbuster Mini Vacuum (for quick cleanups).
- Litter Sweeper (rolls up granules like a lint roller).
7. Groom Your Cat’s Paws (For Long-Haired Breeds)
Problem: Fluffy paws trap more litter.
Solution: Regularly trim fur between toe beans to reduce cling.
- Best Tool: A quiet, precise pet trimmer like the Nova Nook LED Dog & Cat Trimmer.
-
- ✔ Waterproof & Silent (won’t scare your cat).
- ✔ LED Light for precision trimming.
🔗 Get It Here: Nova Nook Trimmer
Final Thoughts: A Cleaner Home is Possible!
Litter tracking doesn’t have to be a daily battle. By combining a high-quality litter mat, the right litter, and smart habits, you can reduce mess by up to 90%.
Quick Recap of the Best Solutions:
- Use a covered/high-sided litter box.
- Switch to a low-tracking litter.
- Place the Nova Nook Litter Mat outside the box.
- Try a litter box with a built-in tracking grate.
- Train your cat to wipe paws.
- Keep a handheld vacuum nearby.
- Groom long-haired paws.
By implementing these tips, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your cat—without the gritty mess!