How to Make Cat Litter at Home

Co-authored by Molly DeVoss

Last Updated: January 28, 2025 References

If you find yourself out of cat litter (it happens to every cat lover at some point), you can try to make it from scratch at home or while traveling. You may also find this is a budget-friendly, easy and eco-conscious alternative worth sticking with for future use.

Steps

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It is easiest and more even to do this using a paper shredder. If not, use your hands or scissors, trying to keep the strips even. Then collect the shredded paper in a large bucket or similar container.^{[1]
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The shredded paper will take on a cooked oatmeal consistency. The paper won’t become completely clean, but the water will turn grey.^{[2]
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Then repeat the soaking, this time without using soap.
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Sprinkle baking soda over the wet paper. Knead it in to the mixture.^{[3]
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- You might want to wear gloves to avoid getting ink on your hands.
Continue squeezing until it’s as dry as you can get it.
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Crumble the wet paper mixture over a screen. Leave to dry. Drying it will take a few days.^{[4]
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- You could use an old window screen, a flat mesh colander or similar wire screen implement. If you have an envelope or paper making screen, that will be ideal.
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Finished. You have perfect litter for your cat!
- Most cats will learn to accept this litter quickly. To encourage your cat, add the litter to a tray with low sides so the cat can enter it easily.^{[5]
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  Expert Source
  
  Molly DeVoss
  Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist & Certified Cat Behavior Consultant
  
  Expert Interview}
- If using this litter with a kitten, consider confining it to a small room (a bathroom works well as it is easy to clean) until the kitten gets used to using the box and litter regularly.^{[6]
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  Expert Source
  
  Molly DeVoss
  Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist & Certified Cat Behavior Consultant
  
  Expert Interview}

The Takeaway: DIY Cat Litter

Shred some old newspaper into strips and soak them in a mixture of warm water and biodegradable dish soap. Drain the water and soak the strips again using just water. Knead baking soda into the wet paper, squeeze out any leftover moisture, and let it dry before using.

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Can I use any paper, such as bond paper?

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You may use only non-waterproof paper. Bond paper might be too extreme; try using newspaper instead.

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What do I use if I don't have a box to put it in?

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You may use any container big enough to put your pet in it. If the container is closed, you can carve it into any shape you want.

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How much baking soda should I add?

Community Answer

Just a teaspoon.

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Tips

Change litter when required.^{[7]
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Soil from the garden or yard can be used in an emergency.

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Wear gloves to save your hands from the ink.

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