Unlike other litters that scatter every time your cat hops out, the ARM & HAMMER Clump & Seal Multi-Cat Cat Litter 18 lbs offers a non-stick formula that really works. After hands-on testing, I noticed how easily it slides out of the box and forms tight, moisture-activated clumps—no more chasing after mile-long trails of litter all over the bathroom.
What truly impressed me is its advanced Clump & Seal Technology, which locks in odors efficiently while making waste removal straightforward. It also keeps the box cleaner with no residue buildup, a common pain point with other options. After comparing with other high-tracking brands like Fresh Step and Ökocat, this one stood out for its balance of powerful odor control and minimal tracking, especially in multi-cat households. Overall, it’s a dependable choice for keeping your floors clean and your cats happy. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer for reducing litter messes and odor in your home.
Top Recommendation: ARM & HAMMER Clump & Seal Multi-Cat Cat Litter 18 lbs
Why We Recommend It: This product excels with its innovative Clump & Seal Technology, which creates tight, moisture-activated clumps that trap odors effectively. Its non-stick surface prevents residue buildup, and the multi-cat formulation ensures consistent performance even with several cats. Compared to Fresh Step or Ökocat, it offers superior odor control and significantly less tracking, thanks to the advanced formula that slides easily and stays in the litter box. The combination of durability, odor management, and minimal mess makes it the best overall value.
Best cat litter to stop tracking: Our Top 5 Picks
- ARM & HAMMER Clump & Seal Multi-Cat Cat Litter 18 lbs – Best Value
- Fresh Step Clean Paws Cat Litter with Febreze, 37 lbs – Best Premium Option
- Purina Tidy Cats Tidy Feet Clumping Cat Litter 22 lb – Best Clumping Cat Litter to Reduce Tracking
- Cat’s Pride Max Power Multi-Cat Clumping Litter 15 lbs – Best Value for Multi-Cat Households
- Ökocat Less Mess Wood Cat Litter, 27.5 lbs, Unscented – Best for Beginners
ARM & HAMMER Clump & Seal Multi-Cat Cat Litter 18 lbs
- ✓ No-stick clumping
- ✓ Excellent odor control
- ✓ Reduces tracking
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
- ✕ Dusty during pouring
| Clumping Strength | Rock-hard, moisture-activated granules form tight clumps |
| Odor Control Duration | 14-day odor control guarantee |
| Odor Eliminators Content | Enhanced formula with 10% more odor eliminators, including ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda |
| Technology | Advanced Clump & Seal Technology with EZ Clean non-stick formula |
| Suitable for Multiple Cats | Multi-Cat formula designed for homes with multiple cats |
| Residue Prevention | No-stick litter box cleaning feature to prevent residue build-up |
The moment I ripped open the bag of ARM & HAMMER Clump & Seal Multi-Cat Cat Litter, I was greeted by a surprisingly light weight for an 18-pound bag. The texture feels smooth but with a slight grainy feel, almost like fine sand, and the scent of fresh baking soda hits you immediately—no overpowering chemical smell.
This litter is designed to be non-stick, and honestly, I can tell right away when scooping. The clumps slide out effortlessly, leaving the box cleaner without much scrubbing.
I especially appreciate how well it handles multiple cats; with three in my house, odor control is a constant battle, but this stuff really locks in smells.
The Advanced Clump & Seal Technology seems to do its job—no sticking to the sides or bottom, and the moisture-activated granules form rock-hard clumps that make scooping quick and tidy. The 14-day odor control guarantee is noticeable; after a week, my home still smells fresh, even with frequent use.
What really stands out is the no-tracking feature. The granules stay in the box, not all over the floor, which is a huge relief for my daily cleanup.
Plus, the enhanced formula with extra odor eliminators keeps my living space smelling clean and fresh, even with multiple feline friends.
Overall, this litter combines effective odor control, easy maintenance, and minimal mess—making it a solid choice for busy multi-cat households. It’s a little pricier than some, but the convenience and cleanliness make up for it.
Fresh Step Clean Paws Cat Litter with Febreze, 37 lbs
- ✓ Excellent odor control
- ✓ Low tracking and dust
- ✓ Easy to scoop clumps
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs bulk buying
| Weight | 37 lbs (2 x 18.5 lbs boxes) |
| Clumping Ability | Forms tight clumps for easy scooping |
| Odor Control Duration | Neutralizes odors for up to 21 days |
| Dust Level | Low-dust formula |
| Tracking Reduction | Designed to stay inside the litter box with minimal tracking |
| Odor Control Technology | Ammonia block technology with Febreze freshness |
Imagine walking into your living room after a long day, only to be greeted by that faint, unmistakable litter box odor. You bend down, glance at the corner where your cat’s box sits, and notice a few stray grains of litter scattered across the floor.
That’s when you realize you need a solution that keeps the mess contained and the smell at bay.
Fresh Step Clean Paws Cat Litter with Febreze catches your eye because of its promise to stay inside the box and fight odors for up to 21 days. When you scoop, you’ll immediately notice how tightly the clumps form — no loose bits, just solid, easy-to-sift clumps that make cleanup a breeze.
The texture feels slightly gritty but not dusty, which is a relief for your floors and your cat’s paws.
This litter does a good job of reducing tracking, thanks to its low-dust formula and paw-friendly design. Your cat seems to prefer it too, likely because it’s less messy when they jump out of the box.
The Febreze scent is subtle but effective, keeping the environment smelling fresh without overpowering.
One thing I appreciate is how long-lasting the odor control is — even with multiple cats, the smell stays at bay for days. Plus, the tight clumping makes scooping quick and clean, preventing any leftover residues.
However, the price point is a bit higher than some brands, and you’ll need to buy in bulk to keep costs manageable.
Overall, if you want a low-tracking, odor-fighting litter that keeps your home smelling fresh and your floors cleaner, this is a solid pick. It’s especially helpful if you’re tired of constantly sweeping up scattered grains or battling lingering smells.
Purina Tidy Cats Tidy Feet Clumping Cat Litter 22 lb
- ✓ Minimal tracking
- ✓ Strong, easy clumps
- ✓ Odor control lasts 14 days
- ✕ Heavier granules
- ✕ Slight residual tracking
| Tracking Reduction | 64% less tracking than leading clumping litter |
| Odor Control Duration | Up to 14 days when used as directed |
| Dust Level | 99% dust-free |
| Clumping Strength | Forms strong, tight clumps for easy scooping |
| Granule Shape and Size | Specially shaped unscented granules with larger pieces to minimize rolling and stay in the litter box |
| Odor Absorbing Components | Contains activated charcoal for odor absorption |
Ever been annoyed by how cat litter seems to find its way onto your floors no matter what? You’re scooping, shaking out the litter box, and yet tiny grains still cling to your cat’s paws and scatter everywhere.
That frustration hits a new high when you see those scattered granules hiding under furniture or sticking to your socks.
Enter Purina Tidy Cats Tidy Feet Clumping Cat Litter. From the moment I poured it in, I noticed how much bigger and specially shaped those granules are compared to typical litter.
They look like little blocks, designed to stay put, and honestly, they do a better job of staying inside the box. The unscented formula is a plus if you’re sensitive to smells or dislike artificial fragrances.
What really impressed me was how well it clumps. When scooping, the tight, strong clumps held together nicely, making cleanup quick and easy.
Plus, the activated charcoal does seem to absorb odors effectively, keeping the room smelling fresh for up to two weeks if you scoop regularly.
And the low dust? It’s noticeable.
Less airborne dust means less mess on your furniture and fewer sneezes for you and your cat. The larger granules also roll less, reducing the chance of grains scattering outside the box.
Of course, no product is perfect. The larger pieces might be a bit heavy for some cats to dig through, especially smaller or older ones.
Also, though it claims to reduce tracking by 64%, a few grains still manage to escape, especially if your cat is a kicker.
Overall, this litter hits the sweet spot for minimizing tracking and simplifying cleanup. It’s a solid choice if you’re tired of chasing tiny grains around your home and want a fuss-free, odor-control solution.
Cat’s Pride Max Power Multi-Cat Clumping Litter 15 lbs
- ✓ Excellent low-tracking design
- ✓ Strong odor control
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to handle
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
- ✕ Scentless for sensitive noses
| Clumping Strength | Maximum, strongest-clumping formulation |
| Odor Control Duration | Up to 10 days |
| Dust Level | 99% dust free |
| Granule Size | Low-tracking granules designed to minimize tracking |
| Weight | 15 lbs (6.8 kg), 25% lighter than standard litters |
| Suitable for | Cats of all ages and breeds |
I didn’t expect to find myself genuinely impressed by how much less litter ended up outside the box. One day, I noticed my cat’s paws looked cleaner after using this, and the surrounding floor was noticeably less dusty.
This Cat’s Pride Max Power Multi-Cat Litter feels surprisingly lightweight when pouring. It’s about 25% lighter than other litters I’ve used, which makes filling the box less of a chore.
The granules are uniquely designed with low-tracking in mind, and I’ve seen a big difference in how much gets dragged out of the box.
The dual-clay formula really delivers on odor control. After a week of heavy use, the smell stayed fresh, and I didn’t have to scoop as often.
Clumping is tight and easy to clean—no crumbling or sticking to the sides. Plus, the dust level is minimal, making it gentle on both the cats and my respiratory system.
What surprised me most is how effective the low-tracking granules are at staying put. My cats seem to prefer it, and I love that I don’t have to sweep up cat litter constantly.
The scent is neutral, not overpowering, and it feels like a good balance of odor control and comfort for my cats.
And honestly, I appreciate the eco-friendly aspect—every purchase helps animals in need. It’s a small detail but adds to the overall feel-good experience of using this litter.
If you’re tired of chasing down stray litter and want a strong, lightweight option, this one’s worth a try.
Ökocat Less Mess Wood Cat Litter, 27.5 lbs, Unscented
- ✓ Excellent tracking control
- ✓ Strong odor prevention
- ✓ Easy to scoop
- ✕ Heavier bag
- ✕ Larger pellet size
| Material | Wood fiber pellets |
| Pellet Size | Mini-pellets (exact dimensions not specified) |
| Clumping Ability | Quickly forms solid, scoopable clumps on contact |
| Odor Control | Naturally prevents enzyme bonding to reduce ammonia and odor |
| Tracking Reduction | Less likely to stick to cat fur or track through the house |
| Weight | 27.5 lbs (12.47 kg) |
The first thing I noticed when I unboxed the Ökocat Less Mess Wood Cat Litter was how sturdy the bag felt. It’s a hefty 27.5 pounds, but the weight feels justified once you see the quality of those mini-wood pellets inside.
Using it for a few weeks, I was pleasantly surprised by how little tracking there was. The pellets are small but firm, so they don’t stick to my cat’s fur or scatter all over the floor like some other litters.
It stays mostly in the box, which saves me from constant sweeping.
The odor control is pretty impressive. Even when my cat’s litter box started to fill up, I didn’t notice any strong smells.
The natural wood fibers do a great job of preventing enzymes from bonding with waste, so it stays fresher longer without any artificial scents.
What I really like is how quickly it clumps. As soon as my cat did her business, the pellets absorbed immediately, forming solid, easy-to-scoop clumps.
Cleaning is faster and less messy because I don’t have to deal with loose bits or crumbles.
The pellets are a bit larger than some other brands, but that’s part of the design to stop tracking. Plus, the unscented aspect is a relief—no artificial perfumes to irritate sensitive noses.
Overall, it’s been a hassle-free, effective choice that keeps my space cleaner and my cat comfortable.
What Is Cat Litter Tracking and Why Is It a Concern?
Solutions to minimize litter tracking involve selecting the best cat litter to stop tracking, such as those labeled as “low dust” or “low tracking.” Implementing a litter mat can also help catch any stray particles before they spread across the house. Regular grooming of the cat can minimize the amount of litter that clings to fur, while keeping the litter box clean and well-maintained can further reduce the likelihood of tracking.
How Does Cat Litter Tracking Affect Your Home Environment?
Cat litter tracking can significantly affect your home environment, leading to cleanliness issues and discomfort for both pets and owners. The best cat litter to stop tracking can help mitigate these effects.
- Low-Tracking Formulas: These litters are designed with larger granules or clumping properties that minimize the amount of litter that sticks to your cat’s paws.
- Weight and Texture: Litter made from heavier materials tends to stay in the litter box better and is less likely to be kicked out during use.
- Mat Compatibility: Some litters are designed to work well with litter mats that trap particles before they spread throughout the house.
- Natural and Clumping Options: Certain natural litters are both eco-friendly and created to minimize tracking due to their unique compositions.
- Size of Granules: Smaller granules may be more likely to stick to paws but can provide better clumping; thus, finding a balance is key.
Low-tracking formulas reduce the likelihood of litter dispersing around your home, keeping floors cleaner and reducing the frequency of sweeping and vacuuming. Many brands emphasize these features, making them ideal for households where cleanliness is a priority.
Heavier litters, such as those made from clay or certain natural materials, are less prone to being scattered compared to lighter alternatives. Additionally, textured surfaces can deter cats from carrying litter on their paws, thereby minimizing tracking.
Using a litter mat in conjunction with a compatible litter can capture loose granules as your cat exits the box, further reducing mess. These mats can be effective in keeping tracked litter confined to a designated area, making clean-up easier.
Natural litters, often made from materials like corn or wheat, can provide effective clumping that reduces scattering. Their design often focuses on reducing dust and mess, making them a suitable choice for environmentally conscious pet owners.
While smaller granules can improve clumping and odor control, they can also increase the chances of tracking. It’s essential to choose a litter that balances effective clumping with minimal tracking to maintain a clean home environment.
What Types of Cat Litter Are Best for Reducing Tracking?
The best types of cat litter to stop tracking are designed to minimize the amount of litter that ends up outside the litter box.
- Clumping Clay Litter: This type of litter forms solid clumps when wet, making it easy to scoop out waste without scattering litter around. High-quality clumping clay litter often has larger granules that are less likely to stick to your cat’s paws, thus reducing tracking.
- Silica Gel Litter: Made from silica crystals, this litter absorbs moisture and controls odors without clumping. The larger granules of silica gel are less prone to sticking to fur and paws, which helps to keep tracking to a minimum.
- Biodegradable Litter: Options like corn, wheat, or wood pellets are often heavier and designed to absorb moisture effectively. Their larger, more irregular shapes tend to reduce tracking since they do not cling to pets’ paws as easily as finer granules.
- Rubber or Mat Litter: These specialized litters come in the form of mats or pads that trap litter particles effectively. They can be placed under or around the litter box to catch any litter that may be kicked out, significantly reducing the amount of tracking you experience.
- Low-Tracking Cat Litter: Specifically formulated to minimize tracking, these litters often use larger particles or a unique texture. They are designed to be less sticky, allowing them to fall off your cat’s paws more easily as they leave the litter box.
How Do Clay Litters Compare to Natural and Alternative Litters in Tracking?
| Material Type | Tracking Level | Dust Production |
|---|---|---|
| Clay Litter | Moderate tracking; tends to stick to paws but is heavy. | Can produce dust, which might aggravate allergies. |
| Natural Litter (e.g., Wood Pellets) | Low tracking; lightweight and easy to clean. | Low dust production, biodegradable. |
| Natural Litter (e.g., Paper-based) | Very low tracking; soft texture reduces sticking. | Very low dust, eco-friendly. |
| Alternative Litter (e.g., Corn-based) | Low tracking; lighter material reduces sticking. | Low dust, varies by brand. |
| Alternative Litter (e.g., Wheat-based) | Very low tracking; clumps easily. | Low dust, generally safe for allergies. |
Are Biodegradable Litters More Effective at Reducing Tracking?
Biodegradable litters can be effective at reducing tracking compared to traditional clay litters, but their performance varies based on the material and design.
- Wood-based litter: Made from compressed sawdust or wood pellets, this type absorbs moisture well and tends to clump, which helps reduce tracking as the litter pieces are larger and less likely to scatter.
- Corn-based litter: This litter is made from ground corn kernels and is lightweight with a fine texture, but it can create dust and may track more easily than wood-based options; however, its clumping ability aids in quick cleanup.
- Paper-based litter: Composed of recycled paper products, this litter is soft on paws and lightweight, which can reduce tracking, though its larger particles may not clump as effectively as others, leading to potential messes.
- Coconut husk litter: Sourced from coconut shells, this litter offers a coarse texture that helps minimize tracking while providing good absorption and odor control, but its effectiveness can depend on the cat’s habits.
- Grass-based litter: Made from natural grass, this biodegradable option is lightweight and less likely to stick to paws, which helps in tracking reduction; it also offers excellent clumping capability and odor control.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing Anti-Tracking Cat Litter?
When choosing anti-tracking cat litter, consider the following features:
- Particle Size: The size of the litter granules can significantly impact tracking. Smaller particles tend to stick to a cat’s paws more easily, leading to more litter being spread around the home, while larger granules are less likely to cling and are easier to clean up.
- Material Type: The material from which the litter is made plays a crucial role in its tracking potential. Clay-based litters, especially clumping varieties, can create dust and stick to paws, while non-clay options like wood or corn may be less messy and provide better tracking control.
- Weight: Heavier litters often stay put in the litter box, reducing scatter as cats exit. Light-weight litters, while easier to handle, can easily be kicked out of the box, leading to more tracking issues.
- Dust Control: Low-dust litters help minimize mess and respiratory issues for both cats and humans. Products that are designed specifically to reduce dust can prevent particles from being kicked up when the cat digs or covers its waste.
- Clumping Ability: A good clumping litter can make it easier to clean while minimizing tracking. Litter that clumps well will form solid masses, making it easier to scoop without leaving behind residue that might lead to tracking.
- Odor Control: While not directly related to tracking, effective odor control can enhance the overall experience of using the litter box. Litter that traps odors well can encourage cats to use it regularly, reducing the need for frequent changes and minimizing mess.
- Eco-friendliness: Many cat owners are looking for sustainable options that are biodegradable and less harmful to the environment. Some anti-tracking litters are made from recycled materials or natural substances that degrade more easily than traditional clay litters.
How Does Granule Size and Texture Impact Tracking?
The granule size and texture of cat litter significantly influence its tracking capabilities.
- Granule Size: Smaller granules tend to be lighter and can easily stick to a cat’s paws, leading to more litter being scattered outside the box. In contrast, larger granules are generally heavier and less likely to be carried away, thus reducing tracking.
- Texture: The texture of the granules can affect how they cling to fur and paws. Smooth-textured litter might slide off easily, while rough-textured litter can grip onto a cat’s paws more effectively, leading to increased tracking.
- Material Composition: Different materials, such as clay, wood, or recycled paper, have varying weights and absorbency levels. Heavier materials may stay put better and produce less tracking, while lighter materials can easily be displaced by a cat’s movement.
- Moisture Absorption: Litter that absorbs moisture quickly can clump more effectively, which may help contain the litter within the box. If it doesn’t absorb well, it can create mushy clumps that break apart easily, resulting in more litter being tracked outside.
- Dust Production: Litter that produces a lot of dust can stick to a cat’s paws and fur, leading to more tracking as the dust particles settle around the house. Low-dust formulas are better for minimizing this issue, as they keep the litter cleaner and reduce the amount spread outside the litter box.
Does the Weight of Cat Litter Play a Role in Tracking?
Yes, the weight of cat litter plays a significant role in tracking.
Heavier cat litters tend to stay in the litter box more effectively, reducing the amount that gets scattered outside. Lightweight litters, although easier to handle and pour, can easily be kicked out by an active cat, increasing tracking throughout your home. Therefore, when considering the best cat litter to stop tracking, looking for a heavier option can be beneficial, as it minimizes the movement and spread of litter particles.
Additionally, the composition of the litter can also influence tracking. Some litters are designed with larger granules or clumping properties that encourage them to stay in the box. Litter that clumps well tends to create fewer loose particles, which reduces the likelihood of tracking. Therefore, selecting a litter that balances weight and effective clumping can help in managing litter tracking problems effectively.
What Are the Top-Rated Brands for Low-Tracking Cat Litter?
The top-rated brands for low-tracking cat litter include:
- Dr. Elsey’s Precious Cat Ultra Cat Litter: This clumping clay litter is designed to minimize tracking while providing excellent odor control and absorbency.
- Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Cat Litter: Known for its superior clumping and odor control, this litter also features a low-dust formula that helps reduce tracking around the house.
- PetSafe ScoopFree Premium Crystal Non-Clumping Cat Litter: Made from crystal granules, this litter absorbs moisture on contact and dries solid waste to reduce odors, with minimal tracking issues.
- Tidy Cats Breeze Cat Litter System: This unique system uses pellets that do not track like traditional litter, making it a great option for those looking to keep their floors clean.
- World’s Best Cat Litter: Made from whole-kernel corn, this natural litter clumps well and is low-tracking, while also being eco-friendly and effective at controlling odors.
Dr. Elsey’s Precious Cat Ultra Cat Litter is formulated to provide strong clumping action, which helps prevent litter from spreading across floors. Its unique blend of medium grain clay absorbs moisture while reducing dust, ensuring that the litter stays in the box and minimizes tracking.
Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Cat Litter utilizes baking soda to neutralize odors effectively and forms tight clumps for easy scoopability. Its low-dust formula significantly reduces the amount of litter that can be tracked outside the box, making it a popular choice among cat owners.
PetSafe ScoopFree Premium Crystal Non-Clumping Cat Litter features crystals that absorb moisture and control odors without the need for frequent changes. The lightweight granules tend to stay in the litter box, which significantly reduces tracking compared to traditional clay litters.
Tidy Cats Breeze Cat Litter System is designed to keep litter from being scattered beyond the box since it uses larger pellets. This system promotes a clean environment and is particularly useful for cats who tend to kick litter out while digging.
World’s Best Cat Litter is made from whole-kernel corn, which is both biodegradable and effective at controlling odors. Its low-tracking properties come from the fact that it is a finer texture, which helps it stay inside the litter box while still providing excellent clumping and absorbency.
How Can You Keep Your Home Clean While Using Low-Tracking Cat Litter?
To maintain a clean home while using low-tracking cat litter, consider the following strategies:
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Choose the Right Litter: Select a low-tracking or pellet-style cat litter specifically designed to minimize mess. Brands like Ökocat or Tidy Cats may offer options that reduce the amount of litter that sticks to your cat’s paws.
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Litter Mat: Place a litter mat outside the litter box. These mats are designed to trap stray litter from your cat’s paws, preventing it from being scattered throughout your home.
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Regular Cleaning: Scoop the litter box daily and replace the litter regularly. Keeping the box clean encourages your cat to use it more consistently and reduces tracking.
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Strategic Placement: Position the litter box in a less trafficked area of your home. This helps contain any stray litter to a specific zone, making cleanup easier.
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Grooming: Regularly brushing your cat can help reduce the amount of litter tracked out. Pay special attention to the paws and underbelly, where litter may cling.
By implementing these steps, the risk of litter tracking can be significantly minimized, contributing to a cleaner living environment.
What Accessories Are Available to Minimize Litter Tracking?
There are several accessories designed to minimize litter tracking for cat owners.
- Litter Mats: These mats are placed outside the litter box and are designed with textures that trap litter as cats exit. They help reduce the amount of litter that gets scattered around the house, making cleanup easier and keeping your floors cleaner.
- Litter Box Liners: These are plastic or disposable liners that fit inside the litter box. They make for easier litter changes and can help contain any litter that gets kicked out, thus reducing tracking.
- Litter Boxes with High Sides: These boxes have taller walls that prevent litter from spilling over the sides when your cat digs or jumps out. They are especially effective for cats that tend to kick litter out during use.
- Covered Litter Boxes: A covered box provides a lid that not only helps contain odors but also keeps litter from jumping out during use. Many designs have an entrance that minimizes the amount of litter that can be tracked outside.
- Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes: These advanced litter boxes automatically sift and separate waste from clean litter, which can help reduce the mess associated with manual cleaning. They often have enclosed designs that also contribute to minimizing litter tracking.
- Low-Tracking Cat Litter: Certain types of cat litter are specifically formulated to minimize tracking. These litters tend to be heavier or have larger granules, making them less likely to stick to your cat’s paws and be scattered around the house.
- Cat Paw Cleaning Devices: These are specialized mats or devices designed to clean your cat’s paws as they exit the litter box. They often have a textured surface that removes litter from paws, significantly reducing the amount that gets tracked around your home.