How to Switch Your Cat to a New Litter (Without the Drama)

Cats are creatures of habit, and the litter box is prime real estate. Spring a brand-new litter on them overnight and some will protest — by going right next to the box, or not where you'd like at all. The fix is simple: switch slowly. Here's the gentle, week-by-week way to do it.

Why the fuss? A new litter changes the texture under their paws and the scent of their bathroom all at once. Go gradually and you give your cat time to decide the new litter is just… their litter.

The gradual switch method (7–14 days)

Mix the new litter into the old and raise the ratio every few days. A reliable schedule:

• Days 1–3: 25% new litter, 75% old
• Days 4–7: 50% new, 50% old
• Days 8–10: 75% new, 25% old
• Day 11 onward: 100% new litter

Picky cat or a multi-cat home? Stretch each stage out. There's no prize for rushing, and going at your cat's pace is what prevents accidents.

Set yourself up to succeed

• Keep the box extra clean during the switch. A spotless box makes the new litter more inviting — our guide to beating litter box smell covers the routine.
• Change one thing at a time. Don't move the box and swap the litter in the same week.
• Offer a choice. Set out a second box with 100% new litter next to the current one and let your cat vote with their paws.
• Keep depth and location consistent. Same spot, same 2–3 inches of litter.

Signs it's going well — and signs to slow down

Going well looks like business as usual: your cat steps in, digs, covers, and moves on. Ease off if you see hesitation — perching on the edge, pawing at the wall instead of the litter, or going just outside the box. If that happens, dial back to the previous ratio for a few more days, then progress more slowly.

Switching to Furrly

Every first bag of Furrly Kind Litter includes a free 14-day switch guide, and you're covered by a 30-night money-back guarantee — so if your cat's the particular type, you can take the transition entirely at their pace. Worried about all that paw contact with a new material? Here's why tofu litter is safe.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to switch cat litter?

Most cats adjust in one to two weeks with a gradual mix. Confident, easygoing cats may take just a few days; picky or senior cats can take longer — let them set the pace.

My cat refuses the new litter — what should I do?

Go back to the last ratio they were happy with and slow down. Keep the box spotless, and try a second box with the new litter so it's their choice, not a forced swap.

Can I switch cat litter cold turkey?

You can, and some easygoing cats won't mind — but it's the riskiest route. A gradual switch dramatically lowers the odds of protest and accidents.