The Growing Cat Craze: How Litter Innovations Are Changing the Game

Written by Lee Ann Hagerty , MS, BS, AS, CVT, PAS

The global trend toward increased cat ownership is unmistakable, with households worldwide embracing feline companions. This shift significantly impacts not only the pet care industry but also the everyday lives of pet parents. As the number of cats continues to rise, so does the demand for innovative and convenient products designed to make life easier for pet owners. 

The Growing Popularity of Cats 

In recent years, cat ownership has surged. Research by Grand View Research indicates that cat litter sales reached $10.2 billion globally in 2022, with projections suggesting the market will continue to grow at a strong pace well into the next decade. One contributing factor is the increasing number of multi-cat households, especially in regions like Europe, North America, and Asia. 

This growth reflects changing pet demographics. In the U.S., for example, dog ownership has declined slightly, while cat ownership has increased from 23% to 24% of households between 2018 and 2024, according to Packaged Facts. Similarly, in China and India, where pet ownership is rising, the market for cat-related products, including cat litter, is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years. 

The Impact of This Trend on Pet Parents 

For pet parents, the growing cat population presents both opportunities and challenges. Although cats are typically low-maintenance pets, they require specific care, especially when it comes to their living environments. Cat litter, an essential product for every cat owner, has experienced significant innovation as manufacturers seek to meet the evolving needs of consumers. 

The Shift to Sustainable Litter Options 

With increased awareness of environmental issues, many pet parents are now prioritizing sustainability when choosing products for their cats. Traditional clay-based litters, while effective, are not always the most eco-friendly option. As a result, there has been a growing demand for alternative, sustainable litter materials, such as wood pellets and silica-based litter. 

Wood pellets are an excellent natural alternative that offer better absorbency and biodegradability compared to traditional clay-based options. They are made from compressed sawdust, which means they come from a renewable resource and are less harmful to the environment.  

On the other hand, silica-based cat litter has gained popularity due to its superior odor control, absorbency, and long-lasting properties. Silica litter can last longer than traditional clay-based litter, meaning fewer litter changes and less waste. Straits Research projects the silica litter segment to grow at a CAGR of 3.1% until 2029, driven by increasing consumer preference for odor control and sustainability.  

The Rise of Technology in Cat Care 

Another area where innovation is making a big impact is in the realm of litter boxes. Many pet parents are now turning to self-cleaning litter boxes, like the Litter-Robot, which automates the scooping and cleaning process. This is a game changer for busy pet parents who may not have the time or energy for daily maintenance. Whisker, the manufacturer of the Litter-Robot, has sold over 1.5 million units worldwide, and automated litter boxes are expected to continue gaining popularity, with a projected CAGR of 6.6% in the U.S. through 2030. 

These technological innovations not only make litter management more convenient but also help pet parents monitor their cats' health. Some self-cleaning litter boxes come equipped with sensors that track a cat’s bathroom habits, offering insights into their health, including changes in urinary patterns that may indicate potential health concerns.   

A Focus on Cat Health 

As more people adopt cats, there has been an increased focus on the health and well-being of these pets. Pet parents are seeking products that provide more than just basic care. For instance, some silica-based litters now feature pH detection technology, which changes color based on the acidity of a cat’s urine. This innovation can help pet parents detect potential urinary tract issues before symptoms appear, making it easier to seek veterinary care in a timely manner. 

According to PetMD, urinary tract infections are not overly common in cats, but early detection can significantly impact treatment and recovery. With advancements like pH-detecting litter, cat owners now have tools that can help them keep their pets healthy and avoid costly vet visits.   

What Does This All Mean for Pet Parents? 

Cat parents no longer have to settle for outdated or inefficient solutions. The growing trend in cat ownership and the increasing demand for more sustainable, convenient, and health-focused products are reshaping the pet care industry. Whether you’re looking for an eco-friendly alternative to traditional litter, a self-cleaning litter box, or a product that can help you monitor your cat’s health, there are plenty of options to choose from. 

The future of cat care is more convenient, sustainable, and tailored to the needs of modern pet parents. As the cat population continues to grow and consumer demands evolve, it’s clear that the pet care industry will innovate to improve life for both cats and their owners. 

Cat ownership not only influences pet product trends but also enhances the quality of life for both pet parents and their feline companions. By embracing innovative solutions in cat care, you can ensure your cat is happy, healthy, and well-cared for, while also making your life easier and more efficient. 

Keep your eyes out for an upcoming episode of the Barking Mad podcast highlighting innovative, sustainable cat litter options, releasing June 2025! 

About the Author 

Lee Ann Hagerty is Director of Customer Enrichment and Consumer Insights on the BSM Product Innovation team with 29+ years in the pet food industry, working for Iams/Eukanuba, Procter & Gamble, and Mars Pet Care. She brings a unique combination of project management skills with consumer insights, product design, animal nutrition, and sensory science which drives an in-depth understanding of the pet and consumer. Lee Ann has a passion for helping dogs. Over the last two years, she has fostered over 30 dogs. Many of them were senior dogs who had lived their entire lives outside as hunting dogs.  

This article was originally published BSM Partners' website. Read more about pet product trends.