Plant-based cat litter: the main types, and one that changes color
Plant-based cat litter is made from plant materials — tofu (soy fiber), corn, wheat, pine, walnut shells or paper — instead of clay or silica crystals. TellTail is a plant-based tofu litter that also changes color with your cat's urine pH.
Updated 2026-10-11
The main types of plant-based litter
| Material | Typical form | Clumping | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tofu (soy fiber) | Short pellets | Firm clumps | Light, low dust; many are flushable in small amounts |
| Corn | Granules | Clumps | Fine texture close to clay |
| Wheat | Granules | Clumps | Natural wheat scent |
| Pine | Pellets | Mostly non-clumping | Pellets break down into sawdust |
| Walnut shell | Granules | Clumps | Darker color, hides stains |
| Paper | Pellets | Non-clumping | Very soft, often used after surgery |
Why people switch from clay or crystals
- Less dust when pouring and scooping.
- Lighter bags to carry home.
- Easier disposal — some plant-based litters can be flushed in small amounts.
- A different feel that some cats prefer.
What to watch for
- Store it dry. Plant-based litters soften if the bag gets damp.
- Switch gradually. Mix it into the old litter over about a week.
- Check flushing rules on each bag before using the toilet.
The color-changing option
Most plant-based litters are plain. TellTail is a plant-based tofu litter with a food-grade pH indicator, so it also works as a health monitoring cat litter: it stays natural beige in the normal range and shifts color when your cat's urine pH moves.
TellTail is made mainly from plant fibers and plant starch, with a natural mineral binder and a food-grade pH indicator. No silica gel crystals. It forms firm clumps, pours with low dust, is lightly scented and Flushable\*.
Flushable* — TellTail’s plant-based clumps break down in water, so flush the clumps a little at a time. Place cat droppings in the trash, not the toilet. Not recommended for septic systems or older / low-flow plumbing.
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Related
TellTail is a cat litter, not a medical or diagnostic device, and does not diagnose any condition. A color change shows your cat’s urine pH has shifted — an early reason to keep watch and check with your vet.