Purrs In Our Hearts - Cat Forum UK

Cat General => General Cat Chat => Topic started by: caledonia on January 12, 2009, 14:24:46 PM

Title: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: caledonia on January 12, 2009, 14:24:46 PM
So my supplies of Classy cat litter are runing low and given OH is away until at least next month I am loathe to order from zoo plus a double pack again as they insist on packaging them in the same box and my delivery man insists on leaving them in the local PO - despite the fact a 30kg shouldnt be left there - so I will have no way of moving it to mine!

So I just wondered if anyone else had tried some of the other litters and I may order a single pack - I know some folks tried tigerino ...am I right in saying that wasnt very popular?

Has anyone tried Golden Grey - about the same price as classy cat?

Or do I just need to put up and shut up and get on with it!!! The biggest attraction with classy cat is provided you clean it out twice a day it really does last weeks on end (although maybe not the 90 days the pack claims) and my days of cleaning the whole try once a week are thankfully a thing of the past!!

Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: tigerbaby on January 12, 2009, 16:05:11 PM
After many recommendations on here, we tried Cats Best OKO and can I just say how amazing it is. Clumping and toilet - flushable, with virtually no smell. Capone likes it too. Bingo!
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Bryony84 on January 12, 2009, 16:11:14 PM
I'm going with Cats best too, I think its brilliant and I've converted Mum and Casper to it as well!
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: caledonia on January 12, 2009, 16:38:10 PM
Oh really - does it need changed every week or do you just remove the clumps twice a day? I know with most litters even cleaning it twice a day means a total clear out every 7-10 days but classy cat is designed to last longer - but wiling to try alternatives that come in less bulky packaging!
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Bryony84 on January 12, 2009, 16:41:06 PM
I just remove clumps once a day when I get in from work, this seems to be absolutely fine. It clumps very well.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Mark on January 12, 2009, 17:05:47 PM
Forget clumping clay. Try cats best OKO (Ultra clumping wood chips) and you won't regret it. I wish I had started using it years ago.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Feline Costumier on January 12, 2009, 17:14:22 PM
Cat's Best here too, lasts for ages and never smells, even when it may have slipped my mind to scoop  :-[

I had to resort to something else from the supermarket just after new year and I am suffering, it reeks to high heaven, am getting a bag of Cat's Best from the pet shop tomorrow.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Gillian Harvey on January 12, 2009, 18:07:06 PM
I'm using Cats Best at the moment too - good at clumping, no odours (nightmare with tracking - but you can't have everything I suppose LOL)  ;D
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Liz on January 12, 2009, 18:39:35 PM
Try cats best OKO (Ultra clumping wood chips) - we have this mixed with wood pellet variety and now its lasts longer and both clump well - we have to take our litter to the tip as we have a septic tank and with 23 trays we use some amount on a weekly basis!  We also have paper and Clumping as our lot have a riot if we only have one type of litter and miss more than they hit! :shocked:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Susanne (urbantigers) on January 12, 2009, 18:42:10 PM
I'm about to put in an order at zooplus and cant' decide whether to try the oko cats best or not.  what if I don't like it?  what if the cats dont' like it?  what if it tracks too much and drives me bananas?  Does it clump like ultra clumping clay?  Cos I don't want anything where I can't scoop out the clumps.  Could you mix it with a clay clumping litter?
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Millys Mum on January 12, 2009, 18:55:28 PM
It wouldnt work mixed susanne.

Alot of cats dont actually like wood litter so personally i wouldnt suggest you buy lots and just of that. Trial 1 tray of it and see what happens...

Original question - golden grey is the best clumping clay iv tried, very good clumping and i have high activity in the trays. You have to buy 2 of this too tho  :evillaugh:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Gillian Harvey on January 12, 2009, 19:42:20 PM
I'm about to put in an order at zooplus and cant' decide whether to try the oko cats best or not.  what if I don't like it?  what if the cats dont' like it?  what if it tracks too much and drives me bananas?  Does it clump like ultra clumping clay?  Cos I don't want anything where I can't scoop out the clumps.  Could you mix it with a clay clumping litter?

Yes it clumps like clay (but its softer and doesnt set hard like clay does). I'd do as MM suggestd and try it in one tray, keep the usual stuff in the other tray and see how they like it.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: CC & The Pussycat Guys & Dolls on January 12, 2009, 20:01:58 PM
I have always avoided the clumping litters, I dont really know why. Although I would use them if they didnt make as much mess as the grannet litters.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Susanne (urbantigers) on January 12, 2009, 20:06:41 PM
Well I only have the one tray so I'd have to either go for that or stick with the clay.  Think I might stick with the golden grey for now but I will try it one day.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Beth on January 12, 2009, 20:14:52 PM
i got some of the cats best OKO after reading recommendations on here (got the name wrong though, was wondering around the shop looking for OXO litter :shy:  :doh:) and i'm pleased with it so far. Her wee absolutely doesn't smell in it at all. She unfortunately likes to dig to Australia :evillaugh: so my floor is covered with litter :innocent: but even though she's peeing almost on the bottom of the litter tray it doesn't stick. To get past the litter everywhere i'm just about to order a covered tray with flap from zooplus, hopefully it'll do the trick! :)
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Den on January 12, 2009, 20:20:40 PM
I'm very tempted to switch to Cats Oko too!!! Since Memphis' change in diet he's widdling an awful lot and I think changing to clumping makes a lot of sense. Just have to wait until I can get to PAH more frequently.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Mark on January 12, 2009, 20:32:19 PM
Well I only have the one tray so I'd have to either go for that or stick with the clay.  Think I might stick with the golden grey for now but I will try it one day.

They do a trial bag for £2.50 - maybe worth trying it the next time?
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: tigerbaby on January 12, 2009, 20:37:34 PM
what if I don't like it?  what if the cats dont' like it?  what if it tracks too much and drives me bananas?  Does it clump like ultra clumping clay? 
I don't think it tracks a lot - I notice little bits here & there on occassion, but that's it. We keep 2 mats under the tray, and Capone has to walk across a few more rugs when leaving the hallway (where the tray is) so we hardly notice any tracking.

I have never tried ultra clumping litter - but this one clumps amazingly well so it seems ultra clumping to me?!

I know if a cat is used to a certain litter, you should gradually make the change, but I just changed the litter completely (from wood pellet ones - I did not like them at all), and Capone didn't seem to mind at all. I can't imagine cats not liking it! It seems very hygenic and totally odour free.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Mark on January 12, 2009, 20:43:16 PM
Also if it does track, it is easy to see. I hated it when I got wet clay on the floor - or even worse, in the carpet. I find cats best really easy to sweep up with a dustpan & brush - partly as you can easily see it.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: caledonia on January 12, 2009, 21:29:35 PM
How often do the folks on OKO find they have to change litter tray - as in the whole thing out and cleaned and filled entirely fresh again? Thats the big draw for me with classy cat you see - you can get away with weeks at a time and no smelll - its just too dam heavy for me and three flights of stairs !!! :P
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Bryony84 on January 12, 2009, 21:37:57 PM
I normally only do it when I open a new bag, so not very often.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: caledonia on January 12, 2009, 21:45:48 PM
Ok thats what I was hoping to hear lol - same as classy cat which drags a bit about the floor too lol!!

Ok is this the one I should be ordering?

http://www.zooplus.co.uk/shop/cats/cat_litter/ecological_litter/14001

I assume the 40 Litre bag is very very heavy!!!

Is this available in PAH then - as I would need to order a lot above the 10 litre to get free delivery! :wow:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: tigerbaby on January 12, 2009, 22:03:05 PM
Do you people put something in the bottom of the tray, to absorb any wee, like pads, or newspaper, or other? Or do you just fill the tray up with the litter?

Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Feline Costumier on January 12, 2009, 22:28:02 PM
Just litter, good and deep, Dave likes to dig, sometimes he goes in there just to have a digging session  :evillaugh:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Gillian Harvey on January 12, 2009, 22:32:38 PM
Do you people put something in the bottom of the tray, to absorb any wee, like pads, or newspaper, or other? Or do you just fill the tray up with the litter?

No, you don't need anything else but litter in the bottom of the tray, the litter absorbs the wee. Because you don't need to change the full tray very often pads or newspaper would just sit in the bottom and fester  :sick:

Ok is this the one I should be ordering?
http://www.zooplus.co.uk/shop/cats/cat_litter/ecological_litter/14001
I assume the 40 Litre bag is very very heavy!!!
Is this available in PAH then - as I would need to order a lot above the 10 litre to get free delivery! :wow:

Yes thats the one. The 40 litre bag is heavy, but manageable I'd say. You can get in PAH, but only in the 10 ltre size.

Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: caledonia on January 13, 2009, 07:49:16 AM
It is now ordered - thanks all!

I ended up ordering two 10 litre bags which was probably not the best economically but will see how they find it and if it is success will order the 40l from now on. At least it is also available in PAH - sometimes if Zooplus is delayed it has been a nightmare as my current litter is only available through them!  :-:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Millys Mum on January 13, 2009, 17:39:08 PM
I dont use any form of liner in the tray, they are actually the cause of issues for many cats!

How often do the folks on OKO find they have to change litter tray - as in the whole thing out and cleaned and filled entirely fresh again? Thats the big draw for me with classy cat you see - you can get away with weeks at a time and no smelll - its just too dam heavy for me and three flights of stairs !!! :P

The OKO litter lasts well, is just starting to get dusty on the bottom so it will be going in the composter shortly  ;D

Do people not change trays either when using clumping? I have spare ones so i remove clumps and solids and then tip remaining litter into a clean tray and wash dirty one
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Feline Costumier on January 13, 2009, 17:42:01 PM
Well I only have one tray but I change a little more often than others have mentioned due to that.

Just got another bag today, finally, after being on some other dodgy stuff out of forced necessity, can't wait to change it, it stank after a day  :sick: Has only been in three, maybe four days and I can't stomach it already, it will be the first thing I do when I get home this evening!  ;D
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: caledonia on January 14, 2009, 08:09:57 AM



Do people not change trays either when using clumping? I have spare ones so i remove clumps and solids and then tip remaining litter into a clean tray and wash dirty one

With classy cat which is a clumping litter I changed it probably about every six weeks but took out the solids and clumps 1-2 times a day. About 3-4 weeks in I would maybe wipe it down by letting the litter run down to a lower level than normal then emptying it out, giving  it a clean and putting litter back in - but a total clear out is every 6 weeks - gone are my clean out once a week days thank goodness!!
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Den on January 20, 2009, 13:33:08 PM
I switched Memphis to cats best on Saturday and I am such a convert now  :wow: He took to it immediately and it looks like we both love it. It really does make such a huge noticeable difference. Plus it gives me the opportunity to keep an eye on how much wee he's producing .. and as suspected there is a lot.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Tiggy's Mum on January 20, 2009, 16:20:54 PM
I've gone the other way and ordered classy cat to see if it tracks less than chick crumbs - will update with the results of the experiment soon  :evillaugh:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Dawn F on January 20, 2009, 16:24:50 PM
is classy cat the baby powder smelling one?
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Tiggy's Mum on January 20, 2009, 16:27:31 PM
Just checked and yep, although that's not why I bought it as I have no issues with smells just the neverending trail of chick crumb  :evillaugh:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Dawn F on January 20, 2009, 16:29:12 PM
sadly I think I've had it before, it tracks a bit but gets smelly pretty quickly and needs changing very regularly
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: caledonia on January 20, 2009, 16:31:22 PM
I'm changing from clasy cat to OKO lol....only because I cant manage the size of the bags myself up three flights of stairs and the delivery man doesnt seem to either!! :rofl:

Have to say it doesnt need changed a lot - I usually get about six weeks out of provided I clear out the used stuff every night. I do have the expensive and fancy soop though on the recomendation from a friend - not the slightest used bit gets through that mesh and I would say this time it lasted about 8 weeks!


However was dispatched a week ago and still no sign!!! :shy:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Feline Costumier on January 20, 2009, 16:32:12 PM
sadly I think I've had it before, it tracks a bit but gets smelly pretty quickly and needs changing very regularly

This sounds familiar  :shify: It used to get everywhere as well those little grains. Cat's Best tracks but not too far and to can see it a mile off! No smell at all is the best thing for me though living in a small flat.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Dawn F on January 20, 2009, 16:33:02 PM
I must have been doing something wrong - I scooped every day but still needed a full change after three days because I could smell the trays when I came home from work
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Tiggy's Mum on January 20, 2009, 16:33:23 PM
Oooh, hope not Dawn  :tired:  Anyway, my nan always used to say a change is as good as a rest  :evillaugh:

This is the one http://www.zooplus.co.uk/shop/cats/cat_litter/clumping_litter/14037

Edit:  Just saw the other posts - not looking too good on the tracking front  :evillaugh:  If it's that bad I'll give it to CP and go back to the crumb, I was put off OKO due to people saying it was a nightmare for tracking.



Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Dawn F on January 20, 2009, 16:34:55 PM
its always worth a go, everyone has a different opinion you might love it
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Beth on January 20, 2009, 16:39:42 PM
I'm changing from clasy cat to OKO lol....only because I cant manage the size of the bags myself up three flights of stairs and the delivery man doesnt seem to either!! :rofl:

Have to say it doesnt need changed a lot - I usually get about six weeks out of provided I clear out the used stuff every night. I do have the expensive and fancy soop though on the recomendation from a friend - not the slightest used bit gets through that mesh and I would say this time it lasted about 8 weeks!


However was dispatched a week ago and still no sign!!! :shy:

What's the fancy scoop and where from? My scoop is rubbish. :innocent:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Den on January 20, 2009, 16:40:04 PM
I've had zero tracking with the oko. He was on catsan before which did him just fine and that tracked around his tray but not a sausage with the oko.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: caledonia on January 20, 2009, 16:53:30 PM
The scoop is on zooplus - large grey one for about £9 with two different sizes of mesh. Has a really really long handle too and just more stregth that the the cheaper ones and makes the litter last longer I think!
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Tiggy's Mum on January 23, 2009, 23:55:03 PM
The experiment commences tonight!

Have to say i was wondering what you were on about when you said it was so heavy - surely all litter is going to be heavy isn't it?  I know what you mean now, one 15kg sack is tiny compared to a 20kg sack of crumb.  I've filled one deep tray 2/3 full with it and it's used at least 2/3 of the bag, the other tray is crumb still in case they don't like using the classy cat.

I don't have a sense of smell at the moment so I can only grade it on tracking, dust and longevity. Will update with the results and then try the OKO, oooh what an exciting life I lead  :evillaugh:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: caledonia on January 24, 2009, 13:05:12 PM
My OKO got delivered to my Mum's in case I had the same problem and not been to collect it yet althogh should get it tomorrow - then my experiament begins too!!

The problem with classy cat is when you order the two pack special, which I always do, then they pack them both in the same box - herein lies my problem. Parcelforce man leaves it at post office and muggins here has to carry 30KG box out of a busy shopping centre (where post office is) into someones car (as I dont have one just now) then up three flights of stairs...hence my OKO experiment!

Classy can be dusty - let me know how you find it - we can exchange notes  :rofl: :rofl:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: tigerbaby on January 24, 2009, 16:03:18 PM
I love Cats Best OKO. Can't fault it - no reason to try any other brand. I don't hoover more often than I used to either, the tracking is minimal. Love the fact it flushes down the toilet too.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Tiggy's Mum on January 24, 2009, 23:46:24 PM
24 hours have elasped and no deposits in the classy cat tray  :shify: Not even a footprint where they've gone in and changed their minds  :evillaugh:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: caledonia on January 24, 2009, 23:54:02 PM
Oh no takers with the classy cat yet then!!!!

I collected the Oko tonight and thanks to zoo plus packing with the other stuff one bag was burst open! However tray is out with it so we shall see. I'm thinking it might track less than classy cat just by feeling it!
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Sabrina (Auferstehen) on January 25, 2009, 10:33:10 AM
We started using OKO on Thursday, it's so nice to clean up!

It does track a bit but it doesn't hurt when you step on it which on hardwood floors is a blessing.

Hope it works for you as well.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Millys Mum on January 25, 2009, 18:47:34 PM
24 hours have elasped and no deposits in the classy cat tray  :shify: Not even a footprint where they've gone in and changed their minds  :evillaugh:

Lol litter upgrades are only any good if the cats use them, i would like to have all trays on cats best but there would be uproar  :tired:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Tiggy's Mum on January 25, 2009, 18:48:46 PM
24 hours have elasped and no deposits in the classy cat tray  :shify: Not even a footprint where they've gone in and changed their minds  :evillaugh:

Lol litter upgrades are only any good if the cats use them, i would like to have all trays on cats best but there would be uproar  :tired:

You're not wrong  :tired: Coming up for 48 hours and the other tray has never seen so much foot traffic  :evillaugh:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Mark on January 25, 2009, 18:50:47 PM
24 hours have elasped and no deposits in the classy cat tray  :shify: Not even a footprint where they've gone in and changed their minds  :evillaugh:

Lol litter upgrades are only any good if the cats use them, i would like to have all trays on cats best but there would be uproar  :tired:

I did mine in stages but so glad to see the back of clay - which reminds me to bin the 1 1/2 tubs of "Clean & tidy" next week. Horrible stuff!  :evillaugh:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Millys Mum on January 25, 2009, 19:02:48 PM
I hated that Clean & Tidy too, the tubs have been useful.
Unfortunately i cant take Tazs clay away as hes too sensitive   :Luv:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: caledonia on January 25, 2009, 20:14:42 PM
Well I have had one user of the OKO which is in one out of three trays - which led to my discovery that the pieces are too big for my fancy two mesh litter scoop!!! arrghhh!!! Will have to dig out one of the old plastic ones now as I ended up breaking up the OKO clum trying to shake the excess through the mesh!! :shocked:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: catalyst on January 26, 2009, 00:43:09 AM
How do you find OKO compared to Worlds Best Cat Litter? I find that is great in all ways except the mess.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Millys Mum on January 26, 2009, 19:37:04 PM
Well I have had one user of the OKO which is in one out of three trays - which led to my discovery that the pieces are too big for my fancy two mesh litter scoop!!! arrghhh!!!

I was waiting for that after looking at the much reccomended scoop  :rofl:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Mark on January 26, 2009, 20:19:37 PM
Yes I bought 2 x £9 scoops for clay. They are now redundant  :evillaugh:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Tiggy's Mum on January 26, 2009, 22:24:15 PM
Well, after nearly 72 hours we have our first deposit  :evillaugh: It was of the number two variety so can't judge it's clumping ability  :evillaugh: A few grains on the carpet but too early to rate it on track-a-bility.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Feline Costumier on January 26, 2009, 22:42:13 PM
Since Chilli's homecoming I have discovered this litter is only as good as the cat who digs in it. I have just scooped the tray, put the lid back on, litter in the bin, debris swept up, cup of tea made. THEN she decides to go for a poo and I have to say her guts are not right  :sick: She eats the exact same as Dave but my goodness the smell is nuclear  :sick: And the precious little Princess is apparently too ladylike to cover up the offending smell  :sick: It's just sitting there, slap bang in the middle of the tray, completely exposed. So the deodorising effect is disabled. God help me if it wasn't a covered tray  :sick: :evillaugh:

ETA: Sorry to be too graphic but she also does poos the size of dog! They're double the size of anything Dave produces  :Crazy: :sick: :evillaugh:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: caledonia on January 27, 2009, 07:45:59 AM
Yes I bought 2 x £9 scoops for clay. They are now redundant  :evillaugh:

The scoops worked a treat with classy cat - its the OKO I am finding is too big for the fancy mesh!! :tired:

I have to say so far I am not overly impressed with OKO - it doestn clump as well as classy cat and I am not convinced that it can last as long judging by how much the clumps break up when I try and remove them. I have a cheap plastic scoop with big slots which still takes out too much unused litter so I think I will get through more OKO - and boy oh boy does it trail!!

I think there may be a return to classy cat soon as I think it works out cheaper and I am struggling with taking out the used OKO - anyone else had probs?
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Dawn F on January 27, 2009, 08:51:19 AM
I am using an emergency bag of oko at the moment - definately doesn't clump as well as chick crumb, I'm off to Jolleyes tonight!
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Millys Mum on January 28, 2009, 20:08:43 PM
Since Chilli's homecoming I have discovered this litter is only as good as the cat who digs in it. I have just scooped the tray, put the lid back on, litter in the bin, debris swept up, cup of tea made. THEN she decides to go for a poo and I have to say her guts are not right  :sick: She eats the exact same as Dave but my goodness the smell is nuclear  :sick:

As she has been missing and probably surviving on all sorts of nasty stuff i would suggest you take a sample over 3 days and then worm her. Your vet can send it off for a range of tests to see if she has picked up a tummy bug whilst she was awol. You can pick up a nifty pot and scoop from your vet  ;)
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Mark on January 28, 2009, 20:24:19 PM
Yes I bought 2 x £9 scoops for clay. They are now redundant  :evillaugh:

The scoops worked a treat with classy cat - its the OKO I am finding is too big for the fancy mesh!! :tired:

I have to say so far I am not overly impressed with OKO - it doestn clump as well as classy cat and I am not convinced that it can last as long judging by how much the clumps break up when I try and remove them. I have a cheap plastic scoop with big slots which still takes out too much unused litter so I think I will get through more OKO - and boy oh boy does it trail!!

I think there may be a return to classy cat soon as I think it works out cheaper and I am struggling with taking out the used OKO - anyone else had probs?

I think it clumps well enough and haven't had any problems with it. I am just using cheap scoops from PAH with quite big holes. I think you have to give it a chance to clump so no good tring to do it straight after they have weed, With 5 trays, It would be a full time job
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Millys Mum on January 28, 2009, 20:54:42 PM
Are you keeping it v.deep, i use 5l to fill an average tray, the deeper the better for any clumping litter  ;D
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Dawn F on January 29, 2009, 09:45:46 AM
I am finding the clumps break up though
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: sheryl on January 29, 2009, 10:37:29 AM
Chick Crumb Rules in our house - If I try anything else at least one of the Benglas shows their displeasure by peeing next to the tray.  I have had no problems at all with the chick crumb and my local garden centre keeps me 2 sacks in stock now all the time and when I collect those they order me the next 2.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Dawn F on January 29, 2009, 10:38:52 AM
I agree Sheryl!
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: caledonia on January 29, 2009, 11:10:33 AM
I am finding the clumps break up though

Thats what I am finding too. ..and my tray is filled really deep. When I take a clump out and try and give the scopp a wee shake to drop off the unsued parts the clump breaks up and sometimes just form me trying to take them out. So I am using way more litter than I normally would with classy cat clumping for instance. I will leave it a few more days but so far the clumps are not very great!
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Dawn F on January 29, 2009, 12:23:27 PM
I know I go on about it endlessly but chick crumb is brilliant and at £10 for 20kg super cheap
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: sheryl on January 29, 2009, 12:41:15 PM
Totally agree Dawn - I am not even going to try anything else in the future because it works for us and for the cats so as they say "if it aint broke dont try to fix it"
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Den on January 29, 2009, 12:47:18 PM
I'm over the moon with oko. No broken clumps here, they remain very firm. As for the tracking it doesn't go beyond the mat in front of the tray.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Gillian Harvey on January 29, 2009, 14:50:44 PM
Thats what I am finding too. ..and my tray is filled really deep. When I take a clump out and try and give the scopp a wee shake to drop off the unsued parts the clump breaks up and sometimes just form me trying to take them out.

Its easier if you use a metal spoon to scoop the clumps. Those plastic litter scoops with the holes/slots in them are useless really for clumping litter - because you don't want any of the clump to fall back through anyway. With a metal spoon you can scoop under the clump and capture the whole thing in one go  ;D Here's the one I use (just a cheap metal serving/cooking spoon) - I used to use something similar but in plastic, but it absorbed odours (even with frequent washing) so changed to metal which is ace as you can wash in scalding water and when dry give it a good coating of baby oil to polish it off and make it smell nice  ;)

(http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb234/scruffyjoe/Miscellaneous/metalspoon2.jpg)
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: caledonia on February 01, 2009, 18:08:15 PM
Ok I have given up with OKO  - had 20 litres and its only lasted a week!!! ;)

I maybe was doing something wrong but I found the clumps broke up too easily compared to classy cat and also it trecked too much! My lot have three litter trays but do tend to all use the same one and I dont know if all that digging broke up the clumps but I can clean out classy cat once a day and it lasts for weeks but the OKO was getting done twice a day and I would still say the clumps were all broken up - occasionally there would be a solid one but rarely!!

So went to PAH today and bought some stuff I have never heard off (always a good sign lol!!) which is specifically for multi cat households. If it doesnt work then it will be back to classy cat and broken backs trying to carrying the packages zoo plus send!!!

Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Tiggy's Mum on February 01, 2009, 18:14:58 PM
Classy cat is going down well here despite the initial reluctance to use it.  It doesn't track too badly and can see why it would last so long as the wee clumps are tiny compared to crumb wee clumps.  The downsides would have to be it's not the same colour as my carpet (crumb hides so well  :evillaugh:) and the fact that it's only available from Zooplus so have to be quite careful with the ordering to make sure I'm in when it's due to come.

I think overall I'll probably stick with the crumb though.  Glad I've got the 'try a new cat litter' bug out of my system now though  :evillaugh:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Millys Mum on February 01, 2009, 18:33:03 PM
So went to PAH today and bought some stuff I have never heard off (always a good sign lol!!) which is specifically for multi cat households. If it doesnt work then it will be back to classy cat and broken backs trying to carrying the packages zoo plus send!!!

Clean and tidy? I got 4 big tubs as it was on bogof at first and thought it was rubbish, was glad to get rid of it! Out of all the clumping clays nothing can beat golden grey
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Susanne (urbantigers) on February 01, 2009, 18:37:04 PM
Thats what I am finding too. ..and my tray is filled really deep. When I take a clump out and try and give the scopp a wee shake to drop off the unsued parts the clump breaks up and sometimes just form me trying to take them out.

Its easier if you use a metal spoon to scoop the clumps. Those plastic litter scoops with the holes/slots in them are useless really for clumping litter - because you don't want any of the clump to fall back through anyway. With a metal spoon you can scoop under the clump and capture the whole thing in one go  ;D Here's the one I use (just a cheap metal serving/cooking spoon) - I used to use something similar but in plastic, but it absorbed odours (even with frequent washing) so changed to metal which is ace as you can wash in scalding water and when dry give it a good coating of baby oil to polish it off and make it smell nice  ;)

(http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb234/scruffyjoe/Miscellaneous/metalspoon2.jpg)


But doesn't that defeat the purpose of clumping litter?  Surely the idea is that you scoop up the clump then shake the excess litter off so that you only remove the soiled litter.  Using a spoon without holes would scoop up unused litter too.

Agree with MM that golden grey is the best clay clumping litter.  I'm reluctant to try anything new cos I like that and the boys like that, so it's rather a case of if it aint broke, don't fix it.  With having only the one litter tray, I can't put something new in one and leave one with the old.  If I do get around to putting a 2nd tray in the bathroom, I might try the oko just to see what it's like.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Mark on February 01, 2009, 18:42:12 PM
So went to PAH today and bought some stuff I have never heard off (always a good sign lol!!) which is specifically for multi cat households. If it doesnt work then it will be back to classy cat and broken backs trying to carrying the packages zoo plus send!!!

Clean and tidy? I got 4 big tubs as it was on bogof at first and thought it was rubbish, was glad to get rid of it! Out of all the clumping clays nothing can beat golden grey

Glad I read this thread as it reminded me that I have 1 3/4 tubs of unused Clean & tidy to go out in the trash - exactly what I think of it!  :evillaugh:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Feline Costumier on February 01, 2009, 18:44:27 PM
I would agree clay clumps better but the odour control with OKO is brilliant. It takes forever for it to smell even vaguely off, I think you'd have to go some for it to ever smell and living in a small flat that far outweighs any negatives for me.

The clumps do need time to "set" or they will fall apart easily. Left for a bit and they are much sturdier. You do have to shake a bit more carefully than clay clumps though.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Mark on February 01, 2009, 18:46:42 PM
I also find that sometimes they "puddle" a bit on top. Millysmum suggested covering the puddle with more litter until it sets - this works for me. It only happens once in a while.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Millys Mum on February 01, 2009, 18:55:35 PM
Can you not donate the litter Mark? The tubs are very useful for storing food in so could help a rescue in 2 ways.

I also find that sometimes they "puddle" a bit on top. Millysmum suggested covering the puddle with more litter until it sets - this works for me. It only happens once in a while.

Definately works, spike pees so fast sometimes it makes a volcano with its own lake inside  :innocent:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: caledonia on February 01, 2009, 23:51:49 PM
Ahhhh so there is two votes for Golden Grey then - will prob give it a try as it would appear my latest purchase Clean n tidy has the thumsb down from everyone on here  :rofl:!!!

Why cants PAH just sell Classy Cat and make my life easier!! :rofl:

Maybe my lot just piddle too small but the clumps in OKo are soo tiny and then when I give it a GENTLE shookle it all breaks up!! And yes a spoon would defeat the purpose and have me throwing out as much litter as I am now. OKO may have good odour control but I find that classy cat does if you keep up in the clumps and you use a lot less - I can believe I have got through 20l already and thats just in 2 trays!! :tired:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Mark on February 02, 2009, 06:32:12 AM
I never had problems getting clumps out in one piece - there is a knack to it  :evillaugh:

How sad are we?  :evillaugh:

Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Den on February 02, 2009, 10:49:12 AM
Memphis' wee clumps with oko are normally about 2-3 inches long, 2 inches wide and an inch deep  :Crazy: And they come out in one piece.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Christine (Blip) on February 02, 2009, 11:33:08 AM
I bought some Cat's Best Oko to try, fully expecting Blip not to use it as she had only used her indoor litter tray once in eight years, when she was groggy after her dental op.  But a combination of wet, cold weather and Blip's arthritis has meant that she's used the tray to wee THREE times in the past fortnight (including this morning).  So I can add my voice to those who say that Oko does not harbour urine smells.  I do have a covered tray though.

I find it clumps well - I lift the clump out carefully using a disposable glove and it doesn't break up.  There is an element of tracking around the tray but not enough to detract from the plus points.

I saw on the packet that the clumps are flushable - reading this, it seems that several of you do flush them.  No-one had any problems with that?  If not, I'll try it...
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Kittybabe (Ruth) on February 02, 2009, 11:34:34 AM
I bought some Cat's Best OKO this weekend as well to try out, will try tonight with a clean tray and see the difference between it and wood pellets.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Mark on February 02, 2009, 11:43:21 AM

I saw on the packet that the clumps are flushable - reading this, it seems that several of you do flush them.  No-one had any problems with that?  If not, I'll try it...

I have had problems with flushing. I would recommend flushing straight away as it can expand and stick. We had even nearly had overflows from it  :scared:

I have been throwing all my waste onto the wood burner (including the solids) but appreciate that not every home has one  :evillaugh:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Gillian Harvey on February 02, 2009, 12:08:00 PM

But doesn't that defeat the purpose of clumping litter?  Surely the idea is that you scoop up the clump then shake the excess litter off so that you only remove the soiled litter.  Using a spoon without holes would scoop up unused litter too.

No, not at all, with the spoon you only pick up the clump of soiled litter. Once the litter clumps the clump isolates itself from the unused litter, so you don't pick up any unused litter. A slotted scoop just allows dirty litter to fall back through once you start shaking it.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: tigerbaby on February 02, 2009, 14:03:01 PM
We flush it down the toilet - no probs. I just do it in 2 flushes not to block the toilet.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Mark on February 02, 2009, 14:09:34 PM
Not very eco-friendly though?  :evillaugh:

We follow the Australian advice here.

If it's yellow, let it mellow. If it's brown flush it down  :evillaugh:
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: tigerbaby on February 02, 2009, 14:14:05 PM
Maybe not - we are being naughty to make life easier for us.
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: Susanne (urbantigers) on February 02, 2009, 18:09:30 PM
A slotted scoop just allows dirty litter to fall back through once you start shaking it.

Not with golden grey it doesnt, because the clump doesn't break up when you shake it  ;D
Title: Re: Cat litter - a done topic I know!!
Post by: caledonia on February 02, 2009, 20:51:28 PM
A slotted scoop just allows dirty litter to fall back through once you start shaking it.

Not with golden grey it doesnt, because the clump doesn't break up when you shake it  ;D

likewise with classy cat :wow: