Best cat litter scoops to buy in 2021 [Review and Buying Guide]

If you are a proud parent of an indoor cat or planning to get one soon, then you would have setup a litter box for your kitty to do its business.  Almost all cat litter boxes require regular sifting and scooping to remove the cat feces and urine clumps and dispose of the waste. A good quality cat litter scoop can go a long way in making this not so enjoyable exercise a lot simpler and convenient.

But which are the best cat litter scoops available in the market? What are the different types of these scoops and which one should I pick?

In this article, we will look at answering specifically the above questions and list some of the best cat litter scoops available in the market for convenient and hygienic sifting of kitty litter. We will focus on both metal and plastic litter scoops as well as standard and long-handle scoops.

We will also discuss the major factors to consider before picking the best litter scoop for your needs and share our top picks. Read On!

Do not forget to check out our articles on the best cat litter boxes and best cat litter disposal systems for some other excellent litter solutions.

And if you just absolutely detest sifting and scooping, check out our article on the best self-cleaning cat litter boxes for some automatic cat litter box options in the market.

Best cat litter scoops list

Picture	Product	Specifications
	DurAnimals DuraScoop Cat Litter Scoop	All-aluminum scoop with hand-polished surface and poly-vinyl rubber handle. 13.25" x 5.5" x 1.75". 8.6 oz.	Check Price Chewy Price
	Purrr-Fect Standing Litter Scoop	Polymer ABS-plastic scoop and handle with a steel shaft. 35.0" x 5.0" x 6.0". 9.0 oz.	Check Price
	iPrimio Cat Litter Scooper with Holder	Cast Aluminum scoop with non-stick coating and poly-vinyl handle. Aluminum hanger. 13.25" x 5.0" x 1.75". 9.6 oz.	Check Price Chewy Price
	Litter Lifter Cat Litter Scoop	Heavy-duty Polycarbonate plastic scoop. 13.75" x 4.9" x 1.0". 4.0 oz.	Check Price Chewy Price
	CO-Z Cat Litter Scoop Sifter	Aluminum alloy scoop with poly-vinyl handle. 14.0" x 5.5" x 1.67". 8.0 oz.	Check Price
	Scrape N Scoop Litter Box Scoop with Clump Remover	Polycarbonate-ABS plastic scoop and scraper. 13.8" x 3.1" x 5.3". 6.1 oz.	Check Price
	Maison La Queue Cat Litter Scoop and Base	Polycarbonate-ABS plastic scoop and caddy. 9.2" x 4.5" x 2.8". 8.2 oz.	Check Price
	Neater Scooper Cat Litter Sifter Scoop	Heavy-duty Polycarbonate plastic scoop and waste-bin. Plastic waste-bin bags. 11.7" x 5.9" x 5.6". 17 oz.	Check Price Chewy Price
	Petmate Booda Scoop'N Hide Litter Scoop	Heavy-duty Polycarbonate plastic scoop and caddy. 14.25" x 6.5" x 6.0". 7 oz.	Check Price Chewy Price
	Nature's Miracle Litter Scoop and Caddy	Heavy-duty Polycarbonate plastic scoop and caddy. 11.0" x 6.4" x 3.5". 5 oz.	Check Price Chewy Price
	Sand Dipper Jr Long Handle Cat Litter Scoop	Stainless-steel scoop basket with an aluminum shaft and hard-plastic grip. 27.5" x 4.0" x 4.0". 11.2 oz.	Check Price Chewy Price
	Imperial Cat Neat 'n Tidy Litter Scoop	Chrome-plated steel wire scoop with poly-vinyl handle. 20" x 6.5" x 4.0". 7.2 oz.	Check Price Chewy Price
	New Pet Age Scoopy Cat Litter Scoop with Holder	Elegant Polycarbonate plastic scoop holder and scoop. 15.0″ x 6.5″ x 7.0″ overall. 7.0″ x 5.0″ x 3.5″ scoop. 1.5 lbs. total.	Check Price

Which are the best cat litter scoops?

DurAnimals DuraScoop Cat Litter Scoop – Best cat litter scoop

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Type & Material: Single piece, ADC-12 Aluminum scoop with a hand-polished surface and poly-vinyl synthetic rubber handle.
Specifications:

• Overall size: 13.25″ x 5.5″ x 1.75″.
• Scoop size: 5.5″ x 6.0″ x 1.75″.
• Scoop hole/slit/opening: 25″ (6mm).
• Weight: 8.6 oz.

Price: $$.
Features:

• Best-selling metal cat litter scoop with a heavy-duty, rust-resistant and waterproof, hand-polished aluminum body and poly-vinyl synthetic rubber handle. Designed in the US by DurAnimals and made in China under strict quality control measures.
• Patented design that features an ergonomic curve with a generously-sized and 1.75″ deep scoop basket to collect maximum litter in a single scoop. The 5.5″ wide polished scraping edge allows thorough cleanup and convenient reach in the corners.
• Works best with clumping litter (4 mm to 6 mm thick) and cat litter boxes of all shapes and sizes. Can be used with fine or coarse clumping litter but not with pellet or crystal litter.
• Versatile and sturdy enough to be used for beachcombing, snow scraping or in the garden. Comes with a wide, scoop hanging hole in the handle to attach to a holder.
• Available in a standard metal finish and three replaceable handle color combinations. The manufacturer also offers a plastic litter scoop and a newly-launched long-handle cat litter scoop.
• Backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment by the manufacturer throughout the product lifetime.

Detail Review:

If you are looking for a high-quality cat litter scoop that is efficient, convenient and lasts for a long time, then the DuraScoop Jumbo Cat Litter Scoop is an ideal choice. The DuraScoop litter scoop by DurAnimals has been the best-selling cat litter scoop for over 10 years and there is a good reason for that. It is also our favorite pick.

The DuraScoop litter scoop features a heavy-duty, end-to-end single piece metal scoop made from high-grade, rust-resistant ADC-12 aluminum with a hand-polished, smooth, mirror finish. This polished and paint and coating-free scoop surface does not wear-down or rub-off even after years of use.

The scoop has a unique ergonomic, curved shape with a smartly-sized, non-slip poly-vinyl synthetic rubber handle for superior grip while scooping. The scoop was designed in the US and is manufactured in China under strict quality control measures.

The patented scoop has a generously-sized, 5.5″ x 6″ wide and 1.75″ deep scoop basket to collect heavy clumps of litter in a single scoop, thereby reducing the litter box cleaning time by up to 10-15% when compared to other kitty litter scoops.

The wide, finely-ground scraping edge with gently rounded edges (still almost 90-degrees) allows easy scraping and thorough cleanup along all the corners and nooks and crannies of the litter box. At under 10 ounces, the scoop is reasonably lightweight for its size.

The scoop has a unique pattern for slits and openings. The main scoop surface has 0.25″ (6mm) wide slits while the sides have wider holes arranged at an angle. The scoop works best with fine as well as coarse clumping litter (4 mm to 6 mm thick) and cat litter boxes of all shapes and sizes.

However, because the slits are only 0.25″ wide, it may not be useful for pellet or crystal litter – a limitation that applies to almost all standard metal cat litter scoops.

The DuraScoop is so sturdy and versatile, that it can also be used for beachcombing, snow scraping, garden work, and even archaeological digs. Cleaning is easy and you can wash the scoop in running water.

The DuraScoop is available in a standard silver metal finish and three replaceable handle colors – blue, green and red. The handle has a wide hanging hole to hang the scoop to the scoop holder hook.

The DuraScoop is backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment by the manufacturer. And if you are looking for a lighter plastic model, the manufacturer does offer an oversized Plastic DuraScoop. The manufacturer also offers a back-saving Long-Handle Cat Litter Scoop.

Purrr-Fect Standing Litter Scoop – Best cat litter scoop (long handle)

Type & Material: Polymer ABS-plastic scoop and handle with a steel shaft handle.
Specifications:

• Overall size: 35.0″ x 5.0″ x 6.0″.
• Scoop size: 5.0″ x 4.5″ x 1.6″.
• Scoop hole/slit/opening: 0.25″ – 0.375″ (9.5 mm).
• Weight: 9.0 oz.

Price: $$.
Features:

• Lightweight long-handle cat litter scoop with a sturdy polymer ABS-plastic scoop and handle and a steel shaft. Designed and manufactured in the US.
• Patented design with an integrated, shovel-style D-grip provides maximum convenience and power while scooping. Supports scooping at any angle – standing up or sitting down.
• Extra-long 35″ handle reduces back and knee-strain while scooping the litter box. At 9 ounces, reasonably lightweight for its size.
• Unique rectangular scoop basket design with a low profile on the front like a standard shovel allows using as a long-handle scraper for the litter box.
• Especially suitable for multi-cat homes. Because of large openings, it works well with clumping as well as some types of pellet litter and all types of cat litter boxes. However, wider – 6+ mm holes may occasionally let the small feces drop through.
• Available in the standard silver color with a silver handle. Backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment.
• A socially responsible manufacturer that donates a portion of profits to the local animal rescues and spade and neuter programs.

Detail Review:

If you are looking for a litter scoop that can reduce the strain on your back and knees, then you will have to think beyond the traditional cat litter scoop and look at a long-handle litter scoop like the Purrr-Fect Standing Litter Scoop. This multi-purpose cat litter scoop with a shovel-style design is an ideal choice for pet owners with arthritis or sore back.

The Purrr-Fect Standing Litter Scoop features a heavy-duty polymer ABS-plastic scoop and handle with a powder-coated steel shaft extender. The polymer plastic used for the scoop is pretty sturdy and durable. The scoop is proudly designed and manufactured in the US.

What makes this long-handle scoop a perfect standing litter scoop is its patented design with a unique rectangular scoop basket and integrated, shovel-style D-grip. This design provides maximum convenience and power while scooping at any angle, whether you are scooping standing up or sitting down. The scoop basket design with a low profile on the front like a standard shovel that allows you to use the scoop for scraping as well.

A 35″ long non-retractable handle provides enough clearance from the dust and odor of the litter box while exerting minimum strain on your body. The scoop has a unique slit pattern with 0.25″ wide openings on the front and 0.375″ openings on the back. Because of large openings, the scoop can work with clumping as well as some types of pellet or crystal litter.

The scoop is especially suitable for multi-cat homes wherein a couple of cats share an oversized litter tray. The only drawback of the wider 6+ mm slits is that it may occasionally let the small clumps of waste drop through the scoop, though with a little bit of practice, you can overcome this limitation.

The Purrr-Fect Standing Litter Scoop is available in the standard silver color and backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment by the manufacturer. The manufacturer is a socially responsible organization and donates a portion of profits to the local animal rescues and spade and neuter programs.

iPrimio Cat Litter Scooper with Holder

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Type & Material: Cast Aluminum scoop with non-stick coating and poly-vinyl synthetic rubber handle. Aluminum hanger.
Specifications:

• Overall size: 13.25″ x 5.0″ x 1.75″.
• Scoop size: 5.0″ x 5.5″ x 1.75″.
• Scoop hole/slit/opening: 162″ – 0.170″ (4mm).
• Weight: 9.6 oz.

Price: $$.
Features:

• Heavy-duty, standard metal cat litter scoop with a high-quality, rust-resistant and waterproof, non-stick coated aluminum body, and poly-vinyl synthetic rubber handle. Made in China for the Michigan, US-based company, manufacturer of the popular iPrimio Cat Litter Trapper Mat.
• Features a generously-sized, 5″ wide and 1.75″ deep scoop basket to collect maximum litter in a single sift. A wide, superfine scraping edge allows thorough cleanup and convenient reach in the corners.
• Works best with clumping litter (4 mm to 5 mm thick) and cat litter boxes of all shapes and sizes. Superfine 4mm wide slits hold almost all feces and only let the clean litter to pass through. But smaller holes means that it cannot be used with crystal or pellet litter or coarse clumping litter.
• Comes with an aluminum hanger that can be attached to the wall or litter box using the included 3M double-sided tape.
• Available in the standard non-stick Teflon black color combination. The manufacturer also offers a silver color scoop and hanger
• Backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed or money back commitment by the manufacturer throughout the product lifetime.

Litter Lifter Cat Litter Scoop

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Type & Material: Heavy-duty Polycarbonate-ABS plastic scoop and handle.
Specifications:

• Overall size: 13.75″ x 4.9″ x 1.0″.
• Scoop hole/slit/opening: 0.1875″ (4.8 mm).
• Weight: 4.0 oz.

Price: $.
Features:

• High-quality, sift-free cat litter scoop with a sturdy heavy-duty Polycarbonate-ABS plastic construction. Made in the US.
• Designed to stand up to heavy messes with a curved shape, scraping edge, no-sift, peaked blades and long, sturdy handle.
• Requires minimal sifting because of the uniquely-sloped, triangular-shaped tines, that slide under the clumps to pick the waste and leave out the clean litter. More efficient litter segregation allows the scoop basket to be shallower, longer and easier to handle.
• Works best with clumping litter (4 mm to 5 mm thick) and medium and large litter trays and boxes. Requires only 2 to 3 sweeps per cleaning and proven to save about 10 minutes per cleanup.
• Available in over ten assorted colors but any available is shipped without a choice on selection.
• Competitively priced and offers great value-for-money. Backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment by the manufacturer. The manufacturer also offers a lighter, travel-friendly scoop model

CO-Z Cat Litter Scoop Sifter

Type & Material: Aluminum alloy scoop surface with poly-vinyl synthetic rubber handle.
Specifications:

• Overall size: 14.0″ x 5.5″ x 1.67″.
• Scoop size: 6.0″ x 5.5″ x 1.6″.
• Scoop hole/slit/opening: 0.196″ (5.0 mm).
• Weight: 8.0 oz.
• A non-stick Teflon model is also available.

Price: $ to $$ depending upon the model.
Features:

• Traditional cat litter scoop with a heavy-duty, rust and waterproof aluminum alloy body and poly-vinyl synthetic rubber handle. Made in China.
• Features a generously-sized and 1.6″ deep scoop basket to collect maximum litter in a single sift. 5.5″-wide scraping edge allows convenient reach into the corners.
• Bigger meshed area (about 10% more) and deep scoop basket with ergonomic handle grip provide higher efficiency while scooping.
• Works best with clumping litter (4 mm to 5 mm thick) and cat litter boxes of all shapes and sizes. Features a scoop hanging hole in the handle to attach to a holder.
• Available in three colors – blue, grey and non-stick Teflon black. Backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment by the manufacturer.

Scrape N Scoop Litter Box Scoop with Clump Remover

Type & Material: Polycarbonate-ABS plastic scoop and scraper.
Specifications:

• Overall size: 13.8″ x 3.1″ x 5.3″.
• Scoop hole/slit/opening: 0.24″ (6.0 mm).
• Weight: 6.1 oz.

Price: $$.
Features:

• Unique, 2-in-1 cat litter box scooper and scraper with a high-quality Polycarbonate-ABS plastic construction.
• Patented design with a regular litter scoop on one side and a scraper on the other side to scrape away the stuck-on clumps from the hard-to-reach corners. Recommended to scrape first and then scoop the waste.
• Features a sure grip, durable handle with an ergonomic grip for both scooper and scraper. Comes with a scoop hanging hole in the handle to attach to a holder.
• Works best with clumping litter (4 mm to 5 mm thick) and medium to large cat litter boxes of all shapes. However, wider – 6mm holes may let the small feces drop through.
• Available in two colors – blue and grey and backed by a 30-day hassle-free money back guarantee.

Maison La Queue Cat Litter Scoop and Base

Type & Material: Polycarbonate-ABS plastic scoop and caddy.
Specifications:

• Overall size: 9.25″ x 4.5″ x 2.8″.
• Scoop size: 4.72″ x 4.5″ x 2.6″.
• Scoop hole/slit/opening: 0.2″ (5.0 mm) approx.
• Weight: 4.125 oz. scoop, 8.2 oz.

Price: $$$.
Features:

• Elegant and durable cat litter scoop and caddy combo with a 100% recyclable Polycarbonate-ABS plastic construction. Designed and manufactured in Los Angeles, USA.
• Smart, minimalist design features a V-shaped scoop bottom ensures a perfect fit and elegant look when the scoop is placed in the base.
• The unique patented design of the handle reinforces the connection point between the scoop and handle for maximum durability and unbreakable strength while in use.
• Works best with clumping litter (4 mm to 5 mm thick) and cat litter boxes of all shapes and sizes.
• Available in two colors – black and white and backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment.
• Comes in an eco-friendly packaging. The manufacturer contributes a portion of the sales to Los Angeles Animal Services and other rescue groups.

Neater Scooper Cat Litter Sifter Scoop

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Type & Material: Heavy-duty Polycarbonate plastic scoop and waste-bin. Plastic, non-biodegradable waste-bin bags.
Specifications:

• Overall size: 11.7″ x 5.9″ x 5.6″.
• 2″ wide trap door.
• Scoop hole/slit/opening: 0.2″ (5.0 mm) approx.
• Weight: 17.0 oz.
• 60 waste bin bags.

Price: $$.
Features:

• Innovative cat litter box scooper that combines scooping and bagging in a quick and easy single-hand operation. Eliminates the need to touch soiled litter bags. Made in the US.
• Features a unique design that has a scooper with a convenient waste bin attached to it with an automatic opening and closing 2″ wide trap door.
• Comes with 15, 60 or 195 lightly scented waste bags with tie handles for convenient storage and disposal of litter waste. However, it does not seal odors like a cat waste disposal system like Litter Genie.
• The waste-bin can also act as a caddy and the scoop can also be placed upside down in the bin.
• Most suitable for a single or two-cat home. The waste bin can store 1-2 days of litter waste at a time.
• Available in five vibrant color combinations. Backed by a 30-day money back guarantee and a three-year manufacturer warranty post that.

Petmate Booda Scoop’N Hide Litter Scoop

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Type & Material: Polycarbonate-ABS plastic scoop and caddy.
Specifications:

• Overall size: 14.25″ x 6.5″ x 6.0″.
• Scoop size: 12.5″ x 6.0″ x 6.0″.
• Scoop hole/slit/opening: 0.196″ (5.0 mm) approx.
• Weight: 7.0 oz.

Price: $.
Features:

• Cheap, space-saving cat litter scoop and caddy combo with a 100% recyclable Polycarbonate-ABS plastic construction. Designed and manufactured in the US.
• Features a deep-bucket scoop that saves time by collecting large amounts at once. Built-in rake provides a more efficient way to scrape soiled litter from the box.
• Sleek, patented containment unit provides a designated place to store the litter scoop conveniently and discreetly.
• Works best with clumping litter (4 mm to 5 mm thick) and cat litter boxes of all shapes and sizes with its adaptable design.
• Available in four color combinations – brushed nickel, titanium, white and blue and backed by a 30-day hassle-free money back guarantee.

Nature’s Miracle Litter Scoop and Caddy

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Type & Material: Polycarbonate-ABS plastic scoop and caddy.
Specifications:

• Overall size: 11.0″ x 6.5″ x 4.0″.
• Scoop size: 11.0″ x 6.4″ x 3.5″.
• Scoop hole/slit/opening: 0.22″ (5.5 mm) approx.
• Weight: 5.0 oz. scoop, 1.0 lbs. total approx.

Price: $.
Features:

• 2-in-1 durable cat litter scoop and caddy combo with a Polycarbonate plastic body having an antimicrobial coating to minimize odor build-up. Made in China.
• Deep and wide scoop with a smooth surface and flat edges allow convenient sifting and scooping. Built-in, flat rake edge provides an efficient medium to remove soiled litter from the corners and difficult-to-reach places.
• Works best with clumping litter (4 mm to 5 mm thick) and cat litter boxes of all shapes and sizes. Because of the wider slits, small feces and clumps may fall through, so most suitable for regular-grain clumping litter and adult cats.
• Available in a standard black color and backed by a 30-day hassle-free money back guarantee and a one-year manufacturer warranty post that.
• Competitively priced and cheaper than most other scoop and caddy combos.

Sand Dipper Jr Long Handle Cat Litter Scoop

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Type & Material: Stainless-steel scoop basket with an aluminum shaft and hard-plastic grip.
Specifications:

• Overall size: 27.5″ x 4.0″ x 4.0″.
• Scoop size: 4.0″ x 4.0″ x 2.0″.
• Scoop hole/slit/opening: 0.25″ (6.3 mm) metal sieve pores.
• Weight: 11.2 oz.
• A square-shaped Sand Dipper Square Cat Scoop is also available.

Price: $$.
Features:

• Multi-purpose, long-handle cat litter scoop with a marine-grade stainless-steel basket, lightweight aluminum ski-pole technology pole, and a secure hard-plastic handle. Designed and manufactured in the US.
• Originally designed for beachcombing, this extra-long back-saver litter scoop makes litter clean-up more hygienic and prevents inhalation of harmful litter dust.
• Features an extra-long 27″ reach with an oversized plastic handle grip. The round scoop basket provides a decent bucket to store feces while scooping. Comes with a wrist-loop for a secure grip and easy hanging when not in use.
• The standard version comes in two parts and is not retractable, meaning the height is not adjustable. A costlier, Sand Dipper Jr. Adjustable scoop with a retractable handle is also available from the same manufacturer. In addition, the manufacturer also offers a square-shaped Sand Dipper Square Cat Scoop.
• Works best with clumping litter (4mm to 6mm thick grains) and medium and large open cat litter boxes. Wider – 6+ mm holes may let the small feces drop through.
• Available in a variety of pole color combinations and backed by a one-year, no questions asked, replace or money back guarantee against manufacturing defects.

Imperial Cat Neat ‘n Tidy Litter Scoop

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Type & Material: Chrome-plated steel wire scoop with poly-vinyl handle.
Specifications:

• Overall size: 20″ x 6.5″ x 4.0″.
• Scoop size: 6.0″ x 4.0″ x 1.6″.
• Scoop hole/slit/opening: 0.375″ (9.5 mm).
• Weight: 7.2 oz.

Price: $$.
Features:

• Lightweight long-handle cat litter scoop with a sturdy chrome-plated steel wire scoop basket and poly-vinyl coated handle. Made in China for the US-based company.
• Extra-long 18″ handle reduces back and knee-strain while scooping the litter box. Unique rectangular scoop basket design with a low profile on the front like a standard short-handle scoop allows using as a long-handle scraper for the litter box.
• Versatile and can also be used as a rake for the wood stoves or fireplace.
• Especially suitable for multi-cat homes. Because of large openings, it works well with clumping as well as pellet litter and all cat litter boxes. However, wider – 6+ mm holes/slits may let the small feces drop through.
• Available in the standard silver color with a brown handle. Backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment.

New Pet Age Scoopy Cat Litter Scoop with Holder

Type & Material: Polycarbonate-ABS plastic scoop holder and scoop.
Specifications:

• Overall size: 15.0″ x 6.5″ x 7.0″.
• Scoop size: 7.0″ x 5.0″ x 3.5″.
• Scoop hole/slit/opening: 0.25-0.3″ (6-7 mm) approx.
• Weight: 1.5 lbs. total approx.

Price: $$$.
Features:

• Smart-looking 2-in-1 durable cat litter scoop holder and scoop combo with a Polycarbonate plastic body with an antimicrobial coating. Made in China.
• Features an elegant design long necked Siamese hides the scoop away and is attractive enough to be used anywhere in the house.
• Standard plastic scoop with a smooth surface and large square-mesh holes with flat edges for convenient sifting and scooping.
• Works best with large-grain clumping and non-clumping pellet and crystal litter (5mm to 6 mm thick grains). Because of the wider slit, small clumps may fall through the scoop.
• Because of the neck width and design, the holder can fit any standard-size plastic scoop (most metal scoops are 5.5″ wide) up to 5″ wide, 5-6″ deep and 12-13″ long.
• Available in a standard black color and backed by a 30-day hassle-free money back guarantee and a one-year manufacturer warranty post that. Also available in white color.

Best cat litter scoops for non-clumping litter

Most of our picks for the best cat litter scoop work best for standard, clay-based clumping litter which have a small holes and slits.

However, if you are looking for a cat litter scoop for non-clumping or special type of litter – pellet litter, bead or pebble litter, you need a scoop with large-enough holes or slits to let the bigger granules to pass through.

If you are looking for such a scoop, you can check some of the best cat litter scoops for pellet and bead litter below:

• Imperial Cat Neat ‘n Tidy Litter Scoop: Lightweight cat litter scoop with chrome-plated steel wire scoop basket and poly-vinyl coated, metal wire handle. Large 6+ mm slits makes it suitable for used with pellet litter.
• Skoon Pooper Skooper: A set of two plastic scoopers with large openings to allow pebbles to pass through. Non-stick and comfortable with anti-scatter sides and no-sift peaked blades.
• Catit Cat Litter Scoop: Another popular cat litter scoop with over-sized holes that permit the litter to sift through easily, while still retaining the debris. Suitable for pebble and wood litter.
• New Pet Age Scoopy Cat Litter Scoop with Holder: Smart-looking cat litter scoop holder that comes with a uniquely-designed scoop with 5.5-6mm wide square mesh holes that would work well for most pellet and crystal litters. Available in black or white colors.

Additional options for sifting and scooping litter

If regular sifting and scooping using a standard cat litter scoop is not a comfortable activity for you and you are looking for some alternatives to still keep your kitty’s litter box clean then you can try out the following tools and products:

Sifting cat litter cleaners and liners

Some of the best cat litter sifters and litter box liners available in the market are listed below:

• SiftEase Litter Box Cleaner Litter Sifter: Innovative cat litter box sifting accessory that provides a convenient way to effectively separate and removing stinky cat litter waste clumps. Comes with a sifting basket (14.5″ x 10.5″ x 7″) to pour the soiled litter and a 24 qt. holding bin (14.5″ x 10.5″ x 15″) for the clean litter to sift through. Works with any type of litter box.
• Alfapet Kitty Cat Sifting Litter Box Liners: The original sifting litter box liners with a partially-recycled High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) construction. Features 1.0 mil. thick, 3-ply bags with holes to trap the dirty litter, allowing only clean litter to sift through. Daily sifting using the liners helps in extending the life of the litter by up to 50-percent and keep the litter box cleaner. Work best with clumping litter. Comes in pack size of 10 sifting liners and one solid litter box liner with securing rubber band to act as the base liner for clean litter.
• Imperial Cat Neat’n Tidy Sifting Litter Box Liners: Another set of popular sifting litter box liners with 10-20% recycled plastic resin construction. Made in the US. Feature 1.0 mil. thick plastic bags with wo solid litter box liners that act as the base liners for clean litter. Work best with clumping litter. The pack includes 28 sifting liners and two solid liners. Can last for the whole month.

For more cat litter box liner options, you can check our article on the best cat litter box liners.

Sifting cat litter boxes

Sifting cat litter boxes are another convenient cat litter trays that do not require a lot of scooping and cleaning. Such litter boxes essential consist of a sifting pan to separate solid waste from clean litter, and one or two solid bottom pans to let the clean and dry litter to pass.

Some of the best sifting cat litter boxes available in the market are listed below:

• SpeedySift Cat Litter Box: Best-selling easy-sift cat litter solution with a high-sided 100% corrugated plastic construction. Comes with a heavy-duty plastic pan, sifting top and innovative offset-stacked liners – 14 sifting lines and a no-hole liner to minimize urine leakage and litter from falling to the bottom. Designed and patented in the US.
• Pet Mate Arm & Hammer Large Sifting Litter Pan: Standard sifting cat litter box with a durable plastic body and a reinforced bottom. Treated with Microban for built in antimicrobial product protection. Includes two regular litter pans and a sifting pan to provide an efficient way to clean the cat’s litter box without a lot of scooping. Available in two color combinations and backed by a one-year warranty.
• Smart Cat Box Starter Kit: Patented, made in the US cat litter box starting kit with 1 litter box, 1 scoop and 4 lbs. 100% natural safflower seed litter. ABS plastic construction. Features an innovative design that allows the urine flows into a reservoir for urinalysis and/or easy disposal, while the solid waste stays in the litter box for scooping.

Cat Litter Scoop Holders and Caddy

One of the major challenges with cat litter scoop is to how to store one in a proper, smell-free way. Many cat litter boxes have a holder or hanger to store the cat litter scoop while some scoops also come with a caddy, hanger, or a litter scoop holder base. And most pet parents wrap their scoops in plastic bags such as trash bags, bread bags and so on.

Still, if you are looking for a more convenient universal cat litter scoop organizer, then you can check the following best cat litter scoop holder or caddy options:

• PetFusion 2-in-1 Universal Litter Scoop Holder: Innovative cat litter scoop holder with a 2-in-1 design with a universal holder that can house most standard sized litter scoops and a cleaning brush with silicone bristles to easily remove caked litter from the scoop. Waterproof, anti-microbial, non-toxic, and hypoallergenic.
• CatGuru New Premium Cat Litter Scoop Holder: Best-selling premium cat litter scoop holder with a elegant yet solid ABS plastic build. Comes with a removable silicone litter holder insert that can be removed and cleaned in running water. Available in two elegant finishes – black and white and backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment.
• SmartyKat Kitty Caddy Cat Litter Caddy: Another popular cat litter caddy and scoop holder with a 3-section modular container. Does not come with a litter trash can which is sold separately.

How to pick the best cat litter scoops?

With so many cat litter scoop options available in the market, picking the best cat litter scoop can sometimes be a challenging task. After all, you would like to have a kitty litter scoop that makes the task of scooping and sifting the litter box easy, not make it more difficult.

In addition to your budget, you need to keep a few factors in mind before picking the best cat litter scoop for your feline’s litter tray. These key factors are listed below.

Just remember, if you are uncertain as to which scoop to pick, simply pick one from our top picks – you would not be disappointed!

Also keep in mind that you might have to switch between a few different litter scoops before settling-in on the best kitty litter scoop for your needs. And it is anyway always a good idea to have an additional kitty litter scoop as a backup:

• Type of cat litter scoop
• Material and build quality
• Size of scoop and holes/slits
• Additional design features
• Additional features and considerations

Type of cat litter scoop

Before picking the specific cat litter scoop, you would need to think about the type of litter scoop you would like to opt for. There are basically three broad categories of cat litter scoops that you can pick from – standard (or traditional) cat litter scoops, long-handle or standing cat litter scoops and scoop and caddy combo.

Standard cat litter scoops are simple metal or plastic shovel scoops with a scoop basket, a scraping edge and a handle to hold and use the scoop. Most such scoops have a hole in the handle for hanging them after use.

If you are looking for a scoop which minimizes strains on your knee and back or are someone with medical conditions like arthritis, then you might want a scoop which has an extra-long handle which allows you to sift, scrape and scoop without bending. The Purrr-Fect Standing Litter Scoop is one such option.

Finally, if you are looking for a place to store the litter scoop discreetly after usage or do not have an option to hang one besides the litter box, then a scoop and caddy combo such as the Maison La Queue Cat Litter Scoop and Base would be a perfect choice.

Material and build quality

Once you have decided the type of cat litter scoop you would like to opt for, you need to look at the building material and build quality of the scoop. The material of the scoop is the most important criterion to consider as it governs the durability and effectiveness of these tools. This includes the material of the scoop basket, handle and shaft (for standing litter scoops).

Cat litter scoops are made of metal or plastic.

• Metal Cat Litter Scoops: Metal cat litter scoops are generally made of aluminum or stainless-steel or a variant of these two metals. These scoops have a smooth, shiny basket surface with slits or holes, a flat bottom, and superfine scraping edge. Some metal litter scoops also come with a non-stick Teflon coating. The handle of standard metal scoops has a hard plastic, EVA or poly-vinyl synthetic rubber grip for convenient operation. Long-handle cat litter scoops have an additional retractable or non-retractable aluminum or steel shaft to provide a longer reach to the scoop.
  Metal scoops are generally more durable, sturdy and work well with heavy clumps and hardened litter waste. They are also more hygienic because of the smooth, non-porous metal surface. Metal scoops are, however, costlier than plastic litter scoops.
  DurAnimals DuraScoop Cat Litter Scoop and iPrimio Cat Litter Scooper with Holder are two examples of popular metal cat litter scoops. Purrr-Fect Standing Litter Scoop is an example of a long-handle cat litter scoop.

• Plastic Cat Litter Scoops: The plastic cat litter scoops are made of BPA-free, partially-recycled (20%-50%) Polycarbonate-ABS plastic. Some plastic cat litter scoops are also impregnated with Microban or other anti-microbial and odor neutralizing materials that minimize the odors when the scoop is not in use. While these coatings last for about six months to a year, getting one which has such coatings would be a good idea.
  Plastic litter scoops are available in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. They are also generally lighter and cheaper than metal litter scoops. Finally, many plastic litter scoops also come with a storage bin or caddy for storing the scoop cleanly and discretely, away from everybody’s eyes. However, plastic scoops are not as sturdy as metal scoops and since plastic is a porous material, over-time, the pores in the surface of the scoop can harbor bacteria.
  Litter Lifter Cat Litter Scoop is a popular plastic cat litter scoop, while Maison La Queue Cat Litter Scoop and Base is an example of scoop and caddy combo.

So, depending upon your preferences, you can decide whether you would like to go with a plastic or metal cat litter scoop.

We recommend that if you are not looking for a long handle litter scoop or a scoop and caddy combo, you can opt for a metal cat litter scoop as your primary tool for sifting, scraping and scooping the litter box and a cheap plastic litter scoop as a backup.

Size of the cat litter scoop and holes/slits

You also need to take the size and weight of the scoop into consideration to pick one that will fit the type of litter box and litter that you use.

The sizing considerations can be broadly divided into the following dimensions:

• Overall size and weight: The overall size and weight of the scoop are important as you would prefer a scoop that has a long handle to keep you at a safe distance from the litter dust and still provide enough control on the sifting process. Standard scoops can be anywhere from 10″ long up to 15″ long and weigh from 5 ounces for plastic scoops up to 15 ounces for heavy-duty metal litter scoops. Long-handle scoops are longer with about 20″ – 35″ long shafts and also heavier.
• Size of scoop basket: The size of the scoop basket is also something to look at. A deeper scoop basket that is at least 4″ wide and 1.5″-2″ deep would be able to handle large and heavy clumps in a single scoop, thereby reducing the effort that you would need to make in cleaning the litter box. This can make a big difference especially if you have a multi-pet home.
• Size of the scoop handle: The length of the scoop handle and grip is also something to check out. Depending upon the size of your hand, you may want a small or big grip that is not too thin or too thick.
• Size of slits/holes/openings: The size of the slits or holes is also worth checking out as you would not want the litter waste to fall back in the litter box while sifting. At the same time, you would want the clean litter to fall through in the litter box. The openings of the scoop slits or holes vary from 0.196″ to 0.375″, so depending upon the type of litter you are using (superfine, fine or coarse clumping litter or litter pellets, crystals, etc.), you can pick the scoop with the appropriate opening size.

Check out the overall size, weight, and size of the holes or slits of the scoop before picking the best kitty litter scoop for your sifting and scooping needs. You can generally get a lot of information regarding sizing from the product details, reviews, and Q&A section of the product.

Additional design features

On the surface, cat litter scoops do not look much different from a small shovel with holes to sift through the litter and scoop the waste out.

But considering that you would need to use the scoop almost daily and sometimes multiple times during the day, there are some design features that you should look out for before picking the right scoop for your needs.

• Scoops with a round-shaped basket or aggressively-rounded edges cannot get into the corners of a rectangular litter box. A traditional litter scoop with rectangular or lightly-rounded edges would be preferable for such litter boxes.
• Scoops which have deep waste shovel baskets work really well in scooping more waste in a single cycle.
• If you have a kitty that likes to dig through the litter before doing its business, then you need a scoop with a scraper or at least a scraping edge to remove the dry waste that might accidentally get stuck to the bottom or side-walls of the litter box.
• In addition to the scoop basket, the handle of the scoop is also an important part. An ergonomic handle with a comfortable grip that fits your hand easily can go a long way in making the sifting and scooping a lot more convenient and quick.
• If you opt for a scoop that does not come with a caddy or storage bin, then it is important to pick a model that comes with a hole in the handle to hang it conveniently on the side of a litter box or a scoop holder.

Check all the above design features before picking the best litter scoop for your needs. In our list, we have listed models which would fulfill most of your scooping and sifting requirements. You can always opt for a couple of different types of cat litter scoops for your different needs.

Additional features and considerations

In addition to the major factors discussed above, there are a couple of other considerations that can make a purchase more attractive than the others.

The color combinations and design patterns in which a litter scoop (and/or caddy) is available is also something you might want to look at, though it would not affect the functioning of the scoop. The Litter Lifter Cat Litter Scoop is an excellent option in this regard as it is available in more than a handful of color combinations, giving you a lot of choices to pick from.

The easy availability of additional accessories such as compatible caddy or scoop holder, waste receptacles, etc. is also something to look at before picking the best litter scoop for your requirements.

Another important factor to check out is the warranty and after-sales support, if any, provided by the manufacturer. While cat litter scoops are not a very costly item, you should be able to return one if you are not satisfied with the product. And a scoop should last more than a few sifting and scooping sessions.

Most of the top manufacturers offer 30-day satisfaction guaranteed commitment on their products and one or multi-year warranties post that. Some manufacturers even offer free online support and consultations to help you with how to use the scoops. Our top picks – the DurAnimals DuraScoop Cat Litter Scoop and iPrimio Cat Litter Scooper with Holder score big in this category as they are backed by excellent warranties and an efficient and friendly customer support service.

Keep these other considerations in mind while picking the best cat litter scoop for your needs. And if you are in doubt, pick one from our top suggestions. You would not regret it!

Getting the most out of your cat litter scoop

Once you are armed with the best cat litter scoop, you need to ensure that you use it the right way to clean your kitty’s litter box. You can always find a lot of information online on the best ways to use a litter scoop with the type of litter and litter box that you use, all the techniques involve basically two steps:

• Step 1 – Scrape the litter box: Scrape the sides and bottom of the litter box with the scarper edge or a separate tool to loosen the clumps. Clumps loosen up easily and stay more intact for better scooping.
• Step 2 – Scoop the waste out: After scraping the litter box, use the scoop basket to simply collect up the clumps and other waste. The large clumps of the kitty waste would stay in the scoop while the clean litter would fall through to the litter box. Dispose of the waste as you normally do. Consider using a cat litter disposal system to minimize odors around the house.

Make sure the cat litter scoop is clean and dry before you use it. Many manufacturers list that their products are dishwasher safe. However, we do not recommend you washing a litter scoop in the dishwasher. Instead, wash with hand in running water. (The feline feces can contain bacteria and other infectious agents, such as Toxoplasma Gondi, the parasite that causes toxoplasmosis).

If you are using a metal litter scoop, you can use the cooking oil spray to keep the surface non-stick.

For more tips and tricks on how to properly clean your litter box, check the Wikihow’s article on the subject.

Final thoughts on the best cat litter scoops

Regular sifting and scooping of cat litter in the litter box is an unenjoyable but necessary activity for any indoor cat parent. And more the number of cats more frequently will you need to do this exercise. Having a high-quality cat litter scoop can be very helpful in making this activity hygienic and convenient.

In this article, we looked at some of these best cat litter scoops available in the market. We looked at all the major types of these scoops, the major characteristics and pros/cons of each type and the factors to consider before picking the best cat litter scoop (or scoops) for your needs. We also shared some of our recommended top picks.

We hope that you found this article useful and it would help you in picking the best kitty litter scoop as per your requirements and preferences. Do let us know your feedback and questions by commenting below. Until next time, have a playful spell with your beloved kitty!

Image credits:Amazon.com