Sodium bentonite gains ground as a premium cat litter standard

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Sodium bentonite cat litter is being positioned as a new performance benchmark in the category, according to a recent GlobalPETS report focused on Askana Terra, a Georgia-based manufacturer tied to Askangel Alliance. The company says high-montmorillonite, sodium-based “Wyoming-type” bentonite is gaining attention for faster clumping, stronger waste encapsulation, and more consistent odor control than lower-performing clay alternatives. Askangel says it has more than 20 million tons of reserves in Georgia, operates near the Port of Poti, launched a 3,500-square-meter packaged cat litter facility through Askana Terra in August 2025, and introduced its AskanaBent brand in March 2026 with plans for exports into Europe and nearby markets. (globalpetindustry.com)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals, the bigger takeaway isn’t just sourcing or private-label expansion. It’s that litter performance still shapes feline welfare, litter box compliance, and what pet parents experience at home. Cat-friendly guidance from AAHA/AAFP and ISFM/AAFP continues to favor unscented, clumping litter for many cats, especially because substrate preference can affect litter box avoidance and house-soiling risk. At the same time, low-dust performance matters, particularly for cats or people with respiratory sensitivity, so marketing claims around “premium” clay still need to be weighed against real-world dust, fragrance, and tolerance issues. (aaha.org)

What to watch: Watch whether Askana Terra’s supply-and-quality pitch translates into broader retail uptake, private-label partnerships, and more scrutiny of dust, fragrance, and safety claims in the clumping litter segment. (askangel.ge)