Sodium bentonite gains ground as cat litter makers chase performance

Sodium bentonite is getting renewed attention in the cat litter market, with GlobalPETS reporting that sodium-based gray bentonite, especially Wyoming-type clay with high montmorillonite content, is emerging as a performance benchmark because it absorbs more liquid and forms firmer clumps than lower-grade alternatives. The piece highlights Askana Terra, a Georgia-based supplier tied to Askangel Alliance, which has been expanding its cat litter activity, including packaged litter production launched in August 2025 and a consumer brand launch in March 2026. Industry context supports the broader claim: sodium bentonite’s swelling and gel-forming properties have long made Wyoming deposits a reference point for scoopable litter performance. (askangel.ge)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals, litter performance isn't just a retail story. Cats generally prefer fine-grained, unscented litter substrates, and reliable clumping can help pet parents keep boxes cleaner, which may support litter box compliance in the home. At the same time, any push toward clay-based premium litter keeps dust and respiratory tolerance in the conversation, especially for cats with asthma or other airway disease, since veterinary guidance has long flagged dusty litter and recent litter changes as potential irritants or triggers in some patients. (catvets.com)

What to watch: Watch whether manufacturers can pair stronger clumping sodium clays with consistently low-dust formulations, and whether European supply-chain positioning becomes a bigger competitive advantage in premium litter. (askangel.ge)