Clumping clay litter usually carries more dust than tofu or pine, but processing matters greatly; intact granules with fewer fines release less dust.

Pouring and scooping are the dust peaks. Work in ventilation, pour slowly, and watch whether the cat sneezes or shakes its head repeatedly.

Fragranced deodorisers can irritate airways. Sensitive households should prefer unscented or low-scent formulas and keep the litter area ventilated.

If the cat coughs, has a runny nose or breathes audibly, see a vet for respiratory disease rather than only changing litter.