5 Must-Have Features in a Private Label Cat Litter

26 May.,2025

 

5 Expert Strategies to Win Big in the Pet Product Market

The pet product market is booming—but standing out in it is getting harder than ever. With pet ownership on the rise and more people treating their pets like family, the industry has exploded into a $150+ billion global market, expected to surpass $236 billion by (Grand View Research). That’s exciting news—but it also means fierce competition.

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From eCommerce platforms to retail shelves, thousands of pet products are fighting for attention every single day. Whether you’re launching your first SKU or looking to expand your existing lineup, blending in isn’t an option—you need to stand out to stay relevant and grow.

So how do you break through the noise and capture the hearts (and wallets) of modern pet parents?

In this guide, we’ll share 5 proven strategies to help you differentiate your pet brand, increase visibility, and build long-term success in the ever-growing pet care industry.

Let’s dive in and set your brand apart.

Strategy 1 – Start by Solving Real Problems in the Pet Product Market

In the pet product market, it’s easy to get distracted by every trending gadget or viral product. But the brands that truly win are the ones that solve real, everyday problems for pet parents—not just jump on the next shiny idea.

Before you invest in product development, ask yourself:

  • What frustrations do pet owners deal with daily?
  • How can your product make life easier, healthier, or more enjoyable for both pets and their humans?

The goal isn’t to add just another product to the shelf—it’s to create something that makes a real difference.

Real-World Example
Anyone can sell a basic pet feeder. But what if you go further?
Consider developing a smart automatic pet feeder (like Petrust® PF09 WiFi Pet Feeder with Camera) that:

  • Offers real-time app control so owners can feed their pets from anywhere
  • Features portion control to help prevent overeating and obesity
  • Sends feeding notifications to ensure pet parents never miss a meal

By focusing on health, convenience, and peace of mind, you transform an ordinary product into a must-have solution—and that’s how you build lasting value in the pet product market.

Strategy 2 – Investing in Functional Design to Win in the Pet Product Market

In today’s pet product market, good design isn’t a “nice to have”—it’s a must-have. Modern pet parents aren’t just shopping for functionality; they’re also looking for products that seamlessly blend into their homes, reflect their lifestyle, and feel thoughtfully made.

Whether it’s a smart pet feeder, smart cat litter box, or automatic pet water fountain, your product needs to perform well and look great doing it. That’s the sweet spot where utility meets desirability—and where purchase decisions are made.

How Good Design Impacts Buying Decisions in the Pet Product Market

  • Clean, modern aesthetics instantly boost perceived value and trust.
  • User-friendly interfaces (think: intuitive buttons, smooth app controls) reduce friction and keep customers coming back.
  • Premium packaging and branding help position your product as high-quality and gift-worthy—key for both online and retail success.

Remember, you’re not just designing for pets—you’re designing for the humans who shop for them.

Need design inspiration?
Check out our expert guide: Pet Brand Packaging Design Tips for to learn how to create product and packaging that truly stands out on the shelf—and earns a place in your customers’ homes.

Strategy 3 – Leveraging Smart Technology to Lead the Pet Product Market

Smart technology isn’t just a trend—it’s transforming the pet product market and reshaping what pet owners expect from the brands they trust.

According to Research and Markets, the global pet tech market is projected to reach USD 17.25 billion by , fueled by the growing demand for intelligent products like automated feeders, GPS trackers, and health-monitoring wearables.

Why Smart Features Matter in the Pet Product Market

Today’s pet parents aren’t just looking for products—they’re looking for connected solutions that give them more control, insight, and peace of mind.


Here’s what they expect from top-performing smart pet products:

  • Remote control via mobile apps – Feed, monitor, or interact with pets from anywhere in the world.
  • Real-time health tracking – Monitor weight, behavior, and activity to support proactive pet care.
  • Instant notifications – Stay updated on feeding times, water levels, litter box status, or unusual behavior.

How to Leverage Data and Connectivity to Stand Out in the Pet Product Market

It’s not just about adding tech for the sake of it. Smart pet products give you a way to keep customers engaged long after they buy by providing ongoing insights and updates through app-connected experiences.

By integrating features like:

  • Smart sensors to track usage or health metrics
  • Data dashboards that help owners understand their pets better
  • Cloud connectivity to push updates or personalize user experiences

You build not just a product, but a long-term relationship with your customers—turning one-time buyers into loyal brand advocates.

Ready to Stay Ahead of the Curve?
Get inspired by exploring the Top Pet Product Trends in and see how technology is shaping the next generation of pet care.

Strategy 4 – Offering Customization to Meet B2B Demands in the Pet Product Market

If your goal is to win B2B clients—whether they’re retailers, distributors, or private label brands—flexible customization isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s a must-have. B2B buyers aren’t looking for off-the-shelf solutions. They want products they can truly make their own—from branding to packaging to functionality.

At Petrust®, we understand what B2B buyers need to stay competitive in the pet product market, which is why we specialize in:

  • Custom colors, materials, and finishes that align with your brand’s style
  • Private labeling with your logo, messaging, and market positioning
  • Flexible packaging and full branding support to create a retail-ready experience

Meeting B2B Buyer Expectations in the Pet Product Market

Buyers are looking for:

  • Low MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities) to make it easier for smaller brands or new product launches
  • Quick production and delivery timelines to keep up with market demand
  • End-to-end OEM & ODM services that eliminate the need for large upfront investments in R&D

Want to Learn More?
Explore how Petrust’s OEM & ODM Services are designed to help growing pet brands bring fully customized products to market quickly and affordably—without compromising on quality.

Strategy 5 – Building a Brand Story That Resonates in the Pet Product Market

In today’s pet product market, customers aren’t just buying products—they’re buying into brands they believe in. Pet parents want to feel good about the choices they make for their furry family members. That means who you are as a brand is just as important as what you sell.

Whether your mission is to promote pet wellness, lead in eco-friendly solutions, or drive smart innovation in pet care, sharing that story helps you create emotional connections that build trust and loyalty over time.

Here’s Where to Tell Your Brand Story:

  • Your Website & Product Packaging – Communicate your mission, values, and the “why” behind your products.
  • Social Media & Customer Emails – Share real stories, customer success, and behind-the-scenes moments to humanize your brand.
  • Trade Show Booths & Sales Presentations – Use live events and meetings to showcase your expertise and passion for pet care.

Need a little help getting started?
Check out 6 Easy Steps to Start Your Pet Business for practical tips on building a brand story that truly connects with modern pet owners.

Key Takeaways for Succeeding in the Competitive Pet Product Market

Success in today’s crowded pet product market isn’t about having “just another product”—it’s about building something that truly connects with your customers and keeps them coming back for more. Here’s what sets winning brands apart:

Focus on Solving Real Problems

Don’t fall into the trap of chasing short-lived trends. The best products address real challenges—like keeping pets healthy, safe, and happy while making life easier for their owners.

Prioritize Functional, User-Friendly Design

Great design isn’t just about looks. It’s about usability, safety, and convenience—features that make your product stand out in everyday life.

Use Smart Technology to Add Real Value

Integrate tech features that matter—like app control, health tracking, or smart notifications. These aren’t just gimmicks—they’re solutions that enhance the pet parent experience.

Offer Customizable OEM/ODM Solutions for B2B Buyers

Make it easy for your partners to personalize your products with their own branding, colors, packaging, and features. Customization creates more value for them—and for you.

Craft a Brand Story That Connects

Products may catch attention, but stories build loyalty. Share your mission, values, and the passion behind your brand to create an emotional connection with your audience.

Ready to Create Your Next Best-Seller in the Pet Product Market?

If you’re looking to stand out and scale in the pet product market, you’re in the right place. At Petrust®, we’ve spent the past 12+ years helping pet brands worldwide turn ideas into top-selling products—built for both performance and market appeal.

With a 230,000㎡ production base, low MOQ flexibility, and a proven track record at major pet industry events like CES , Global Pet Expo , Interpets Tokyo , Canton Fair , Global Sources Hong Kong Show , ZooMark International , and more, we’re more than just a supplier—we’re your strategic OEM/ODM partner.

Whether you’re launching your first product or expanding your lineup, we’re here to help you differentiate, customize, and scale—with the speed and reliability your business needs to stay ahead.

Cat Litter Clumping vs Non Clumping: Ultimate Guide for Businesses

Choosing between cat litter clumping vs non-clumping is a key decision for anyone looking to launch or expand a cat litter brand.

Both types offer unique benefits, but which one is the best fit for your business?

Many businesses face two common challenges: balancing costs while offering a product that appeals to evolving consumer preferences, and selecting a litter type that aligns with their brand's environmental or convenience-focused values.

Navigating these decisions can be daunting, but offering the right type of cat litter could lead to higher margins, increased customer loyalty, and stronger market differentiation.

Consider these statistics:

  • 70% of cat litter sales worldwide are for clumping litter, largely due to its convenience and superior odor control.
  • 35% of cat owners prefer eco-friendly options like biodegradable litter, reflecting a growing trend toward sustainable products.

For private label brands, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of both clumping and non-clumping litters, as well as the growing demand for sustainability, is essential in making the right decision for your product line.

Whether you're targeting budget-conscious consumers or premium eco-friendly markets, choosing the right cat litter will shape your brand's success in and beyond.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Lordship.

Clumping Cat Litter Types: Overview and Detailed Introduction

When choosing between clumping and non-clumping cat litter, it's important for private label brands to understand the different types of each.

Each type of clumping litter has unique characteristics that impact ease of use, cost, and environmental friendliness.

Below is a breakdown of the main types of clumping cat litter that brands should consider.

1.

What is Bentonite Cat Litter?

Bentonite clay is one of the most common materials used in clumping cat litter. It's a type of absorbent clay that swells when it comes into contact with moisture, forming solid clumps around the waste. This makes it easy to scoop and clean.

How Does It Work?

When a cat uses the litter box, the moisture from urine or feces causes the bentonite clay to bind together, forming tight clumps. These clumps trap moisture and odor, allowing cat owners to remove just the clumped areas, leaving the rest of the litter clean.

Pros:

  • Strong clumping action: Easy to scoop and keeps the litter box clean.
  • Excellent odor control: The clay absorbs both liquid and odors effectively.
  • Affordable: Bentonite is widely available and relatively inexpensive to produce.
  • Highly absorbent: The litter can handle a large volume of waste without becoming saturated quickly.

Cons:

  • Dusty: Some bentonite litters can be dusty, which might cause respiratory issues for sensitive cats or humans.
  • Not eco-friendly: Bentonite clay is mined and not biodegradable, making it less sustainable than other types.
  • Tracking: The fine granules can stick to a cat's paws, leading to litter being tracked around the house.
  • Heavy: Bentonite cat litter is the heaviest litter, which may cause replacement and routine maintenance laborious

2.

What is Tofu Cat Litter?

Tofu cat litter is made from soybean by-products, making it an environmentally friendly option. It clumps naturally when exposed to moisture and is a renewable resource that breaks down quickly, offering a green alternative to traditional litters.

How Does It Work?

Tofu litter absorbs moisture and forms soft, scoopable clumps when the cat urinates. These clumps can be easily removed, leaving the rest of the litter clean. It’s also biodegradable, so it can be flushed or composted.

Pros:

  • Eco-friendly: Made from plant-based materials, tofu litter is biodegradable and flushable.
  • Low dust: Tofu litter is nearly dust-free, which is healthier for both cats and humans.
  • Soft on paws: The texture is softer than clay, making it comfortable for cats.
  • Good clumping: It forms solid clumps that are easy to scoop.
  • Odor control: Neutralizes odors effectively, even without added fragrances.

Cons:

  • More expensive: Tofu litter is often pricier than bentonite clay.
  • Clump firmness: The clumps are softer compared to bentonite, so they may break apart more easily when scooping.

3.

What is Corn-Based Cat Litter?

Corn-based cat litter is made from ground corn and is another plant-based, biodegradable option. It clumps naturally and offers a sustainable alternative to clay-based litters.

How Does It Work?

Corn-based litter absorbs moisture and forms clumps around the waste, similar to clay-based litters. The clumps can then be easily scooped out. Corn fibers are naturally absorbent, making it an effective option for cat owners looking for an eco-friendly product.

Pros:

  • Biodegradable: Made from renewable materials, corn-based litter can be composted.
  • Lightweight: It’s lighter than traditional clay litter, making it easier to handle and transport.
  • Good odor control: Corn naturally neutralizes odors, helping to keep the litter box fresh.
  • Low dust: Corn-based litters are typically less dusty than clay litters.

Cons:

  • Price: It tends to be more expensive than clay-based litters.
  • Attracts pests: Because it’s made from corn, it can attract insects or rodents if stored improperly.
  • Clump strength: Clumps may not be as firm as those made by clay, making it slightly harder to scoop.

4.

What is Wheat-Based Cat Litter?

Wheat-based cat litter is made from ground wheat. It's another biodegradable option, popular among environmentally conscious consumers. Wheat's natural enzymes help neutralize odors, and the starch in wheat creates clumps when exposed to moisture.

How Does It Work?

When a cat urinates, the wheat’s starch forms soft clumps around the moisture. These clumps can be easily removed from the box. Additionally, the natural enzymes help to break down odors, keeping the litter box fresh.

Pros:

  • Biodegradable: Like tofu and corn, wheat litter is compostable and flushable.
  • Natural odor control: The enzymes in wheat help to control smells without the need for added chemicals or fragrances.
  • Low dust: Wheat litter creates minimal dust, reducing respiratory issues for both cats and owners.
  • Eco-friendly: It's made from renewable materials.

Cons:

  • Weaker clumping: The clumps may not be as firm as traditional clumping litters, leading to potential messiness when scooping.
  • Price: Often more expensive than other clumping litters.
  • Less availability: Not as easy to find in many regions compared to traditional clay-based or tofu litters.

5.

What is Clumping Paper Cat Litter?

Clumping paper litter is made from recycled paper fibers, but unlike traditional non-clumping paper litter, it is engineered to form clumps when it comes into contact with moisture. This eco-friendly option is often chosen by cat owners who want a biodegradable, sustainable litter without sacrificing convenience.

How Does It Work?

Clumping paper litter uses specially treated paper that binds together when it absorbs moisture, creating scoopable clumps similar to those formed by clay-based litters. It's soft on a cat's paws and provides a lightweight option for cat owners, while still being eco-friendly.

Pros:

  • Eco-friendly: Made from recycled paper, it's biodegradable and compostable. A brilliant sustainable choice.
  • Clumping action: Provides the convenience of easy scooping, similar to traditional clumping litters.
  • Soft on paws: Paper litter is soft and lightweight, making it a great option for kittens or cats with sensitive paws.
  • Low dust: Paper litter tends to be dust-free, reducing respiratory issues for both cats and humans.
  • Odor control: Treated paper can provide decent odor absorption, often enhanced with baking soda or activated carbon.

Cons:

  • More expensive: Clumping paper litter is often pricier than non-clumping versions due to the additional processing required to give it clumping properties.

Non-Clumping Cat Litter Types: Overview and Detailed Introduction

Non-clumping litters are still popular among certain consumers, particularly for their affordability and low-maintenance requirements.

Here are the most common types of non-clumping litters available for private labels:

1.

What is Crystal Cat Litter?

Crystal cat litter is made from silica gel, a synthetic material that absorbs moisture without forming clumps. It's known for its long-lasting odor control and ability to absorb large amounts of liquid.

How Does It Work?

Silica gel absorbs moisture on contact, trapping it inside the crystals and allowing the litter to stay dry on the surface. This keeps the litter box odor-free for extended periods. Instead of forming clumps, the crystals slowly become saturated and need to be replaced after a few weeks.

Pros:

  • Excellent odor control: Silica gel absorbs and neutralizes odors effectively.
  • Low maintenance: Can last up to a month without needing a full change, depending on the number of cats.
  • Dust-free: Virtually no dust, making it a cleaner option for homes.
  • Lightweight: Easy to handle and transport.
  • Health-Monitoring Function: Some crystal cat litter is integrated with health monitoring function, which is very popular among pet owners.

Cons:

  • Expensive: Crystal litter is one of the more costly options.
  • Non-biodegradable: Silica gel is not environmentally friendly.

2.

What is Paper-Based Cat Litter?

Paper-based cat litter is made from recycled paper, usually in the form of pellets or granules. It's an eco-friendly, non-clumping alternative that is soft on a cat's paws and lightweight.

How Does It Work?

This type of litter absorbs liquid but doesn't form clumps. The pellets or granules swell when wet, and they gradually break down. Since it doesn't clump, the entire litter box may need to be changed more frequently.

Pros:

  • Eco-friendly: Made from recycled paper, it's biodegradable and sustainable.
  • Soft on paws: The pellets are gentle, making it a good option for kittens or cats with sensitive paws.
  • Low dust: Creates little to no dust, helping to prevent respiratory issues.

Cons:

  • Frequent changes needed: Since it doesn't clump, the litter needs to be fully replaced more often.
  • Weak odor control: It's not as effective at neutralizing odors as clumping litter.
  • Price: More expensive than some other non-clumping options.

3.

What is Wood Pellet Cat Litter?

Wood pellet cat litter is made from compressed sawdust or wood shavings. It is usually made from pine wood. It's an all-natural, non-clumping option that's popular for its sustainability and natural odor control.

How Does It Work?

When wet, the pellets break down into sawdust, absorbing the moisture and reducing odors. The sawdust remains at the bottom of the box, while dry pellets stay on top. Regular removal of waste and a full litter change are necessary as the sawdust accumulates.

Pros:

  • Eco-friendly: Wood pellets are biodegradable and made from renewable resources.
  • Natural odor control: The wood naturally neutralizes odors.
  • Low dust: Minimal dust, making it a clean option for both cats and owners.
  • Affordable: Generally cheaper than other eco-friendly options like paper or crystal litter.

Cons:

  • Frequent changes required: Needs to be fully changed often due to the lack of clumping.
  • Tracking: The sawdust can stick to a cat’s paws, leading to litter being tracked around the home.
  • Texture: Some cats may not like the feel of wood pellets under their paws.

Clumping vs. Non-Clumping: Market Comparison for Private Label Businesses

For those in the private label cat litter industry, understanding the practical differences between clumping and non-clumping litters can help guide which product lines will suit your market and branding strategy.

Let's dive deeper into the aspects most important to businesses, such as cost, profit margins, and consumer preferences.

Cost and Margins

Clumping Cat Litters

Products like corn-based and tofu litter can be more expensive to produce, especially if the litter is enhanced with odor control additives or eco-friendly packaging.

However, they often have higher profit margins because of their popularity and demand.

Eco-friendly clumping options like tofu and corn litter can be priced higher due to their sustainability appeal.

Non-Clumping Cat Litters

Non-clumping options, especially traditional clay, are generally cheaper to produce.

But they may not generate as high of a profit margin due to lower market demand.

However, these can be positioned as value-oriented (for example, health monitoring crystal cat litter) or environmentally friendly (in the case of paper and wood pellet options).

Consumer Preferences

Clumping Cat Litter:

The majority of cat owners prefer clumping litter for its convenience and odor control.

This preference makes clumping litters more popular across many markets, giving them a larger share of the market and making them a safer investment for private labels.

Non-Clumping Cat Litter:

Non-clumping litters appeal to a niche market of cat owners who prioritize low cost, low maintenance, or sustainability.

For instance, crystal and wood pellet options attract customers looking for long-lasting odor control or eco-friendly solutions.

As sustainability becomes more of a focus, non-clumping eco-litters like wood and paper pellets have a growing market.

Environmental Impact

Clumping Cat Litters:

While traditional clumping litters like bentonite clay are not biodegradable, newer plant-based alternatives such as tofu or corn-based litter offer a more sustainable choice.

Brands aiming for eco-conscious consumers may prefer to focus on these alternatives to stand out.

Non-Clumping Cat Litters:

Many non-clumping litters, especially those made from recycled paper, wood pellets, or silica crystals, provide a more eco-friendly option.

These appeal to customers looking to minimize their environmental impact, and they can serve as a unique selling point for brands focused on sustainability.

Best Cat Litter Types for Private Label in

If you're launching or expanding a private label cat litter brand in , it's crucial to offer products that align with current market trends and consumer preferences. Here are the top 10 cat litter types—both clumping and non-clumping—that are expected to lead the market.

If you're on the hunt for the best private label cat litter manufacturers, this article could be a great resource for you: Top 10 Private Label Cat Litter Manufacturers in . It's packed with useful insights and a list of the top manufacturers for . I highly recommend checking it out!

  1. Crystal Cat Litter (Silica Gel)
    • Ease of Use: Long-lasting, no scooping required
    • Key Features: Superior odor control, low tracking
    • Integrations: Scented, colored crystals, or health monitoring function.
    • Support: Best for luxury, urban markets
  2. Tofu Cat Litter
    • Ease of Use: Clumps well, flushable
    • Key Features: Eco-friendly, low dust
    • Integrations: Can be scented or unscented, colored, or health monitoring function.
    • Support: Growing demand for plant-based products
  3. Paper-Based Non-Clumping Litter
    • Price: Affordable
    • Ease of Use: Soft, lightweight
    • Key Features: Recycled, minimal dust
    • Integrations: Compostable packaging
    • Support: Best for eco-focused and kitten markets
  4. Corn-Based Clumping Litter
    • Price: Higher than clay
    • Ease of Use: Good clumping, lightweight
    • Key Features: Biodegradable, renewable
    • Integrations: Fragrance or baking soda for odor control
    • Support: Ideal for green brands
  5. Mixed Clay and Plant-Based Clumping Litter
    • Price: Mid-range
    • Ease of Use: Good clumping with natural additives
    • Key Features: Reduced environmental impact
    • Integrations: Charcoal or baking soda for extra odor control
    • Support: Suitable for mid-range to premium markets
  6. Wood Pellet Non-Clumping Litter
    • Price: Inexpensive
    • Ease of Use: Low maintenance, absorbent
    • Key Features: Biodegradable, natural
    • Integrations: Organic or natural fragrance options
    • Support: Ideal for eco-friendly, budget markets
  7. Bentonite Clay Clumping Litter
    • Price: Affordable
    • Ease of Use: Simple, widely accepted
    • Key Features: Strong odor control, solid clumps
    • Integrations: Additives like charcoal for extra odor control
    • Support: High customer demand, familiar product
  8. Wheat-Based Clumping Litter
    • Price: Mid-range
    • Ease of Use: Good clumping, lightweight
    • Key Features: Renewable, low dust
    • Integrations: Blended with other natural fibers
    • Support: Appeals to health-conscious buyers
  9. Bamboo Clumping Litter
    • Price: Higher-end
    • Ease of Use: Excellent clumping, sustainable
    • Key Features: Natural, renewable
    • Integrations: Can be blended with other fibers for improved absorption
    • Support: Niche eco-friendly market
  10. Grass-Based Clumping Litter
    • Price: Higher-end
    • Ease of Use: Clumps quickly, biodegradable
    • Key Features: Lightweight, renewable
    • Integrations: Customizable with various scent options
    • Support: Perfect for eco-conscious consumers

Other Alternatives to Consider

For brands looking to offer more variety in their product lines, consider adding specialty alternatives to traditional clumping and non-clumping litters:

  • Biodegradable Wheat and Corn Blends: Combine the natural absorption of corn with the enzymatic odor control of wheat.
  • Scented Silica Gel: A luxury option with added fragrances like lavender or lemon.
  • Recycled Newspaper Litter: An ultra-soft option that’s ideal for kittens or cats recovering from surgery.
  • Natural Sand Litter: Made from finely ground materials that resemble sand, providing a natural feel for cats.

Conclusion

When deciding between clumping and non-clumping cat litter, it's essential for private label businesses to evaluate their target market and brand values.

While clumping litters—especially those made from bentonite, tofu, or corn—are favored for their ease of cleaning and odor control, non-clumping alternatives like wood pellet and crystal litter appeal to consumers focused on easy-maintenance and affordability.

Offering a range of cat litter types, from eco-friendly options like clumping paper and tofu to premium solutions like health monitoring silica gel, will help your brand cater to different market segments and ensure broader appeal.

By aligning your product offerings with current consumer trends, such as the increasing demand for sustainable, biodegradable options, you can build a profitable and competitive cat litter line.