10 Best Silica Gel Cat Litters of 2022

Top 10. Snowball silica gel

Rating (2021): 4.39

133 reviews from resources were taken into account: Yandex.Market, OZON, Otzovik, Online Trade, SberMegamarket

Best price If the basic functions are adequately performed, this filler costs an order of magnitude cheaper than its analogues. The price is comparable to basic clumping solutions.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 345 rub. for 4 l

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• Country Russia
• Volume, l: 4
• Weight, kg: 2.5
• Granules: small, round
• Antibacterial: no
• Flavoring: no

Absorbent filler Snezhok is one of the best economical solutions. Buyers note the round shape of the granules and the absence of sharp corners. This way the cat will definitely not get hurt and will not refuse to use the toilet due to discomfort on its paws. Most of the inexpensive silica gel litter granules are transparent with a white tint, so it is easy to determine by eye not only the level of contamination, but also whether the cat is healthy. After all, many problems are primarily reflected in the cat's litter box. The filler can also be praised for its lack of dust and adequate performance of its main function - absorption. However, the smell only lasts for a few days and can stick to the paws, especially in long-haired breeds.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Smooth transparent crystals
• Doesn't generate dust
• Absorbs well

• Doesn't last too long
• Sticks to long fur

Let's compare the pros and cons

A detailed analysis of any composition can reveal a number of advantages and disadvantages. The weight of certain indicators is different for each owner. According to the majority, the disadvantages of silica gel are still insignificant or completely solvable.

Advantages:

• Due to the porous structure, they quickly and effectively absorb moisture and reliably retain it inside the granules.
• Completely absorb odor. Even after prolonged use, the cat litter box does not emit any odor.
• Pure granules change color when absorbing moisture. They may turn white or yellow. This property helps to track how much pure mixture is left. This makes it easier to understand when it is time to completely change the filling of the toilet.
• Does not have chemical activity and is not subject to combustion.
• Due to the synthetic composition, it does not rot or deteriorate in the fresh air.
• Gel granules do not stick to the animal's paws and fur. Due to the synthetic composition, it does not form dirt that a pet could spread around the apartment. And the special shape of the crystals prevents them from spilling out of the tray when your pet is digging.
• Silica gel does not get wet and does not stick to the tray. Cleaning the tray is very easy. Simply remove the used mixture and rinse the tray with running water.
• Silica gel filler must be changed 1-2 times a month. It is very convenient and economical.
• The aesthetic appearance of the composition attracts attention. Pleasant transparent pebbles with multi-colored crystals are pleasing to the eye.

Please remember that silica gel cat litter can absorb moisture from the air. Therefore, it is better to store it in a closed container.

Flaws:

• Not considered safe. Can be harmful if eaten by a curious pet. But you can choose a safe option.
• Makes a specific noise when an animal steps on the pellets with its paws. This may scare your pet away.
• Disposal method is household waste only. Flushing down the toilet is strictly prohibited.
• The cost is quite high, unlike wood and clay fillers.

For the gel filler to work effectively, it must be stirred every day. It is important that the liquid is distributed evenly throughout all granules.

Watch a video about choosing a silica gel filler in a store, a conversation with the manufacturer about product quality, a veterinarian’s opinion, and checking the properties of silica gel in the clinic:

Top 9. AromatiCat silica gel Diagnostic

Rating (2021): 4.57

45 reviews from resources were taken into account: Yandex.Market, OZON, Wildberries, SberMegamarket

Best for health monitoring Representative of unique diagnostic fillers. Thanks to pH indicators, it can detect signs of urolithiasis and other urinary tract diseases.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 350 rub. for 3 l

• Country: Russia (manufactured in China)
• Volume, l: 3
• Weight, kg: 1.3
• Granules: small, crushed
• Antibacterial: no
• Flavoring: no

This silica gel litter is designed to provide not only cleanliness and freshness in the toilet, but also help in monitoring the health of your beloved cat. Special colored indicator granules often indicate the need to contact a veterinarian long before your pet becomes unwell, which helps to take control of the situation in the early stages. This is especially true for the breeds most prone to urolithiasis, as well as sterilized and older cats. At the same time, the filler copes with basic tasks perfectly. According to reviews, AromatiCat does not generate dust, reliably blocks odors and absorbs better than a number of analogues. It is also quite economical, but is available only in 3-liter packages.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Absorbs well
• Reliably blocks odor
• No dust
• Economical

• No large packages
• May stick

Are there any disadvantages and contraindications?

Silica gel also has certain disadvantages, although most of them are not serious. When switching to such a filler, pet owners must take into account that it:

• dangerous for kittens if ingested, can cause stomach problems, so for small pets it is important to choose options marked as safe or natural analogues;
• cannot be flushed down the toilet due to the risk of clogging the sewer; disposal is possible only with household waste;
• you need to stir the silica gel every day, otherwise a puddle will form and the cat is unlikely to want to go there;
• hard crystals can injure your pet’s delicate paws;
• When moisture is absorbed, hissing and crackling occurs, which sometimes scares away the animal.

The disadvantages include the fact that such a filler is noticeably more expensive than the more common wood and clay ones, but it lasts for a long time, and the tray needs to be cleaned less often.

Silica gel fillers have both positive and negative sides, but the advantages still outweigh. With the help of such a product, you can not only keep your pet’s tray clean for a long period of time, but also monitor its health status if you choose a product with the appropriate composition. However, it is important to remember that even the use of silica gel with pH indicators does not eliminate the need for regular examinations by a veterinarian.

Top 8. CCKat silica gel

Rating (2021): 4.61

1178 reviews from resources were taken into account: Yandex.Market, OZON, IRecommend, Zoosphere, Wildberries

• Characteristics

  Average price: 805 rub. for 7.6 l

• Country: Russia (manufactured in China)
• Volume, l: 3.8 and 7.6
• Weight, kg: 1.6 and 3.05
• Granules: medium, mixed
• Antibacterial: yes
• Fragrance: fragrance-free, hypoallergenic

SiSiCat is a common cheap silica gel filler, available in almost every store. It features a recognizable design and quickly eliminates traces of a cat's presence in the toilet. It absorbs and locks in odor well, but not for very long. Requires more frequent replacement than more expensive competitors, especially if there are several cats in the house. In this case, it may stick to the paws and pull apart a little, but this can be easily fixed by placing a special mat under the toilet.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Inexpensive
• Locks in the smell
• Absorbs quickly
• Widely spread

• Sticks to paws
• Doesn't last long

Top 7. Nuzhnik, round silica gel

Rating (2021): 4.62

The safest form The granules are perfectly smooth and round. The absence of sharp corners makes the filler non-sharp and prevents cuts.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 744 rub.

• Country Russia
• Volume, l: 5
• Weight, kg: 1.8
• Granules: large, round
• Antibacterial: yes
• Flavoring: no

Some cats are literally contraindicated for silica gel litter due to the compulsive need to rummage through the litter box, which can damage the paw pads. The domestic novelty “Nuzhnik” allows you to avoid wounds, because it is impossible to get scratched with such smooth granules. This feature is also convenient for owners who walk around the bathtub barefoot. Even if the cat digs up a few balls, they will not create the Lego effect. It's not scary to step on. At the same time, the filler is ideal for both sensitive Sphynx cats and long-haired cats. On the one hand, it is hypoallergenic and smooth, on the other hand, it is not sticky. But for such a price, a transparent ziplock bag is very simple packaging.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Doesn't hurt paws
• Suitable for those who like to rummage
• Suitable for long hair
• New

• Very basic packaging
• Price is above average

How to choose silica gel cat litter

If you decide to give preference to this filler, you should pay attention to a number of important parameters:

Regardless of the brand of silica gel filler you choose, it is important that it is poured into a tray with high sides. This will prevent the cat from scattering the contents around. It is worth paying attention to the pet’s comfort. If you notice that the cat does not go to the new toilet for a couple of days, urgently change the litter to another one.

Top 6. N1 Crystals Sakura

Rating (2021): 4.63

3608 reviews from resources were taken into account: Yandex.Market, OZON, SberMegamarket, Unizoo

• Characteristics

  Average price: 581 rub. for 5 l

• Country Russia
• Volume, l: 5
• Weight, kg: 2
• Granules: large, crushed
• Antibacterial: no
• Flavor: sakura

Stylish absorbent filler with a light scent of sakura flowers and a cute packaging design. It is distinguished by its ability not only to remove the smell of cat litter, but also to create a spring-summer mood without scaring off the cat. The flavor is very light, not strong. Separately, N1 filler is praised for its non-sharp granules, slightly rounded and, as a rule, quite large. However, according to reviews, sizes may vary from batch to batch, which is not always convenient. Crystals have also been criticized for sticking to long fur. However, this is not uncommon for such inexpensive fillers.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Non-sharp crystals
• Flower smell
• Bright design
• Reasonable price

• Sticks to long fur
• Granules vary

Which tray is best for silica gel?

The number of trays for cats is amazing in its diversity. Among them you can see open and closed, deep and shallow, with and without bars. And there are also trays created in the form of houses, snail shells, etc. But in order not to get confused when choosing a tray, it is very important to remember its intended purpose - it must have not only aesthetic properties, but also practical ones. The animal should have free access to the tray, it should feel calm in it. And it is important for the owner that he can easily wash it if necessary and replace the filler.

When choosing the depth of the tray and its shape, it is recommended to focus on the size of the pet and its behavior. So, if the cat likes to rummage through the litter, then it is better to take a tray deeper, with high sides or even a roof, otherwise silica gel crystals will then have to be collected throughout the apartment.

For cats who like to sit on the edge of the tray, a flatter tray is suitable so that it does not tip over under the weight of the animal.

The toilet for a cat is an individual matter, and it is better to choose it so that both the pet and its owner do not experience any feeling of discomfort.

Top 5. Dr. Elsey's Long Hair

Rating (2021): 4.66

The most practical format Unlike analogues, this filler is not packaged in a bag, but in a convenient container with a handle and a hermetically sealed lid.

• Characteristics

  Average price: RUB 2,577. for 3.6 kg

• Country: USA
• Volume, l: —
• Weight, kg: 3.6
• Granules: medium, crushed
• Antibacterial: no
• Flavouring: hydrolyzed herbs

As is clear from the name and photo on the packaging, this silica gel was created specifically for long-haired cats. The filler has a smooth texture that does not cling to the fur and literally slides off the paws. The cat will not drag it around the house, no matter how long and thick its fur is. In addition, the litter is suitable for all breeds, including large ones. Dr. Elsey's pleases with its excellent absorbent properties and successfully removes odor. It has practically no smell to humans, but the cat will know where to look for the toilet, thanks to a natural herbal extract designed to attract the attention of cats. The price is high, but you can save energy on cleaning.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Best for Longhairs
• Doesn't come apart
• Natural herbal flavor

• Expensive

Top 4. Cat Step silica gel

Rating (2021): 4.68

5287 reviews from resources were taken into account: Yandex.Market, OZON, Otzovik, IRecommend

The most popular The most recognizable brand of relatively inexpensive absorbent fillers. Thanks to its effectiveness and reasonable price, Cat Step has earned thousands of reviews.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 1,615 rub. for 15.2 l

• Country: Russia (manufactured in China)
• Volume, l: 3; 3.8; 7.6; 15.2 and 26.6
• Weight, kg: 1.4; 1.8; 3.6, 6.7 and 11.7
• Granules: large, crushed
• Antibacterial: no
• Fragrance: fragrance-free, hypoallergenic

One of the best inexpensive cat litters. Despite its reasonable price, Cat Step perfectly absorbs even large amounts of liquid and can be recommended for large cats and a large number of animals. Also, review authors note that odor neutralization takes up to several weeks, that is, many times longer than analogues. The filler is easy to clean and does not spread too much due to the large size of the granules. But their shape is not suitable for every cat. Like most silica gel fillers, Cat Step has chipped crystals with edges that can cause discomfort to short-haired and hairless breeds with sensitive skin. At the same time, there are complaints about fakes.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Adequate price
• Excellent absorption
• Odor neutralization
• Easy to clean

• Some batches are dusty
• There are fakes

See also:

• 10 Best Dewormers for Dogs and Cats

Classifications

Desiccants are divided according to various criteria: shape (lumpy, granular), grain size (small, large), pore size (fine-porous, large-porous). According to GOST 3956-76, a four-letter designation of their brands is accepted:

• the first letter is the size of the granules (M - small, K - large, Sh - charge, A - activated);
• the second is the name of the material (C – Silica gel);
• third - pore size (M - fine-porous, K - large-porous);
• the fourth is the shape of the particles (K - lumpy, G - granular).

There are also special-purpose dehumidifiers: indicator dehumidifiers, for household refrigerators, double-glazed windows, chromatography and a number of other brands.

Top 3. Smart Cat silica gel without fragrance

Rating (2021): 4.72

257 reviews from resources were taken into account: Yandex.Market, OZON, Petshop, IRecommend

Largest volume The brand offers bags of record volume. 35 liters, as a rule, is enough for several cats for 2-3 months, and for one – for six months or more. But such a bag weighs about 15 kg.

High absorption rate According to reviews, Smart Cat removes moisture almost instantly, so no surprises form under the filler. But sometimes it’s still worth mixing.

• Characteristics

  Average price: RUB 3,952. for 35 l

• Country: Russia (manufactured in China)
• Volume, l: 3.8; 7.6; 10; 16 and 35
• Weight, kg: 1.66; 3.32; 4.37; 7 and 15.29
• Granules: medium, mixed
• Antibacterial: no
• Fragrance: fragrance-free, hypoallergenic

Smart Cat litter received some of the best ratings from cat lovers for key characteristics. Most people rate its absorbency as 4.9 out of 5. According to reviews, the filler absorbs almost lightning fast and to the maximum. The discharge does not flow under it, but is locked into granules, as is the smell. Their resource lasts on average 2-3 weeks. Next, wash the tray and add fresh litter. This is easy and convenient to do, because Smart Cat does not generate dust and the owner does not have to hold his breath during the process. It also helps keep the house clean, as do the granules that aren't too sticky. However, they are angular and not everyone likes to step on them, and the package, despite not the lowest price, does not have a ziplock.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Doesn't spread around the house
• Almost no dust
• The scent lasts up to a couple of weeks
• Excellent absorption

• Crushed granules with corners
• Bag without ziplock

See also:

• 10 online pet supply stores

KSMG and KSKG

These varieties differ slightly in their scope of use. Silica gel KSMG (GOST 3956-76) is a universal sorbent suitable for almost any area where it is necessary to get rid of excess air humidity.

Silica gel KSKG (GOST 3956-76) is preferable when planning long-term work in open spaces: for laying in CCTV cameras, electrical panels. Both varieties are distinguished by a highly developed internal surface, porous structure and the ability to absorb large volumes of moisture in a minimum time.

These drugs are also capable of absorbing vapors of organic compounds (toluene, gasoline, benzene, acetone, ether), gases from gaseous and liquid media. They are characterized by high mechanical strength - they are almost impossible to crush or grind.

Top 2. Homecat silica gel Lavender

Rating (2021): 4.81

2040 reviews from resources were taken into account: Yandex.Market, OZON, Review-review, IRecommend, Sidex, SberMegamarket

Optimal price-quality ratio At a price below average, Homecat litter is not inferior to Cat Step and other analogues in locking out moisture and odors. A great opportunity to save money without losing quality.

• Characteristics

  Average price: RUB 1,262. for 12.5 l

• Country: Russia (manufactured in China)
• Volume, l: 3.8; 7.6; 12.5 and 30
• Weight, kg: 1.6; 3.3; 5.07 and 12.09
• Granules: large, randomly shaped
• Antibacterial: yes
• Flavor: lavender

Homecat will not only prevent the powerful cat odor from spreading throughout the apartment, but will also fill the toilet with an unobtrusive floral-woody aroma. Lavender is associated with calm and relaxation, helps relieve stress and, unlike many other scents, does not deter cats from the litter box. At the same time, the inexpensive filler actually locks in and does not mask the odor, does not generate dust and absorbs without problems even after 2 weeks of use. Thanks to its large granules and rapid moisture removal, Homecat can be used under gratings. The corners of the crystals are smoothed and do not chip. But if you have dogs in the house, it is important to consider that they can sometimes mistake this litter for food.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Light soothing aroma
• Suitable for tray with grid
• No dust
• Smoothed granules

• Dogs like it too much

See also:

• 20 Best Cat Litters

How to use silica gel

The gel filler is very easy to use. Recommendations for use may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, so you should read the instructions on the package.

Silica gel cat litter must be poured into a clean and dry tray. The layer should be thick, at least 5 cm. Usually, half a bag weighing 4 kg is poured out. The remaining half is gradually poured into the tray as needed. This method helps the mixture work for a month, or after two weeks you can completely replace the filler. Feces are removed using a mesh spatula.

It is important to choose the right composition. For long-haired cats, it is better to choose large granules. Silica gel litter for kittens must be purchased with a special safety note for babies.

Some cats are calm about changing litter. For other pets, a sudden change of filler is stressful. In this case, it is better to gradually replace it with a silica gel composition. This will allow the pet to gradually get used to the new option.

Used silica gel litter should not be flushed down the toilet. The synthetic mixture can clog the clearance of sewer pipes.