№ | Name | Rating | Nomination |
1 | Fresh Step Crystals | 4.83 | Best foreign brand |
2 | Homecat silica gel Lavender | 4.81 | The optimum ratio of price and quality |
3 | Smart Cat silica gel without fragrance | 4.72 | The largest volume. High absorption rate |
4 | Cat Step silica gel | 4.68 | The most popular |
5 | Dr. Elsey's Long Hair | 4.66 | The most practical format |
6 | N1 Crystals Sakura | 4.63 | |
7 | Nuzhnik, round silica gel | 4.62 | The safest form |
8 | CCKat silica gel | 4.61 | |
9 | AromatiCat silica gel Diagnostic | 4.57 | Best for health monitoring |
10 | Snowball silica gel | 4.39 | Best price |
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
- 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
Best lists
The presented silica gel fillers are safe for you and your pet. The products are represented by crystalline granules that effectively absorb moisture and neutralize unpleasant odors. Manufacturers claim that the contents of the trays can be left unchanged for up to a month, but I recommend pouring a new portion of filler every 1-2 weeks to maintain hygiene in the house.
The rating presents both budget and expensive options. In both cases, the products are characterized by high quality and effectiveness. Among the representatives of this rating, I have identified the three best silica gel fillers.
The best filler for absorbency - N1 Crystals
Silica gel filler consists of environmentally friendly silicate crystals. The granules contain many tiny pores that reliably absorb excess moisture and unpleasant odors. The product has powerful bactericidal properties and prevents the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms released from animal urine and excrement.
The filler is economical, does not create dust, and does not stick to your pet’s fur or paws. The granules do not cause allergic reactions or diseases in the animal, since they do not contain chemicals or hazardous compounds. Do not throw this filler into the toilet.
The best cat litter for cost-effectiveness - Homecat Lavender
The filler is packaged in a durable bag with a plastic handle for easy transportation. Due to its high absorbent properties, the product effectively absorbs liquid and blocks unpleasant odors. The granules are presented as white balls with purple speckles and a lavender scent.
The product is antibacterial and does not cause an allergic reaction. It is quite economical to use, it does not need to be changed daily, you just need to remove solid waste from the tray.
The best litter that doesn't stick to paws - Homecat Standard
The product is packaged in a durable bag with a plastic handle. Due to their absorbent properties, the granules reliably absorb liquid and odors from cat urine and excrement. Silicate balls are completely white and odorless. It is important that they do not stick to the paws and fur of pets.
To evenly distribute the contents of the tray, it is recommended to stir the clean granules every day. The product is antibacterial, economical to use, hypoallergenic, since it does not contain harmful chemicals or other hazardous substances. Do not dispose of used silica gel filler down the drain.
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
Features of using cat litter
Using silica gel is easy for both owners and pets. Animals adapt to the new filler within a day or two. If the cat categorically refuses to use the litter tray with new contents, mix sorbent balls with a known filler. Also try a different brand before going back to clay litter.
How to use
Unlike conventional fillers, the wetted portion does not need to be removed.
How to use:
- Place a layer of at least three cm thick into the litter tray.
- Wait until the animal goes to the toilet.
- For better drying, stir with a silica gel spatula.
Simply remove solid waste using the slotted handle. Throw out the entire contents of the tray and refill it about once a week. Yellow or cloudy crystals will be a signal for change.
It is recommended to stir the contents of the bath at least once a day. If this is not done, the liquid will seep to the bottom and harden there in the form of a sticky mass. This will not prevent odor formation.
Is it dangerous for a child?
Silica gel is non-toxic and safe for pets and children. If your child eats some silica gel, nothing will happen. The substance is inert and does not react with most compounds. The particles behave like activated carbon in the stomach and are eliminated from the body naturally.
The only recommendation is to give plenty of fluids.
How to recycle
Although it is environmentally friendly, do not flush silica gel down the toilet. It swells with water and accumulates in the pipes and clogs the drains. The garbage bag is recyclable. Place the used liner in it, bandage it and throw it away.
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
Description and features
Industrial or technical silica gel differs in chemical purity, amount of dust and shape from what is packaged in fillers. Therefore, when worrying about the health of your furry pet, it is better to use proven brands.
The basis for the production of silica gel is a solution of supersaturated silicic acid, which during the drying process takes the form of a gel and hardens. After crushing, balls are obtained that are endowed with high absorbent activity. The production of such a product is multi-stage, and undergoes quality control at each stage. The result is a good silica gel cat litter with fullness indicators.
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:
Dust | There should be a minimum of silicate dust inside the pack. |
Color | It is advisable to choose completely transparent, colorless granules, since they are characterized by the least toxicity. |
Volume | The size of the package is chosen based on the needs of the pet. For kittens, a small pack size is sufficient; for adult cats, the opposite is true. |
Granule size | For kittens, it is preferable to choose a finely granulated filler; for adult pets, medium or large granules. |
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
What does the filler look like?
The chemical composition of the silica gel filler for cats is defined as a hydrophilic sorbent, and is formed by the process of drying a special gel.
Almost 99% of the filler consists of this substance. In its normal state, when purchased in a store, it consists of small balls, completed and pressed into packaging.
If we talk about the texture of the granules themselves, then it can also vary in shape, among which there are: round, with sharp edges, and crystal-shaped balls. The same phenomenon is observed in sizes. Here you need to know one secret. The greater the weight, as well as the length and thickness of the cat's fur, the larger the granules should be.
Filler selection options
- the presence of granules in the packaging without dust and impurities;
- taking into account the weight and nature of the animal’s fur;
- abandon the frequent use of colored fillers in favor of natural white;
- Don’t be tied to price, focus on quality.
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
Comparison of the best products
I have summarized the main parameters of cat silica gel litters in a table. It’s so convenient to compare different toilets for cats and choose the best option for your pet.
Model | Antibacterial | Volume, l | Weight, kg | Peculiarities | Price, rub |
Cat Step | No | 15,2 | 7,2 | Odor-resistant, hypoallergenic | 1194-1455 |
N1 Crystals | No | 30 | — | Odor-resistant, hypoallergenic | 2417-3018 |
Snowball | Yes | 4 | 2,5 | With odor protection | 255-1096 |
Homecat Standard | Yes | 30 | — | Hypoallergenic | 2546-3024 |
Kotyara Extra | No | 3 | — | Has a granulometric composition with a ball size of no more than 8 mm | 469-589 |
Murzik | No | 4 | — | Small granules, fillers made from a mixture of fine-porous and large-porous silica gels | 299-1204 |
Homecat Lavender | Yes | 12,5 | — | Flavored | 938-1373 |
CCKat | Yes | 3,8 | — | With odor protection | 345-668 |
Fresh Step Crystals | Yes | — | 3,62 | Small granules | 1469-2112 |
Let's highlight the favorites of this rating.
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
Advantages and disadvantages
Granules with a porous structure are so effective that they absorb not only cat urine that gets on them, but also moisture from the air. But, like any product, this type of filler has strengths and weaknesses, which are described in the table below:
Advantages | Flaws |
Due to the high porosity of silicate beads, the filler has high absorbent properties and can significantly reduce the level of humidity in the area where the tray is located. | If your kitten accidentally eats particles of silica gel litter, he may experience stomach problems. |
These are chemically inactive materials that are not exposed to high temperatures. | Can't be flushed down the toilet. |
The occurrence of mold and pathogenic bacteria is excluded. | Hard, sharp crystals provoke injuries to the animal's paws. |
Effectively combat and neutralize unpleasant odors. | When liquid gets on the silica gel filler, it begins to hiss. This sound can frighten the cat and she may not want to go to such a litter box anymore. |
The filler does not stick to the pet's paws and fur. | |
The granules absorb a sufficient amount of liquid, so there is no need to change the contents of the tray daily. |
It is worth noting that this type of cat litter is expensive. But, at the same time, it is characterized by incredible efficiency and low consumption.
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
Pleased the owner: how to please a cat?
However, if the owner is completely satisfied with the tray filler, this does not mean that his cat will like it. Silica gel litter for cat trays may not suit your pet at the first meeting, probably for only two reasons:
- stepping on it with paw pads, the animal may experience not very pleasant sensations;
- When a large amount of moisture gets on the granules, they make a slight hissing sound when absorbed, which not all cats like.
However, your pet will be able to quickly get used to these nuances of using cat litter and appreciate it.
Perhaps only silica gel fillers can with an almost 100% guarantee ensure freshness and cleanliness of the tray, as well as the absence of odors in the house where the cat lives.
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
Rules for using silica gel filler
To properly use this type of filler, you should adhere to the following recommendations:
- Pour filler into a clean and dry tray. Recommended layer thickness is 3–5 cm.
- Remove solid waste regularly and then mix the filler.
- It is recommended to remove all litter 1-2 times a month or as soon as an unpleasant odor appears.
- After disposing of the contents, the tray should be washed, disinfected and dried.
What is silica gel
Silica gel filler is a hydrophobic sorbent obtained through the process of colloidal mixing with water, drying and sintering of silicic acids.
Their content in the final product reaches 99%. In this case, granules are formed, which, depending on the characteristics of the technological process for manufacturing this filler, can have different shapes, colors, and properties. According to their physical parameters, they are hard and durable crystals with a porous structure. It is this that ensures their high ability to absorb liquids and odors.
Due to its high hydrophobicity, silica gel is used not only as clumping cat litter. In everyday life, its use as a kind of moisture absorber is widely known. These are the same small white bags that are usually found in packages with new things.
Multi-colored granules - blue, pink, blue, red, green - are made for aesthetic purposes, and the filler can acquire different properties.
For example, increased hydrophobicity, the presence of various odors, since often these additives are also flavoring agents.
Silica gel granules also differ in shape. They can be round, cylindrical, pyramidal, square and rectangular. Their sizes are also different. It is believed that the size of the fraction affects the rate of absorption of liquid. Therefore, for cats with long and thick hair, it is necessary to choose the largest litter.
When choosing silica gel for your pet, you must consider the following parameters:
- The purity of the granules in the package. The best quality is considered to be one that is free of dust and impurities.
- The quality of the coat and the weight of the pet.
- Filler color. White is preferable as it does not contain harmful flavors and dyes.
- Price. Cheap or expensive does not mean good in this case. First of all, it is necessary to choose a filler based on quality. High cost sometimes turns out to be more profitable, as it provides lower consumption.
Compound
It should be understood that a material such as silica gel is a solid hydrophilic sorbent that looks similar to a regular dried gel. Its production is carried out from carefully dried polysilicic acid gel. It has almost the same composition as sand. It obtains excellent absorbent properties due to the fact that the gel filler has granules with a porous structure.
Note that silicate gel works so effectively that it absorbs not only liquid, but also excess moisture from air masses.
In general, it should be noted that fillers based on silicone and silicates contain up to 98 percent of this substance. In their normal state, these are round balls or transparent crystals that change color depending on the color and properties of the absorbed liquid.
A number of companies that produce silicone filler often add granules of various colors to the transparent substance: from blue to pink. You can also find flavored fillers on the market.
Principle of operation and varieties
The principle of operation of the filler is very simple: it absorbs moisture and literally locks it inside the granules. This means that the smell will be blocked. Silica gel is essentially a hard sponge, so the principle of operation is similar.
There are several sizes of filler crystals. The fraction size is directly related to the rate of moisture absorption. For example, for cats with thick, long hair, it is worth purchasing the largest size litter so that the pet does not get dirty.
In addition to the size of the mixture, when purchasing filler you should pay attention to the following points:
- granules in original packaging must be clean and free from dust;
- the weight of the cat and the structure of its coat;
- It is best to choose a white filler, since it does not contain coloring substances, and the risk of developing allergies in the animal will be minimized;
- You should not buy the cheapest mixture, as it may not be of the best quality.
Despite the fact that silica gel filler is more expensive than clay or wood filler, it is consumed much more economically. Therefore, many owners opt for it.
Flaws
However, the use of silica gel filler also has disadvantages, although there are very few of them:
- the high cost of silica gel (this is true, the packaging is not cheap, however, if you follow the instructions, this product will be used more economically than its other analogues);
- It is not allowed to use small kittens for toileting, since eating mixture pellets, which is typical for babies, can lead to poisoning;
- In the production of silica gel, substances are used that can be toxic if they enter the cat’s digestive tract, so this option is not suitable for cats that are prone to testing everything.
When caring for cats, learn how to teach a pet to brush its teeth, why a cat needs a haircut, how to sew and put on a blanket, how to bathe a kitten and how to deliver a cat.
Companies - manufacturers of fillers, brands
Domestic production
- "Clean paws." It has been on the pet products market for just over 20 years. Represents clumping fillers based on bentonite clay from India. Quite a popular brand in our country. At the moment, the range is quite wide and includes silica gel, mineral, wood and clay fillers.
- “Zoonik” – presents a wide range of pet products. Belongs to Oris company. Offers wood-based and silica gel fillers.
- "Barsik". Manufactured by Intel, it has also been on the market for more than 20 years and is quite popular among compatriots. In the last decade - first in the ranking of the most popular and accessible. Today it is represented by a wide range (more than ten items).
- LLC "Leading" It produces clumping fillers based on bentonite clay, natural wood fibers, and silica gel, which have separate brands: Pi pi Bent, Kotyara, CCKat.
- Cat Step is a brand owned by the large company Amma. They produce hypoallergenic eco-friendly fillers that block odors well.
- "Ecosoft" - . In the pet market longer than other competitors. The range includes more than 20 types of fillers made of zeolite and silica gel.
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.
Review of popular manufacturers
It is easy for novice cat owners to get confused when choosing a mixture, since a large number of companies produce them. But there are silica gel toilet fillers, which are reviewed positively by everyone who has used them. Here is an approximate list of leaders in the pet products market:
- Сrystals;
- Siberian cat;
- Cat step;
- Snowball;
- Our brand;
- Sanicat.
"Сrystals". Absorbent silica gel with fairly large granules. This filler does not stick to paws and fur, does not require frequent cleaning, and perfectly removes unpleasant odors, but some buyers complain about the content of silicate dust in the packaging. It can be easily found at any pet store.
Crystals - silica gel filler
"Siberian cat" Filler made in Russia. Available in several variations of filling and weight. Elite - white silica gel interspersed with large blue granules, odorless and dust-free, suitable for mesh trays. For the picky ones - white and pink granular silica gel filler with fragrance and increased bactericidal properties. Elite ECO is the largest fraction of crystals from the manufacturer, which makes the absorption capacity the highest. Elite clumping – blue silica gel, suitable for kittens from the first days of life. Reviews on the Internet confirm the name “elite” - the filler copes with its tasks without any complaints.
Siberian cat - silica gel filler
"Cat step." The manufacturer assures, and the purr owners confirm, that this silica gel copes well with all the basic functions of the filler. But in reviews you can sometimes find a remark that the crystals in some batches are sharp enough to injure the paw pads of cats. Produced in the format of white crystals with the addition of pink, blue, purple or a mix and with different scents.
Cat step - silica gel filler
"Snowball" Despite the simple name, this filler has one very good quality - the bag contains granules of small and large fractions and with varying degrees of porosity, which allows it to better absorb urine itself and the smell faster and better than analogues with a homogeneous fraction and porosity. Also, cat owners note the very economical consumption of the litter, because the 4 centimeters of silica gel in the tray recommended by the manufacturer copes with its task no worse than a whole tray of similar litter.
Snowball - silica gel filler
"Our brand." A very budget option for silica gel litter for cat litter. It is available as a universal scentless one, as well as a beautiful white-colored one with different scents: lotus, lavender and apple. The consumption is economical - 6 centimeters of filler do an excellent job with the cat's affairs throughout the week. Afterwards, the filler can be completely changed and the tray can be easily washed.
Our brand is silica gel filler
"Sanicat". This is a clumping type silica gel litter that comes in a variety of colors and can be unscented or scented. An important advantage of this solution is that the balls are suitable even for kittens, and the risk of paw damage will be zero.
Sanicat - silica gel filler