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

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 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

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

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.

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

Action process

The animal, sitting down in the tray, calmly does all its business, and then begins to bury the contents with its usual movement. Moreover, the liquid does not have time to reach the bottom of the tray, solidifying and being absorbed into the gel granules. The process takes place in a matter of seconds.

Keep the litter layer in the tray at a medium or above medium level. In this case, the top one will serve as a layer, and the bottom one will directly absorb the liquid.

The cat can dig into the granules to his heart's content, and there are guaranteed to be no traces of used gel left on his paws.

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

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

How to choose the right cat litter

Silica litter gel is not suitable for all cats. Besides the fact that each animal is individual and may not “like” the new filler, silica gel is only suitable for adult animals.

When choosing the appropriate litter box filling, you should take into account the specifics of each type of litter box:

• Wood and corn fillers are considered environmentally friendly. However, your pet may develop allergies.
• The most economical is silica gel. Suitable for owners of multiple pets.
• When choosing a zeolite or clay filler, keep in mind that large granules that do not get stuck in the fur are suitable for a long-haired pet.

No matter how good the filler is and no matter what the manufacturer promises, the choice remains with the animal. If the floor is covered in puddles, replace the litter tray.

Is it possible to use technical silica gel for cat litter?

In fact, the filler from the pet store does not differ in composition and principle of action from industrial silica gel. To be clear, it’s unlikely to get better. Antibacterial labels often turn out to be a marketing gimmick. The only difference is aromatic additives and dyes. Cat Silica Gel is prettier and more fragrant than commercial silica gel.

According to GOST 3956-76, silica gels differ from each other:

• shape – granular or granular;
• sizes – large or small;
• pore diameter – large-porous or fine-porous.

Technical silica gel marked KSKG is suitable for cat litter in 25 kg bags. Explanation of the designation:

• K – thick;
• B – silica gel;
• K – large-porous;
• G – granular.

However, it is not always possible to find a supplier who sells small volumes at retail.

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

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General characteristics

Silica gel mixture for cat litter is dry solid granules that are obtained from silicic acids. They can be in the form of balls or crystals, most often white. To increase the aesthetic appeal, manufacturers can paint the granules in various shades (blue, red, green, etc.).

The mixture has excellent hydrophilic properties. When urine gets on the granules, it is completely absorbed by them without leaving an unpleasant odor. Additionally, aromatic substances can be added to the filler, which are activated when they are exposed to moisture.

The following main types of silica gel are distinguished:

• antibacterial;
• flavored;
• multi-colored;
• hypoallergenic.

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

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Street, tray or toilet?

This is the main question, the answer to which will largely determine further actions. Undoubtedly, using a shared toilet with your pet has many advantages. Firstly, savings. There is no need to buy cat litter (silica gel, sand, sawdust, etc.), the litter box itself, or accessories for cleaning it. Secondly, convenience. There is no additional source of infection in the house. However, not every cat will agree to use a regular toilet. And not every housewife wants to keep it with the lid open all the time (otherwise there is no other way). In addition, due to carelessness, an animal may fall into the water or slam the lid on its head, after which it will become wary of the source of its troubles and may begin to misbehave. Not everyone will be able to walk a cat outside either. Most owners are against their pet trampling its clean paws on the asphalt, the ground, or roaming around in basements. That's why many people choose a tray.

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