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
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  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

The benefits of silica gel for cat litter and how to use it

Silica gel is a synthetic substance that is used in a number of areas of human life. It has also found its application in the field of pet care.

What is cat silica gel

Silica gel litter for cats is a hydrophobic sorbent. It is produced by colloidal mixing: the product goes through dehydration and baking of silicic acids at high temperatures. During this process, crystals of considerable strength and a spongy structure are formed.

Silica gel for the tray is sold in the form of transparent crystals, there are different shapes. Sometimes colored granules are added there, which act as an indicator of the performance of the filler. The composition may include aromatic additives.

Advantages

Silica gel has several disadvantages, but this product has more advantages. Next we will talk about the main ones:

• effectively and quickly absorbs moisture, reliably holding it in the granules;
• absorbs odor well;
• the color of the granules makes it clear when it’s time to change the filler;
• does not stick to the pet’s paws and fur;
• a special formula of crystals prevents spillage from the tray when raked by a cat;
• the filler does not get wet and does not stick to the tray, so it is easy to clean;
• only needs to be changed a few times a month;
• hypoallergenic.

This type of filler is used very economically, which compensates for the high cost compared to analogues.

Kinds

The main difference between types of silica gel is the size of the granules and color. Filler of this format can be divided into indicator and natural. The composition of the first type, after getting wet, changes color to red or blue, this is due to the addition of metal salts to the granules.

White silica gel is considered the safest; it contains a minimum of additives, and some manufacturers claim that it does not pose a threat even if swallowed.

The filler is sold in the form of large, medium or small granules. More compact crystals make less noise when used by your pet, but take longer to absorb liquid. For cat owners, large granules are the most convenient; they quickly absorb moisture and do not stick to the paws.

Terms of use

Recommendations for use may vary depending on the manufacturer, so it is better to study the instructions. Usually no difficulties arise in the process; it is enough to follow simple rules:

1. Place only in a completely dry and clean tray.
2. The height of the filler layer should be at least 5 cm. Then you can gradually add granules as needed.
3. It is better to remove pet waste using a mesh spatula.

You also need to pay attention to the composition of the filler. For long-haired breeds, large granules are suitable, and if the kitten is small, a product with a safety mark for babies would be the ideal solution.

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

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 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

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 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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

Classification of fillers

Granule size

The granules can be large, small or medium in size. For a kitten, for example, it is better to choose a litter with small granules, and subsequently, as it grows, switch to fillers with larger granules, if necessary.

If your pet is large, it is recommended to give preference to litters with large or medium granules, due to the fact that small granules can get between the crumbs of the paws and create discomfort for the pet, and are also easily spread around the apartment.

Composition of fillers

• Clay based. The composition includes bentonite clay, which is characterized by good hygroscopicity and naturalness. The texture is similar to sand, which cats really like. The inconvenience is the formation of dust and the sticking of granules to the pet’s paws with their subsequent spread throughout the living space. Can't be flushed down the toilet.
• Based on natural wood (pressed softwood sawdust). They are highly environmentally friendly and easy to dispose of in the sewer system. But it is quite trashy - the disintegrated granules form small sawdust, which is easily spread on the pet’s paws.
• Based on pressed materials from corn (cobs), soybean and grain waste. It is also highly environmentally friendly, can be disposed of in the sewer system, and perfectly absorbs odor. But, due to the weightlessness of the granules, it easily crumbles in the vicinity of the toilet. It is recommended to combine it with mineral-based fillers, pouring them on top, which will prevent the spread of debris. This type of filler is not yet very popular in Russia.
• Mineral based – zeolite (volcanic mineral). Due to its porous structure, it has a high ability to absorb odors and liquids. Such filler cannot be disposed of in the sewer system.
• Based on silica gel (silica gel is polysilicic acid, in the form of a dried gel). The filler is quite convenient to use and retains odor well, but there are still disadvantages. It spreads easily on the cat's paws, crunches under the cat's paws, and when liquid gets into it, you can hear a quiet hiss. Some animals may be scared. The disadvantages include the rather high price and the inability to flush down the toilet.