Although they can be on the pricey side initially, you do get more use out of this type of litter. One main downside about silica crystal litter is that it can be dangerous if ingested too often. The crystals can get stuck between your cat's claws/nails, and they can swallow the crystals when grooming their paws.
Crystalline silica is not biodegradable and is said to be a cancer-causing agent. Over time, crystalline silica can accumulate in your cat's lungs, resulting in a condition called silicosis, which causes shortness of breath and reduced lung capacity.
Crystal litter absorbs urine and dehydrates waste, making it five times more effective at reducing odors than other litters such as clumping clay. It is also more cost-effective as cats use less crystal litter over time.
However, you must shop wisely and avoid clay, wheat, corn, crystal, and wood clumping litters. These clumping litters pose serious health risks to you and your cat. Breathing in these litters can cause respiratory issues, cancer, and starch-based litters are at risk for deadly mold.
Biodegradable litters include cat litter made from corn cobs, pine pellets, or wheat straw; sand; and paper-based (non-clumping) clumping litters. These types of litter are generally considered the most environmentally friendly option for cats and humans.
Cat litter with silica crystal beads are typically dust-free, which helps keep the area around your pet's litter box clean. Crystal-based litter is also effective when it comes to odour neutralizing and lasts much longer compared to other cat litter.
Some cats may take to their new and improved litter with minimal coaxing. Others may take some time. One thing you can do to build your cat's confidence with her new crystal digs is to place her old clay litter box (trust us, you'll be able to get rid of it soon) next to one containing brand-new crystal litter.
Non-clumping litter types (such as crystal) absorb more of the waste and usually require completely changing the litter at least once a week.
Reusable. In theory, dirty crystal litter can be reused. It requires extensive washing, soaking, and drying, but it means you can get months of use out of one bag of crystal litter.
Scoop solid waste as needed and lightly stir crystals to maintain freshness. On a monthly basis or when litter becomes saturated, empty litter box, wash, dry and refill with fresh litter. Always wash hands thoroughly after handling the litter box. Some cats may need to be weaned into new litters.
Baking Soda
If you're still having odor problems, try sprinkling a little baking soda on the bottom of the box before you add fresh litter each week, or place an open box of baking soda in the same area as the box.
Compared to other types of litter, crystal cat litter tends to be neater and less messy. As for odor, crystal cat litter works well at absorbing and masking the undesirable odor of cat urine. Unlike many other litters, crystal litter only needs replacing about once every month.
Many experts recommend that the best litter for kittens under four months old is non-clumping clay or crystal litter. These types of litter have larger granules and don't stick to your kitten's paws or fur.
Silica litter, on the other hand, will absorb moisture until it reaches its capacity. This means that silica litter can last for up to four weeks before it needs to be changed.
Silica gel is not thought to be toxic, but it can cause an obstruction if ingested by a cat.
Normally, the white crystal litter will turn dark yellow or olive green when your cat does their business. If your cat's urine has an abnormal pH or the presence of blood though, the litter will then turn blue, green, or red to let you know.
Filled with crystal litter that controls odor, the disposable tray lasts up to 30 days before it needs to be replaced. Throw the disposable litter trays away. No scooping needed! Silica crystals absorb liquid and bacteria on contact for long-lasting odor control and moisture reduction.
Yes! Baking soda is 100% non toxic. Mixing a little baking soda with the litter can help absorb pet urine odors. Cats typically detest artificial scents, so we recommend you avoid any scented soda options.
You Should Never Flush Your Cat's Poop Or Litter!
One of the biggest problems with flushing your cat's presents is the harmful parasites in your feline's stool called toxoplasmosis.
Which Types Of Automatic Litter Boxes Are Compatible? Not all automatic litter boxes with a raking mechanism use clay litter; some work with crystal gel litter instead. With these models, you can use pre-portioned bags of crystal litter that last up to 30 days before requiring replacement.
Crystal cat litter isn't any better either. It's not a sustainable or alternative option and it doesn't break down. The answer to the main question is that only litters clearly marketed as biodegradable are safe for the environment.
Just as cat litter pellets are designed to absorb pet excretions, they can also be used to absorb moisture from the air.
Best Cat Litter Overall: Dr. Elsey's Ultra. Best Cat Litter For Clumping: Boxiecat Scent-Free Premium Clumping Clay Litter. Best Dust-Free Cat Litter: Arm and Hammer Slide Easy Clean-Up Clumping Litter.