Silica gel cat litter is the most effective option in terms of moisture absorption. Compared to other cat litter products, silica gel granules do not need to be changed frequently. However, we must not forget that this is a synthetic material and it can harm the pet’s body if ingested.
What does the filler consist of?
Silica gel cat litter is a hydrophobic sorbent that is made by colloidally mixing, dehydrating and baking silicic acids at high temperatures. In the process, granules are formed in the form of strong, durable crystals with a spongy structure.
Depending on the production technology, they can be of different shapes and colors and have different properties. Sometimes when making granules, not only a dye is used, but also a flavoring agent - then the filler acquires a pleasant smell.
Methods for removing blockages
Mechanical pipe punching
If trouble does occur, and as a result of the ingress of a huge amount of filler the sewer system “rises,” measures need to be taken.
You can deal with blockages like this:
- If the incident has just happened, and the bulk of the material is in the toilet itself, it is necessary to remove it from there as quickly as possible. To do this, we put a rubber glove on our hand and scoop out everything we can reach.
Advice! If you don’t have gloves, you can wrap your hand in a plastic bag.
- After manually cleaning the toilet, you need to push the residue (there should be quite a bit of it) into the pipe itself. To do this, install a plunger on the drain hole, press the rubber socket well to the surface and begin pumping, as during simple cleaning.
- To make the work more effective, you need to add a small amount of water to the toilet. But don’t overdo it - if the cork turns out to be very dense, then you will have to remove the water by scooping it out.
- As long as sawdust filler gets into the pipes, a plunger should be enough. But bentonite is capable of blocking the lumen “tightly”, so the plug will need to be destroyed mechanically.
- To do this, we use a cable with a special attachment, which we screw into the jam and destroy it. Our goal is to punch a hole in the center of the pipe, and then the flow of water will slowly wash away the contamination.
Chemical methods
In some cases, the filler does not form a blockage, but simply accumulates in the drain and reduces the throughput capacity of the sewer.
Here it is possible to cope with the situation using chemical means:
- We pour granular powder into the pipes in the most problematic area.
- Add a small amount of water and leave for approximately 20-30 minutes. for reaction.
- Then we carefully rinse the system, draining the water from the tank a couple of times.
- Along with this, acidic agents are considered the most effective, because they are good at destroying organic matter accumulated in the sewer.
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.
Which to choose
There are many manufacturers producing high-quality silica gel, but there are proven, reliable brands that are in great demand.
- The leading position in the ranking of silica gel fillers is occupied by a product called "AnimAll". This line of Chinese-made products has an advantageous price-quality ratio, and also attracts with a huge range of types, colors, and aromatic additives.
- The Chinese composition, located in the same price segment, has proven itself well; it is distinguished by the presence of hypoallergenic varieties.
- Means "Kotix" also widely represented on the market. It has a higher price compared to previous representatives, but it is compensated by good quality. The filler granules are small and have a high ability to retain unpleasant odors - accordingly, the product is consumed more economically.
- “Trixie” is a series of more expensive mixtures, produced in Germany, the granules practically do not create dust, which is ideal if there are allergy sufferers in the house. Unlike representatives of previous brands, this filler “binds” the smell immediately after urine hits it.
Did you know? Craftsmen have found an unusual use for cat hygiene products. If you get your phone wet, remove the battery and place the device in a container with silica gel overnight.
Advantages and disadvantages
To make the right choice, you need to weigh everything. Responsible owners always analyze the cat's behavior and preferences before trying any pet product. In addition to economical consumption, the silica gel mixture has a number of advantages
:
- silica gel is chemically inactive, does not ignite and does not melt at high temperatures;
- mold cannot form and grow on crystals, bacteria do not multiply in this environment;
- the mixture does not stick to the hair on the cat's paw pads.
Despite a fairly large number of advantages, there are also some disadvantages. The main disadvantages of this type of cat litter are as follows:
- if an animal has eaten silica gel, a negative reaction from the stomach and intestines is possible;
- unlike wood fillers, crystals cannot be thrown down the toilet;
- the mixture must be stirred regularly;
- When absorbing liquid, the filler makes specific sounds, which can frighten the pet.
For most owners, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages and they regularly use silica gel to fill the litter box.
ATTENTION!
Even if you think that everything is fine with the cat that swallowed the mixture, it is recommended to consult a specialist. Silica gel is toxic and can cause acute food poisoning, especially in small kittens.
If the animal does not show interest in the filler as food, there is nothing to worry about: in all other respects, silica gel is absolutely safe.
What to do if a kitten eats silica gel litter?
Cats, especially at an early age, often taste the litter. This is why silica gel is absolutely not suitable for small kittens. The thing is that such a filler is extremely dangerous for your pet and can even lead to the death of the animal.
This is because the gel granules, when exposed to moisture (including when they enter the pet’s stomach), swell greatly, stick to the mucous membrane and can clog the intestines. In addition, the composition contains components that are harmful to the digestive tract, which can lead to serious poisoning.
If you notice that the kitten is eating litter (even a few granules), there should be no talk of any self-medication! Here it is important to act as quickly as possible - immediately show the animal to a veterinarian. At a minimum, he will need a thorough examination by a specialist. And in more advanced situations, surgery and resuscitation may be required.
Also read: How to train a kitten to use the litter box?
Silica gel cat litter is an ideal option for organizing your pet's toilet. Special granules perfectly absorb foreign odors, kill germs and harmful microorganisms, absorb liquid well and provide freshness and a pleasant aroma. Once you use silica gel, you will definitely not switch to other fillers. And by following the recommendations listed above, you can choose products that your cat will appreciate.
How to use silica gel filler
Using this type of filler does not cause any trouble. The first step is to prepare the tray - wash and dry it. Then the silica gel mixture is poured into it in a layer of about five centimeters. Different manufacturers claim different numbers, which can be found on the packaging.
Several times a day, the entire volume of filler must be thoroughly mixed. This is done so that the crystals, which can no longer absorb liquid, are evenly distributed throughout the tray. If left in one place, they will not be able to absorb and retain moisture, which can cause damp areas to form in the litter box.
If solid waste appears in the total volume of the filler, you should use a special scoop to remove it without picking up the granules.
A complete update of the filler is carried out approximately once every three to four weeks. These terms may differ for different manufacturers. On average, a four-liter package lasts about a month. It is worth remembering that if the cat is large or there are several pets, then replacement must be performed more often.
This type of filler can only be disposed of with household waste, since flushing it down the toilet creates a large clog. Tie the bag tightly so that the used litter does not spill out and become food for street animals or birds.
Which tray to choose
There are many varieties of cat litter boxes and, as a rule, the type of litter is not a selection criterion in this case. Nevertheless, you need to take into account the wishes of the owner and the peculiarities of the animal’s habits when choosing a toilet for your pet.
- If you plan to use litter, then you should immediately discard trays with mesh - they are intended for cats that are not accustomed to having contents in a potty or there is a need to ensure the cleanliness of the latrine (for example, for animals that have undergone surgery).
- Automated trays with a self-cleaning function are a new trend for cat owners, but such an innovation will easily scare the pet if it is nearby at the time of “cleaning”.
- The owners really like closed trays with a roof because they do not allow the filler to spill onto the floor. This toilet is suitable for timid animals who try to hide while recovering from natural needs.
- For most cats, the best potty option is a regular plastic tray without a mesh. If the owner wishes, you can purchase such a tray with an additional side, the installation of which will prevent the contents from scattering.
Find out the basic criteria for choosing a cat tray and cat litter.
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:
- "Crystals";
- "Siberian cat";
- "Cat step";
- "Snowball";
- "Our brand"
- "Sanicat".
Crystals
deservedly won first place. According to statistics, it is the most purchased silica gel. Produced in Russia. The advantages are the shape of the crystals and the level of absorption of unpleasant odors. There are six varieties, differing in a number of characteristics (color, smell, etc.). The approximate price is about 500 rubles for a 5-liter package. You can buy the product at any pet store.
"Siberian cat"
is also a domestic product. The crystals are small, transparent, round in shape. Instantly absorb liquid and vapor from it. There are two types of silica gel on sale. The cost is 800 rubles for 3.8 liters.
Cat Step
- a product of a Russian company specializing in the production of goods for pets. This filler is completely replaced every three weeks. You can find five different types in pet stores, two of which are flavored (strawberry and lavender). It has a significant drawback, expressed in the form of sharp crystals, which can injure the pet’s paw pad. The biggest advantage of the mixture is its price. For 3.8 liters of this silica gel in the store they ask for 300 rubles.
"Snowball"
is a hypoallergenic product. The white granules are odorless, which is a definite plus and attracts the attention of owners of white cats and cats with allergies. It has excellent antibacterial properties. The only drawback is the presence of a small amount of dust in the packaging. Many owners turn a blind eye to this, since the price is affordable - around 200 rubles for 4 liters.
"Our brand"
is a product of the brand of the same name, which produces a wide range of products for animals, including dry food, which is in high demand. A package of 10 liters costs a little more than 900 rubles.
Sanicat
is an environmentally friendly, hypoallergenic silica gel with high absorbency. Doesn't stick to the cat's paws or fur, and doesn't get dragged around the apartment. Manufacturers surprised by introducing three flavored options to the market - with apple, orange and lavender. A volume of 5 liters will cost 450 rubles.
What to choose for your pet can only be decided by its owner. Silica gel fillers have a number of advantages and several disadvantages. The assortment presented in stores is surprising in its breadth - for every taste, color and budget. If you have chosen this type of filler, it is recommended to study the information before purchasing in order to buy the most suitable option. If your pet shows the first signs of an allergy after being introduced to a new product, it is recommended to return to the previous type of litter.
What is silica gel filler?
Silica gel litter for cats began to be used relatively recently. However, today we can safely say that it cannot be compared with other analogues. First, you need to understand what silica gel filler is: how it is produced and what it consists of.
White or multi-colored granules are made from quartz, which, using modern technology, can be converted into a polysilicic acid gel. As a result, the granules acquire several properties at once:
- do not dissolve when exposed to liquid;
- have no odor;
- do not emit toxic substances.
The silica gel filler itself is absorbent. Dried gel granules have a porous structure that can absorb large amounts of moisture and retain it inside for a long time.
The absence of a natural odor of granules does not mean that they easily absorb foreign odors. You can be sure that the room will not smell like cat litter - silica gel is able to reliably hide all unpleasant odors.
Silica gel for cats today is available in several versions:
- Hypoallergenic. It has a delicate composition and is suitable for fluffies who may suffer an allergic reaction to aggressive filler components.
- Antibacterial. They contain special additives that kill harmful microorganisms and ensure reliable cat litter hygiene.
- Flavoring. Certain scents (such as lavender or mint) can attract cats and help them quickly toilet train. Other scents are designed to make the room smell nice.
- Multi-colored granules. Granules of different shades are not a marketing ploy or a decorative element. Adding dyes to the gel allows you to control the humidity of the environment - so you can notice when it is time to change the litter in the tray.
Why does a kitten eat litter?
It would seem that the filler, be it clay, wood or silica gel, can hardly attract with its taste... However, as they say, there is no arguing about tastes. Some fragrances with which the litter is flavored may seem so attractive to the kitten that he will risk trying the inedible substance “on the tooth.” And you know, he might like it, after all, some people also like very strange things... moonshine, for example.
But more often than not, it happens differently. When playing, kittens, like children, put everything in their mouths. But if the string or candy wrapper can be freely released from the mouth, then the filler, especially clumping one. Sticks tightly to the tongue or palate. And the poor baby has no choice but to try to swallow the interfering lump.
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.
