Which litter is best for a cat? Which litter is best for a cat and its owner?

Cat litter is absorbent and clumping, based on sawdust, minerals and silica gel granules.

The choice depends on the character and age of the cat, the preferences of the owners, financial capabilities; the frequency of cleaning the cat litter box will depend on this decision.

The presence of a cat in the house is a lot of positive emotions, especially when the owners have chosen the right one. cat litter for the toilet.

It prevents the spread of unpleasant odors and absorbs moisture.

Pet stores offer a wide selection of formulations.

Therefore, it is important to understand their pros and cons and choose the most best filler for your pet.

Why use filler

The filler is special composition, which fills the cat's tray.

It is used for both open and .

Today, such mixtures are made on the basis of sawdust and minerals.

They differ in the size and shape of the granules. An important factor when choosing is the price, which varies widely.

Previously, the cat's tray was filled with scraps of newspaper or sawdust.

But such products are hardly beneficial for her health, and they need to be replaced much more often.

It is preferable to use cat litter for both the pets themselves and their owners.

1. When there is enough litter in the tray, the cat always knows where she needs to go to the toilet. Also in view small size granules, it's easy for pussies to bury their waste.
2. Special composition absorbs unpleasant odors and moisture, so the owner will be comfortable, and the tray will not have to be washed daily.

Important! The best filler is selected based on the following characteristics: composition, operating principle, granule size, cost.

How are fillers classified according to their principle of action?

If you pay attention to the structure of the filler, you can distinguish two groups:

• absorbent;
• clumping.

The absorbent composition does not change its structure after getting wet.

As you use it, liquid accumulates in the lower layers, and this affects how you use it.

This type of cat litter requires complete replacement approximately 2 times a week.

If this is not done in a timely manner, an unpleasant odor will begin to emanate from the tray.

It will be necessary to replace the layer of granules more often if there are several cats in the house.

The composition can be purchased relatively cheaply at pet stores.

Mineral filler consists of small granules

Clumping cat litter is different in that when liquid gets on it, it rolls into hard lumps.

To keep it clean, simply remove these clumps from the tray daily and add a fresh layer of granules.

In order for the clumping filler to live up to its name, it should be poured in a layer of at least 8 cm.

However, it is cheap to buy high-quality composition Not sure it's going to happen.

Main types of fillers for trays

Before choosing cat litter, you should pay attention to its composition.

The following varieties are presented:

• woody;
• mineral absorbent;
• clumping;
• silica gel.

Wood filler is quite widespread due to its low price.

It is wood chips compressed into granules.

It is made from natural ingredients, absorbs liquid well and does not generate dust; it can be bought cheaply at any pet store.

Wood filler inhibits the spread of bacteria and unpleasant odors.

Wood filler in the form of granules

The disadvantages include the fact that granules from pressed chips swell greatly.

As a result, they fall apart, and the animal can drag them on their fur and paws throughout the house.

In this case, cleaning around the house with pets will have to be done more often.

At the same time, due to its characteristics, it is suitable for both kittens and adult cats.

Features of mineral fillers

You can also see another filler on the shelf in a pet store - mineral absorbent.

It is made on the basis of minerals with a porous structure.

From the instructions on how to use it, it is clear that it is replaced a little less often than wood - once a week is enough.

The granules absorb liquid well and prevent the spread of unpleasant odors.

They do not stick to paws and do not spread around the house.

As for the downsides, the mineral absorbent filler is dusty.

Important! When cleaning, mineral fillers should not be flushed down the toilet to avoid clogging.

Absorbent filler neutralizes odors

Its second type is clumping filler.

Quartz sand, chalk, and bentonite are used for its production.

It perfectly absorbs moisture and absorbs unpleasant odors.

The difference between clumping compounds is that when liquid gets in, they form a dense lump that is easy to remove from the tray.

The remaining granules will be clean; complete replacement is carried out as lumps accumulate.

Particles of granules do not stick to the pet’s paws and do not get stuck between the pads.

It is worth noting that the price of clumping filler is 3-4 times higher than the cost of absorbent filler.

Granules are also prone to dust, which is important to consider when pouring the mixture into a tray.

It is primarily suitable for owners of one cat.

If there are several furry pets in the house, the owners will have to constantly pick out the resulting lumps.

Therefore, if the cat has recently had a cat, the choice of filler will have to be reconsidered.

Important! The optimal layer for lump formation is 8 cm.

The most modern formulations

The most modern of those presented in pet stores is silica gel filler, which is the best in terms of moisture absorption.

It is produced on the basis of polysilicic acid and consists of white cloudy balls with colored inclusions.

The substance has the same chemical composition, like sand, but differs in structure and is a dried gel.

It does not swell and does not form a viscous mass. You only need to completely replace the contents of the tray 2-4 times a month.

Silica gel filler granules

Important! To keep the tray clean, you need to remove solid waste from it daily and mix the gel filler so that the moisture is evenly distributed.

As in other cases, there is a drawback here - you can only buy it at a high price.

And although at first glance the gel filler is not affordable for many cat owners, it is economically consumed.

Another point is a specific crunch. It is not easy for some animals (or their owners) to get used to it.

However, as reviews show, it is not expressed in all brands. And all cats are very individual.

When choosing cat litter, you can notice another variety - corn.

It is not often found in pet stores, but has good characteristics.

Corn cobs are used to make it.

This type of composition perfectly absorbs moisture, it also saves the owners’ finances, it can be bought cheaply in comparison with other varieties.

The downside is the lightness of the granules, which is why the filler spreads throughout the house.

It also has a specific smell, so not all pussies will like it.

And to buy it, you will have to go to a lot of pet stores.

Corn filler (above) is not often found in stores

What is known about Japanese tray fillers

In search of an answer to the question of what the best filler should be, some owners pay attention to Japanese brands.

They are made from environmentally friendly materials and, according to manufacturers, are economical in consumption.

1. Clumping, made from starch and paper, with a color-changing indicator added.
2. Clumping based on crushed wood and starch.
3. Clumping from cellulose and carbon inclusions.
4. Tofu is made from compressed soybean fibers.

These are just some of the items from the range of Japanese fillers.

Due to the characteristics of the composition, they can be removed through the sewer system.

Variety of fillers – which one to choose?

Considering the variety of products available in pet stores, it is not so easy to decide which cat litter is best.

There are three factors to consider before purchasing a package:

• character and characteristics of a furry pet (after all, for , And different compositions are required);
• own preferences;
• financial opportunities.

Important! Speaking about arranging the comfort of a cat, it would also be useful to choose one for your pet.

In fact, these compositions cannot be called universal.

You need to select a mixture for each specific case.

1. When several cats live in a house or apartment, it is worth buying absorbent litter. It is not advisable to purchase a clumping one in this situation.
2. Wood filler is considered the safest for cats. It is recommended for animals with skin problems and allergies.
3. The size of the granules is selected according to the age and length of the coat. Small granules are suitable for kittens and those with sensitive skin. Large ones are recommended for long-haired cats.
4. Some manufacturers offer scented litters as they mask odors better. When purchasing them, it is worth considering that the preferences of the owner and the pet may not coincide. If the aroma of citrus fruits seems pleasant to a person, then it may simply repel a cat. A light lavender scent would be more appropriate.
5. For apartments with several cats, silica gel litter is recommended. However, it is not suitable for small kittens.

Interesting! Ultimately, the cat will decide which cat litter is best to use. Her behavior will immediately make it clear whether she approved of the owners’ choice.

Rating of popular brands

To decide which cat litter is best for the owners and the pet, it is worth considering the ratings of Russian and foreign manufacturers.

1. "Katsan" is one of the most common Russian brands. The manufacturer offers an absorbent filler made from processed chalk, quartz sand and mineral components. You can hear different reviews about the quality of this composition. According to the information on the packaging, it should be replaced every 5-6 days.

One of the most famous brands

1. “Clean Paws” filler has been available on the Russian market for a long time. Lines of clumping bentonite and wood compositions in the form of granules are presented.
2. For those who prefer gel fillers, the composition of the Russian brand “Kotyara Magic Balls” is suitable. It perfectly retains unpleasant odors and will do its job for a long time, even if several cats use the tray. But, like other silica gels, it is not recommended if there are small kittens in the house.
3. Of the Russian brands, it is worth noting Pi-Pi-Bent. High quality bentonite clay is used to produce this clumping filler. Separate lines with flavors are presented.

Care should be taken to select flavored litter

What foreign brands are on the market?

1. According to reviews, Ever Clean is the best filler available on the Russian market. The manufacturer offers clumping clay composition. Although it is more expensive than mixtures of other brands, it is economically consumed. In addition, the composition has antibacterial properties.

High quality filler with antibacterial properties

1. Another American brand is Fresh Step from Clorox. Clay clumping and silica gel mixtures are presented. The brand can be called one of the most popular around the world.

One of the most popular formulations in the world

1. The Canadian Extreme Classic is more affordable. In terms of quality, it has almost the same indicators as Ever Clean; it differs from the best filler in the rating only in its more modest packaging.
2. The German manufacturer presents the Cat`s Best composition, made on the basis of fir sawdust. Perhaps this is the only wood filler that clumps.

Clumping wood filler

1. The next brand is “Cat's Choice”. Compositions based on bentonite with the addition of flavorings and wood are presented.

Choosing the best litter that will please your furry pet and suit the owners can be difficult.

In the end, it is the cat who will do final choice and decides what her tray will be filled with.

The number of cats in the house also plays a big role.

Taking into account the characteristics of absorbent and clumping compounds, as well as reviews from other owners, you can make the best choice.

Cat litter: Rating of the best manufacturers

Cat litter is absorbent and clumping, based on sawdust, minerals and silica gel granules. The choice depends on the character and age of the cat, the preferences of the owners, financial capabilities; the frequency of cleaning the cat litter box will depend on this decision.

A cat is guided by natural instincts, and even going to the litter box is no exception. Pet owners should take advantage of this, because knowing what the pet prefers, you can choose the best cat litter that the pet will like and at the same time suit the rest of the family.

The litter plays a significant role in the comfortable coexistence of humans and cats. For an animal, this is an opportunity to “dig”, and, therefore, good way litter box training. People like features such as odor absorption and dry pet paws. But which cat litter serves its purpose better, because there are many offers on the market and each company claims that its product is the best. Let's understand this issue with practical analysis.

First of all, animals like convenience. If it’s pleasant to dig into the composition and put your paws on it, then your pet will like going to the litter tray. The absorbent component of the product is also important, this also applies to odors. The cat will not like a dusty, overly scented mixture. The worst thing is if the animal experiences an allergic reaction due to the filler.

Best cat litter for humans

First of all, this is a product that holds odors well. It should also not be dusty and easy to clean. The economic component also plays an important role. Of course, there is no point in urging everyone to buy only cheap cat litter. People also have priorities on this issue, but still the consumption of the product and its price must fit within a reasonable framework.

As you can see, the preferences of the cat and the owner largely coincide. The only thing that the animal is not interested in is the price of cat litter, and the aroma, pleasant to the human nose, can repel the pet.

These are all the nuances regarding cat litter, but to understand what will suit you and your cat, you need to get acquainted with various types product. Let's start with this.

The best cat litters

• absorbent;
• clumping.

Absorbent cat litter

The peculiarity of the product can be understood from the name; it absorbs moisture. The structure of the filler, however, does not change. In addition, the cat mixes the mixture with its paws. Therefore, the tray with absorbent filler is changed completely. This is expensive, so absorbent products are purchased by families with only one or two cats.

Advantages and disadvantages of absorbent filler

The advantages of the product include the following:

• costs little;
• removes odor well;
• suitable for multiple cats;
• There are absorbent litters for kittens.

There are also disadvantages. Of them:

• soaked granules begin to smell like urine;
• cats may avoid the litter box even if it is only partially dirty.

Clumping cat litter

When liquid comes into contact with a product in this category, it begins to absorb it. In this case, lumps form. The economy is obvious. You can remove old lumps every day and add a little new filler.

To use the product's capabilities to the maximum, the cat litter must be poured out in a thick layer - 10 cm. This best opportunity organize a toilet for a large number of cats.

Advantages and disadvantages of clumping litter

The advantages here are:

• economical;
• removes odor;
• ease of cleaning.

Among other things, clumping cat litter is the best in terms of toxicity. Raw material The product is always natural, so it is often taken for kittens. There are no particular disadvantages.

Types of cat litters

Cat litter is divided into several main types:

• clay;
• woody;
• silica gel;
• based on grain, corn, cellulose.

Bentonite cat litter

Cats love clay-based products because they are a reminder of their natural roots - a natural imitation. outdoor toilet. Bentonite is the best ingredient for clay cat litter. Essentially, bentonite is a type of clay that can absorb liquid. The clay mixture can be absorbent and clumping.

• recommended for kittens;
• naturalness of the product;
• varied assortment;
• favor from cats.

• the mixture may be dusty;
• the litter sticks to the cats paws.

Wood cat litter

Wood pellets also come in two types. They are made from sawdust, mainly from coniferous species tree. This is the best cat litter for kittens, as it is the cleanest from an environmental point of view. In addition, it gives off a nice pine aroma.

The principle of action is simple: the granules absorb urine and gradually disintegrate into sawdust. This is a minus of the mixture; sawdust easily gets stuck in the pet’s fur, and he spreads it around the house. But this is the only negative, there are many more advantages. Among other things, this cat litter can be flushed down the toilet. Plus, it's very competitively priced.

Silica gel cat litter

This is the most expensive representative of the product line. In appearance, gel cat litter is granules that absorb moisture and odor. Silica gel costs a lot, but it has a big advantage - it is economical. You will have to change the tray filled with gel substance no more than once a month.

Since it is based on polysilicic acid, it cannot be called environmentally friendly. In addition, it must be stored in a special sealed container to avoid contact with air.

Silica gel cat litter is the choice of owners of adult animals; for kittens it is better to use a wood base.

• Suitable for families with many cats;
• good absorbency;
• ease of replacement;
• efficiency.

Cons: chemical component. Kittens who love to try everything will get a chemical burn if the granule gets into their mouth, and some pets simply do not like silicone filler because it is unnatural.

Grain, cellulose, corn cat litter

These are less common types of filler. There is a line of products for cats, but more often they are used when keeping rodents. Granules have many advantages:

• reasonable price;
• environmentally friendly;
• smell nice and natural;
• good absorbency;
• can be disposed of in the sewer.

But the product may not be suitable for every cat.

Japanese cat litter

Japanese litters are slowly but surely beginning to win the attention of cat lovers. This is not surprising, because the Japanese offer:

• wide range of products;
• economical to use;
• environmental friendliness of goods.

The used product can be flushed down the toilet without risk to communications.

Rating of cat litters

1. Katty is hygienic.

Manufacturer – Russia. Type – clay. This is the most natural look cat litter.

1. Cat's Best Eco Plus.

Manufacturer – Germany. It’s not for nothing that the product was included in the rating of cat litter, because it great choice for owners who value ecology and ease of cleaning.

1. SuperCat Standard.

These are Ukrainian-made products. A very popular mixture, as it has a number of advantages: it smells good, is easy to clean, and environmentally friendly.

1. Golden cat "Ecoline".

Another native of Russia. This is an eco-friendly and cheap corn-based cat litter.

1. Fresh Step Triple protection.

Manufacturer USA. The clay mixture has been recognized for its environmental performance and is most often purchased for kittens.

1. No. 1 Crystals Antibacterial.

This Russian silica gel-based product is recognized as the most economical filler.

How to change cat litter?

The frequency of changes depends on the type of cat litter. For example, wood pellets need to be changed frequently - every 2-3 days. Plus, the entire tray will have to be replaced.

If clumping litter is used, then stuck together lumps can be replaced, as they arise, with a fresh portion of granules. A complete replacement of the tray is not required here.

Gel-based fillers are changed the least often - once every 3-4 weeks.

Is it possible to flush cat litter down the toilet?

Here, too, everything depends on the material. For example, wood pellets quickly soak in water and crumble into individual sawdust. Thanks to this property of the product, you can safely flush this type of cat litter down the toilet. If there are too many used granules, it is better to divide the rinsing operation into several stages for reliability.

The mineral filler clumps, and quickly. Therefore, you can dispose of bentonite cat litter through the sewer in very small portions.

A separate topic for discussion is silica gel. In fact, opponents of flushing silica gel filler down the toilet focus on its harm to the environment. But in reality, it is a chemically inert substance, but it can cause harm to the sewer system. If you wash away a lot of granules at once, they can clog the pipe, even if not on yours, but on the floor below. Therefore, it is better to put gel waste in a bucket. In any case, you won't have to do this often.

Having learned to understand the features of certain litters for cats, you can choose a product that will suit your pet and appeal to the whole family.

Don't forget to clean the litter box on time.

Cats are one of the most popular pets. But it’s one thing when you have your own house, and another thing when you live in an apartment. And here comes the need to purchase cat litter and litter for it.

There are several types of fillers, differing in the raw material base. Wood - consists of sawdust pressed into granules. They perfectly absorb odors and moisture and rarely cause allergic reactions. Fillers made from bentonite clay, zeolite or mineral - clump well. Silica gel - made from synthetic materials with high absorbency. Well, the last type is corn, made from processing corn cobs.

We've compiled a list of the best cat litter based on... expert assessments specialists and reviews from real customers. Our recommendations will help you make a choice that suits your needs and desires. There are many competitors in the pet industry, but we have selected the best manufacturers and we recommend paying special attention to them:

Budget / Inexpensive

1. Happy paws
2. Pussy-Cat
3. Zoonic

1. Fresh Step
2. Ever Clean
3. Catsan

Expensive/Premium class

1. Cat's Best
2. Crystals

Hypoallergenic With odor protection Absorbent Clumping Flavored Antibacterial

*Prices are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice.

Hypoallergenic

Absorbent / Hypoallergenic / With odor protection

Main advantages

• Budget filler good quality, which may well ensure hygiene and absence of unpleasant odor in your pet’s litter box
• Thanks to the special shape of crystalline granules - the manufacturer’s own development - it does not stick to the animal’s paws
• Has good absorbent properties. One “portion” of filler can be enough for a week
• Environmentally safe for people and animals, does not cause allergies or other negative reactions
• Odors are reliably “sealed” in the structure of the granules, so there is no characteristic cat smell in the room

Hypoallergenic/ Clumping / With odor protection

Main advantages

• Has unique absorbent properties. Thanks to the use of natural microfibers, the absorption rate is about 700%
• Consumption is very economical - the main portion is used in the cat's toilet for 4 to 6 weeks
• Formula contains 100% biodegradable natural ingredients. The filler can be flushed down the toilet, simplifying the disposal process
• The large volume of packaging is very convenient. 40 liters of product can be enough for more than six months of use
• The product is of high quality, typical of most German products.

Show all products in the category "Hypoallergenic"

With odor protection

Flavored/ Clumping / With odor protection

Main advantages

• The main advantage of the filler is the absence of a pungent odor. It has a light aroma coniferous tree, but there is no feeling that you are living in a pine forest. This is facilitated by a natural base, without additional flavorings.
• The filler consists of large granules that have antibacterial properties and quickly dissolve in water. However, it is not recommended to wash it off in large quantities.
• Suitable for trays equipped with a hygienic mesh
• Thanks to special raw material processing technologies, the filler is quite economical. 16 liters can last more than 3 months per cat
• Optimal for both adult animals and kittens - the natural aroma of wood does not scare away animals and promotes rapid adaptation to the tray

Clumping / With odor protection

Main advantages

• Instantly absorbs moisture. This was achieved thanks to natural mineral components that underwent special technological processing.
• The filler fraction is quite small. This is good for small kittens if a litter box without mesh is used
• It has a gray-pink natural color and darkens a little when wet. In the tray, your pet feels confident, as if he is on real soil.
• The filler quickly sets, turning into hard lumps. But you need to clean the tray in a timely manner, since kittens love to play with these lumps and scatter them around the room
• Packaged in a multi-layer paper bag, stitched with synthetic thread on top. This combination allows 100% to avoid moisture penetration into the packaging.

Show all products in the category "Odor protection"

Absorbent

Antibacterial/ Absorbent / With odor protection

Main advantages

• The filler is easily removed as solid waste, it does not need to be completely changed every day. Complete replacement you can do it once a week - that’s quite enough
• The smell appears inversely proportional to the amount of litter in the cat litter - the more you add, the longer you do not change it
• Contains particles quartz sand and chalk, micropores on the surface of which effectively absorb moisture, like a sponge
• Has antibacterial properties that prevent the development of microorganisms and unpleasant odors three times more effective than conventional filler
• Does not contain asbestos and bleaches, absolutely safe for the health of people and animals

Show all products in the "Absorbent" category

Clumping

Antibacterial/ Clumping / With odor protection

Main advantages

• The filler clumps well and does not fall apart when disposed of, which means comfortable cleaning without unnecessary debris.
• The main advantage is cost-effectiveness. For kittens up to 6 months, it lasts 3-4 weeks. But problems may arise with large animals - the filler may not be able to cope with large amounts of moisture
• The granules do not stick to fur and paws, almost do not allow unpleasant odors to pass through, and do not generate dust.
• The base of the filler is clay, production is carried out in accordance with all international safety and quality standards
• Available domestic manufacturer, which had a positive effect on the price of the product

Antibacterial/ Clumping / With odor protection

Main advantages

• The filler differs from most analogues in its almost complete absence of dust and high absorption properties
• Patented innovative formula with activated carbon completely eliminates unpleasant odors without masking them
• High quality clay provides super powerful clumping coupled with improved ammonia vapor control. But for the effect to correspond to the declared one, you need to pour a layer of at least 8 cm into the tray
• Long-lasting freshness is achieved thanks to the unique ability of the filler to release aroma only in direct contact with the pet’s paws
• Does not contain synthetic components or flavors, which means no harm to the health of your animal

Show all products in the category "Clumping"

Flavored

Antibacterial / Flavored/ Clumping / With odor protection

To ensure that a cat in a house or apartment does not go to the toilet anywhere, but is accustomed to the tray, it is necessary to choose the best litter for cat litter. Of course, you can use regular sand or paper, but this will be uncomfortable for the pet and inconvenient for its owners. The products presented in this rating, based on customer reviews, are the highest quality, safe, effective and good value. Check out their advantages and disadvantages and choose the appropriate option.

Which brand of cat litter is best to choose?

Such pet products from Japanese, Chinese, American, German and Russian production. The competition among them is extremely high, but they can withstand it with dignity, leaving behind other companies, the following brands and firms:

• Pussy-Cat is a brand owned by the Kis Pis Group company, which sells hygienic litter for pets. The company began its activities in 1987. Its products are environmentally friendly, recognized as safe for animals and are not very expensive.
• Effem GmbH– in this rating it is represented by Catsan Ultra Plus cat litter. This German manufacturer, guaranteeing high quality, safety and ease of use of its products. It has excellent absorption capacity, which makes its use comfortable for animals.
• Catsan is an American brand whose products are manufactured in Germany. Its range includes clay and mineral type fillers - clumping and absorbent. They come in thick cardboard packages with handles and cost slightly above average.
• N1 – premium cat litters affordable price, which are produced in Russia. The brand's product range includes absorbent and clumping fillers, mainly silica gel. Cats respond well to them, do not walk past the toilet and do not spread its components around the apartment.
• Cat Step– the owner of the brand is the largest manufacturer of pet products on the Russian market, Amma company. Its products are created for hygienic use of the toilet by cats, to eliminate unpleasant odors in the litter box and eliminate them in the apartment. It is non-toxic, does not cause allergies and does not stick to the paws of pets.
• Zoonic– the brand attracts interest with a wide range of pet products, including litter tray fillers. It is owned by the Oris company, one of the oldest on the Russian market. The range includes wood and silica gel, clumping and absorbent fillers. Most of them are available in small packages of up to 6 kg.
• Barsik– the trademark is registered by Intel, which has been operating on the Russian market since 1991. Its products are distinguished by high quality, hypoallergenic, safe and reasonable prices. They reflect the smell of cat urine well and prevent it from spreading throughout the apartment or house.

The most budget-friendly brands on the market are Zoonik and Barsik, and the quality of their products is not inferior to those included in the premium class category.

Rating of the best cat litters

When compiling this TOP and in the selection good fillers for cat litter, customer reviews and veterinarian opinions played a huge role.

These are the parameters we also paid attention to when analyzing the characteristics of the product:

• Type – wood, silica gel, corn, mineral or clay;
• Packaging volume and its convenience;
• Natural composition and safety of use;
• Reaction of cats to raw materials;
• Type – absorbent or clumping;
• Ease of use – can it be flushed down the toilet, is it easy to clean with a spatula, etc.;
• Natural aroma and protection against urine odor;
• Which cats are suitable for – by age and breed;
• Economical consumption and replacement frequency.

A special selection criterion was the price-quality ratio of the fillers, the brand under which they are produced, and their availability for sale.

The best wood litter for cat litter

Here it is worth taking a closer look at two fillers from well-known brands"Barsik" and "Zoonik".

Barsik is the best wood filler that pleases even the most picky cats. It consists of small soft granules that are comfortable for the animal’s delicate paws. The material is environmentally friendly and does not harm four-legged animals, is easily distributed throughout the tray, absorbs cat excrement well and thereby reduces the unpleasant odor. Its prevention is also helped by adding special ingredients to the composition. The raw materials are safe for humans and nature, being biodegradable.

Advantages:

• Cheapness;
• High quality;
• Can be flushed down the toilet;
• Does not clump;
• Stays dry;
• Suitable for small kittens.

Flaws:

• Not sold everywhere;
• Can be spread on cats' paws.

Barsik Natural is sold in a large 4.5 liter paper bag; it does not have the usual handle, so carrying the bag is not very convenient.

I have been using this litter for more than six months, it does not clump and is suitable for trays different sizes and cats of all breeds...

Expert opinion

This wood filler is in no way inferior to its predecessor in the rating. Its use is comfortable for cats and humans; the granules perfectly absorb urine and have pleasant aroma and cover up her scent. It belongs to the premium class due to its hygiene and environmental friendliness; it is made from natural raw materials. The granules are small in size, but at the same time they do not stick together and are not spread throughout the house. One package sells 5 kg.

Advantages:

• Cats like to dig holes in it;
• It is carefully raked with its paws and does not fly apart;
• It does not compact, which allows you to create volume;
• Convenient packaging with handles that does not get wet;
• Inexpensive.

Flaws:

• Sometimes there is a bit of "sawdust".

The Best Silica Gel Litters for Cat Litters

N1 Crystals cat litter is one of the best because it is environmentally friendly, safe and absorbs a large amount of moisture. Due to this, one load of product in the tray lasts for several days, which allows you to save money. It has a normal smell to which the animal responds well and does not repel them due to its softness. Silica gel granules do not stick to the pet's paws and fur and do not injure its tissues. Since it contains special components, the appearance of an unpleasant odor in the house is eliminated.

Advantages:

• Economical to use;
• Hypoallergenic;
• Dust does not appear when filling the tray;
• Easy to clean toilet;
• Non-toxic.

Flaws:

• Do not flush down the toilet;
• Tough if the animal wants to chew it;
• Not suitable for small kittens.

This cat litter is regularly included in ratings of the best among silica gel ones due to the optimal combination of high quality and low cost. It is made from a specially prepared gel that is safe for adult cats. It can not be changed for a long time, since the raw material absorbs moisture well and suppresses the unpleasant odor of urine. Cats have no difficulty burying their excrement, but it may create some noise when creating the hole. Cat Step is manufactured using European technologies and is recommended for use by veterinarians.

Advantages:

• Large volume – 15.2 l;
• Convenient packaging;
• Lasts a long time;
• Contamination is easily removed;
• Does not stain cats' fur or paws;
• Does not cause allergies.

Flaws:

• Not sold everywhere;
• It is better not to use for small kittens.

The Best Corn Cat Litters

This is one of the most environmentally friendly options that is completely safe for your pet. The animal reacts normally to it and quickly gets used to it.

This corn litter attracts attention due to its low price, safety and ease of use. It is hypoallergenic and does not harm the health of animals and people. It can be flushed down the toilet without clogging the drain or causing damage to the soil due to the biodegradability of the raw material. It is made from environmentally friendly corn grains, soft to the touch and pleasant to the cat's paws. N1 Naturel does not spread throughout the house and does not require constant sweeping of floors.

Advantages:

• A spatula with large holes is also suitable for cleaning the tray;
• Wonderful, natural aroma;
• Natural composition;
• Looks aesthetically pleasing;
• Pleasant to the touch;
• The remains can be used as fertilizer;
• Flushes down the toilet without any problems.

Flaws:

• Small volume per package – 4.5 l.

According to reviews, the N1 Naturel corn litter can be changed only 1-2 times a month, which is very beneficial for the wallet and convenient for cat owners.

The Best Clay Cat Litters

This type of filler is inexpensive and can be used in the tray for a long time without replacement, but it retains the odor a little worse than wood filler.

This cat litter is highly rated for its ability to keep your home clean. When wet, the raw materials do not stick to the cats' paws and do not spread across the floor. In case of ingestion of particles, nothing threatens the pet’s health, since the material is natural and does not cause intoxication. Wet lumps can be easily removed with a spatula; there is no need to completely replace the contents of the tray. The composition of Catsan Ultra Plus is close to the most natural, so four-legged animals stop walking past the toilet.

Advantages:

• Small granule size;
• Softness of raw materials;
• When combined with water, they form compact pieces, which makes cleaning in the tray easier;
• Natural composition;
• Does not cause allergies.

Flaws:

• Small volume.

The bag in which the Catsan Ultra Plus filler is packed is made of thick paper and equipped with a convenient handle for comfortable carrying.

The best mineral cat litters

Such fillers are made on the basis of zeolite, they perfectly absorb moisture and the resulting lumps are easily removed from the tray.

This is the only flavored cat litter in the rating, ideal for adult cats. But for small kittens it is not recommended to use it due to possible blockage of the gastrointestinal tract if particles are swallowed. It is interesting from the point of view of ease of cleaning, instant absorption of moisture, due to which the product always remains dry. This does not push your pet away or cause him to walk past the litter box. This will also allow you to clean it less often, which will save you some money.

Advantages:

• Reliable protection against urine odor;
• Pleasant natural aroma;
• Practical packaging with handles;
• Convenient release form;
• There is no sound when the cat creates a hole.

Flaws:

• Cannot be disposed of by flushing down the toilet.

The key feature of Pussy-Cat is its antibacterial effect, which reduces the likelihood of infection of the animal.

Which cat litter is best to choose?

For cats with allergies, it is better to buy wood or corn fillers, which are natural and safe. It is recommended to choose them for small kittens and for purebred cats. Suitable for everyone else ordinary means. In order for animals to use the tray comfortably, it must have a pleasant aroma and protection from the smell of urine, quickly absorb moisture and remain dry.

Depending on the situation, we can recommend choosing the following options from this rating:

• For small kittens, Barsik Natural will be the most preferable.
• Pedigree cats, especially if they suffer from allergies, will be completely satisfied with Zoonic Wood.
• For those who are just getting used to the tray, it is worth choosing N1 Crystals.
• If you need not to change the contents of the tray for a long time, it is best to choose N1 Naturel Corn or Cat Step Silica Gel.
• For those looking for something with an antibacterial effect, perfect choice there will be Pussy-Cat Oceanic.
• If your cat goes to the toilet either outside or in the litter box, you can take a closer look at Catsan Ultra Plus.

As you can see from this rating, for each case you can name your own best cat litter. Therefore, when choosing it, you need to focus on the age, breed and health of the pet, and only then look at the type of product.

Anastasia Korableva

Instinct forces the cat to cover its tracks and not leave waste products in sight. Having buried waste, the animal feels calmer and more confident. Don't deprive your pet of the pleasure of tinkering with the litter by giving him only an empty tray!

How not to miss the mark and choose the right one? Remember that there is nothing for a cat better than earth or sand. Do not start your selection with exotic options: the animal may decide that the tray is not intended for toileting at all.

Important! The best contents will not force your cat to use a small litter box designed for kittens. The cat litter box should be large.

The ideal filler, according to the pet:

• convenient to dig;
• no foreign odors;
• quickly absorbs liquid.

The ideal filler, according to the owner:

• perfectly neutralizes odor;
• convenient to clean;
• is cheap;
• does not require frequent replacement;
• does not generate dust;
• does not spread throughout the house, sticking to the cat's paws.

How it works

There are two types of filler, differing in their principle of action. The components either absorb secretions and odors, or form dense structures in the form of lumps with urine, which are easily separated from the main mass.

Absorbent filler

Convenient for cats as it absorbs quickly a large number of liquids. Manufacturers use natural raw materials that are safe for animal health: special varieties of clay, corn, sawdust, pulp

Most manufacturers do not add flavorings, but the composition may include soda, activated carbon or silver ions - these components significantly improve the characteristics of the absorbent filler.

It is inexpensive, but requires more frequent replacement compared to clumping ones, and regular disinfection of the tray itself. There is an advantage to this - with frequent washing, the risk of pathogenic microorganisms multiplying in the contents of the cat litter is much lower.

Important! Opt for an absorbent one if your pet has access to the outdoors (you walk it on a harness or take it to the dacha). Absorbent litter is the best option when there are several cats living in the house.

clumping

This type of brand is more popular, since the clumping filler is convenient for owners. For its production, bentonite is often used, a clay mineral with excellent absorption properties. Wood, paper and some other materials are also used as raw materials.

Why do cat owners love clumping litter? In addition to the obvious advantages - cost-effectiveness and ease of cleaning, some brands have special additives that change color depending on the composition of the urine. So, if the animal is sick, but there are no external symptoms yet, unusual color These supplements will allow the owner to seek help from a veterinarian in time.

A number of manufacturers include substances that change color when exposed to urine. The purpose of such additives is to clearly define the boundaries of the lump. Therefore, the pet owner can save money by not throwing away clean litter. Many brands contain a variety of fragrances - components that are useless for cats, but pleasant for owners.

Kinds

All fillers are divided into several types based on the composition of the raw materials. There is no ideal content for cat litter: choose a brand that is suitable for your pet.

Clay (mineral)

Made from different types clayey rocks. The quality and properties of the filler depend on what minerals are included in the clay used by a particular manufacturer. Absorbent and clumping grades are available.

Bentonite ‒ best material for the manufacture of filler.

Popular brands: Pi-Pi-Bent, Clean Paws, Fresh Step.

Carefully! Never throw clay litter into the toilet: this will damage the sewer system.

Pros:

• natural structure that attracts the cat;
• harmlessness;
• cheapness.

Minuses:

• fine granules are suitable for kittens, but they create a lot of dust;
• granules of a large fraction do not generate dust, but can injure the delicate paws of babies;
• may stick to paws;
• do not retain moisture well if an unscrupulous manufacturer uses unsuitable raw materials.

Woody

It is made from small sawdust of different types of wood, pressed into granules. There are brands that are 100% sawdust, and sometimes they are one of the filler components. Small sawdust will not harm sewer pipes‒ the contents of the tray can be flushed down the toilet.

Popular brands: PrettyCat, Homecat, Happy Paws.

Pros:

• natural raw materials;
• you can purchase a brand with granules of the appropriate size;
• absorbs liquid well and retains odor;
• low price.

Minuses:

• a pet digger will scatter granules throughout the bathroom;
• sticks to paws;
• It is necessary to change the contents of the tray frequently.

Silica gel

This type is made from silica (silicon dioxide), a natural substance that is the main component of almost all rocks, processed using special technology. The finished product has almost zero humidity, and due to the high porosity of the internal structure of the granules it is able to absorb a large volume of liquid.

The high price is not a big disadvantage: it is very economical.

Popular brands: Smart Cat, Cat Step, N1 Crystals.

Carefully! Silica gel should not be thrown down the toilet.

Pros:

• perfectly retains secretions and odor;
• The contents must be removed once every two weeks;
• aesthetics: beautiful appearance and a pleasant aroma.

Minuses:

• not every cat will use such litter - it is very different from the structure of earth or sand;
• the crunch of the granules scares away some animals;
• with its unusual appearance, it arouses gastronomic interest in kittens, which, if the granules are swallowed, can lead to gastrointestinal obstruction.

Corn

Corn cobs have recently been used to make cat litter. Such products are convenient for owners and animals like them. It can be flushed down the toilet or used as fertilizer.

Popular brands: Nature’s Miracle, Golden Cat.

Pros:

• absorbs moisture and odor well;
• great even for small kittens;
• environmentally friendly: made from natural raw materials without additives.

Minuses:

• a diligent digger will easily scatter light granules throughout the bathroom and beyond;
• not all stores offer such goods;
• high price.

Paper

Produced by recycling and pressing paper waste. A good option for filling a tray, but is slightly inferior in characteristics to clay or silica gel. Used cat litter contents should be thrown into the toilet in small portions.

Popular brands: A’Mur, NeoSuna.

Pros:

• quickly absorbs liquid and odor;
• does not stick to paws;
• even large granules cannot damage the delicate skin of a kitten.

Minuses:

• requires frequent replacement;
• high price;
• rustles when the cat is enthusiastically fiddling around in the litter.

Carbonic

This is a mixture of clay and activated carbon. It has excellent characteristics and is comfortable for cats. Coal particles effectively absorb unpleasant odors.

Popular brands: Molly Goddle, Fresh Step.

Pros:

• instantly absorbs moisture and odor;
• economical;
• has an antimicrobial effect.

Minuses:

• too hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from the air) - it is not advisable to place the tray in a bathroom or combined toilet.

Japanese fillers

The practical Japanese even managed to make the contents of cat litter absolutely harmless, economical, convenient for the animal and easy to dispose of.

Manufacturers use familiar materials as raw materials: clay, sawdust, soy and corn fibers. But with the help of special technologies, high-quality goods are produced that do not have serious drawbacks.

Many brands contain additives that destroy bacteria and indicators that change the color of the filler. Silica gel products are produced that can be washed with water after use and put back into the tray after drying.

Pros:

• excellent clumping characteristics;
• instant absorption of secretions and odor;
• safe high quality raw materials;
• does not stick to paws;
• low consumption;
• can be flushed down the toilet.

Minuses:

• high price;
• You need to buy with a reserve, as sometimes it is out of stock.

How to choose the right filler

Carefully! The cat may have allergic reaction on any filler component. In the process of replacing one brand with another, monitor the condition of your pet.

1. The animal may refuse to use the tray due to the small amount of contents: add a sufficient layer of litter.
2. The pet can go in search of more suitable place for delicate matters due to the flavoring included in the filler: the cat’s wishes should be a priority.
3. If your cat is prone to allergies, take a look at brands made from wood or corn raw materials.
4. Most manufacturers offer several packaging options - do not buy a large volume at once, as neither you nor the cat may like the contents.
5. Some brands are quite expensive, think about your monthly expenses before choosing a litter.
6. Think about how accessible the chosen brand is: constantly waiting for an ordered product that is not on sale will be very annoying.