Tips for choosing the best cat litter

Seals have become an integral part of our lives and have overtaken even dogs in popularity, traditionally considered human best friends.

These four-legged family members, furry friends, wool antidepressants, popular animal videos and social media heroes represent the whole "Furry Empire".

In order for fluffy happiness to bring joy when living together, and as little trouble as possible, it is necessary to create suitable conditions for it.

Otherwise, known for their cleanliness, they will leave unpleasant puddles and unaesthetic heaps, if something is not to their liking.

And these are already questions, first of all, to the correctness of the selected cat litter and keeping it clean.Manufacturers present a fairly wide range of this type of product, and it is worth considering their qualities in more detail in order to choose the best one, ideal for your favorite furry.

Criterias of choice

The main defining points will be:

• Odor neutralization

A strong concentration of ammonia in cat urine is a rather unpleasant thing that can spread throughout the entire room and ruin the home atmosphere. Therefore, so that after going to the toilet the air remains clean, the degree of odor neutralization is important.

• Absorbency

The amount of fluid it produces at one time depends on the weight of the cat. It can be calculated using the formula: 1.2 ml * cat weight * number of hours (say, 24 hours) = we get the total amount of fluid released by a family friend per day. According to the manufacturer's information on the absorbency of the finished mixture, presented on the package, you can calculate its required amount for a certain time. When the manufacturer writes “Enough for 30 days” on the pack without specifying the weight of the animal, you may encounter inconsistencies in the information. the weight of the tailed friends is not the same.

• Safety

The pet may accidentally swallow, eat, or chew on the substance, so it can be watched discreetly.

If the cat still swallows part of the toilet absorbent, then this can lead, at best, only to temporary discomfort, and at worst to the death of the animal. If some species are ingested, you must immediately contact your veterinarian. If it's a small kitten, then biodegradable options are needed. Also, the animal can injure the skin or paws from large fractions with sharp edges. Some species are dusty, so it is important that the pet does not swallow, no dust accumulates in the nasopharynx. For sensitive representatives, this can cause allergic reactions.

• Shelf life

Without paying attention to the date of manufacture, it is easy to buy an expired product of inadequate quality that releases toxins.

To avoid serious consequences and maintain the health of your pet, you need to pay attention to the shelf life of the filler.

• Profitability

The more porous the material of which the absorbent is made, the higher its absorption properties. The less will be its consumption.

• Low price

Inexpensive cost is a nice indicator, but you need a balanced ratio of price and quality.Low price with high quality - will be the best solution. The most budgetary options may require more frequent filler changes. As a result, an investment of the same amount will be required as a more expensive type, but with more labor costs. This can be a mistake when choosing.

• Appearance, fraction

Manufacturers offer options in the form of granules, balls, coarse and fine fractions (sizes).

Minor, but not unimportant points

An additional bonus to the main qualities will be:

• Good lumpiness

The faster and denser the lumps form in combination with the liquid, the better for a clean home. It is more convenient when they do not crumble during cleaning.

• Hypoallergenic

A four-legged friend may have an allergic reaction to the components of the absorbent mixture. Therefore, when using a new sample, we carefully observe the reaction of the animal, its general condition, and well-being. Signs of allergies can be swelling, frequent sneezing, tearfulness, scratching, etc.

• Sustainability

Seals are representatives of the fauna that prefer natural, eco-friendly compositions. Poor quality fillers can have a whole bunch of chemical elements and become a source of disease development. Keeping a pet healthy is an important task for every loving owner.

• Adhesion

Some species can stick to feet and coat, especially in long-haired breeds. The best filler will be the one after which the cat's feet will remain clean. It is not aesthetically pleasing and not even safe if there are children in the house.

• Aromatization

Absorbent formulations may be odorless. Additional light aromatization will improve the comfort of the cat's intimate area. Popular types with the aroma of sea breeze, green tea, natural freshness, hops, lavender, pine needles, etc. Odors that do not hit the nose will not harm, but not all fluffy pets like them. After observing the pet's behavior, it will become clear whether the proposed fragrance has received approval and favor.

Unflavored fillers have a higher odor absorption rate than odor-emitting species.

• The convenience of use

Ease of use includes easy removal from packaging, neat filling into the tray, and a convenient way of disposal.

• Convenience of cleaning

You can get rid of the used mass by flushing it down the toilet (in small portions) or taking it out with the garbage from your home. The entire volume of the substance does not spill out at once, because a tight plug can form and become a stubborn blockage.

Not all fillers can be disposed of down the drain. The disposal method depends on the interaction of the substance with water.

• Cleaning frequency.

It will depend on the quality and type of absorbent, the frequency of using the animal's toilet, its age, habits, character, preferences of the owners, how often it drinks.

• Dyes.

The dyeing of the feet can come from a dye that is part of the filler. If the animal undergoes coloring, then it will spread throughout the apartment and furniture, which will create additional hassle associated with cleaning.

• Profitability

Assumes the maximum duration of use of the absorbent. It depends on the porosity of the material, its high absorbency. It is very convenient when the manufacturer indicates the period of use - for example, "30 days" or "for 50 uses."

• Packaging

Contains information about the expiration date, flavor, raw materials, type of fraction, consumption, taking into account the weight of the animal, volume. In most cases, it is assumed that the absorbent is regularly added. Convenient option with resealable packaging, such as a zip lock. This closure assumes reusable use, protects against careless scattering, dust emission, and increases the inaccessibility for small children. Inconvenient use, unstable packaging, its poor quality, water permeability, inconvenient size, etc., can create additional difficulties - the mass can crumble by, create additional dust, get wet.

Release form

Cat litter can be divided into two large groups:

• clumping

Initially they have a crumbly shape. When interacting with liquid, they stick together into a lump.

• absorbent

Initially, they are in the form of granules, balls. They break down by reaction with moisture into a smaller fraction.

Granule Formula

A special mass for cat litter is made from an absorbent material - sorbent (cellulose, waste paper, chalk). And in addition, they perform different functions - it is a glue made of carbomethyl cellulose and an odor-absorbing substance (zeolite).

Shredded waste paper is combined with an adhesive previously diluted in water. Then add crushed chalk and zeolite. Stir thoroughly and press until excess liquid is completely removed. Then, granules are formed from the resulting mass. They go through a drying process. Residual moisture in the finished product is up to 5%.

Clumping

Consist of minerals, bentonite clay.

It is poured in a layer up to 12 cm. A smaller amount will get wet and stick to the paws, wool. They are produced in the form of large and small granules or balls. There are flavored and non-scented varieties. Convenient when the cat is alone at home, it leaves the house clean. Lumps of the used mixture are removed at least 1 time per day. It is enough to carry out a complete mass change about twice a month.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Before completely replacing the litter, it is important to rinse, disinfect, dry the litter box.

The top 5 best clumping litters look like this:

• No Name bentonite (15 kg) - 488 rubles;
• Pussy-Cat clay (4.5 kg) - 78 rubles;
• Zoonik clay (5 l) - 143 rubles;
• Pussy-Cat (10 l) - 130 rubles;
• Sea Sea Cat (5.3 l) - 94 rubles.

Absorbent

They are made on the basis of mineral substances: refined chalk, bentonite clay, quartz sand, vermiculite, zeolite. The starting material is dried at a high temperature and then pressed. Do not change their structure. Absorbent fillers require more frequent changes. Complete replacement is required once a week or slightly more often. This type is suitable for those who like to bury their "property".

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

These include clay, silica, woody, biodegradable (grain, corn, paper), low absorbency, low cost, urgent replacement.

Top 5 Best Absorbent Fillers:

• • Fresh Step Extreme Clay, clay (6, 35 kg) - 535 rubles;
  • Filler No. 1 Cristals, silica gel (30 l) - 2148 rubles;
  • Cat s Best Original, wood (40 l) - 2400 rubles;
  • Catsan Hygine Plus, sand, for kittens (10 l) - 535 rubles;
  • Zoonik, clay (5 l) - 143 rubles.

Woody

It is made from organic components: sawdust of conifers, fruit trees, bamboo and an insecticidal substance (cypermethrin). Available in the form of granules. Low porosity of wood affects the quality of absorption.

Swelling, it turns into fine dust. Large pieces, however, can cause injury. It is better to remove or grind them immediately.

An additional benefit of this type of toilet bed is that it is safe for the environment and can be used as plant fertilizer.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Top 5 popular tree species:

• Wood filler, granulated (15 kg) - 358 rubles;
• Clean paws (12 liters) - 149 rubles;
• Cat s Best Smart Pellets, Longhaired, Biodegradable (5 kg / 10 l) - 1017 rubles;
• Cat s Best Original, biodegradable (40 l) - 2400 rubles;
• Lucky paws, antibacterial (16 l) - 165 rubles

If your pet ignores going to the designated place for one to two days, one of the reasons may be the wrong type of filler.

Mineral

Consists of porous minerals, volcanic rocks, diamorgite (fossilized algae), zeolite, clay vermiculite, bentonite. Organic components are processed. They have high porosity. They have a special structural formula. Effective in combination with woody composition.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Top 5 Popular Mineral Fillers:

• Your choice (3 kg) - 75 rubles;
• Pussy Cat (4.5 l) - 81 rubles;
• Pussy Cat, antibacterial (4, 5 l) –79 rubles;
• Crystals No. 1 (12, 5 l) - 1076 rubles;
• Filler No. 1 Cristals Compact (5 l) - 287 rubles.

Silica gel

It is produced in the form of dull white granules with colored specks. Made from polysilicic acid. It is a synthetic substance. When interacting with moisture, it crumples into plastic pieces. It cannot be faked. Due to the porous structure, it remains dry itself, and the passed urine does not have an ammonia odor. Suitable for adult animals.

Its composition is safe, it can even be used instead of activated carbon. Has the same cleansing effect on the body. But when sticking to the walls of the esophagus, it causes great discomfort. May lead to death of the animal due to dehydration. Contraindicated for small kittens, because they eat it. Dense, may clog. By changing the color, you can determine the moment of replacement. Does not change its original formula.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Top 5 popular fillers of this type:

• Crystals No. 1 (12, 5 l) - 1076 rubles;
• Filler No. 1 Crystals (30 l) -2310 rubles;
• Filler No. 1 Crystals (12.5 l) - 84 rubles;
• Cat Step, hypoallergenic (15, 2 l) - 1041 rubles;
• Cat Step (3, 8 L) - 287 rubles.

Clay

This is a natural natural material that is mined in all countries. Bentonite clay granules with the addition of additional components swell when absorbing moisture.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Top 5 most popular brands:

• Happy Nose (5 l) - 242 rubles;
• Pussy-Cat (4.5 l) - 78 rubles;
• Sea Sea Cat (5, 3 l) - 94 rubles;
• Clean paws, antibacterial (10 kg) - 520 rubles;
• Zoonik, antibacterial (5 l) - 143 rubles.

For kittens and cats with delicate skin on the paw pads, fillers in the form of large fractions are contraindicated. Roughness and unevenness on their surface can injure your pet.

Biodegradable

Such a filler is produced from the waste of certain types of products: grain crops, corn; soy fiber or paper.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Top 5 popular products of this type:

• Barsik Effect (4.5 l) - 108 rubles;
• Clean paws, antibacterial (12 l) - 149 rubles;
• Nature s Miracle Natural Care Cat Litter, corn, for kittens (4, 5 kg) -766 rubles;
• Cat Step Tofu Green Tea, vegetable (6 l) - 422 rubles;
• Cat s Best Smart Pellets, wood, for long-haired breeds (5 kg / 10 l) - 1017 rubles.

It is possible to use several types of absorbent mixtures at once.

A good combination gives the combined use of woody and mineral, silica gel and mineral, woody and grain, corn with woody.

Absorbent mixes make it possible to improve the quality of absorbency, improve neutralization of the odor of the toilet bedding.

A pet, out of curiosity, can either accidentally swallow the substance or begin to gnaw it. If it gets into the esophagus, a laxative, emetic, help and advice from a veterinarian will help.

It is almost very difficult to wean a cat from eating or gnawing the composition she likes, therefore:

If the cat is seen using the filler, it is better to replace it with a "less appetizing" one.

Selection based on the characteristics of the animal

The choice of absorbent is purely individual for each type of animal:

• for kittens

Options from cereals, corn (rare, expensive, similar to woody), from scraps of paper, woody are suitable. Due to the lightness of the composition, they can crumble around the litter box. The option of a tray with high sides will solve the issue of sloppiness of small fluffy creatures.

• For long-haired breeds

Granular and spherical shapes, large sizes.

• For adult cats

Silica gel fillers that absorb well and neutralize odor.

• For several cats at once

Clumping types of absorbents that are easy to clean are suitable.

• For allergy sufferers

An excellent eco-friendly option would be the eco-friendly option of the filler - wood.

• For castrated cats

It is necessary to choose products with the highest, reliable qualities of blocking odor and its immediate neutralization. Manufacturers have developed whole lines for this category of cats.

Unflavored blends will be the best cat "trouble" odor blockers over flavored options.

Which fillers are better

• New items

The silica gel filler, which is gaining popularity among the owners of striped-tailed friends, has been known since 2001. Manufacturer China, not available in Russia. Its forgeries are impossible.

• Most popular models

Mixtures that absorb more liquids than their volume. They are economical to use. One package is enough for a long time.

• The most profitable

Presented in large packs, absorbent large volume, do not require frequent changes. Such options are suitable for adult representatives of the feline kingdom.

For small tails, small packages are suitable.

• Most economical

Clumping fillers can be considered as profitable options, and therefore the best-selling ones.

• The safest

Eco options - wood, clay, sand, grain, corn, paper.

Top manufacturers

According to customer reviews

The best companies for the production of fillers:

• Catsan (Germany);
• Clean paws (Russia);
• Pi-Pi –Bent (Russia);
• Catbox;
• Pretti Cat (Finland).

Highest quality

According to the results of laboratory studies, the rating of quality fillers looks like this:

• Catsan;
• Barsik, with slightly lower absorbency;
• "Clean paws";
• Catbox, which has easy adhesion to the feet;
• Pretti Cat.

Most Popular

Popular models with high absorption, clumping, clean feet are:

• Pretti Cat;
• Catsan;
• "Clean paws".

The recognized leader, ahead of its counterparts in all respects, is the Pretti Cat brand, made in Finland.

This article provides tips on how to choose a toilet filler, which type is better to buy. We hope that they will help you choose the right option so that the four-legged family member does not become a source of annoyance, causing trouble and additional troubles, but becomes fluffy happiness that brings joy and desire to communicate. And he always held his tail with a "pistol". Then coexistence will become comfortable, giving one continuous pleasure for you and your pet.