Siliga gel
Crystal cat litter is typically made of silica gel, a porous granular form of sodium silicate. The litter beads come in a variety of sizes and shapes, the most common being pieces similar to that of a fine gravel.
The good
The main claim to fame of crystal litter is that it has far better absorption qualities than conventional or clumping litter; the more liquid that is absorbed the better the odour is retained. This being the case, the litter lasts longer (up to a month) than conventional or clumping litter and does not seem to be affected by changes in temperature (E.g. house heats up but the litter does not increase in odour).
The bad
Crystal litter like most products is not perfect. Some cats are particular about litter and will not take easily to crystals. In addition, crystal litter can be up to double the price of conventional / clumping litter meaning that although it lasts longer, the increased cost of the litter eliminates any potential savings.
The verdict
Many cat owners swear by this product particularly where odour retention is an important requirement (E.g. within a small apartment). For me however, the increased cost of the litter does not outweigh the additional benefits. I would agree that the odour retention is improved with crystal litter (and typically Charlie’s litter will last a week longer as well) however this I believe tends to lead to owners not cleaning / changing the litter as regularly (ideally your cat’s litter should be cleaned daily and replaced every few days). Put simply, I would rather buy recycled conventional litter and spend the savings on better quality pet food for my cat (and if odour is a problem, then maybe try some of the odour reducing pet food that is now available).
Verdict: 7/10
Addendum: Modernpet have just posted a great cat litter comparison; although the products are all American based, the review is a great read when considering what litter is the most appropriate for you and your cat(s).
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May 12th, 2008 at 1:47 pm
Good review of Crystal cat Litter Daniel. I agree with your verdict. When we tried it, one of our household cats wouldn’t use it at all. We have never had a problem with recycled paper litter, except the odour when not cleaned often enough… quite a good incentive really.
May 12th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
Thanks Bill for the comment. I have heard similar stories in relation to some cats just simply refusing to use the crystal type cat litter.
May 16th, 2008 at 10:15 pm
Hey Dan, I’d like to add that people should avoid clumping litter (different than the crystals) at all costs if they have kittens. I’ve had firsthand reports of babies suffocating from inhaling the micro particles contained in the clumping litters.
May 17th, 2008 at 11:26 am
Cheers Bill for the comment, I have not heard that before. Will do some investigation see if anyone else has heard of problems with clumping litter.