Is Crystal Cat Litter Safe? Here’s What Veterinarians Are Saying

Crystal cat litter is a type of cat litter made from silica gel crystals, which are composed of tiny beads of sodium silicate sand. Unlike traditional clay or clumping litters, crystal cat litter is known for its highly absorbent properties and ability to control odor effectively.

However, some concerned pet owners are worried if it’s actually safe to use. We decided to do some research and get to the bottom of this, with some help from qualified veterinarians. Keep reading for everything you’ve ever wanted to know about crystal cat litter so you can make an informed decision on whether or not you should use it for your own cat.

The Good: Benefits of Crystal Cat Litter

Absorbency

Crystal cat litter consists of tiny beads with a large surface area and numerous pores. These crystals absorb moisture efficiently through capillary action, holding several times their weight in liquid. This high absorbency keeps the litter box dry, reducing odor and minimizing the need for frequent changes. The even distribution of crystals helps maintain a dry, comfortable environment for cats, making cleaning easier and ensuring a fresher litter box.

Odor Control

Crystal cat litter controls odors effectively due to its silica gel structure, which absorbs and traps odor molecules. This prevents odors, including ammonia, from escaping and keeps the litter box smelling fresh longer than clay-based litters. Additionally, crystal litter produces less dust and is less likely to be tracked, further reducing odor spread.

Low Dust

Crystal cat litter produces less dust than clay-based litters due to its larger, more uniform silica gel crystals. This reduction in dust is beneficial for both cats and people with respiratory sensitivities, helping to keep the air cleaner and minimizing irritants. Additionally, less dust means a cleaner environment around the litter box.

Long-Lasting

One of the key benefits of crystal cat litter is its longevity compared to traditional litters. Due to its high absorbency, the silica gel crystals can handle more moisture and odor before needing replacement. This means that the litter box requires fewer full changes, making maintenance more convenient and cost-effective. The extended lifespan of crystal litter also reduces the frequency of disposal and replacement, which can be a time-saver and helps to keep the litter box environment consistently fresh.

The Bad: Risks of Crystal Cat Litter

Crystal cat litter is generally considered safe for cats, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

Harmful if Eaten

While the crystals are non-toxic, ingestion can be a concern, especially if a cat tends to lick its paws after using the litter box. This is usually not a significant issue unless the cat consumes large quantities.

In large quantities, however, the silica gel crystals can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort. Ingesting large amounts might cause a blockage in the intestines, resulting in severe pain, lethargy, and loss of appetite, which would require veterinary attention. Additionally, because silica gel is a desiccant, it could absorb moisture in the digestive tract, potentially leading to dehydration.

If a cat is known to eat litter or shows symptoms after ingestion, it’s advisable to consult a veterinarian to ensure proper care and prevent complications. That being said, this is very rare and most cats do not consume this much litter.

Many Cats Don’t Like It

Paw sensitivity can be an issue with crystal cat litter, particularly for cats that are sensitive to texture or have delicate paws. The silica gel crystals used in crystal litter can sometimes have a rough or uneven surface, and if the crystals are large or have sharp edges, they may feel uncomfortable under a cat’s paws.

This discomfort can lead to a reluctance to use the litter box, as the cat may associate the pain or irritation with the box itself. Cats might exhibit avoidance behaviors, such as urinating or defecating outside the box, if they find the texture of the litter bothersome. In such cases, it’s important to monitor the cat’s behavior. If they refuse to use the box, you should try using a different kind of litter.

Similarly, crystal litter makes a slight sound when it gets wet. Most humans can’t hear it but cats definitely can and some get turned off by it. Debi Matlack is a Vet Tech with over 20 years of experience working with animals. While she doesn’t think the crystal litter is harmful, she doesn’t like it because many cats dislike it. After all, even the world’s best absorbency litter falls short if your cat refuses to use it.

The crystal litter isn’t unsafe, but many cats develop an aversion to it because it makes a hissing sound when it gets wet and some cats find this disturbing and may refuse to go back to the litter box. — Debi Matlack, Vet Tech

Not Environmentally Friendly

Crystal cat litter poses environmental concerns due to its non-biodegradable nature. Unlike some traditional or natural litters, which can break down over time and have less impact on landfills, crystal litter is made from silica gel, a material that does not decompose naturally. This means that used crystal litter contributes to landfill waste, which can be a significant consideration for environmentally conscious pet owners.

Additionally, the production of silica gel involves mining and processing that have their own environmental impacts. For those who prioritize sustainability, exploring alternative litters made from renewable or biodegradable materials might be preferable, as they align better with eco-friendly practices and help reduce the overall environmental footprint.

The Verdict

Crystal cat litter is safe for most cats and offers advantages like superior absorbency and odor control. However, if your cat has a tendency to eat litter, has sensitive paws, or if you’re concerned about the environmental impact, you might want to explore other litter options.