Rating of the best litter boxes (trays) for cats for 2021 with advantages and disadvantages.

Silica gel cat litter is a popular hygienic product for pet litter. It absorbs moisture well and removes unpleasant odors. It is quite economical and allows you to keep the tray clean for 3-4 weeks. Manufacturers produce a wide variety of mixtures with different properties. This article will help you decide what types of fillers there are and which one is best to choose for your pet.

General characteristics

Silica gel mixture for cat litter is dry solid granules that are obtained from silicic acids. They can be in the form of balls or crystals, most often white. To increase the aesthetic appeal, manufacturers can paint the granules in various shades (blue, red, green, etc.).

The mixture has excellent hydrophilic properties. When urine gets on the granules, it is completely absorbed by them without leaving an unpleasant odor. Additionally, aromatic substances can be added to the filler, which are activated when they are exposed to moisture.

The following main types of silica gel are distinguished:

antibacterial;
flavored;
multi-colored;
hypoallergenic.

Positive sides

Silica gel litter is deservedly one of the most popular cat litter products. The advantages of using it include:

economical: a standard two-kilogram package is enough for about a month (of course, there are also larger packages that are designed for a longer period);
absence of dirt: the mixture does not create dust and practically does not stick to the animal’s paws;
absorbs moisture well: silica gel absorbs not only the liquid that gets on it, but also moisture in the air, so it can be used to get rid of excess humidity in the bathroom or toilet.

Wood fillers

They are distinguished by the material from which they are made. The pressed ones are hypoallergenic and quite economical in consumption. Their cost is also encouraging: the average is 5 kg / 120 rubles.

Clean Paws Woody

Price: 190 rubles / 12 l.

This product is perfect for use by adult pets. Wood pellets hold their shape, adsorb perfectly, and retain stench. The product is completely environmentally friendly, without the addition of artificial additives. The presence of a large volume makes it economically beneficial for owners. A big plus is that the sawdust is not carried away by the paws. Although the fractions themselves can fall out of the tray when the fluffy digs around there, and pollute the clean space of the apartment.

A special advantage is that it can be flushed down the toilet, avoiding clogging.

But it is not recommended to dispose of a large amount of sawdust at once in this way; when soaked and compressed, they can form a plug. This product is not suitable for small kittens: they will perceive large hard granules as a toy.

Advantages:

economical;
environmentally friendly;
absorbs odor;
low consumption;
large packaging;
easy to buy.

Flaws:

sawdust may crumble;
Contraindicated for kittens.

Cat's Best Eko Plus

Price: 800 rubles / 10 l.

This German product is a representative of the clumping group. The wet sawdust is compressed; just remove the lump, for example, flush it down the toilet. Made from natural materials: spruce, pine. Their adsorption is very high. User reviews say that there is no stink even from the discarded lump. The aroma of sawdust is light pine, ignored by pets. The product is economical due to its low consumption. You just need to periodically replenish it to the required level.

It has been noted that sawdust is pulled apart and raked out of the tray more than wood pellets, but for cats they are softer, more convenient, and comfortable to step on with their paws. Not suitable for cats with long hair, because... light fractions cling to it, some stick strongly.

Advantages:

environmentally friendly;
absorbs odor;
economical consumption;
can be flushed down the toilet.

Flaws:

inconvenient for long-haired breeds;
is being pulled apart a lot.

Kuzya Woody

Price: 80 rubles / 4.5 l.

A simple and easy name for a company with almost 20 years of experience. The shelves of pet stores are filled with Kuzya logo products. The products are inexpensive and used sparingly. Wood fractions adsorb aromas on a par with more expensive analogues. A significant disadvantage is the hardness of the granules, which create a specific noise when the cat digs. Pet owners note that wet sawdust sticks strongly to the paws, as a result of which they spread throughout the room.

To eliminate the unpleasant odor, it is recommended to periodically stir the contents of the tray, because cats most often use one specific corner, and the rest of the space remains clean and dry.

Advantages:

low cost;
environmentally friendly;
absorbs odor.

Flaws:

spread by paws;
Contraindicated for kittens.

Flaws

Of course, the use of this product, like any other product, has its negative aspects:

quite high price (there are other cat litter products on the market at a lower cost, but if the silica gel litter is used in accordance with the instructions, it will last a long time);
when liquid gets on the granules, a characteristic hissing sound appears, which frightens some cats;
granules in the form of crystals or fine fractions can be unpleasant for the pet when he steps on them;
the mixture is not suitable for animals that like to taste everything.

Silica gel should not be eaten. If ingested, it can cause serious problems due to its strong hydrophilic properties.

Important! The filler is not recommended for use in kittens, since if the kitten eats a little of the granules, this will lead to serious consequences, including the death of the animal.

Clay fillers

Clay resembles natural cat litter in structure and composition, and therefore animals prefer it to all other types. In terms of cost and consumption, this category is slightly higher than wood and silica gels.

Fresh Step Extreme Clay

Price: 930 rubles / 9.5 kg.

The American clumping product has won great love from owners of furry pets. The patented Fresh Step system starts working as soon as the cat steps on the pebbles. Clay granules of three colors are used here: gray ones absorb liquid, green ones delay the spread of stench and bacteria that contribute to it, and blue ones refresh the air with aromatic molecules. Manufacturers went even further and enriched the product with antimicrobial components that block the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria in the toilet.

Reviews from the owners note that when falling asleep, a lot of dust appears, the effect of the fragrance is too strong. Its cost is quite high, and the manufacturer recommends changing it completely every 10 days. It cannot be disposed of by flushing it down the toilet.

Advantages:

Ever Clean Multi-Crystals

Price: 1400 rubles / 10 l.

This product occupies a leading position in reviews and recommendations. A unique formula using activated carbon, basil, and eucalyptus extract reliably gets rid of unpleasant amber, while releasing a refreshing aroma.

The best litter for a kitten, which does not contain allergens, does not dry out the skin of the paws, and is practically dust-free.

The category is also suitable for animals that react strongly to aromas.

The contents of the tray rarely need to be changed; it is enough to remove any lumps that have formed. Small crumbs stick to the paws and spread throughout the apartment. Cats love to dig for bentonite clay, scattering it all around.

Advantages:

hypoallergenic;
Great for litter box training kittens;
no dust;
absorbs odor.

Flaws:

high price;
pulled apart with his paws.

If the cat ate silica gel

Some pets, out of curiosity, eat inedible things. Such addictions are rarely found in adults; this behavior is more often present in kittens. In the case of silica gel, this situation can be very dangerous.

According to its properties, the substance is hygroscopic and increases in size as it is filled with moisture. Therefore, it can cause intestinal blockage and other gaps in the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, the mixture, albeit in small doses, contains toxic elements that can cause serious poisoning in kittens.

If an animal has eaten silica gel, it is better to immediately seek the help of a specialist, as surgical intervention may be required.

Recommendations for use

Each package of hygiene product for cat litter contains instructions, following which you can get optimal results from using the product. You should follow a few simple rules so that silica gel serves usefully and does not cause trouble:

It is necessary to pour a sufficiently large volume of the mixture into the tray (the manufacturer indicates exactly how much on the packaging). Then the silica gel will perform its functions well: absorb liquid and prevent odor from spreading.
In order for the hygiene product to last longer, it must be stirred periodically.
After the cat has emptied its intestines, remove the excrement with a spatula and, if necessary, add a little mixture. If granules are stuck to the stool, it is better not to throw them into the toilet.
The filler is disposed of together with solid household waste. You should not pour it into the toilet, as it can swell and clog the drain.

Rating of the best litter boxes (trays) for cats for 2021

Open models

This is the most common type. It is easier to clean, wash and disinfect a tray of this type. In addition, they are much cheaper.

Triol P666

This sample is shaped like a triangle. Thanks to this parameter, the toilet can be placed in any corner of the house, and it will not be so conspicuous.

The model has sides, they are high and rounded. This is another advantage, since the filling will not spill out over the edges.

As for the material, the manufacturer uses plastic, and what I would like to note is that it is of high quality. It is easy to care for and treating with disinfectants is also not difficult. The set includes a special scoop for cleaning.

The cost of all this pleasure is 1130 rubles.

Triol P666

Advantages:

The tray does not turn over under the weight of the animal;
The dimensions and shape are optimal for any room;
Nice color scheme.

Flaws:

Not detected.

SAVIC Aseo

The sample price is slightly less. In appearance it resembles a trough. The design is quite simple, but the design is, let's say, ergonomic.

Modern Lift to Sift Large

An interesting model in its design, which has a one-piece body. There is a grille and, just like in previous models, sides, they are high here too, but only on three sides, the fourth does not have them and is open. The animal gets inside through this side.

The grille does not deform from the weight of even a heavy cat, since the material is very dense plastic.

Modern Lift to Sift Large

Advantages:

Attractive appearance;
The space around will not be polluted;
The drive may not be used here.

Flaws:

The smell is absorbed into the material;
In this case, product maintenance is carried out more often.

Moderna Arist – O – Tray Small

The most budget option in this line. Its cost is only 170 rubles. Unlike all previous samples, this one has low sides. This product is aimed at consumers who have small kittens at home who are already trained to go to the toilet in a litter box. The color scheme looks quite impressive.

The design itself is very simple, but at the same time it ensures the kitten can easily get inside. The dimensions of this model are neither large nor small, but the most optimal for easy and simple handling and emptying of contents.

It wouldn’t be a shame to replace such a tray more than once in a few months if its integrity is damaged.

Moderna Arist – O – Tray Small

Advantages:

Budget cost;
Cleaning this plastic is very easy;
The shape ensures unobstructed care even in the deepest corners.

Flaws:

The presence of low sides does not protect against spilling of contents;
The plastic, which is soft in texture, is not shock-resistant;
It can absorb unpleasant odors and spread them around the room.

Imac Fred

The tray model is interesting in its design. The presence of high sides and rounded edges are all ideal parameters for adult cats. On top of all this is high-quality and very durable plastic. Long-term operation is a positive aspect when choosing for the consumer himself.

Due to the thoughtful design, the floor around is not dirty. The filler will remain inside, even with the most intense movement of the cat.

The angular shape allows you to place the tray in any secluded place in the room, to hide it, so to speak, from prying eyes. It will be easier for your pet to climb inside thanks to the recesses on those same sides.

If the owner feels that there is an unpleasant odor in the apartment, just add a little filler, and not

Imac Fred

Advantages:

Thoughtful form;
Long term use;
Prevents contamination around the tray.

Flaws:

The model is aimed exclusively at adult breeds; small ones will have difficulty getting inside;
It is not cheap - about 1300 rubles.

Closed models

Such samples represent a kind of image of a house, and according to experts, animals feel more comfortable in them than, say, in open trays. With these species, it is common to remove the top cover to change the contents.

Let's look at representatives of this type.

Modern Trendy Cat Cats In Love

Will ideally fit into the interior of any room. The material is very durable, its quality is capable of preventing the spread of odors that are unpleasant to humans. In addition, the material is very resistant to damage. There will be no scratches, chips, or broken parts.

Let's take a look at the building. It consists of two parts - upper and lower. They are detachable. By removing the upper part, the lower part can be used to train small kittens to the tray, and when the pet grows up, he will feel comfortable in a closed tray. The existing handle on the lid is used to carry the entire structure.

Manufacturers included a dustpan and a carbon filter in the set. They greatly simplify the cleaning process.

Modern Trendy Cat Cats In Love

Advantages:

Attractive design;
Large dimensions;
Durable and high quality material;
The existing filter absorbs odor.

Flaws:

A somewhat high price - a little more than 2 thousand rubles;
To wash the tray, you must first disassemble it and then reassemble it.

Curver Pet Life

Perhaps the most versatile model in terms of the size of the furry household. If the tray will be used for a small kitten, then to make it easier for him to get inside, the manufacturer has provided a small step.

Environmentally friendly and very durable material, combined with a convenient design, justify the not-so-low price, namely 4,700 rubles.

An improvised house - the toilet consists of two parts. In addition, there is a small space where a scoop is placed - a spatula and a handle, which is attached to the lid before carrying.

Curver Pet Life

Advantages:

Convenient to carry;
Attractive design;
Versatile in use.

Flaws:

It costs expensive.

Ferplast Maxi Bella

Here we are dealing with a manufacturer from Italy. Designed for use as a litter box for large cats. Or suitable for such an option as several cats. Two collapsible parts allow for simplified maintenance. The lid itself contains a filter to reduce unpleasant odors.

The cat can get inside without any hindrance. When digging through the filler, you shouldn’t be afraid that it will end up on the floor. The case is reliably protected from opening.

Those who have already become the proud owner of this model note that urine does not flow into the corners and does not remain there when washing.

Ferplast Maxi Bella

Advantages:

Can be purchased for both cats and small breed dogs;
High-quality execution;
Great looks.

Flaws:

Despite the fact that this sample costs slightly less than the previous one, it still remains expensive - 4,300 rubles.

SAVIC Duchesse

The most budget model in this product category. The cost is a little more than 800 rubles.

There are some restrictions when purchasing, for example, the product is aimed at kittens. It is worth accustoming to this tray gradually. First, unfasten the lid and leave the tray as it is so that the animal gets used to it. When the process becomes a habit, the lid can be returned. The attachment design of the lid and tray is very reliable. If you try to turn the house over, the individual parts will not separate, and the litter with excrement will not fall out.

At the “entrance” inside there is a plastic makeshift door. It opens inward.

Ease of use and maintenance results in low cost.

SAVIC Duchesse tray

Advantages:

Affordable price;
Transparent door that allows you to control the contents;
Nice appearance.

Flaws:

Not suitable for large breeds.

Home Cat

The last example in the rating. Quite a simple design, but despite its simplicity, the design is resistant to turning over.

You can buy a Home Cat when you are still a baby and keep it for a long time, when the pet becomes an adult. Dimensions are suitable for both options. The smooth material does not allow liquid to linger on the walls inside and dry out; everything flows down. As for the entrance opening, it is quite large here. And just like in the previous version, the door is transparent. Therefore, in order to see how things are inside and whether it is worth replacing the filling, you just need to look through the door inside, and not disassemble the two parts, unfastening them from each other.

Home Cat tray

Advantages:

Tall and comfortable toilet for a pet;
Easy to disassemble and assemble;
Increased wear and tear due to the thick plastic used in production.

Flaws:

Not detected.

№1 Crystals

This is one of the most popular silica gel litters for cats. The country of origin of the product is Russia. The hygiene product performs its functions perfectly, absorbs liquid, and neutralizes the smell of feces. The granules have a convenient shape that prevents them from getting stuck in the paws or getting tangled in the fur. Thanks to this property, the mixture remains in the tray and does not spread throughout the house.

Varieties:

Crystals No. 1 (classic).
For Girls pink.
Antibacterial.
For Kittens.
Lavender.
Sakura.

Approximate price:

5 l – 500 rubles;
12.5 l – 1500 rubles;
30 l – 2500 rubles.

Siberian cat

“Siberian cat” is a cat litter produced in Russia. The brand produces various products for animals, including several types of hygiene mixtures (including silica gel).

Silica gel granules have a rounded, fine fraction, transparent or translucent color. They perfectly absorb liquid and vapor. Their surface always remains dry, so the animal does not experience discomfort the next time it steps into the tray.

Varieties:

silica gel filler “Elite”;
Elite IVF.

Approximate price:

1.8 kg – 500 rubles;
3.7 kg – 800 rubles;
7.3 kg – 1600 rubles.

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. They are also recommended to be chosen for small kittens and purebred cats. For everyone else, ordinary means will do. 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, the Pussy-Cat Oceanic is an ideal choice.
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.

Cat Step

This is a silica gel litter for cats produced by a Russian company that produces products for pets. The hygiene product helps to keep the cat litter clean for a long time. For 2-3 weeks you don’t have to worry about general cleaning of the tray, as the mixture absorbs the animal’s feces well and prevents the unpleasant odor from spreading.

Varieties:

silica gel litter for cats Cat Step (classic);
Laguna (unflavored, granules are colored blue, white and pink);
Sacura (unflavored, granules colored white and pink);
with strawberry aroma;
with lavender scent.

Approximate price:

3.8 l – 300 rub.;
7.6 l – 700 rub.;
15.2 l – 1300 rub.

You can now view the current price of the filler and buy it right here: