Last Updated on January 8, 2024 by Fumipets
10 Best Crystal Cat Litters
Crystal cat litters have been gaining popularity among cat owners as an effective alternative to traditional clay or clumping litters. These innovative cat litters are made from highly absorbent silica gel, creating a cleaner and more odor-controlling environment for both you and your feline friend.
Crystal cat litters offer several advantages, such as reducing tracking, lasting longer between changes, and minimizing unpleasant odors. In this article, we will explore the world of crystal cat litters, diving into their benefits, usage, and much more.
Crystal Cat Litters
To keep their cats content with their toilet arrangements, cat owners employ a variety of kitty litter. One of the various options available on the market, crystal cat litter is often less dusty and more sanitary than the clay kinds. There are a variety of alternatives available to suit your cat, including scented and unscented crystals as well as large and little crystals. Even the colour may change.
In order to give you a better understanding of the options available and which litter would make your cat the happiest, these evaluations will introduce you to our selections of the finest crystal cat litters.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites of 2022
| Image | Product | Details | ||
BEST OVERALL |
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Fresh Step Scented Cat Crystals | Fresh scented Long-lasting Controls odors | Check Price |
BEST VALUE |
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Frisco Summer Clean Cat Crystal | Odor-locking crystals Clean scented Low dust | Check Price |
PREMIUM CHOICE |
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ScoopFree Premium Crystal Cat Litter | Disposable, leak-proof tray Easy to clean Low tracking | Check Price |
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ScoopFree Non-Clumping Cat Crystals | Long-lasting Pre-portioned for PetSafe ScoopFree Pans Works with all litter trays | Check Price | |
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Ultra Pearls Micro Cat Crystals | Water evaporates so litter lasts longer Odor-locking crystals Silica crystals | Check Price |
The 10 Best Crystal Cat Litters
1. Fresh Step Scented Non-Clumping Cat Litter — Best Overall
| Weight: | 8 pounds |
| Scented: | Yes |
| Clumping: | No |
The Fresh Step Fresh Perfumed Non-Clumping Crystal Cat Litter is our top pick for crystal cat litter because it is long-lasting and scented for improved odor management. Since these crystals are less dusty than clay alternatives, your cat won’t unintentionally trail them throughout the home on their paws or hair.
As you scoop, unused crystals will fall back into the tray since this crystal kitten litter doesn’t clump, so it will last longer than other types.
The hard crystals may not be comfortable for cats with sensitive paws. Even though Fresh Step is advertised as a low-dust choice, several cat owners felt it was a touch too dusty.
Pros
- Fresh scented
- Long-lasting
- Controls odors
Cons
- Hard crystals are tough on sensitive paws
- Some owners complained about dust
2. Frisco Summer Clean Scented Crystal Cat Litter – Best Value
| Weight: | 8 pounds |
| Scented: | Yes |
| Clumping: | No |
The Frisco Summer Clean Scented Non-clumping Crystal Cat Litter is our most economical crystal cat litter. It comes in bundles of four or individual bags. This cat litter, which was created for houses with several cats, is kind to sensitive paws and doesn’t trail when your buddy uses it.
The crystals’ unique aroma and odor-locking properties help to suppress offensive odors. Additionally, compared to clay litter products, this choice has less dust, allowing you and your cat to breathe more easily.
Some owners have expressed dissatisfaction about the litter’s inability to effectively absorb pee and mask smells. Additionally, if the litter box is not cleaned often, it has a tendency to adhere to the bottom.
Pros
- Odor-locking crystals
- Clean scented
- Low dust
Cons
- Sticks to the litter tray when not cleaned regularly
- Doesn’t absorb urine well
3. ScoopFree Non-Clumping Crystal Cat Litter – Premium Choice
| Dimensions: | 25 x 14 x 2. 38 inches |
| Scented: | Yes |
| Clumping: | No |
ScoopFree Premium Unscented Non-Clumping Crystal Cat Litter makes litter cleanup simple when used with the PetSafe self-cleaning litter box. This solution demands the least amount of cleaning effort from you since the disposable, leak-proof trays are already produced. It is intended to endure for many weeks before needing replacement.
ScoopFree is dust-free, doesn’t stick to your cat’s paws, and has a scent to reduce litter box smells, lowering the chance of tracking.
Other kinds of litter trays cannot use this option since it was designed particularly for the PetSafe ScoopFree Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box. This litter is pricey for cat owners trying out new litter, and buying the particular litter box makes it much more costly.
Pros
- Disposable, leak-proof tray
- Easy to clean
- Low tracking
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Specifically designed for the PetSafe ScoopFree Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box
- Won’t work with other litter boxes
- Expensive
4. ScoopFree Unscented Non-clumping Crystal Cat Litter
| Weight: | 9 pounds |
| Scented: | Yes |
| Clumping: | No |
For use in PetSafe ScoopFree litter pans, ScoopFree Premium Unscented Non-clumping Crystal Cat Litter is pre-portioned. Even though it works with PetSafe self-cleaning litter trays, the bagged pieces provide you more freedom in how you utilize them.
The long-lasting, odor-controlling mix of this litter may be used with disposable pans or a regular litter box while still providing benefits.
The crystals may be too harsh for fragile paws since they are both huge and pointy in certain areas. Some felines that don’t enjoy the feel of crystal litter won’t utilize it.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Pre-portioned for PetSafe ScoopFree Pans
- Works with all litter trays
Cons
- Sharp crystals can hurt delicate paws
- Some cats refuse to use it
5. Ultra Pearls Micro Non-Clumping Crystal Cat Litter
| Weight: | 5 pounds |
| Scented: | No |
| Clumping: | No |
In order to prolong the life of the litter, Ultra Pearls Micro Unscented Non-Clumping Crystal Cat Litter swiftly absorbs urine and dries solid waste within a few hours of your cat using the litter. With the help of the silica crystals, water evaporates while foul smells are left behind, keeping Ultra Pearls dry and functional for days.
Additionally, this litter is non-toxic, gentle on your cat’s paws, and doesn’t produce dust clouds when used or cleaned.
This litter has a high absorption rate and is long-lasting, although it suffers in families with many cats. Ultra Pearls, like many other cat litters, should be thrown away with the rest of your home garbage since it should not be flushed down the toilet.
Pros
- Water evaporates so litter lasts longer
- Odor-locking crystals
- Silica crystals
- Low dust
Cons
- Unsuitable for multi-cat households
6. Dr. Elsey’s Precious Cat Non-clumping Crystal Cat Litter
| Weight: | 8 pounds |
| Scented: | No |
| Clumping: | No |
Dr. Elsey’s Precious Cat Unscented Non-clumping Crystal Cat Litter is designed with senior cats in mind and doesn’t stick to your cat’s paws. It helps to absorb pee and dry up your cat’s excrement and is finer than some other solutions.
This hypoallergenic cat litter aids in the prevention of renal failure and urinary tract infections since it is free of wheat, pine, maize, and paper.
This choice employs tiny crystals to help absorb your cat’s waste, therefore it is extremely dusty. This litter lacks a fragrance, thus it may not be as effective at masking odors as brands that do.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Suitable for multi-cat households
- Prevents urinary tract infections
- Prevents kidney failure
Cons
- Dusty
- The unscented formula might not cover odors
7. Litter Pearls Micro Crystal Non-clumping Crystal Cat Litter
| Weight: | 5 pounds |
| Scented: | No |
| Clumping: | No |
Litter Pearls Micro Crystal Unscented Non-clumping Crystal is simple to maintain. Utilizing sand-like particles, cat litter rapidly absorbs urine and reduces odor. Cats with delicate paws may stand on the little crystals since they are gentle.
This clay litter can repeatedly absorb liquid over time, making it less messy to clean than other products and lasting longer in homes with only one cat. The litter has to be changed more regularly, according to owners of many cats, however.
The small sand-like particles of Litter Pearls litter make this an especially dusty alternative, both for cleaning and while your cat is using it. Some cats that detest the feel of crystal litter may refuse to use it.
Pros
- Fast absorption
- Long-lasting
- Easy to maintain
- Gentle on delicate paws
Cons
- Dusty
- Some cats refuse to use it
- Doesn’t last long in multi-cat households
8. Neon Purple Clumping Crystal Cat Litter
| Weight: | 4 pounds |
| Scented: | No |
| Clumping: | Yes |
Although your cat may not care how their litter box looks, you can alter the appearance of your cat litter by using the Neon Purple Clumping Crystal Cat Litter. This cat litter, which is advertised as being completely dust-free, has a high absorption level, is a natural clumping agent, and makes it simple to clean up after your pet cat.
They are kinder on your cat’s paws since the crystals themselves are smaller and rounder than some other crystal cat litters. Even though it’s comfortable to stand on, some cats still don’t like the texture and won’t utilize it.
Other colors are available, however they are all only offered in 4-pound bags.
Pros
- 100% dust-free
- Gentle on delicate paws
- Natural clumping agent for easy scooping
Cons
- Only available in small bags
- Some cats dislike the texture
9. Vibrant Life Cat Litter Ultra Premium Crystals
| Weight: | 4 pounds |
| Scented: | No |
| Clumping: | Yes |
The Vibrant Life Cat Litter Ultra Premium Crystals is made with tiny crystals, making it soft on your cat’s delicate paws while yet being absorbent and odor-controlling. Each bag guarantees that the litter is kept fresh for efficient usage and is sold in 4-pound increments.
It is simple to scoop your cat’s waste since it is clumping cat litter, but if the litter box isn’t cleaned out often, it could adhere to the bottom. This cat litter is dustier than some other crystal brands because of the micro-crystal composition.
Although it comes in three-packs, this crystal cat litter is more pricey than most others.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Mini crystals
- Gentle on sensitive paws
Cons
- Dusty
- Clumps to the base of the litter tray
- Expensive
10. Dr. Elsey’s Precious Cat Respiratory Relief Crystal Cat Litter
| Weight: | 5 pounds |
| Scented: | No |
| Clumping: | No |
Respiratory Comfort for Dr. Elsey’s Precious Cat, Crystal In order to alleviate respiratory problems brought on by fragrances, deodorants, and plant proteins in other litter products, Cat Litter was created as a hypoallergenic cat litter. It makes use of a carefully chosen array of herbal essences to calm your cat, shield it from respiratory ailments, and manage smells from the litter box. Multiple cat homes may use Dr. Elsey’s since it contains non-toxic chemicals.
Although this product has a respiratory relief solution, several owners have expressed concern about the product’s dustiness, both during cleanup and when their cats use the litter. Additionally, the crystals often attach to cat hair and are carried about the home.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Herbal essences
- No perfumes, deodorants, or plant proteins
- Designed for multi-cat households
Cons
- Dusty
- Sticks to cat fur
How To Choose The Best Crystal Cat Litter
Choosing crystal cat litter might be challenging if you’ve never had a cat or have only ever used clay kitty litter for many years. There are several brands to choose from, in addition to a wide range of colors, textures, and preferences for your cat.
To assist you in determining if crystal cat litter is the best option for you, we put up this little information.
What Is Crystal Cat Litter?
Crystal litter employs silica gel crystals instead of clay or other forms of litter to absorb and dry your cat’s feces and pee. These little packets that are hidden within all kinds of goods packaging are silica gel. They are intended to wick away moisture during transit, keeping your new shoes or anything else you purchased dry.
The same idea applies to cat litter, and cat owners like silica’s ability to absorb moisture for a variety of reasons.
Longevity
Once the pee has been absorbed, the silica crystals allow water to evaporate, keeping your cat’s litter dry and able to absorb moisture for a longer period of time than clay litters. One bag of crystal litter may last many weeks in homes with just one cat.
Low Dust
Because it is made of crystals, less dust is kicked up when you or your cat touches this litter. While dustiness varies across manufacturers, crystal litter doesn’t generally spread dust everywhere. The absence of dust also means that there is less material for your cat’s hair or paws to adhere to, lowering the possibility that your best friend would trail litter around the home.
Odor Control
Silica gel allows water to evaporate but also retains smells. The crystals will hold onto the bad odours in your cat’s litter box as long as you scoop out their waste and agitate the litter occasionally.
Ease of Use
As they are utilized, many crystal litters undergo color changes. Particularly light-colored litters might let you know whether your cat has a UTI or simply when the crystals need to be changed since they are saturated with liquid.
Lightweight
Crystal litter is widely recognized for being much lighter than clay litters. The bags are not only more durable and last longer, but they are also simpler to shift from one location to another, making litter tray cleaning sessions easier.
What to Consider When Buying Crystal Cat Litter
Crystal cat litter has drawbacks, just like other products. The following advice will help you switch to crystal litter while ensuring that your cat is ok with the change.
Big or Small Crystals
There are two sizes of crystals in crystal litter. Large crystals are often more difficult and uncomfortable for your cat to stand on. While not all cats are bothered by it, those with extremely delicate paws will stay well away from this litter.
Micro-crystals, which are smaller crystals, are significantly finer. Although they are just as hard as the bigger crystals, they are often rounder and more sand-like. Although micro-crystals are kinder on the paws of your cat, there is still a potential that your cat won’t like the texture.
Buy a Small Bag
Small bags are often used to sell crystal cat litter. If you’re attempting this kind of litter for the first time, be sure to get a little bag rather than a huge quantity. Be aware that your cat may detest the texture to the point that they will never approach it. You’re less likely to waste litter if you get a tiny bag to test it out in case your picky cat doesn’t like their new toilet.
Transition Slowly
It’s usually best to gradually introduce a new food brand to your cat by blending it with their regular kibble or wet food. The same is true of cat litter.
Even though they are prone to becoming bored, your cat like routine. Your new litter will be wasted, and there’s a strong chance the carpet will be ruined, if your pet’s litter box has a rapid shift in texture.
Mix the crystals with your current litter for the first few days. This will help your cat get acclimated to both the new texture and the cozy familiarity of the previous brand of litter.
Scented or Unscented
No of the kind, cat litter may be either scented or unscented. This implies that a scent will be added to the litter that will be meant to mask the more disagreeable scents left behind by your cat’s bathroom trips and keep the litter fresh.
Strong scents will put some cats off since they are picky about the scent of their litter. If you’ve had cats before, you undoubtedly know what odors they enjoy or if they prefer items that don’t smell at all.
It could take some trial and error for novice cat owners to get it properly. Another justification for starting with a smaller bag is this.
Multi-cat Households
One litter box per cat, plus an additional, is the typical recommendation for families with many cats. The litter you use to fill the tray must still be durable enough to withstand repeated usage by many cats. Some people are more resilient to stress than others.
Compared to clay-based variants, many crystal cat litters survive longer. However, they are only durable for as long as the crystals are functional. If your single cat or your whole family uses them often, you’ll need to clean the litter tray just as often as you would if you were using regular litter.
Conclusion
The Fresh Step Cat Litter is a terrific choice if you’re sick of your cat leaving clumps of kitty litter all over the home. It is not only less dusty than some other cat litters, but it also won’t stick to your cat’s paws or hair and drag it about with it.
The Frisco Summer Clean Scented Cat Litter is a cost-effective cat litter. This alternative is perfect for multi-cat families and has a fresh aroma.
This information should have helped you in determining if crystal cat litter is the best option for you and your cat.
Q&A on Crystal Cat Litters
What are crystal cat litters made of, and how do they work?
Crystal cat litters are primarily composed of silica gel, which is highly absorbent. These silica crystals effectively absorb moisture and lock in odors, turning liquid waste into solid clumps. This process helps keep your cat’s litter box dry and odor-free.
How do crystal cat litters compare to traditional clay or clumping litters?
Crystal cat litters have several advantages over traditional litters. They are highly absorbent, reducing the frequency of litter changes. Crystal litters also minimize tracking, as the larger, less dusty crystals tend to stay in the litter box. Additionally, they are known for superior odor control.
Do crystal cat litters pose any health risks to cats or humans due to the silica gel content?
Crystal cat litters are generally considered safe for cats and humans. The silica gel used in these litters is non-toxic and approved for various applications. However, as with any cat litter, it’s essential to monitor your cat’s behavior and consider any allergies or sensitivities they may have.
How often should I change crystal cat litter, and is it cost-effective in the long run?
Crystal cat litters require less frequent changes compared to traditional litters. Depending on the brand and your cat’s usage, you may only need to change it once a month. While crystal litters may seem more expensive initially, their longevity often makes them cost-effective in the long run.
Are there any specific considerations or tips for using crystal cat litters effectively?
When using crystal cat litters, it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific brand. Be sure to maintain the recommended litter depth in the box, scoop out solid waste daily, and stir the crystals occasionally to maximize their effectiveness. Additionally, monitor your cat’s comfort with the new litter and make adjustments as needed to ensure they are happy with the change.
