Crystal & Natural Cat Litter

Crystal Cat Litter

Crystal cat litter is made from silica crystals that absorb urine and dry out solid waste on contact, trapping odor instead of covering it with heavy fragrance. It’s non-clumping, low-dust and lightweight, and the crystals don’t stick to your cat’s paws the way clay can, so less litter ends up on your floors. Because the crystals keep absorbing over time, you use less litter and change it less often. With one cat, a single bag can last up to two months in a traditional litter box.

Choose the format that fits your box. Loose crystal litter in single bags and multi-packs works in any standard litter box. Pre-filled disposable litter trays are made for self-cleaning rake boxes: when a tray is full, close the lid and toss it. Prefer less waste? Reusable trays in durable plastic or rust-resistant stainless steel refill with pre-portioned bags of crystal litter. Not sure which box you have? Our automatic self-cleaning litter boxes list the compatible litter for each model.

Natural Cat Litter

For a fragrance-free option, natural cat litter is made from diatomaceous earth, a mineral formed from fossilized algae. Like crystal litter, it’s non-clumping and absorbs moisture fast, with no added chemicals, dyes or fragrances. It works in traditional litter pans as well as many self-cleaning litter boxes. Round out your setup with litter mats, liners and covers from our litter box accessories, or browse everything in cat litter boxes and litter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is crystal cat litter?

Crystal cat litter is a non-clumping litter made from silica crystals. Instead of forming clumps you scoop out, the crystals absorb urine and dehydrate solid waste, which locks in odor and keeps the litter surface dry. It’s lighter and lower in dust than clay litter, and you use far less of it over time.

What is the difference between crystal litter and clumping litter?

Clumping litter, usually clay, forms solid clumps around urine that you scoop out and replace with fresh litter. Crystal litter doesn’t clump. It absorbs and holds moisture until the crystals are saturated, then you replace the whole batch. Crystal litter is lower in dust and lighter to carry, while clumping litter is what rotating and open-top self-cleaning boxes are designed to sift. Each of our self-cleaning litter boxes lists the litter type it needs.

Is crystal cat litter safe for cats?

Yes. PetSafe crystal cat litter is non-toxic, low-dust and made for everyday use in your cat’s litter box. As with any litter, watch kittens and curious cats that try to eat it, and talk to your veterinarian if your cat is eating litter or if you notice changes in their litter box habits.

How long does crystal cat litter last?

It depends on the format and how many cats share the box. With one cat, a bag of loose crystal litter can last up to two months in a traditional litter box, and a disposable crystal tray lasts up to 30 days in a self-cleaning rake box. With more cats, plan on changing litter more often. Replace it completely once the crystals stop absorbing or odor starts to return.

How do you use crystal litter in a regular litter box?

Pour the crystals into a clean, dry litter box. Each day, scoop out solid waste and stir the crystals so moisture spreads evenly and the litter dries out. Because crystal litter doesn’t clump, you won’t scoop out urine. When the crystals become saturated, empty the box and refill it with fresh litter.

How do I switch my cat to crystal litter?

Make the change gradually. Mix a small amount of crystal litter into your cat’s current litter, then increase the amount over about a week until the box is all crystal. Keep the box in the same spot during the switch, and if your cat seems hesitant, offer a second box with the old litter until they’re comfortable.

What is natural cat litter made of?

Our natural cat litter is made from diatomaceous earth, a mineral formed from fossilized algae. It’s non-clumping, fragrance-free and has no added chemicals, additives or dyes. Like crystal litter, it absorbs moisture quickly to control odor, and it works in traditional litter pans as well as many self-cleaning litter boxes.

Do you offer unscented cat litter?

Yes. Natural cat litter is completely fragrance-free, which makes it a good choice for cats who are sensitive to scents and for pet parents who prefer an unscented home. Crystal litter and crystal trays are available in a light fresh scent or lavender.

Can you use crystal litter in a self-cleaning litter box?

Yes, in the right box. Self-cleaning rake boxes are designed for crystal litter and use disposable crystal trays or reusable trays refilled with crystal litter. Rotating and open-top self-cleaning boxes work best with premium clumping litter, because they sift clumps out of the litter bed. Check the compatible litter for each model on our self-cleaning litter boxes page.

How do you dispose of crystal cat litter?

Bag used crystal litter and put it in the trash. Don’t flush crystal or natural litter, since it can clog plumbing and isn’t designed for septic or sewer systems. With a disposable crystal tray, just close the lid over the used litter and toss the whole tray.