How to choose a cat litter?

One of the amazing features of cats is the desire for purity inherent at the genetic level. Animals not only wash themselves often, but also go to the toilet very carefully. A cat always buries its own feces, no matter what kind of litter is used. Even in the absence of such, the animal will “dig” the floor. Why is this happening?

Invisible hunter

In fact, the reason for feline cleanliness is the lifestyle of predators. Take a closer look at your pet: after each feeding, he completely licks himself, not even leaving his ears unattended. In this way, cats get rid of odors – the predator must be completely invisible! After all, it is by smell that animals recognize each other. For the same reason, cats bury excrement. With their help, other animals can understand who left them and how long ago.

Does a cat need litter?

Newly minted cat owners often wonder whether it is worth accustoming a kitten to a filler at all. It’s one thing when a pet is from a nursery and he is already accustomed to it. And quite another – a cat picked up on the street. Alas, there is no definite answer to this question. It all depends on the animal itself, the desire of the owner and his capabilities. Some cats do not hesitate to go even to a tray with a net or newspaper, while others will prefer the most expensive filler.

If you are not ready to clean up cat feces after every trip to the toilet, it is better to start looking for a suitable litter right away.

After all, a clean pet is unlikely to go into a bad-smelling tray, but will certainly find another place in the apartment. And, most likely, it will be a soft carpet or a far corner under the sofa.

What are the fillers?

• mineral filler consists of large, medium or small clay particles. Its main advantage is its excellent ability to retain odors (thanks to the top layer) and moisture (the bottom layer serves for this).

  Mineral filler is clumping. Absorbing liquid, it forms a small lump, and solid waste envelops.

  The main disadvantage of such a filler is that it is not suitable for kittens. The thing is, kids love to taste everything. If a kitten eats a lumpy filler, problems with the gastrointestinal tract are guaranteed;

• wood filler is distinguished by its environmental friendliness, it is made from pressed sawdust. One of the significant advantages of such a filler is its low price. In addition, it perfectly absorbs moisture.

  There are also disadvantages: wet wood filler does not form lumps, but crumbles, so it sticks to the pet’s paws. And he spreads it all over the apartment.

• Silica gel filler is a product of the latest generation. It absorbs both odors and liquid, there is no need to change it daily, it is very economical. However, silica gel is the most expensive type of filler. And it crunches, which not every cat will like.

Choosing cat litterpay attention to some points:

1. Most litter should not be thrown down the toilet. It is believed that only natural wood materials can be disposed of in this way;

2. The filler should not smell. Extraneous pungent odors can repel a cat;

3. The filler should not gather dust. Otherwise, during instillation, the pet may breathe dust, which provokes the development of allergies.

Photo: Collection

19 September 2018

Updated: September 26, 2018