Is Silica Safe for Cats?

Learn about the different kinds of Silica and why Silica Gel is a good choice for your cat’s litter box.

What Kind of Silica is in PrettyLitter?

There are two types of silica: one that has scary health effects, and one that does not. Because both compounds are called "silica," it can be difficult to know the difference.

PrettyLitter is non-toxic, pet-safe, and made from amorphous silica. Our litter contains no crystalline silica.

The two types of silica are crystalline silica and amorphous silica (also known as silica gel). They have distinct differences in their molecular structure which causes them to have different health effects.

Silica Types At A Glance

Amorphous Silica (Silica Gel)

• Found in PrettyLitter
• Found in food additives, food wrappings, toothpaste, and cosmetics
• Not linked to silicosis
• Not linked to cancer

Crystalline Silica

• Not in PrettyLitter
• Found in bricks, glass, plaster, granite, concrete, and talcum powder
• Linked to silicosis and COPD
• Linked to cancer, classified carcinogen

Amorphous Silica vs Crystalline Silica

Amorphous silica has a more disordered structure and is generally considered less hazardous. It is commonly used in food additives, food wrappings, toothpaste, and cosmetics, and exposure to it at typical environmental or commercial levels is safe for humans and cats.

Crystalline silica, such as quartz, has a rigid, ordered structure and can cause serious health issues like silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, kidney failure, autoimmune diseases, and increased susceptibility to tuberculosis, especially when inhaled over long periods.

Do Vets Approve of PrettyLitter?

Meet Dr. DeWire, the winner of the Pfizer Clinical Achievement Award for Excellence in Veterinary Medicine. Dr. DeWire is our trusted Veterinarian-in-Chief.

"Most owners don’t realize their cats are coping with an illness unless the disease has significantly progressed making treatment more difficult. That’s why I’m so excited about PrettyLitter."

Dr. DeWire, Veterinarian

Pfizer Clinical Achievement Award for Excellence in Veterinary Medicine

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PrettyLitter safe?

Yes, PrettyLitter is pet-safe and household-friendly.

What is Silica?

Silica is a naturally-occurring compound (SiO2) that comes in two forms: crystalline silica (or c-silica) and amorphous silica (a-silica or silica gel).

PrettyLitter is made from amorphous silica and contains no crystalline silica.

What other common items include crystalline silica?

Quartz, bricks, glass, ceramics, plaster, granite, and concrete.

What other common items include amorphous silica?

Food additives, food wrappers, toothpaste, and cosmetics.

Is silica linked to cancer?

Amorphous silica is not linked to cancer. Crystalline silica is linked to cancer, as well as silicosis and COPD.

Your Partner in Feline Health

PrettyLitter was created to help cat parents proactively monitor their cat’s health. While PrettyLitter is pet-safe and non-toxic, only licensed medical professionals can determine what's best for you, your household, and your cat.

If you have questions or concerns about the health or wellness of your cat, please consult your veterinarian.