litter beads

Litter beads and crystal cat litters are typically made from silica-based crystals and may include natural minerals such as diatomaceous earth.

Reported lifespans vary by product and household use, commonly ranging from about three to four weeks up to around two months, depending on factors like how many cats use the box and frequency of cleaning.

Crystal litters are often described as low‑dust and low‑tracking, but some users still notice fine crystal tracking and occasional dust—especially toward the end of a bag.

Bead and crystal‑style litters are most commonly used for cats. Similar absorbent bedding products are also sold for small pets such as hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, ferrets, and chinchillas.

Some crystal litter formulas are designed not to cling to fur or paws and are described as reducing sticking and tracking. However, performance varies by formula and individual cat, so some long‑haired cats may still experience occasional tracking.