Is Diatomaceous Earth OK to Use As Kitty Litter?

Food-grade diatomaceous earth is made up of the remains of microscopic, one-celled plants known as diatoms. These plankton lived in lakes and oceans that once covered the Western United States, as well as other parts of the world. The product is mined and used in a variety of products, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, insecticides and paints. There is also diatomaceous earth processed for use in pool filters, which should never be used near humans or pets. The food-grade product can be used for pets and humans.

  1. Function

    • Some cat litters do contain diatomaceous earth, or DE. Diatomaceous earth is included in both clumping and non-clumping litters because of its absorbent properties. However, the earth is always mixed with some variety of clay in the litters, not as the only ingredient in a cat litter. While DE is absorbent, when it gets wet on its own, it can become messy and difficult to work with. For that reason, it is not used by itself as a cat litter.

    Additions

    • DE can be effective at prolonging the life of cat litter. It adds extra absorbency and has the added benefit of helping to control adult fleas and insects in the litter box. For effective control of adult fleas on the cat, sprinkle the powder over the cat and work it into the fur. DE does not kill flea larvae.

    Commercial Products

    • Commercially produced cat litter, both clumping and non-clumping, make use of diatomaceous earth in the formulations. Companies use DE mixed with the dried clay that is used in many types of cat litter. The diatomaceous earth absorbs about 50 percent more liquid than the clay, making it highly effective in cat litter. DE does not affect clumping; that is controlled by the type of clay used in the formulation.

    Other Uses

    • Diatomaceous earth has other beneficial uses besides helping in cat litter boxes. Food grade DE can be used as an anti-caking agent in animal feed, and has the added benefit of killing some parasites inside animals, for the same reason it is effective against fleas. The sharp edges of the fossilized shells puncture the exoskeletons, then absorb bodily fluids. The powder can also be sprinkled around the exterior of the home to control insects. It works in the bedding of animals such as chickens, cows and horses to absorb and mitigate odor, and is a natural detoxin.