Van Cat Vanilla, 5 kg is a clumping cat litter made of natural white bentonite, a clay mineral activated with soda ash. Double sieving removes dust: according to the manufacturer, it's 99.5% dust-free. The medium 0.6–2.25 mm granules suit kittens and adult cats. Absorbency is 280–330%, and the clumps are firm and don't crumble. The scent is vanilla. 5 kg equals 6 litres.
How bentonite works
On contact with moisture, bentonite swells and binds into a firm clump around urine. The clump is easy to scoop out, and the rest of the litter stays dry, so there's no need to replace it all — just top up what's missing. It's economical and convenient. More on litter types in how to choose cat litter.
Key specs
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | clumping bentonite |
| Colour | white |
| Granules | 0.6–2.25 mm |
| Absorbency | 280–330% |
| Dust | 99.5% dust-free |
| Scent | vanilla |
| Weight / volume | 5 kg / 6 l |
| Usage | 5 kg lasts 30–40 days for one 4–7 kg cat |
Pros
- Firm clumps. Don't crumble when scooped.
- Almost dust-free. Double-sieved.
- Medium granules. Suit kittens and adults.
- Economical. No full changes needed.
- Doesn't stick to paws. According to the manufacturer.
- A pleasant vanilla scent. Freshens the tray.
Cons
- Not every cat likes the scent. Some refuse scented litter.
- Heavy. 5 kg is awkward to carry.
- Not flushable. Bentonite blocks drains.
- "Doesn't cause allergies" claim. Individual reactions are still possible.
Filling and scooping
Pour litter into a clean tray to a depth of about 7 cm. Scoop clumps and solids daily, then top up to the original level. Change the litter completely less often — when it starts to smell, usually every 2–4 weeks — and wash the tray at the same time. Bin clumps rather than flushing them — more in can you flush cat litter.
If your cat rejects the scent
Cats are very sensitive to smells, and strong vanilla may put some off. If your cat starts going outside the tray after a litter change, go back to the old one or choose an unscented option such as Van Cat Classic. Switch gradually by mixing new litter with the old. More in cat not using the litter tray: what to do.
For kittens
The medium granules are easy for kittens to dig. But small kittens sometimes taste litter, so keep an eye on them in the first days. For litter training, see how to litter-train a kitten.
Bentonite, silica gel or tofu
Bentonite clumps well and is inexpensive, but heavy and not flushable. Silica gel is light and controls odour better but doesn't clump. Tofu is flushable and almost dust-free. For comparison, see our reviews of the soy-based KOTIX Tofu Green Tea and the bentonite Van Cat Aloe Vera.
Choosing a litter tray
Clumping bentonite works in an ordinary open or covered tray without a grid, as a grid gets in the way of clumps and makes scooping harder. High sides reduce scattering, and a mat at the exit catches granules from paws. The tray should be one and a half times your cat's length. With several cats, have one more tray than the number of cats. More in which litter tray to choose for your cat.
Who it suits
Owners of cats and kittens who want an economical white clumping litter with a vanilla scent. More options are in the cat litter section.
Verdict
Van Cat Vanilla 5 kg is a white bentonite litter with firm clumps, almost no dust and a vanilla scent. It's economical, lasting one cat 30–40 days. The downsides are a scent that not every cat likes, a heavy bag and that it can't be flushed.
FAQ
Does it clump?
Yes, it forms firm clumps.
How long does 5 kg last?
30–40 days for one cat weighing 4–7 kg.
How deep should it be?
About 7 cm.
Is it suitable for kittens?
Yes, the medium granules suit kittens.
Can it be flushed?
No, bentonite blocks drains.
Is it dusty?
According to the manufacturer, it's 99.5% dust-free.
What's the scent?
Vanilla.
