Cat litter for substrate?

catdawg426

I've read in a few places that cat litter can be used as a substrate. I can't seem to find much info on it, and I have a few questions:
1. Would this be compatible with plecos or catfish?
2. Can you grow all or any aquarium plants in it?
3. Is it safe?

Thank you for your time

Bluebirdnanny

Waiting to see what the experts here tell you. Never heard of this and would think there would be chemicals in cat litter. I think it might make a slimy mess in the tank and be hard to remove.

zof

I wouldn't, there is bound to be a ton of stuff in it that will screw with the chemistry of your water. Play sand is cheaper and has been shown to be safe, plus it will look better.

catdawg426

Ya, I thought it sounded pretty risky. By play sand do you mean this kind of stuff?

zof

Yup pretty much, I think you can grab it at home depot for like $5 a bag

catdawg426

sweet, thanks

Grimmjow

I suppose it could work if its just absolutely plain stuff cause I think its just like clay, Ive seen it used in lizard tanks but never fish tanks. I wouldnt bother with it though, the sand route is much cheaper and safer.

AaronCombs

kitty litter is basically nothing but clay.. as stated above most have chemicals ... so get plain k-litter.

However I wouldn't use it.

Romad

since the play sand is cheap and easy to find, i wouldn't take any chances on kitty litter. good luck.

Bluebirdnanny

Thanks for clarifying that for him. I suspected the chemicals would screw up the tank.....let alone the mess it would make.