The Science Behind Diatomite Earth

About 135 million years ago algae were everywhere ( and there’s still plenty around today) and when they died they sank to the bottom of oceans or rivers or lakes — aka, wherever they were living.

Today, thick deposits of their hard shells (made primarily of silica) are mined from dried lake or sea beds for uses ranging from kitty litter and water filters to stylish pet feeder sets!

Since 85% of a diatom’s volume consists of air trapped in the silica shell, the fossilized diatom is able to absorb its own weight in liquid.

The incredible porosity and absorptive abilities this material has are what inspired us to use it to create our water mat, perfect for containing your pets drinking splashes and slobber.