The invention pertains to precipitated silica particles having edged surfaces and a length: width: depth ratio of 1:1:1 to 3:3-1:1 with the length being 0.25 to 15 mm, an absorbing capacity PV water (wt. % ;125, a pore volume PV Hg (ml/g) 0.8-4, a pore volume PV N2 (ml/g) 0.2-1.5, a bulk density BD (g/l) 200-500, and preferably a pH8, for use as a cat liter.