This filter fits in the Miele New Complete C3 Cat & Dog Upright Vacuum my sister bought to clean up after two very fluffy Persian cats. Miele recommends changing the filter once a year or after around 50 hours of operation. My sister used the original filter for 2 years, by that time it had turned black (a normal part of the job) due to the material of the carbon brushes in the motor, although the timestrip indicator on the side of the filter was still green. An internet search revealed that to activate the timeline, the user must press the green arrow to release a red indicator liquid that fills the window; The filter needs to be replaced when the red color reaches the right end of the strip. No harm done; We've replaced the original with the new Active AirClean 50 filter and this time we've hit the timeline and enjoyed fresher air after using the filter for the first time. With superior Miele quality and an annual replacement schedule, this filter is very cost effective.