Pet ownership is one of the most ethically questionable behaviors from a sustainability perspective. The jury is still out on the overall impact on the environment.
But what we do know is that pet owners can take steps to reduce their pets’ carbon footprint. Some of these choices are easier than others, such as purchasing pet toys and accessories made from natural or recycled materials and choosing pet food without wasteful packaging. Other questions are more frustrating, especially those related to pet waste.
cat litter riddle
Cats pose a special problem because most owners use rugs made of clay. Not biodegradable. Add to that the fact that owners usually store them in plastic bags. mined dangerously The material – sodium bentonite clay, which is used in waste – ends up piled up with plastics in landfills. Clearly, it is time for a transition.
Instead of clay or crystal litter, cat owners should switch to one of these eco-friendly options: You may have to make a few extra adjustments when doing so, but it’s worth it for your pets and the planet.
1. Paper waste
Paper litter is a popular litter replacement and most pet owners use it at least occasionally, for example when their cat is recovering from surgery. Pet owners commonly use this substance when toilet training their kittens. Because consuming this substance is less dangerous. Due to its impact on the environment, paper waste is made from recycled materials Of course, it is easily disassembled after use. The main problem pet owners have is that they are not as absorbent and do not block odors as well as clay bedding.
If you’re considering switching to paper litter (or another less absorbent litter), you may want to make some changes to your cat’s diet, too. feeding Holistic diets such as Earthborn Holistic Pet Food Contains limited ingredients to help improve your cat’s gut health and reduce litter box odor. It often takes time for cats to adjust to new food or litter, so be careful not to make too many changes at once.
2. Corn waste
Corn and wheat litter have been around for many years. Waste made from renewable crops Corn has become much more popular over the past few years as it continues to dominate the market. Because it is more absorbent than similar paper products, corn litter stays cleaner and has fewer odors than similar products. Additionally, most corn bedding products clump together like clay bedding, which many pet owners consider a key feature.
caution
Expert Comment: Even if you use biodegradable litter, it’s best to throw your cat litter in the trash. Use paper bags or other compostable containers to keep plastic waste out of landfills. Once in a landfill, toxoplasmosis is sufficiently isolated that you no longer need to worry about it. The bottom line is: Divert your waste, but keep sending it to landfill. This is the most environmentally friendly combination.
Editor’s note: This article was originally published on June 1, 2020, and was updated in June 2024.
