Going Green: Organic Cat Litters

Going green can mean something as simple as changing the type of light bulb you use in your home or carpooling with a co-worker. Unfortunately, many people overlook their pets when they are going green or choosing products that are eco-friendly. Furthermore, many people are simply unaware of what really goes into their cat's litter, as well as how traditional cat litters affect a cat's health.

What is Traditional Cat Litter and What is it Made From?

Traditional cat litter is cat litter that is made from clay and often, these types of litters can produce large amounts of dust when used. Cat litters that feature clumping clay are made from sodium bentonite clay. The majority of sodium bentonite clay is mined out of Asia, especially from Japan, and must be transported all the way into the United States. This itself, means that traditional cat litters create quite the carbon footprint and of course, are a huge waste of natural resources.

Sodium bentonite clays are used to help traditional cat litters clump together, making it easier for cat owners to scoop out the used litter. Unfortunately, these chemicals within the litter can be extremely detrimental to the health of cats and kittens. Here's how: after using the bathroom, the majority of cats will groom themselves accordingly. Unfortunately, while they're pawing around in the litter, the dust gets into their fur, between their toes and of course, is inhaled through the cat's nose or mouth.

It gets worse, as this clay and it's clumping properties will wreck havoc inside the cat's body. The clumping properties, as they build up in the cat's system, can result in a cement-like substance within the cat's gastrointestinal tract. IT goes without saying how dangerous this could be for the affected cat.

Alternatives to Traditional Clumping Cat Litter

Organic cat litters are an easy alternative to harmful traditional cat litters. Furthermore, many organic cat litters are also biodegradable and of course, significantly more eco-friendly than traditional clumping clay litters.

When choosing an organic cat litter, be sure to read through the ingredients list. Always look for plant-based litters and avoid litters that use chemicals that you are unsure of, or mention sodium bentonite clays. Also, avoid scented wood shavings, specifically those of pine or cedar, as these can also cause health issues in cats.

Organic cat litters can be made from recycled plants as well as wheat grass, corn, corncobs and a plethora of other plants; so there's a wide variety of choices available for today's eco-friendly cat.

---
Source(s):

Do It Yourself: Care For Your Pets the Green Way

Petside: Organic Cat Litter