Let’s Talk Litter
Unless you plan to teach your cat to use the toilet, chances are you have a litter box somewhere in your house. Using biodegradable cat box liners is the first step to making your cat’s potty routine green, but the biggest eco-impact you can make is with your choice of litter.
Clay litters are made from strip-mined materials — which are very unhealthy for planet Earth — and are also coated with carcinogenic dust that your cat can inhale. Clumping litters are just as unhealthy because the clumping agent is — essentially — an expanding cement that is not good for your cat's insides.
Look for cat litter made from natural or recycled materials. There is a lot available, and it's better for the planet and for your cat.
Go Green at Home for a Healthier Cat
Every time your cat licks herself clean, she’s ingesting germs and toxins that live in the grass, on your floors and on your furniture. You can help eliminate toxins from your cat’s environment by cleaning up your home-care routine. Try switching to natural cleaners around the house and using organic fertilizer and pest-control products for your yard.
Feed Smart
Smaller food bags might take up less space in your pantry, but they take up a lot more space in landfills. Why? Because you use more of them! The same goes for cans of wet cat food, so if your cat prefers them, be sure to recycle the cans. Buying large bags of dry cat food means less waste and less impact on the environment. If your adult cat doesn't like dry food, try stirring in a few bites of wet food to make it more palatable to her.
Eco-Friendly Grooming
Natural, organic shampoos and other pet grooming products can be found online and at most pet-care stores. They’re much better for the environment. Plus, they’re toxin-free, so they’re gentler on your cat.
Earth-Friendly Toys and Bedding
Look for organic catnip, or bedding and toys made from natural, organic cottons and hemp, and from non-toxic, recycled materials — such as plastic. Your cat won’t know the difference, but the Earth will.
Spay or Neuter Your Cat
Tens of thousands of kittens are born every day. That’s a lot of carbon pawprints. Many of these kittens end up abandoned to feed off the local wildlife, but many end up in overcrowded shelters. Spaying and neutering your cat will help keep the pet population in check. And if you decide you want a kitten to keep your adult cat company, please consider adopting from your local shelter.
