Liz Coleman / Cats.com
As shoppers search to reduce their carbon footprint, pure cat litter is having its day—a motion we are able to get behind. Sadly, there’s plenty of misinformation about pure litter on the market. We’re right here to clear up the confusion and spotlight its strengths, weaknesses, and who stands to profit most.
To make clear, after we discuss with “pure” litter within the pet trade, we imply litter constructed from natural supplies that break down extra simply than conventional clay. Whereas clay litter is sourced from the earth and might be technically thought-about “pure,” it’s not probably the most eco-friendly choice. Pure litters are crafted from renewable sources like wooden, corn, and recycled paper. Not solely are they higher for the planet, however in addition they provide sensible advantages for cat mother and father.
Not sure if pure litter is for you? Under, we’ll lay out the principle advantages—and albeit name out widespread drawbacks. Listed here are seven causes to contemplate a sustainable litter, like Catit’s Go Pure Pea Husk Litter.
1. It’s Higher for the Atmosphere
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Pure cat litter provides a transparent environmental benefit, each by way of manufacturing and its disposal.
Whereas bentonite clay is extracted by way of strip-mining, a damaging course of that harms ecosystems, pure litters are constructed from renewable sources like wheat, soybeans, and recycled paper.
These supplies typically come from sustainably managed practices. For instance, wood-based litters are derived from responsibly harvested forests, and tofu-based merchandise make the most of leftover scraps. Catit’s pure litter upcycles post-consumer supplies that might in any other case be discarded, together with pea husks and bamboo.
Many pure manufacturers additionally deal with eco-friendly packaging. Catit, for example, options recyclable cardboard containers and vacuum-packed luggage that save house and scale back CO2 emissions throughout transport.
When it’s time to exchange litter, pure choices are biodegradable and break down over time, decreasing waste in landfills.
2. It’s More healthy for Cats
Clay litter typically accommodates dangerous chemical compounds, dyes, and fragrances. Pure litters, then again, are normally constructed from food-grade, non-toxic supplies. These are gentler in your cat’s lungs, pores and skin, and even their tummy, ought to they struggle a nibble.
As an alternative of counting on harsh components to fight scent, pure litters embrace supplies that naturally take up and neutralize odors. Additionally they incorporate eco-friendly add-ins, like baking soda, to handle smells.
Moreover, pure litter tends to provide much less mud, which is best for cats with bronchial asthma or allergic reactions in addition to delicate people. Switching to a pure litter could make everybody within the family—feline or in any other case—breathe just a little simpler.
Whereas pure litter is usually safer, two potential well being hazards to look at for are pests and mildew. If not saved appropriately, pure litters like corn and wheat might be prone to those points.
3. It’s (Often) Much less Mess Than Clay
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On the subject of cleanliness, pure litter has an edge over clay. Sometimes, pure supplies produce much less mud, and any mud generated is safer to breathe than tiny clay particles.
Some pure formulation, reminiscent of Catit’s Pea Husk litter, are purposefully designed with bigger pellets that observe much less, holding litter contained in the field as a substitute of your flooring. Nonetheless, you’ll additionally discover pure litters which can be light-weight and are available in nice granules. These can really result in extra mess than clay.
One thing to contemplate: Regardless that they don’t sometimes embrace synthetic fragrances, some pure litters can have a definite scent by advantage of their substances. (i.e., pine pellets will scent woodsy and tofu has a decidedly candy scent). We suggest choosing one thing you may reside with.
4. Pure Litters Usually Out-Carry out Clay
Pure litters can get a nasty rap for being ineffective, however some manufacturers can really outperform clay in key areas. I’ve tried a wide range of litters through the years, and I’ve discovered that many pure choices clump and management odors higher than some economic system clay litters.
That stated, experiences will fluctuate. Not all pure choices are equally hard-working. Each materials has completely different strengths and weaknesses, and there are trade-offs with any litter.
Pine, for instance, is extremely absorbent, and corn tends to clump properly. In testing, we discovered Catit’s Pea Husk litter, like different comparable tofu-based litters, managed odors admirably. Paper pellets, nevertheless, want extra frequent adjustments and normally have mediocre odor management.
5. Simpler Disposal
Pure litter is commonly biodegradable, that means you may compost it or use it as mulch to your backyard. This eco-friendly method helps scale back waste. Each Catit’s Pea Husk Litter and Extremely-Mild Litter are compostable—simply bear in mind to take away dirty clumps first to forestall the unfold of pathogens.
In distinction, clay litter takes a very long time to interrupt down and may sit in landfills for years. It’s additionally heavier, which makes disposal tougher.
Some pure litter is even flushable, though you’ll want to make sure your plumbing can deal with it and that native ordinances allow it.
6. It’s Light-weight and Simple to Handle
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
In contrast to heavy clay, which may make litter field adjustments really feel like a exercise, many pure choices are straightforward to elevate, carry, and pour. That is splendid for these dwelling in high-rise residences or for anybody who finds heavy luggage troublesome to handle.
With light-weight pure litter, not solely is it simpler to high off the litter pan, however altering your entire field turns into a less complicated activity. Whether or not you’ve got mobility points or simply desire a lighter choice, switching to pure litter can lighten your load.
7. It’s Softer Than Clay
Most pure litters provide a gentler contact in comparison with clay, which might be tough on delicate paws. Supplies like corn and pine are delicate. They will make the litter field extra comfy for cats with delicate ft or joint points. This added consolation might imply the distinction between your cat willingly utilizing the field or avoiding it altogether (in favor of a extra comfy floor, like your mattress).
Whereas some cats may have just a little time to transition from coarse clay to delicate pellets (and a few, like my cat Amber, could not take to it in any respect), the advantages of a smoother floor can be a sport changer for a lot of cats.
Pure litter received’t be a homerun for each cat or family. And, usually, you’ll want to identify a number of further bucks to fill your containers. However, for some cat guardians, a high-performing pure litter ticks all of the containers.
In the event you’re on the lookout for a litter that’s kinder to the planet, safer to your cat, and simpler so that you can handle, a pure litter like Catit is unquestionably price contemplating. Its efficiency and effectivity could shock you (in one of the best ways).
