Dear Karen: I am hoping you can help me by "pointing the way" to a cat litter that is the most dust free. I was recently diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis and must find the most dust-free litter available.
My cat is an adopted 6-year-old "tortie" from Ohio. I adopted her when she was about a year old from Peaceable Kingdom after she had a litter of kittens. She is not beautiful, nor a lap cat, but is quite playful and well behaved. And she's very attached to me.
It would be dreadful for her to spend the rest of her life in a cage back at Peaceable Kingdom. Finding a cat litter that is more dust free than the one that I'm using (a store brand) is really necessary.
Hoping for some help. Barbara S. Williams Allentown
Dear Barbara: Fear not, help is right around the corner! With manufacturers scrambling to satisfy growing demand for earth friendly pet products, a cavalcade of all natural, low dust litters is now available both at pet supply retailers and even some large grocery chains.
While cat litter dust will certainly aggravate your condition, it’s important to note that the silica dust found in many clay based litters has been linked to respiratory problems in cats. Those containing artificial fragrance can be potentially toxic since kitties tend to lick their paws.
So making a switch will be healthier for you both and help reduce kitty’s “carbon paw print” in the process.
After reviewing the many choices out there, I’ve narrowed my top recommendations for you to two. Here’s the “scoop”:
Yesterday's News – Nestle/Purina Made from recycled paper, 99.7% dust free, & fragrance free, these pellets are three times more absorbent than clay litters, drawing moisture to the bottom of the pan. Hence you should add a maximum 2 to 3 inches of litter for best absorption and easy cleanup. Used by many veterinarians for post surgical kitties. Available at all major pet supply retailers, including PetSmart & PETCO.
Cedarific – NEPCO Products This lightweight, affordable litter is comprised of processed hardwood and cedar chips. Free of dust, silica, chemicals, and clay, it's also compostable. The mild (natural) scent is not only pleasant but boosts odor control and purportedly repels pests. Available at some pet supply retailers and A&P markets in the Lehigh Valley. Distribution in Harrisburg area coming this year.
Some Internet reviews allege dangers of cedar to pet rodents, but NEPCO’s president and my veterinary office tells me they’ve had no reports of issues with felines. Unlike rodents that actually live on the bedding in an enclosed environment, a cat’s exposure is brief and intermittent
Other low or no-dust all natural litters include Purr & Simple, made from recycled tree nuts, wheat-based Swheat Scoop, corn-based “World’s Best Cat Litter” and some varieties of crystal based litters.
Once you’ve settled on a brand, let’s talk about transitioning kitty to her new litter. Cats are often more finicky about potty arrangements than food, so you need to introduce it gradually. Start by blending 1/3 of the new brand with your current litter the first few days. Dump entire contents and refill with a half and half mixture and ,ultimately 100% of the new litter once she’s accepted it. The process should take a week or so.
Switching to a natural alternative will benefit you, your kitty and the environment. Thanks to these eco-friendly innovations, you should enjoy many happy years with your beloved tortie.
Join Me At The Hershey Library! What could be more fun on a cold January evening than talking pets? Warm up with me and other pet lovers at the Hershey Public Library this Wednesday evening at 6:30 for an interactive program entitled "Pet Peeves & Perks". We'll discuss the vital role pets play in our lives, pros and cons of pet ownership, proper care, behavior/health issues and fun activities to enjoy with your pet. Handouts provided by Central Pennsylvania Animal Alliance. All participants eligible for dog and kitty door prizes donated by PetSmart and pet toy manufacturers.
The one-hour program is free (and long term forecast looks good), so pack up your pet questions and join our lively discussion. To gauge attendance, the library requests pre-registration by calling 533-6555 or by visiting www.hersheylibrary.org. Hope to see you there!
Send questions/comments to ksteinrock@comcast.net or P.O. Box 306, Grantham, PA 17027. Please include hometown and phone number
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