How Cat Litter Is Made
Cat litter granules are ground into tiny particles and pass through an enclosed machine with a series of screens. This sorting process helps create an assortment of sizes for different cat litter products. Clumping litter is ground to a finer texture and is typically combined with sodium bentonite, a naturally-swelling clay known for its absorbent properties. Ground clay is then mixed with a dust-control agent to help keep airborne particles at bay. Many manufacturers also add deodorizers to the mix to reduce the odor of the finished product.
Crystal cat litter absorbs waste efficiently
Many people prefer the crystal litter for their pets. The amorphous silica in crystal cat litter absorbs waste efficiently. This mineral is non-toxic to humans and cats, and it does not expand when it comes in contact with moisture. Crystal cat litter requires less frequent litter box changes than clay or clumping materials. It requires only a monthly change, which is considerably less frequent than other types of cat litter.
Clumping clay litter causes dehydration
Some brands of cat litter contain a substance called clumping clay. This substance expands when wet, causing dehydration and lung issues in your cat. This type of litter should be avoided by young kittens, and adults should only use clay-based litter if they are sick. For further information, contact your veterinarian. However, there are some organic biodegradable materials you can choose from.
Paper litter is gentle on kitty’s paws
When it comes to cat litter, paper is a good choice for sensitive paws. Made from recycled newspaper fibers, it is non-tracking and hypoallergenic, and is flush-safe. Unlike clay litter, paper doesn’t attract dust or trap odors, which are bad for your cat’s health. Paper cat litter also absorbs moisture and is gentle on kitty’s paws.
Swheat Scoop litter is biodegradable
Unlike traditional clay litter, Swheat Scoop cat litter is made from renewable, 100% biodegradable resources. Available in multi-cat and lightly scented varieties, Swheat Scoop is more environmentally friendly than most other brands. Its granules absorb moisture faster than other brands, lasting 2x longer than ordinary clumping litter. With proper cleaning, a single scoop of Swheat Scoop will last up to a month.
Citrus cat litter is highly absorbent
Citrus cat litter is highly absorbent, flushable, and biodegradable. Originally a clumping clay litter, citrus has expanded its product line to include litter pellets and activated carbon. Commercial cat litter dates back to the 1950s when edward lowe began selling the absorbent clay known as fuller’s earth. Today, citrus cat litter has a reputation for being one of the most absorbent on the market.
Citrus cat litter is safe to inhale
Many people wonder if Citrus cat litter is safe to inhalate. However, this question is not as simple as it may sound. You should always use a cat litter that does not contain any citrus scents. While the scent of citrus is toxic when ingested, it is safe to inhale when it is diluted in water and placed in a porous satchel.
Bentonite clay litter is not biodegradable
Most cat litter is clay-based, but there are environmentally-friendly alternatives to this product. Sodium bentonite clay is mined for clay cat litter and most of it ends up in landfills. Using alternative materials, like recycled paper or coconut husks, has fewer adverse effects on the environment than clay litter. Listed below are several examples of eco-friendly cat litter alternatives.