Many of us might do things to reduce our environmental footprint by doing things like recycling, turning lights off when we leave a room and driving more fuel 
efficient cars, but we can also, as an article in the October, 2013 issue of Cat Fancy magazine states, ‘help decrease our cats’ carbon paw print,’ too. Check out these eco friendly pet care tips:
- Manage Waste: It’s estimated that 10 million tons of pet waste fills dumps annually. Pet parents can reduce the amount of waste that fills dumps by using biodegradable bags or recycled bags for waste disposal. There are kitty litters available that use biodegradable materials like corn, pine or recycled newspaper, too.
- Buy Green: Purchase products made from ‘recycled or sustainable materials.’ Materials in some beds are made from recycled plastic, and some scratching posts and cat trees are made from ‘repurposed cardboard.’ Hemp and bamboo are often used in toys, beds and collars.
Using cleaning and grooming products that aren’t harmful to the environment that are made from all-natural ingredients are better for everybody and reduce a cat’s exposure to hazardous chemicals like bleach and phenols that can cause health problems. - Recycle: Not only should pet parents recycle, they should also try to reuse items like old pet supplies. Rescues are always looking for toys, beds, collars and bowls. Many also need newspapers to line cages.
- Buy in Bulk: Buying things in bulk saves money, saves gasoline due to fewer trips to the store, and reduces packaging.
- Keep Cats Indoors: Indoor cats don’t prey upon native wildlife and being indoors is safer.
Photo Source: istockphoto
Written by Stephanie Newman
Stephanie is author of the blog, The Musings Of A Crazy Cat Lady, and a freelance writer whose work regularly appears on Examiner.com. Stephanie’s work has been featured on Catster and in print in Natural Awakenings Pet – east Michigan and the Oakland Press newspaper. She’s a professional member of the Cat Writers’ Association, Inc. and a member of Pet Professionals for Pet Adoption.
