“What can I use instead of cat litter?” is a difficult question because many options are there to consider. If you’re worried about your cat’s health, you can use alternative materials instead of cat litter. One option is wood shavings. These biodegradable fibers absorb urine and mask unpleasant odors. They’re also easy to clean and look great in your cat’s litter box.
Another great option is wood pellets. These pellets are made from pine and are biodegradable. They can be bought at pet stores and manufacturers of burning wood. They also cost less than commercial cat litter. Wood pellets also keep your cat’s litter box smelling fresh.
You can also try paper litter, which is made from recycled paper. Some commercial products come with highly absorbent paper pellets that stay in the box longer. These pellets may require more frequent changes, but they are better for both your cat and the environment. Besides, they won’t clump, which is a plus for allergy-prone cats.
Wheat litter is also a viable alternative. It is a great alternative to traditional cat litter because it does not contain harsh chemicals and is environmentally friendly. It is not as odor-absorbing as clay litter, but it is better than nothing. It can be purchased from pet stores and is a great way to clean your pet’s litter box.
Another good alternative is potting soil. This is a great option if you can’t let your cat out, as it tracks easily and retains odors. It also makes a good alternative for cats who dislike change. If you don’t want to get rid of your old litter, you can use it for emergencies. Sand is also an excellent option because it holds odors and clumps well.
After reading this article, you will have access to more cat litter substitutions that can benefit you and your lovely pet.
Let’s dive right in!
Why can’t we just purchase an ordinary kitty litter?
Commercial cat litter may be inconvenient and costly, which is probably the reason that affects your choice. However, it is not the end of the world! There are several choices available to assist you in keeping your home clean without incurring additional costs.
You don’t have to worry about where those bothersome litter particles end up as they fall from their paws onto the flooring anymore! While commercial cat litter is handy, it can also have several harmful impacts on your cat. They may not meet your pet’s demand, and you may end up with an unhappy feline buddy!
Let’s have a look at what can be considered disadvantages of the commercial litter so that you can avoid these sorts entirely:
1. Expense
The pricing of commercial kitty litter is one of its drawbacks. A cheaper option would be a terrific solution for many cat owners on a budget or who want greater control over their expenditures! Depending on the type of substitute for cat litter you pick, there will be an appropriate alternative for your economic circumstances.
2. Health concerns for both your cats and you
Many commercial brands use chemicals to make cat litter more attractive and less dusty. These can be harmful to your pet’s health if ingested! Gastrointestinal problems are prevalent in cats that have ingested sodium bentonite clay – an ingredient found in some clumping litter as well. The dust from many litters contains silica which causes respiratory problems for cats – even humans even develop allergies, asthma, and cancer from these allergens!
3. Environmental and safety concerns
Some cat litters on the market are harmful to the environment and can cause pollution, posing environmental and safety concerns. For example, sodium bentonite clay obtained by an environmentally hazardous strip-mining procedure may ruin your agricultural land, as well as threaten human health in contaminated drinking water supplies.
To make the most of your cat’s stay, use a long-lasting and safe litter. Some varieties of picky-pants kitty litter include chemicals that might damage them or other animals, so they should never be thrown out! Some litter, however, are wiser than others since they are more biodegradable and may be utilized as fertilizer.
4. A desire to be more self-reliant
Making your own products is becoming more popular than ever. As the demand for simple living grows, so does a desire to make and sell what you need rather than purchasing it from others.
5. Convenience and ease of use
Consider a DIY option if you like it. However, keep in mind that your pet requires supplies and a cat litter box that is easily accessible! Certain litter boxes may be challenging for cats to use.
According to ASPCA, if the box has high walls that make access to the corners hard, cats may be unable to enter or utilize it, which leads to their habit of not entering the litter to poop. Some cats like natural materials as well. Depending on the cat’s health and abilities, the custom is sometimes the best option.
What are the Top 10 Cat Litter alternatives?
Here are some of our helpful suggestions for you. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, you should consider carefully.
Shred Newspaper and Junk Mail
Plain old newspaper is one of the simplest items to use in a cat’s litter box. Not only does it have many uses when you remove their claws, but your feline companion may be eager to utilize it as well!
If it doesn’t work out for any reason, you’ll need to try something else. Perhaps try something fresh to draw the cat’s interest.
How to make it?
I make my own cat litters with shredded paper, dish soap, and baking soda. It only takes about 30-45 minutes to do! And this is my instruction for you:
- It’s time to clean those kitty litter boxes! Fill the sink halfway with water and shredded paper.
- Soak it in a warm bathtub-style bath until it reaches a greyish-oatmeal consistency.
- Soak the paper in clean water for about 10 minutes.
- Drain and then sprinkle with baking soda to help dry it completely before using gloves to squeeze out water.
- Let the mixture dry, and then it is ready to go!
- It has many benefits, including being cheap and durable enough. Very convenient!
- Newspapers have several drawbacks. You’ll need a lot because ink or soap residue from your cat’s paws (or human hands) can easily accumulate on the pages before you use them. Also, not soaking long enough may cause these inks to transfer as well – so make sure they’re clean! Others are concerned about making a mess of their countertops when prepping old papers, but there should be no issues if done correctly. You may also ask your neighbors to keep your newspaper for you, and you can check with your local paper to see if they are willing to offer you older copies, but most people just shred their trash mail.
Use Wood Shavings or Sawdust
How to find it?
Shaving balers are always accessible in a clean horse stall.
They work great as litter box liners, and if you can get free wood sawdust or shavings from local industries, they will also help cover up any ammonia odors that cats may leave behind!
- Let’s have a look at the advantages of utilizing untreated wood for your cat’s requirements. Wet, wood shavings and sawdust can hold up to four times their weight in water, which is wonderful since you’ll want this material to perform to its best capacity! If that isn’t enough to persuade you, consider the benefits of being chemical-free or the cost savings.
- The bad news? Their clumping abilities aren’t always the best compared to commercial products.
Chicken feed as litters
- This is a safe and inexpensive alternative to kitty litter. It does not have all of the same downsides, such as tracking or odor!
- Mold thrives greatly in chicken feed, which is generated from maize. Cats are sensitive to the natural odors associated with mold. They can grow ill if they consume it. Homemade kitty litter is an excellent method to save money while avoiding health issues. Using chicken feed, baking soda, and cedar shavings will help keep your kitten secure from mice and other pests. However, this approach may not work for all felines and may attract some species of rodents and vermin; if you decide to attempt it, make sure there are no safety problems before you begin! You should never jeopardize your pet’s health. Just because there is an option does not necessarily mean it is better—make sure it is fresh chicken feed with no additives or preservatives.
Use sand as a litter alternative
How do you get your cat to go potty in the right place?
One way is by using sand as a litter box. Not only does it look appealing, but also cats seem more likely than other animals (like dogs) with similar sandboxing habits for some reason!
- Sand doesn’t hold any smells, and it clumps really well.
- Have you ever wondered how you might maintain your cat’s litter box clean and odor-free? The remedy is as easy (and enjoyable) as adding some baking soda. Add roughly one cup of odor-controlling sand to each tier before scooping it out so that fresh sand rises to the top. If you want more thorough instructions, please see the YouTube link provided below.
Alfalfa pellets instead of cat litter
Alfalfa pellets are one of the most popular pet cat feeding options. They absorb efficiently and reduce stink, making it simple to keep your cats’ enclosure clean.
- Alfalfa pellets are a sustainable alternative to common litter. They contain no harmful chemicals, and their alfalfa farming is environmentally friendly!
- Overfilling the cat litter pan with alfalfa pellets might cause dust and tracking, which is easily avoided.
Horse bedding pellets as litter
There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all litter box for cats.
However, for pet parents on the move, horse bedding pellets produced from a baking soda and water mixture may be obtained online or at some specialist stores in addition to your typical grocery store selections!
- It’s highly effective, particularly in terms of water retention and odor. They are also fairly inexpensive.
- When you add water to your cat’s litter, it expands, and all of the little pellets decompose into sawdust. This might result in tracking outside of the box or overfilling with waste since they couldn’t contain as much at once.
Whole Wheat as litter
Whole wheat berries are an excellent strategy to protect yourself from the hazards of trailing trash around your home. Depending on the texture your kitten wants, you may ground the whole berry into a coarse powder or leave them whole and combine them in oatmeal.
- This eco-friendly choice is ideal for individuals who want their kitty litter to be both biodegradable and compostable in gardens.
- Wheat is a natural, eco-friendly, and healthier household cleanser. Wheat cat litter can be used as an emergency or temporary repair in the event of an accident. However, it does not conceal the odor as some people may believe owing to the urine content in their pets. To address this issue, several manufacturers produce wheat berry-style products with odor control.
Using Potting soil (same as coconut cat litter)
One way to deal with an outdoor cat is by using potting soil as their emergency litter. Outdoor cats are notorious for relieving themselves in soil.
- Using a mat or blanket under the box is the easiest method to avoid potting dirt from going everywhere. Keeping this region clean will ensure that there are no mishaps and that you can continue living your life without worrying about odors coming from nowhere!
- There are many various types of soil that may be used for indoor cat liners, but it is critical to select the correct one. Soil, especially soil right from your garden, is filthy and untidy. Fresh and clean potting soil from outside would not carry any bacteria or germs, so this may be a fine option if you are in a pinch. But, we advocate using something different on a daily basis rather than simply when circumstances necessitate emergency conditions like these! However, it does not conceal the odor as some people may believe owing to the urine content in their pets. To address this issue, several manufacturers produce wheat berry-style products with odor control.
Artificial Turf
Artificial grass, which is usually found on sports fields, is a great option for cats.
Not only does it look nice and keep your cat’s claws intact, but it can also be used as cat litter! Artificial grass rolls or mats are available at most pet stores to buy in various sizes, which will suit any sized room.
- Using a mat or blanket under the box is the easiest method to avoid potting dirt from going everywhere. Keeping this region clean will ensure that there are no mishaps and that you can continue living your life without worrying about odors coming from nowhere!
- Artificial turf may not be for everyone, and those kitties who can’t get their scratching done on it will probably tear up the grass in an effort to do so.
Puppy Pad
Both cats and dogs can use disposable puppy pads to cover their waste.
These products also help keep the cat’s litter box clean andare convenient for pet owners who want an easy way of disposing of urine or stool without having to find a garbage disposal every time they use it!
- This is a quick and convenient product for people who already have dogs. You won’t have to spend extra money to buy a separate kitty liner. Moreover, in this way, you can also train your cat to be self-disciplined.
- This pad can make cats feel uncomfortable.
Materials to avoid as Cat Litter Substitute
When it comes to cat litter substitutes, potting soil is not the greatest option. This dirt tracks readily and retains scents that will follow any pet around until it is swept up or washed with soap.
Cats always seek new toys to play with, but using wood shavings as cat litter may not be the greatest choice. Some plant materials and tree branches might cause major injury to your beloved buddy, so make sure you use the proper wood.
We’ll send you a YouTube lesson video to assist you in identifying some common errors.
FAQs
1. Can you use flour as cat litter?
Flour dust can cause respiratory illnesses in bakers and mill workers. If it can cause things like asthma and White Lung in adult humans, it can cause a lot of damage to a cat, who will be putting flour dust in the air every time it uses the litter box.
Not to mention that your cat will be consuming flour every time they groom themselves, which isn’t healthy either.
And apart from the health concerns, wet flour makes a paste. If you let it dry, it becomes rather similar to cement. You can sweep up clay, but dried flour clumps fused to your floor? You will have to scrape that.
Also, since it’s raw, it can contain salmonella, e.coli, etc. It’s one reason you aren’t supposed to eat raw dough (not just egg).
2. Can you use oatmeal as cat litter?
Yes, you can use oatmeal as cat litter. However, you should grind it into powder first and add a layer or two of baking soda to control bad odors.
Ingredients are very simple:
- Steel Cut Oatmeal (or whatever is on sale)
- Salt (you can also use Sea Salt but that tends to be more pricey though it Is more absorbent)
- Baking soda
Now our process is this:
- Grind up oatmeal ina blender or processor
- Put it in cat litter box
- Add a layer of baking soda and salt
- Grind up another layer of oatmeal and follow the above procedure
- Do the above until the cat litter box is filled to liking
Interesting:
Conclusion
There are many options that you can choose from; however, there are a few issues to keep in mind as follows:
- Choose an alternative that fits your cat’s needs and economic situation
- Please make sure they’re safe
- Set up as directed and monitor your cat for a few days
We hope this blog post has given you some helpful information and inspiration about the different options out there (and what they entail).
Thank you for reading, and please comment below if you have any questions!