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going-green-ish · 2 years

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Being an eco-friendly small pet owner 🐭

In April, Tom and I finally got our first pets together - two little mice! Having grown up with hamsters, I was painfully aware of how plastic-heavy small animals are. Their food, treats and bedding are all stored in plastic bags and their cages and toys are often ladened with plastic.

We were desperate to have life other than houseplants to look after, and we had fallen in love with the idea of getting mice. We were also desperate to not break the planet by getting them, however.

So! Here I am to share with you how our eco-friendly mice were brought about. A lot of this can be applied to rats, hamsters and gerbils etc. but bear in mind the specific care points are mouse-centric.

Before going into any details, I just want to disclaim that I was crushing on these mice hard, months before they were even born. I budgeted for them three months ahead and chipped away at buying their things over the course of those three months.

My mentality is to buy secondhand if I can, and if I can't then to buy high quality (and often therefore a bit pricey). This is manageable for me, but only because I'm an organisation gremlin and plan my budgets to the extreme.

🏠Starting with the cage:

This cage is the Ferplast Cage for Hamsters and Mice KARAT 60. The key thing here for me was that it's made of glass and metal, with minimal plastic - only the clips and wheel are made of plastic. Unfortunately for mice, they need a solid wheel which means we couldn't get a metal one. For mice, they need good ventilation as they're prone to respiratory diseases. They also need a deep base to the cage so they can exhibit their natural digging behaviour. The bar spacing of this cage is mice appropriate (0.6 mm or less) as mice are small! They can squeeze between the bars of some hamster cages.

Food bowls! Made of ceramic, one for grains, one for fruit and veg. Shallow enough that they can perch on them (often in them) to nom.

Wooden house and log. Instead of a plastic house, you can get lovely wooden ones that double up as good chewing posts for them as they get older. Plastic isn't the best thing for them to get their teeth onto.

You can't really see it in this photo, but the water bottle I have for them is made of glass instead of plastic. Always check the labels at the shop to make sure anything you're buying is suitable for the critter you're getting!

Edit: It's been brought to my attention that the scale of this cage isn't necessarily obvious from the photo! In terms of gallons, the glass tank is around 12 gallons and the cage area is a further 17 gallons, bringing the total volume of the whole area up to about 29 gallons (these are from my measurements, from the measurements on the product page, it comes out more around 27 gallons. Mine were a bit rough so maybe trust this number more!). For our two mice, this is an appropriate amount of space.

🛏️Now onto bedding:

Mice need materials they can burrow into, but also need a substrate at the very base of the cage to absorb their urine. If you're going a plastic route, this normally involves cat litter at the base and a mix of paper shredding and tissue shredding (if you get sawdust/wood chip, you have to be very careful with what wood it is from, as some trees irritate their respiratory systems)

My plastic-free suggestion depends on you already getting your loo roll and kitchen roll from a plastic-free company (like Bumboo or Who Gives a Crap).

Substrate: As you can see here, the substrate we use is a (slightly mangled from the washing machine) bath mat. It's 100% cotton and every fortnight when we clean them out, we shake it out in the garden and pop it in the washing machine. We have two that we cycle between so the girls never go without. Be careful with what material you buy - 100% cotton is fine, but if it's a blend with a synthetic fibre it should be avoided.

Burrowing materials: Why on earth would you buy paper and tissue pre-shredded in a big plastic bag when you could just...shred paper...and tissue...at home? I got myself a cheap shredder and have one of the technicians at work hoarding scrap paper for me that would otherwise go in the recycling bin, so I'm re-using stuff that would get junked. After its use here, it can then go in our home recycling as our council accepts shredding in mainstream recycling. Whenever we clean the girls out, we add in some loo roll and kitchen roll that we tear up into strips by hand. We never use up all of our loo roll and kitchen roll from each Bumboo order anyway, so it doesn't cost us any more than our standard subscription already. Plus, two mice really don't use up much!

Extra bits: Nutmeg and Honeysuckle are very happy burrowing, running in their wheel and Spidermanning it around the cage bars and the ceiling, but we do provide them with tubes to tunnel through and some DIY structures we've made for them to play with. These are just from our usual waste of loo roll and kitchen roll.

🍴Lastly, on to food:

Now, we love the girls and hope they life a very happy 2-years-life-expectancy, but mouse food from pet stores is honestly a rip-off. Looking at the ingredients and talking to the staff there, there was nothing we couldn't get from our local refill store and farmer's market.

The girls get sunflower seeds, oats and wheat in their grains bowl and a selection of seasonal fruit and veg in their other bowl. Every now and then they get treats of popcorn (plain), different seeds and nuts (not walnuts which are toxic) and even some suet and seed block from what I buy for the garden birds. Nutritionally, this is what they get from the mouse food in the store - the ingredients list is identical to what we give them, the store stuff is just all dehydrated instead.

They are very happy. Almost too much. One of them is weighing in at a whopping 27 g. We're trying our best, moving on...

My point being that it's easy to avoid the plastic if you have a good refill store near you. Ours is priced competitively to the local supermarkets, so this isn't actually an expensive venture at all. But if you're living somewhere like London and have a refill store near you, I know this price comparison is a distant fantasy with a lot of them. On the positive side, the sunflower seed and wheat jars in the photo above haven't been refilled since I filled them first three months ago. They really don't each much! (Apart from Honeysuckle. Twenty-seven grams).

Apart from some balls for them to run around in, and a little carry case for transport, these mice use absolutely zero plastic, a far cry from the plastic-hungry hamster care from my childhood.

In conclusion:

It takes:

planning

budgeting

sourcing of resources

certain habits to already be instilled

but it is possible.

Just because they're little and often seen as the "easy" pets, doesn't mean they shouldn't get just as much love and planning as you would put into getting a cat or dog. Owning any animal is a responsibility one should take seriously and I feel that rodents and fish get overlooked deeply (did you know that a goldfish on average should have a 20 gallon tank?).

Here's to giving all animals a good quality of life! 🐭

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ghofrana · 11 months

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Understanding Different Types of Cat Litter: Pros and Cons

Making the right choice of cat litter is a crucial decision for every cat owner. With an array of options available, selecting the most suitable one for your feline friend can feel overwhelming. This guide will explore the various options of cat litter on the market, including traditional clay litter, clumping litter, natural and biodegradable litter, silica gel litter, scented and unscented litter, and even alternative options. We'll discuss the pros and cons of each type, so you can make an informed decision and select the best litter for your furry friend.

Clay Cat Litter

Traditional clay cat litter is one of the most popular options on the market. It's made from natural clay minerals that are dried and processed into small granules. Clay cat litter is available in both unscented and scented varieties, and is often the most affordable litter option.

One of the benefits of clay cat litter is its ability to absorb moisture, which helps control odors. However, it's important to note that traditional clay litter is non-clumping, which means it can be more difficult to clean and may require more frequent replacement.

In addition, some cat owners may have concerns about the environmental impact of using clay cat litter. The production and disposal of clay litter can contribute to environmental issues such as mining and landfill waste.

Overall, clay cat litter is a reliable and cost-effective option for cat owners who prioritize odor control. However, if you're looking for litter that's more environmentally friendly or easier to clean, other options may be worth considering.

Clumping Cat Litter

One of the most popular cat litter options on the market today is clumping cat litter. Known for its easy clean-up and convenience, this type of litter has become a go-to for many cat owners.

Clumping litter is made of small granules of clay or other absorbent materials that form tight clumps when wet, making it easy to scoop out urine and feces. This type of litter is also known as scoopable litter, due to its easy removal.

One key benefit of clumping cat litter is its ability to trap and eliminate odors quickly. The clumps form around any waste, sealing in smells and making it easier to keep litter boxes smelling fresh.

This type of litter is also highly absorbent, meaning it requires less frequent changes compared to non-clumping litter. With clumping litter, cat owners can simply scoop out the clumps and add more litter as needed, extending the life of the litter box fill.

However, there are some potential downsides to consider. Clumping litter can be more expensive than traditional non-clumping litter and may not be suitable for all cats. Some cats may be sensitive to the dust that is often created by this type of litter, leading to respiratory problems. To avoid these issues, it's important to select a high-quality clumping litter that is free of harsh chemicals and additives.

Natural and Biodegradable Cat Litter

For cat owners who are environmentally conscious, natural and biodegradable cat litter options are becoming increasingly popular. These litters are typically made from materials such as pine, corn, wheat, and recycled paper and are marketed as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional clay litter. However, they also have some potential drawbacks to consider.

Pros:

Environmentally friendly: These litters are often biodegradable, compostable, or recyclable, making them a more sustainable option than clay litter.

Dust-free: Many natural litters are less dusty than clay litter, which can be beneficial for cats and their owners who have respiratory issues.

Easy to dispose of: Some natural litters can be safely flushed down the toilet or composted in your backyard.

Cons:

Expensive: Natural and biodegradable litters are generally more costly than traditional clay litter.

Less effective odor control: Some natural litters may not control odor as well as clay litter, which can be a concern for cat owners.

Variability in quality: With so many options available, it can be difficult to find a natural litter that works well for you and your cat.

Tracking: Some natural litters can be lightweight and prone to tracking, meaning that your cat may carry litter outside the box.

Ultimately, the decision to use natural and biodegradable cat litter will depend on your individual preferences and values. If you are looking for a more sustainable option and are willing to pay a higher price, these litters may be a good fit for you and your feline friend. However, it's important to keep the potential drawbacks in mind and test out a few different options before committing to one particular brand.

Silica Gel Cat Litter

If you're looking for highly efficient and low-maintenance cat litter, silica gel cat litter might be the right option for you and your feline friend. This type of litter is made of small beads of silica gel, which are highly absorbent and can lock in moisture and odors effectively.

Silica gel cat litter also tends to last longer than other types of litter, as it doesn't need to be changed as frequently. It's also a good option for busy cat owners who want to minimize clean-up time, as the litter doesn't clump and can be easily scooped out of the litter box.

Crystal Cat Litter

One variation of silica gel cat litter is crystal cat litter, which is made of larger crystals that can absorb even more moisture. Crystal cat litter tends to be even more long-lasting than standard silica gel litter, and it can be a great option if you have multiple cats or a particularly busy litter box.

However, it's worth noting that some cat owners and cats may not enjoy the texture of crystal cat litter, as the large, hard crystals can be uncomfortable to walk on. Additionally, the litter can be quite dusty when poured or disturbed, which may be a concern for some households.

Scented and Unscented Cat Litter

When it comes to choosing cat litter, there are two main options to consider: scented and unscented. Scented cat litter is formulated with added fragrances to help control odor and create a more pleasant smell in the litter box. Unscented litter, on the other hand, does not contain any added fragrances and relies on other methods to control odor.

Many cat owners prefer the unscented litter to avoid potential fragrance sensitivity issues with their feline friends. Scented litter may also mask the odor of waste rather than neutralize it, which may be less effective for some cat owners.

Unscented litter may be a better option for cats with respiratory issues or sensitivity to certain fragrances. However, this type of litter may require more frequent cleaning and changing to keep the litter box fresh and odor-free.

Both scented and unscented litter options may come with added benefits such as strong clumping abilities for easy clean-up, low-dust formulas for those with allergies, or eco-friendly materials for those who prioritize sustainability.

Scented cat litter pros:

Added fragrance helps control odor

May create a more pleasant smell in the litter box

Some options may have strong clumping abilities and low-dust formulas

Scented cat litter cons:

May mask odor rather than neutralize it

Some formulas may contain harmful ingredients

May cause sensitivity issues for some cats and humans

Unscented cat litter pros:

No additional fragrances that may cause sensitivity issues

Maybe more natural and eco-friendly options are available

Some options may have strong clumping abilities and low-dust formulas

Unscented cat litter cons:

May require more frequent cleaning and changing to control odor

Does not have added fragrance to mask the odor

Cat Litter Alternatives

If you're looking for alternatives to traditional cat litter, there are a few options available.

Natural Litter Substitutes

Natural substitutes for cat litter can be a great option for environmentally conscious pet owners. Shredded newspaper, wood pellets, and even dried leaves can all be used as alternatives to traditional cat litter.

One benefit of these alternatives is that they are often cheaper than store-bought cat litter. They can also be composted or disposed of more easily than clay or crystal litter.

DIY Cat Litter

Another alternative to traditional cat litter is making your litter at home. This can be done by shredding old newspapers or using recycled materials like sawdust or wood chips.

While homemade litter may be cheaper than store-bought options, it can be time-consuming to make and may not provide the same level of odor control or moisture absorption as commercial litter.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right cat litter for your furry friend is essential for their health and well-being as well as your convenience and budget. After reviewing all the types of cat litter available, let's summarize the key points to keep in mind when selecting the best option for you and your pet. Pets Lounge UAE is your best destination for shopping for high-quality cat litter.

Feline Preference

Cats can be very picky when it comes to their litter box, and some may prefer a specific type of litter. Pay attention to your cat's behavior and preferences. Natural litters may be a good choice for cats who love to scratch and dig in their litter, while others may prefer the texture and scent of clumping clay litter.

Odor Control

If odor control is a top concern, consider scented or clumping litters, as they tend to be more effective at trapping odors. Unscented litter may be a better option for cats with fragrance sensitivities.

Budget

When it comes to cat litter, there's a range of prices available. While clay litter may be more affordable, it may also need to be replaced more frequently. Natural litter and silica gel litter may be more expensive, but they have longer-lasting properties. Consider your budget and how much you're willing to spend on cat litter before making a final decision.

Environmental Concerns

If reducing your environmental footprint is a top priority, opt for biodegradable and natural cat litter that is made from sustainable materials. These eco-friendly options are better for the planet and can be disposed of safely.

Ultimately, the right cat litter for you and your feline friend will depend on your preferences and needs. Consider the pros and cons of each option and be willing to experiment until you find the right one. Just remember, a happy cat means a happy pet owner, and choosing the right cat litter is an important part of creating a comfortable and healthy home for your beloved feline.

#cat litter #pets #pet accessories #cat accessories

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xiiistruggle · 1 year

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why do they keep changing cat litter recipes or whatever or encouraging people to buy more eco friendly (?) wood pellets (?) or coco husk (the same stuff i use as a plant substrate????) instead of just keeping it the same and not freaking my Extremely Fussy Cat out bc his cat litter changed and hurts his paws now or something

#like what is the deal with this. i found glass in it a while ago and another time i found like a piece of metal #so maybe instead of “”improving the recipe“” you could remove the glass and metal #not to mention it is so hard to try and buy a brand consistently bc they keep changing or get discontinued for something New and Worse

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safethaw · 1 day

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Top 5 Oil Removers For Driveways: A Review

Hey there! Let’s chat about a problem that's as annoying as a splinter – those stubborn oil stains on your driveway. We all know how they can make your driveway look like it's had a rough night. Don't worry, I've got your back. I'm diving into the world of oil remover for driveways, and I'll walk you through the top five picks, just like I would if we were neighbors swapping home care tips over the fence. The Tough Love: Industrial-Strength Degreasers Okay, first up are the heavyweights – industrial-strength degreasers. They're like that super strong coffee that kicks you into gear on a slow morning. Slap this on your oil stain, give it some time to work its magic, and you'll see that spot fade faster than your enthusiasm for a Monday morning. But, a heads-up: These big guns can be tough on the environment. It's kind of like using that really strong cleaner that warns you to wear gloves. Effective, but with a side of caution. Just For Concrete: Specialized Concrete Cleaners Moving on, we've got cleaners specially made for concrete driveways. These are like those fancy, specific kitchen gadgets you use for just one thing – they do their job perfectly. They seep deep into concrete and lift out the oil, leaving your driveway looking spick and span. The thing is: They’re typically not for all driveway types and can be a bit more expensive – kind of like splurging on that single-purpose kitchen tool. Eco-Friendly Route: The Gentle Approach For those who tread lightly on the earth, there are eco-friendly options. These might take a bit longer to work as oil remover for driveways, but they're as gentle on your driveway as a homemade facial scrub is on your skin. Just remember: Patience is a virtue here. You might need to scrub a bit more, but it's worth it for the peace of mind. Diy Mix: Good Ol’ Home Remedies For the DIY crowd, there's the baking soda, dish soap, and hot water mix. It’s like whipping up a home remedy for a cold – a little messy, but surprisingly effective for new stains. Keep in mind: This method might struggle with those tougher, older stains – kind of like how that home cold remedy can’t tackle everything. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2uACuEGD4k The Professionals: Commercial Oil Removers Lastly, we've got the commercial oil removers – the pros. They're like calling in a chef to cook your dinner. They know what they're doing and get the job done efficiently, especially on those really stubborn stains. The downside? They can be pricey and might come with some harsh chemicals, so read those labels like you would a complicated recipe. The Nitty-Gritty Of Getting Oil Out Now, when it comes to oil remover for driveways, the approach matters as much as the product. Start by soaking up as much oil as possible – cat litter or sawdust works wonders. Then, choose your cleaner based on your driveway type, the stubbornness of the stain, and your eco-preferences. A Little Tip On Driveway Care: Safe Thaw Is A Winner And hey, while we're talking driveways and how to clean oil on concrete, let’s touch on winter care. Traditional salt and chloride-based ice melts can really do a number on your driveway, leading to more repairs down the line. It's like using a harsh facial scrub every day – not the best idea. That’s where Safe Thaw can make a big difference. It’s a chloride-free, toxin-free ice melt that treats your driveway right. Think of it as the gentle, yet effective, skincare routine for your driveway – it clears up the ice without the damage. Plus, it’s eco-friendly, so you’re doing right by your driveway and the planet. Read the full article

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arboristabrands · 9 days

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Sustainable Cat Care: Upcycled Wood Cat Litter from Arborista

Introduction

In today's eco-conscious world, finding sustainable products for our pets is just as important as making green choices for ourselves. Arborista is proud to offer a range of upcycled wood products, including high-quality cat litter, for both UK and international markets. This blog post will delve into the benefits of using upcycled wood cat litter, why Arborista is the top choice for sustainable pet care, and how our products can make a difference in your cat's life and the environment.

The Benefits of Upcycled Wood Cat Litter

Choosing upcycled wood cat litter comes with numerous advantages that benefit both your pet and the planet. Here are some key benefits:

Environmentally Friendly: Upcycled wood cat litter is made from reclaimed wood, reducing the need for new resources and lowering your carbon footprint.

Biodegradable and Compostable: Unlike traditional clay-based litters, upcycled wood litter breaks down naturally, making it an eco-friendly option.

Natural Odour Control: Wood has natural odour-absorbing properties, helping to keep your home smelling fresh without the need for artificial fragrances.

Low Dust: Upcycled wood cat litter produces minimal dust, which is better for your cat's respiratory health and cleaner for your home.

Why Choose Arborista for Upcycled Wood Cat Litter?

Superior Quality

Arborista's upcycled wood cat litter is crafted from high-quality reclaimed wood, ensuring a product that is both effective and environmentally responsible. Our rigorous quality control processes guarantee that you receive the best for your feline friend.

Commitment to Sustainability

At Arborista, sustainability is at the core of our business. Our upcycling process maximises the use of reclaimed materials, minimising waste and promoting eco-friendly practices. By choosing our products, you are supporting a company dedicated to reducing environmental impact.

Expertise and Innovation

With years of experience in the industry, Arborista combines traditional craftsmanship with innovative techniques to produce premium upcycled wood cat litter. Our commitment to excellence ensures that our products meet the highest standards of quality and sustainability.

Customer Testimonials

"Switching to Arborista's upcycled wood cat litter has been a great decision for both my cat and the environment. It's highly absorbent and controls odours naturally. Plus, I love that it's eco-friendly!" – Sarah, UK

"Arborista's cat litter is fantastic! It's dust-free and biodegradable, making it perfect for my cat and our planet. Highly recommend!" – John, UK

How to Purchase Arborista Cat Litter

Ready to make the switch to sustainable cat litter with Arborista? Here’s how you can order:

Online Store: Visit our website at www.arborista.uk to browse and purchase our upcycled wood cat litter.

Phone Orders: Call us at 0 1322 319387 to place your order directly.

International Shipping: We offer international shipping, ensuring that our eco-friendly products are accessible worldwide.

Conclusion

Choosing Arborista's upcycled wood cat litter is a step towards a sustainable future. Our cat litter provides an eco-friendly, effective, and healthy solution for your feline's needs. With Arborista, you’re not just purchasing a product; you’re supporting a greener planet.

Call to Action

Make the sustainable choice today. Visit Arborista's online store or contact us to learn more about our high-quality upcycled wood cat litter. Together, we can create a better environment for our pets and our planet.

For the latest updates and tips on sustainable pet care, follow Arborista’s blog and stay connected with our eco-friendly community.

#Cat litter #Sustainable cat litter #Eco cat litter #Healthy cat litter #Dust free cat litter #Organic cat litter #Buy cat litter UK #Cat litter home delivery

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kipenzistore · 12 days

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The Benefits of Using a Self-Cleaning Litter Box for Your Cat

Are you tired of the daily chore of scooping your cat's litter box? Do you wish there was an easier way to maintain a clean and odor-free environment for your feline friend? If so, a self-cleaning litter box might be the solution you've been searching for. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of using a self-cleaning litter box for your cat and how it can improve both your and your cat's quality of life.

1. Convenience: One of the primary benefits of an automatic cat litter box is its convenience. Instead of manually scooping out waste multiple times daily, the self-cleaning mechanism takes care of this task for you. Simply set up the litter box, turn it on, and let it do the work.

2. Time-Saving: With a self-cleaning litter box, you'll save valuable time that can be better spent bonding with your cat or attending to other tasks. Say goodbye to the daily hassle of scooping litter and hello to more free time for yourself.

3. Odor Control: Self-cleaning litter boxes often come equipped with odor-control features, such as carbon filters or waste containment systems, that help keep unpleasant smells at bay. This means you can enjoy a fresher-smelling home without constantly having to spray air fresheners or light candles.

4. Improved Hygiene: By automatically removing waste from the litter box, self-cleaning systems help maintain a cleaner and more hygienic environment for your cat. This can reduce the risk of bacterial growth and potential health issues for both you and your pet.

5. Reduced Litter Usage: Since Semi-automatic litter boxes remove waste efficiently, you'll find yourself using less litter overall. This not only saves you money in the long run but also reduces the amount of litter that ends up in landfills, making it an eco-friendly choice.

6. Stress Reduction: Some cats may be hesitant to use a traditional litter box if it's not kept clean enough to their liking. A self-cleaning litter box ensures that the litter is always fresh, which can help alleviate stress and anxiety for your cat.

7. Ideal for Multiple Cats: If you have multiple cats, maintaining clean litter boxes can be a daunting task. Self-cleaning litter boxes are designed to accommodate multiple cats and can help ensure that each feline friend has access to a clean and sanitary bathroom.

In conclusion, a self-cleaning litter box offers numerous benefits for both you and your cat. From convenience and time-saving features to improved hygiene and stress reduction, investing in a self-cleaning litter box can greatly enhance your cat's quality of life and make litter box maintenance a breeze. Say goodbye to scooping and hello to a cleaner, fresher-smelling home with the help of a self-cleaning litter box.

#automatic cat litter box #automatic litter box in india #self cleaning litter box #semi automatic litter box #cat litter box india #scoop free litter box

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