Conventional clay and silica-based kitty litters are not only burdens on landfills, but they come from strip mines (a very non-ecofriendly practice). Switch your cat over to some natural alternatives. These natural based litters are biodegradable, reduce odor and have less dust, which means less irritation for your cat’s lungs (and your lungs too.)

In her article on greening pets, GO’s Kelli Best-Oliver suggests a wheat based litter Swheat Scoop.

Tip mavens over at Ideal Bite suggest the following natural litters: Corn-based One Earth Cat Litter, and World’s Best Cat Litter; Yesterday’s News, pellets made of recycled newspaper; and Feline Pine made from reclaimed sawdust pellets.

If your cat is having problems getting used to the new stuff, try working in a little bit each week with until you’ve completely switched over. And if you’re not composting, throw out the litter in paper bags instead of plastic bags.

Amy says: I don’t have cats but I do a lot of cat sitting and cleaning the litter box is part of the duty. With each scoop into the clay based litter, I try not to breathe in. Next time I might try leaving a bag of the natural variety for the cat owner to try out.

For more on natural kitty litter:

Ideal Bite - What sort of legacy is your kitty leaving behind?

Care 2 Green Living - Eco-Friendly Kitty Litter

Care 2 Green Living - The Dangers of Clumping Cat Litter

Related articles from GO:

Green Pets: A Quick Overview

GNMParents: Greenish Pets

Green Pet Care: Toxic Medications?

Lighter Footstep: Why You Shouldn’t Use Dryer Sheets to Control Pet Hair

Daily: The Doggie Bag