Zero-Waste Pet Care: Composting and Other Sustainable Tips for Pet Owners
Are you looking for ways to make your pet care routine more eco-friendly?
With more pet owners recognizing how unsustainable traditional pet care practices are, the movement toward more eco-friendly alternatives is growing fast. From sustainable packaging in pet food to biodegradable waste bags, zero-waste pet care can help us minimize our environmental footprint.
Without further ado, let's explore 6 sustainable pet care practices you can start implementing starting today.
What is Zero-Waste Pet Care?
Zero-waste pet care is all about making thoughtful, sustainable choices in how we look after our pets. Just like our own lifestyle choices can impact the environment, so can the way we care for our furry friends.
For example, did you know that pet waste alone contributes 8-12% of all residential waste? And with over 49 million dogs and 42 million cats in the US alone, traditional pet care habits have a bigger impact on the planet than we might think.
Switching to a zero-waste approach also comes with added benefits like:
Reduce unnecessary clutter in your household
Save money in the long run
Choose healthier food options for your pet
Create a cleaner, greener future for everyone, pets included
6 Ways to Reduce Pet Waste
Reducing pet waste doesn’t require a total lifestyle overhaul—just a few small shifts in daily habits can make a big difference.
Let’s dive in deeper:
1. Sustainable Pet Food Choices
When it comes to reducing your pet’s environmental impact, one of the most effective steps you can take is to rethink their food.
Homemade Pet Food
Making your pet’s food at home means you know exactly what your pet is eating.
The extra advantage?
You eliminate excess packaging as the food you prepare goes straight from the stovetop to your pet's bowl.
You can use fresh, locally sourced produce, which supports nearby farmers and reduces carbon emissions associated with food transport. Plus, homemade pet food can be tailored to your pet's unique taste and dietary needs—just remember to consult with your vet to make sure you’re meeting all your pet’s nutritional requirements.
If you're looking for inspiration, there are tons of dog and cat meal prep ideas you can try, from nutritious cooked meats to low-calorie veggie snacks.
Zero-Waste Pet Treats
Store-bought treats can be convenient, but they’re often wrapped in single-use plastic and may contain preservatives.
The better alternative? Homemade treats that leave no waste behind.
For dogs, you can try dehydrating sweet potato slices or freezing blueberries and small apple slices. Cats, on the other hand, enjoy small pieces of cooked chicken or tuna.
These easy-to-get treats are not only healthier but also cost-effective and eco-friendly.
Bulk Purchasing of Pet Food
If making homemade pet food isn’t feasible, buying in bulk can be a practical and sustainable alternative. Bulk purchases reduce packaging waste and can save money over time. However, you should also think about your food waste management strategy - make sure you buy only what your pet can consume within a specific period to avoid ending up with excess food that may expire.
Tips:
Bring along reusable containers to fill up on dry pet food at stores that offer bulk options.
When choosing a brand, look for eco-conscious options like Open Farm, Tender & True, and The Honest Kitchen.
Always check if the products you buy are not only sustainable but also safe by ensuring the brand has a strong reputation and no recent cat or dog food recalls.
2. Composting Pet Waste
Composting pet waste is a great step toward a zero-waste lifestyle, but it requires careful handling.
While composting dog waste is possible under controlled conditions, you should not use this compost in gardens meant for growing food, as it can contain pathogens. Cat waste, on the other hand, is generally not recommended for composting due to the risk of toxoplasmosis and other parasites.
If you decide to compost your pet's waste, you can set up a dedicated composting system to avoid contamination. Alternatively, you can buy a dedicated composting bin, which is designed to handle pet waste safely.
Note of caution: Composting pet waste requires strict attention to safety. For example, the composting process needs to reach high temperatures to kill harmful pathogens. Proper aeration and maintenance are also necessary to prevent bacterial growth and odor issues.
If composting on your own is not an option, you can inquire if there are any pet waste composting services near you. This way, you can easily delegate the whole process to the professionals.
3. Eco-Friendly Pet Accessories
When it comes to caring for our pets, every choice can make a difference—including the accessories we buy.
Here are a few things you can do:
Toys Made from Sustainable Materials
If your pet loves toys, why not make playtime a little greener?
Look for toys made from natural, sustainable materials like hemp, organic cotton, or recycled fibers. Many brands now offer eco-friendly toys that are durable, safe, and free from harmful chemicals.
Feeling crafty?
DIY pet toys are a fun and budget-friendly way to keep your pet entertained while reducing waste. For example, old T-shirts can be braided into tug ropes, cardboard tubes can become endless hours of cat entertainment, and even a knotted sock can make a great DIY chew toy!
Bedding Options
A comfortable bed is essential for any pet, but it’s also an opportunity to choose something sustainable. Pet beds from recycled plastic bottles or repurposed fabrics, for instance, are a more eco-conscious choice. Or you can look for beds that use organic or natural fibers (like cotton or wool), which are biodegradable and gentle on the environment.
Investing in a high-quality, durable bed is another way to keep things zero-waste. Instead of replacing worn-out beds frequently, a long-lasting, washable bed can give your pet a cozy spot for years while saving you money in the long run.
Sustainable Grooming Supplies
Grooming doesn’t have to involve plastic brushes and disposable combs. Instead, you can use products made from sustainable materials like bamboo or recycled plastic.
When it comes to shampoos and conditioners, aim for natural, biodegradable options that are free from harsh chemicals. These eco-friendly formulas (with ingredients like oatmeal, aloe, and coconut oil) are not only better for the environment, but they’re often gentler on your pet’s skin and fur, too.
4. Waste Management Solutions
Managing pet waste responsibly is an essential part of a zero-waste pet care routine. Here’s how to keep waste management green and sustainable.
Biodegradable Waste Bags
Did you know that about 415 billion dog poop bags are used annually?
With so much plastic waste ending up in landfills, switching to biodegradable bags can make a huge difference. Such bags decompose more quickly and don’t release microplastics into the environment. When shopping for eco-friendly alternatives, look out for brands marked with the BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute) certification.
Note: Avoid disposing of compostable bags in plastic-lined trash bins, as they won’t provide the right environment for the bags to break down fully. If your local waste facility has an industrial composting option, it's best to deposit them there.
Eco-Friendly Litter Options
A lot of the traditional clay cat litter is mined in environmentally destructive ways and contains chemicals that don’t break down easily.
To avoid these, you can opt for recycled paper litter, which is soft, absorbent, and biodegradable, or wood-based litter such as okocat, which provide a natural scent and effective odor control. These eco-friendly alternatives decompose naturally, are typically free from harmful chemicals, and often produce less dust, which is better for your cat’s health, too.
DIY Litter from Shredded Newspaper
For a truly zero-waste option, you can try to make your own litter from shredded newspaper. Just follow these steps:
Shred old newspapers into small strips.
Soak the shredded paper in warm water with a bit of biodegradable dish soap. This softens the paper and removes some of the ink.
Drain and rinse the paper thoroughly, squeezing out excess water to leave it damp but not soaking.
Sprinkle baking soda over the paper for added odor control.
Allow the paper to dry completely before using it as litter.
5. Sustainable Pet Grooming Practices
Besides using sustainable pet care products, there are a few other ways in which you can contribute to more sustainable pet grooming habits, including:
Water Conservation: When bathing your pet, try using a bucket or a handheld showerhead instead of running water the entire time. This can save gallons of water per bath, making grooming both eco-friendly and efficient. Another tip: give your pet a quick rinse outside when the weather allows, which keeps things low-impact and fun for your pet, too!
Waste Reduction: Did you know that pet fur can have a second life? Some organizations collect pet fur for environmental projects, such as oil spill cleanups, where it’s used to absorb pollutants. So, next time you brush your pet, consider saving and donating their fur to give it an eco-friendly purpose.
6. Supporting Sustainable Pet Services
Choosing sustainable services for your pet can contribute to your zero-waste efforts and support eco-friendly businesses. For example, you can consider:
Eco-friendly veterinarians: Some vet clinics are now adopting green practices to reduce their environmental footprint. Look for clinics that use digital records instead of paper, reducing waste and saving resources. Other eco-friendly initiatives include energy-efficient lighting, recycling programs, and even solar-powered facilities.
Sustainable pet sitters: Choosing a pet sitter who shares your commitment to the environment ensures that your pet’s care stays green, even when you’re not home. Sustainable sitters might bring biodegradable waste bags, use natural cleaning products, or even compost pet waste where possible.
Conclusion
Integrating zero-waste practices into pet care can reduce your pet’s environmental impact while improving their quality of life. And remember: small changes in feeding, grooming, and waste management add up to a big difference for the planet.
So, what are you waiting for? Start implementing these strategies today and share your journey to inspire others to go green with their pet care routines.
Read MoreIs Your Pet Good for Your Mental Health? Here’s What Science Says
Photo by Luku Muffin on Unsplash
Having an animal in your home provides more than just companionship; pets are often our emotional anchors as well. Maybe it’s a wagging tail that welcomes you through the door after a long day at work, or perhaps it’s a calming purr that helps you drift off to sleep. When you think about it, there are countless ways we interact with our pets daily that benefit our well-being.
While we know in our hearts that our companion animals are good for our mental health, what does science say? In this article, we’ll look at the facts and explore the research behind the human/animal bond. We’ll also provide tips to help you create a happier and healthier life for yourself and the animals you share your home with.
The Role of Pets in Mental Health Support
For many people, companion animals take on a more official role. Emotional support animals (ESAs) are formally recognized as essential for your mental wellbeing. For your pet to obtain ESA status, you’ll need to register them with an emotional support animal company. Doing so can provide certain benefits and privileges. For example, you could get access to housing that doesn't typically allow pets.
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
Research shows that interacting with our animal companions can lower cortisol levels. Cortisol is the hormone associated with stress, and too much can lead to symptoms like weight gain, acne, and sickness. Luckily, something as simple as petting a dog for 10 minutes can significantly impact your cortisol levels, bringing this stress marker right down.
However, stroking an animal also affects another biological chemical: oxytocin. Also known as the “love” hormone, oxytocin is released when you hug someone. A mother’s body is flooded with it when she embraces her child, and it flows through you when your skin is stroked. It’s a natural feel-good chemical, and when you cuddle your pet, your body also releases it into your bloodstream, instantly making you feel relaxed.
Practical tip:
Next time you’re feeling stressed, practice mindfully stroking your pet for ten minutes.
If your companion animal has a furry coat, use a hand-held or glove brush to make the experience even more enjoyable for both of you.
Encouraging Physical Activity
It’s common knowledge that exercise makes us feel good by releasing endorphins, our body’s natural mood boosters. Regular exercise also contributes to better physical health, helping us live a longer and better quality of life.
While it can be tough to find motivation to get off the couch and on the treadmill, having a pet takes the indecisive element away. Dogs need walks every day, and even indoor pets like cats or rabbits require playtime. These activities get us moving, helping us to stay physically active while spending valuable time with our non-human pals.
Practical tips:
Consistency is key: Make exercise part of your daily routine by scheduling walks or playtime with your pet.
Make it fun; toys, games, or even agility equipment can introduce exciting new elements to playtime. If you’re short on money, DIY toys are easy to make and don’t cost a dime.
Combatting Loneliness
The unconditional love and companionship animals provide can reduce feelings of loneliness. This is especially true for people living alone, elderly people, or those experiencing big life changes. An animal’s constant presence makes them excellent support systems.
Practical tips:
It might feel silly if you’re not used to it, but talk out loud to your pet. This provides an emotional outlet for you and also helps strengthen your bond as animals recognise voices.
Involve them in your daily life, whether it’s calling them to sit on your lap while you watch TV or taking proactive steps to include them in more activities.
Promoting Social Interaction
Having a pet instantly means you have things in common with tens or even hundreds of millions of other people. You could join a local group of passionate pet owners, look for meet ups in your neighbourhood, or connect with others in online communities. Either way, having a pet presents an opportunity to meet like minded-people.
Practical tips:
Walking your dog is a great way to meet new people; a smile and a “hello” can be enough to spark a connection with a fellow dog walker.
Take your four-legged friend to dog parks and training classes to meet other dog parents.
Your pet can be a natural icebreaker, so use them don’t be afraid to use them to start conversations.
Routine and Responsibility
Caring for a pet introduces structure to your day, which is often an integral part of overcoming mental health challenges. Structure is about familiarity, which gives us a sense of comfort and control and helps us feel more grounded in our daily lives. Activities like feeding, grooming, exercising, and playing with your companion animal not only foster calmness, but also lead to feelings of purpose, accomplishment, and safety in routine.
Practical tips:
Use a schedule to stay organized and mix up your activities. For instance, you could try out different dog walking routes or plan ahead for group activities.
Build confidence by setting small goals, like teaching a new trick or walking a certain distance each week.
Mindfulness
Animals are masters of mindfulness, truly living in the moment. Spending time with your pet can encourage you to do the same. Whether it’s watching your cat bask in the sun or observing your dog’s excitement over a game of fetch, their joy can remind you to appreciate the little things in life, too.
Practical tips:
Practice gratitude by taking a moment to reflect on how your pet enriches your life.
For at least a few minutes a day, try to channel your pet’s ability to focus solely on the here and now.
Endnote
Our pets have a massive impact on our health and happiness in a myriad of ways. From reducing stress and loneliness to encouraging us to stay fit and organized, it’s undeniable: pets are natural healers in our lives. The care and love we give them is returned, tenfold.
Read MoreDIY Delights: Affordable Enrichment Ideas for Small Pet Parents
We love our pets and we want to spoil them, but providing them with all the treats, toys, and enrichment materials they deserve can really add up. Taking care of our furry friends doesn't have to break the bank, and we're here to show you how to provide engaging and delicious options for your small pets without going over budget.
So let’s dive into the world of homemade toys and treats and discover how to do it on a budget, with many materials and ingredients you likely already have on hand.
From the Yard:
We know our little critters love to gnaw on clean, untreated wood; it is a great enrichment activity and helps keep their chompers in check. And while it may be tempting to head to the backyard with your clippers, not all trees are safe for your small pet!
Things to consider:
Know your trees: Some trees are toxic to small pets! Apple, willow, and oak are generally safe, while cedar, yew, and stone-fruit trees are toxic. Wood from pine and fir trees is only safe after the wood has been kiln-dried to remove volatile oils. (Best to save this one for the professionals!)
Are your trees clean & healthy? You do not want to give your small pet wood from trees sprayed with pesticides or wood from sick or infected trees! It’s best to avoid collecting branches from trees in public spaces as you can never be sure if they’ve been treated.
Another great backyard bounty for small pets are pinecones! With just a bit a preparation, pinecones can be gnawed on, stuffed with treats, or even made into a play mobile!
Now that you have sourced your small pet-safe branches and pinecones, it is time to clean them up! These materials could have bacteria or fungus growing on them as well as bugs, so we will want to get rid of any pests, clean off sap, and clip off any sharps or spikes.
From the Garden:
In the face of rising grocery costs and the desire to provide the best nutrition for small pets, growing a garden can be an incredibly budget-friendly way to supplement their diet with fresh fruit and veg. By cultivating a small plot or even just a few pots, pet parents can easily grow a variety of pet-friendly produce such as leafy greens, carrots, herbs, and even some fruits like strawberries or melons. Not only does this approach provide a cost-effective source of high-quality, fresh food for small pets, but it also offers the satisfaction of knowing exactly where their food comes from and the joy of engaging in a rewarding and sustainable activity. With a bit of green-thumb effort, pet parents can provide their furry companions with a nutritious and diverse diet, all while keeping a close eye on their budget.
*This is a non-exhaustive list of small pet friendly fruits, veg, and herbs. Always feed fruits, veg, and herbs in moderation. Consult your small pet vet if you have questions or concerns.
From the House:
Don't overlook the potential for everyday household items to serve as enrichment activities for your small pets. By saving toilet paper and paper towel rolls, cardboard boxes, and butcher paper from the trash, you can provide your furry companions with endless opportunities for play and mental stimulation. Make sure your materials are unprinted and free of labels, tape, or stickers and repurpose these items into tunnels, hiding spots, or DIY toys to encourage natural behaviors and keep your pets engaged and entertained. Not only does this approach promote sustainability by reducing waste, but it also offers a budget-friendly way to enrich your pet's environment and promote their overall well-being.
Creative and sustainable toy ideas:
Treat hiding tube
There are many ways to turn your cardboard tubes into treat-hiding toys and enrichment activities. It can be as simple as stuffing the tube with hay and treats or you could cut your tubes into rings and nesting them to create a stuffable sphere!
Cardboard castle
Save all those cardboard boxes from your Amazon and Chewy hauls to create a multi-level play castle for your small pet. Stack, cut, and tape your boxes together to create an interactive hideout/play space for your rabbit or guinea pig!
Dig Box
Create a dig box to provide mental stimulation and encourage natural foraging behaviors in your rabbit. Start with a large cardboard box or bin, add a layer of carefresh bedding, then begin to layer in any combo of toys, treats, veggies, herbs, etc. (especially those mentioned in this blog) to the box and watch them get to work!
Visit @ronnieminilop on IG, TikTok, or YouTube for some great dig box ideas:
Veggie box
Forage box
Dig box
Providing enrichment for small pets doesn't have to break the bank. By embracing a creative and resourceful approach, pet owners can craft a stimulating environment for their furry friends while keeping costs low. From repurposing household items to growing a garden for fresh produce, the possibilities for budget-friendly DIY enrichment are endless. By investing time and ingenuity rather than a significant amount of money, pet parents can ensure that their small pets lead fulfilling and happy lives without compromising their budget.
Read MoreThe Best Pets to Adopt for Apartment Living
Apartment living can be a unique challenge when it comes to pet ownership. The limited space and proximity to neighbors means you have to choose a pet that is comfortable with this type of environment.
When you choose the right one, having a pet in an apartment can bring so much joy and companionship, making your living space feel more like a home. This guide will explore the best pets to adopt if you’re living in an apartment.
Why People Seek the Company of Pets
Pets offer more than just companionship; they provide emotional support, reduce stress, and can even improve your physical health. For many people, pets are a huge source of unconditional love and comfort. Here are some reasons why people might seek the company of pets:
Companionship – Pets can reduce feelings of loneliness, especially for those living in an apartment alone.
Stress relief – Interacting with pets has been shown to lower blood pressure and reduce anxiety.
Routine and responsibility – Caring for a pet provides a sense of purpose and helps establish a daily routine.
Social interaction – Pets, especially dogs, can help their owners meet new people and build social connections.
Mental health benefits – Pets can help improve symptoms of depression and other mental health issues by providing companionship and unconditional affection.
Finding Pet-Friendly Apartments
Finding a pet-friendly apartment can be challenging, but resources like SpareRoom can make the search easier. SpareRoom is a roommate-matching website where you can filter your living preferences, including accommodations for pets. This will help you find compatible roommates who are open to living with pets. So whether you’re living in a small LA apartment or renting in NYC, you can find the perfect place for you and your furry, feathered, or scaly friend.
The Best Pets for Apartment Living
If you live in an apartment but are thinking about adopting a pet, it's important to consider things like space, noise, and exercise. Here are some of the best pets that will be comfortable in an apartment setting.
1. Cats
Cats are one of the most popular choices for apartment dwellers. These fur balls are independent, low-maintenance, and need less space compared to dogs. Here are some reasons why cats are great for apartments:
Size – Most cats are small and can feel comfortable in smaller living spaces.
Litter training – You can train your cat to use a litter box, making them perfect for apartment living. okocat natural litter is a great choice for small spaces.
Quiet – Unlike dogs, cats are generally quiet animals, making them ideal if you live close to other people.
2. Small Dog Breeds
While some dogs require large spaces and plenty of exercise, many small dog breeds are well-suited for apartment life. Some of the best small dog breeds for apartments include:
French Bulldogs – These dogs are known for their calm and friendly nature. They don't require a lot of exercise and are relatively quiet, which means they won’t upset the neighbors!
Pugs – Pugs are affectionate and adapt well to apartments. They have a playful nature.
Chihuahuas – These tiny dogs are full of personality and energy but can still get enough exercise within an apartment.
Maltipoo - Maltipoos are one of the best dogs for apartment living. Because of their poodle origins, they are easy to train and will listen to you easily. They have a wonderful playful personality.
3. Fish
Fish can be a relaxing and low-maintenance pet option for apartments. An aquarium can also add a touch of tranquility and beauty to your living space. The benefits of adopting a fish include:
Minimal space requirement – An aquarium doesn't take up much space and can fit easily on a countertop or stand. To further enhance the aquarium's aesthetic appeal, you can consider Custom Neon Signs. With customization, you can choose your favorite colors and light patterns, such as gradient colors, flashing effects, or light changes that are synchronized with the movement of the fish, making your aquarium a beautiful addition to your home. In addition, custom neon lights fit perfectly to the size and shape of your aquarium, ensuring even light distribution for optimal viewing.
Low noise – Fish are silent pets, making them perfect for apartments where noise levels need to be kept low.
Calming effect – Watching fish swim can create a calming and stress-relieving environment.
4. Birds
Birds are delightful pets that bring a splash of color to any apartment. Birds that do well in apartment settings include:
Budgerigars (Budgies) – These small, friendly birds are easy to care for. They also have a lot of personality, which means they can be quite entertaining.
Canaries – Known for their beautiful singing, canaries are relatively low-maintenance and don't need a lot of space.
Finches – These small birds are social and active, adding lively chirping to your apartment.
5. Small Animals
Lots of small animals make excellent apartment pets due to their size and low maintenance requirements. Some good options include:
Hamsters – These small creatures are easy to care for and can be housed in a habitat. Just make sure its at least 650 sq ft. filled with lots of comfy carefresh bedding for burrowing.
Guinea Pigs – Guinea pigs are social animals that enjoy interaction so it's best to have two. They can live comfortably in a small enclosure but make sure it's at least 10.5 sq ft.
Rabbits – While they require a bit more space, rabbits can be litter-trained and are generally quiet, making them suitable for apartments.
6. Reptiles
Reptiles are fascinating pets that only need minimal space and maintenance. Some good choices for apartments include:
Geckos – These small lizards can live comfortably in a terrarium.
Snakes – Many snake species, such as corn snakes, are easy to care for and don't need much space.
Turtles – Turtles are quiet and can live in a tank, making them a good option for apartments.
Things to Consider When Living With Pets
When adopting a pet for an apartment, there are a few things you need to consider:
Space – Make sure your apartment has enough space for the pet to move around comfortably.
Noise – Be mindful of the noise levels your pet may produce, especially if you have close neighbors.
Exercise – Make sure you can meet the exercise and activity needs of your pet, whether through indoor play or outdoor walks.
Allergies – Consider any allergies you or your roommates may have before bringing a pet into your home.
Building policies – Check your apartment building's pet policies to make sure you’re allowed to keep your chosen.
Conclusion
Pets can bring huge joy and companionship to your life. By choosing a pet that suits your living space and lifestyle, you can create a happy home environment. Whether you go for a cat, a small dog, a hamster, or even a fish, plenty of animals can thrive in an apartment setting.
Read MorePawsitive Impact: How Sustainable Practices Improve Pet Wellness
With the current climate crisis, many are adopting eco-conscious lifestyles to reduce their environmental footprint. As this movement gains momentum, we must learn how to extend these sustainable practices to all aspects of our lives – yes, that includes the well-being of our furballs.
In this article, we’ll explore the positive impact of incorporating sustainable practices into pet care and how these can improve pet wellness – showing that it’s not to boost the well-being of our environment, but also our pets.
Sustainable Practices That Improve Pet Wellness
Ever wondered how you can practice sustainability while improving your pet’s health? Below, we’ll share some of the best practices to get yourself involved in:
Using Eco-Friendly Pet Products
Choosing eco-friendly products for our furry companions is one of the easiest and best ways to incorporate sustainability into our day-to-day lives.
Many companies now offer products that use sustainable packaging and other sustainably sourced materials. Before purchasing any pet product, it helps to read the product label to learn more about its source and the materials used to create the product.
Products such as biodegradable poop bags and toys made of recycled plastics are prime examples of eco-friendly pet products. Not only do they save our environment, but also they keep our pets clean and healthy.
>>>Read more about paper vs plastic packaging
Switching to Nutritious and Sustainable Diets
Besides eco-friendly pet products, opting for a more sustainable diet for your pet is a brilliant way to go on our path toward sustainability. When choosing pet food, read the product label and identify if the product is made of ethically sourced ingredients with minimal environmental impact.
Your pet might like meat, but it’s also worth trying other protein-rich meals such as insect-based and plant-based proteins – these foods often have significantly smaller ecological footprint than traditional meat.
About 20% of the world’s fish and meat is consumed by pets, so it isn’t just us humans who contribute to climate change. Meat-based agriculture has always been a significant driver of climate change, and choosing other diet alternatives is a great way to start.
In fact, your pets are getting more protein from insect-based alternatives. For every 100 grams of insect-based food, your pet consumes up to two times more protein. These diets are both sustainable and good for your pet’s health in the long run – switching up your pet’s diet is one way to do your part for the environment while keeping them strong and healthy.
Engage in DIY and Upcycling Practices
Instead of purchasing pet products, why not do things yourself? Try creating pet accessories and toys from repurposed materials. Not only do you make your pet happy, but you also get to make a positive change in the environment.
Cardboard boxes, for instance, are readily available – and cats love them! They make for excellent toys, so a simple box can already be a lot of fun for these little ones. Design these boxes and stack them on top of each other, and you might see your pets climbing up the boxes in no time.
Truly, these DIY practices allow your creative juices to flow. Plus, your pets get to have fun and stay mentally healthy through play.
Additionally, you can upcycle everyday items such as old t-shirts or towels. These can then be transformed into pet beds or durable chew toys that your pets will love. It goes to show that sometimes what you need might just be right in front of you.
Photo by 乐融 高 on Unsplash
Use Natural and Chemical-Free Grooming Products
Choosing natural and chemical-free grooming products is a great way to protect your pet from harsh chemicals while simultaneously safeguarding our environment from further harm. Flea and tick shampoos, for example, contain pesticides such as organophosphates and pyrethrins.
While these chemicals are effective in eliminating fleas and ticks, they pose significant environmental risks. When these chemicals are washed off, they end up in the wastewater. As a result of these chemicals leaching into the water supply, aquatic organisms can be affected by these toxic chemicals – disrupting the ecosystem balance and harming non-target species.
It cannot be emphasized enough – always read the product labels for possibly harmful ingredients. Choose products that indicate that the ingredients are environmentally friendly or biodegradable.
Reduce Carbon Pawprint in All Ways Possible
Other than the previously mentioned sustainable practices, there are still other ways to reduce your carbon pawprint. When taking your pets outdoors, walk or cycle instead of using a motor vehicle to reduce your carbon emissions.
If you’re fond of dressing up your pet, choose functional items like eco-friendly collars and other clothes made of sustainable materials to keep them comfortable.
Cat owners can also choose an eco-friendly cat litter to further reduce their carbon footprint. Opt for litter made from upcycled wood such as okocat natural litter.
Final Thoughts
That wraps up our quick guide to the sustainable practices that improve your pet’s wellness! While the switch may be challenging for some, know that in the end, it will all be worthwhile – you get to do your role in protecting our environment while keeping your pets healthy.
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