Shredded paper for cat litter: Make Your Own Zero Waste Shredded Paper Cat Litter

Опубликовано: February 25, 2023 в 10:43 pm

Автор: alexxlab

Категории: Cat

Make Your Own Zero Waste Shredded Paper Cat Litter

Is it Possible to Go Zero Waste with Cat Waste?

Yes – It totally is! Here’s our experience making zero waste shredded paper cat litter.

Before we brought Bella home (short for “Portabella” like the mushrooms, and not a Twilight reference) we had some prepping to do. We were excited to have a new “bundle of fur” but we didn’t know how to overcome some of the waste associated with having a pet. We were trying to move toward creating less waste – avoiding plastics, packaging, and buying processed goods. Saving money was another priority. At first we thought it would be difficult, after all there are entire stores dedicated to pet stuff. Canned and bagged food, toys, medicines, shampoos, oh and the poop! What were we going to do about POOP?

What are eco-friendly alternatives to cat litter?

Traditionally people use cat litter right? Big boxes or bags of sand-like stuff that you lug home from the store, let your cat poop in, scoop out, and throw away (often in plastic bags). Some cat litter contains artificial scents and additives, some is made with silica crystals (that moisture absorbent stuff you find in little packets inside shoe boxes labeled DO NOT EAT).

Considering how heavy cat litter is, plus all of the fuel used to ship it to all of the homes and stores around the world, we decided that traditional cat litter wasn’t really an eco-friendly option. We also considered a few other options – everything from coffee grounds to sawdust – before settling on paper. If anyone has experience on other options we would love to hear about it in the comments!

Does shredded paper really work for cat litter?

Honestly I had my doubts that it would work. Cats can be very particular about their litter boxes. When we first brought Bella home she was almost 2 years old and had always used regular kitty litter. We were given a box of cat litter when we got her, which we were happy to use initially to make sure she did not have an accident. We brought her home, showed her the litter box of regular cat litter under the bathroom sink, and thankfully she knew what to do. The second day came and went without a problem as well. Phew!

By the third day of having her we were ready to start trying the shredded paper approach. Looking for a smooth transition, we filled the box halfway with litter and topped it off with shredded paper. Our plan was to slowly wean her off of the litter over the course of a month or so until she was completely switched over to paper. However that plan was abandoned on day four when the Mr. (sick of sandy cat litter getting stuck to his feet every time he walked into the bathroom) decided to go all in, paper-only. We crossed our fingers and held our breath and on her fourth day home Bella was switched to all paper.

Ladies and gentlemen we are SO happy to say we haven’t had an accident since!

Now will this work for all cats? I don’t know. BUT, as a skeptic turned believer I totally recommend you give it a try !

Benefits of Shredded Paper as Kitty Litter

Repurposed

Shredded paper litter takes something you were going to dispose of and gives it new life.

FREE Cat Litter $$

There is literally no buying anything, no shipping heavy cat litter to your door, and no last minute trips to the store if you run out

Differences between shredded paper and conventional cat litter:

With shredded paper, you won’t have grainy cat litter all over the floor.

Probably my favorite part! Sand between your toes is great at the beach but awful when it gets kicked out of a litter box. With the shredded paper method, you’ll occasionally get a few shreds of paper that is tracked out of the box, but those are MUCH easier to spot and clean up than tiny grains of sand.

Shredded paper kitty litter is easy to make – Just find scrap paper and run it through a shredder!

The smell is … different.

Okay real talk: If you use the shredded paper method it definitely smells more poopy and less cat-litter-y. I still haven’t found a way around this (besides keeping the litter box in the bathroom where poopy smells are expected) though baking soda in the box seems to help a little. You may want to keep this in mind if you won’t be home or won’t be able to change the box for longer periods of time.

The best way to avoid smell is to be on top of cleaning – which is good thing anyway. Cat boxes, no matter what type of litter you’re using, need to be cleaned regularly. If they’re too dirty cats will not use them. With traditional cat litter you do get odor masking benefits that you don’t get with shredded paper. The issue with that is, you may let the litter box go without changing longer than you really should. Have you ever walked into someones house (or your own house) and immediately smelled a litter box, while everyone already in the house seemed oblivious to it? It might not smell like poop, but it definitely smells at least like litter masking poop. Kind of like when a human sprays an air freshener and it just smells like poop PLUS added chemicals …Maybe less poopy but extra confusing to your nose.

A mess-free storage spot for litter box: If you have a well-ventilated bathroom consider the litter box under the sink. Keep a towel over one door to prop it open

Where to get more paper for shredded paper cat litter

You may find that you’re running low on paper at times. At home we get a little bit of junk mail, a few flyers, and 1 magazine/month addressed to the people who lived in our place before us. Because we unsubscribed to almost all paper mail, we found we didn’t have as much paper waste as we needed for shredded paper cat litter. (But hooray for less waste!) My other job, however, had quite a bit of paper waste. If you’re running low on scrap paper, check with work, friends, or neighbors. Unfortunately there is A LOT of paper waste in this world. Fortunately you can give it a second life making shredded paper cat litter!

Let us know if you end up trying it! Drop a comment on our Facebook Page and let us know how the shredded paper cat litter worked for you.

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Can You Use Shredded Paper for Cat Litter? – Pawmore

AdvertisementsWill cats use shredded paper as litter?

Some cats will use shredded paper or newspaper as litter with no issue, though they may not particularly care for it. Many cats, however, will be completely put off by the texture and refuse to use it entirely.

In the wild, cats bury their waste to hide their scent from predators. This instinct remains in many domesticated cats today.

The texture of shredded paper is so drastically different from the dirt or sand they’d use in the wild, that many cats will be skeptical.

Even if your cat doesn’t have a strong instinctual desire to bury their waste, the texture and scent of shredded paper is so different from the litter that they’ve used their entire lives, they may still avoid it.

Even cats who are open to trying shredded paper litter may decide otherwise after trying it. Shredded paper does a very poor job of absorbing and managing moisture and scent. Walking on wet paper that reeks of urine likely won’t appeal to them.

Does shredded paper make good cat litter?

While shredded paper is generally safe to use as litter, your cat probably won’t like it very much. It doesn’t manage moisture or odor well, leading to wet paws and a stinky litter box that breeds bacteria. Though it’s okay to use in a pinch, shredded paper does not make a good litter for long term use.

Shredded paper litter requires much more upkeep on your part to work.

Paper is not very absorptive. Urine will seep to the bottom layer and accumulate quickly without frequent changes. Feces will generally be left to sit on top.

At minimum, a shredded paper litter box will need to be changed at least twice daily and the litter box cleaned with water and a mild detergent each time. Otherwise, you risk an unhygienic litter box and an unhappy cat who may begin to avoid the litter box entirely.

AdvertisementsIs it safe to use shredded newspaper as cat litter?

Using shredded paper or newspaper as cat litter is perfectly safe for cats in most cases. However, if your cat has pica, it’s best avoided.

Paper contains numerous inks, dyes, and other chemicals used for production — some of which may be toxic to cats when eaten.

Though it’s unlikely that your cat will ingest enough paper for these toxins to cause serious problems, it may still cause diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.

The big concern though is the potential for gastrointestinal blockages.

If enough paper is consumed, it can begin to accumulate in a cat’s GI tract, where it may clump, blocking the intestines or bowels.

A blockage is a serious issue. One that requires immediate medical attention. If left untreated, it may prove to be fatal.

If your cat shows signs of lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea after eating paper (or any non edible material), take your cat to the veterinarian or the pet ER immediately.

AdvertisementsHow do you make and use shredded paper litter?

Making a basic shredded paper litter is pretty simple. Just shred paper and/or newspaper into long, thin strips. It’s much less time consuming with a paper shredder, but can be done manually.

Place around three inches of shredded paper into the litter box.

Scoop solids as soon as possible. Change the litter and clean the litter box itself with water and a mild detergent at least twice daily, more often if you have multiple cats or a heavy wetter.

Alternatively, shredded paper can be made into something much more similar to a store bought paper cat litter following one of several recipes floating around the web. This process, however, is pretty time and labor intensive.

AdvertisementsFinal thoughts

Shredded paper cat litter sounds like a great idea, but while it works okay in a pinch, it’s not a good long term solution.

It does a bad job of controlling moisture, odor, and bacteria. And many cats will be put off by the texture.

Sources

https://www.berkeleydogandcat.com/site/blog/2021/10/14/cat-intestinal-blockage

About Matthew Alexander

Matthew lives in Maryland with his two cats, Puff and Pancho. He’s been caring for and fostering cats with various special needs for more than fifteen years. He hopes to pass some of the insight and knowledge that he’s gained on to the readers of Pawmore.

Toilet flushable litter – which cat litter can be flushed down the drain

High-quality filler for the tray allows you to solve several problems at once that arise when a cat appears at home. It helps the fluffy pet quickly master the tray, making going to the toilet more comfortable, keeps the room fresh and clean, and makes it easier to clean up after the cat.

However, many cat owners dislike the hassle of handling bags when disposing of used pellets. Therefore, they are looking for a litter that can be safely flushed down the toilet to make cleaning the tray even less of a hassle.

Let’s figure out what kind of filler will not lead to blockage when it gets into the sewer.

When choosing a filler, it is important to consider the comfort of the cat and the convenience of its owner.

Silica gel filling

This modern filler is made from dried polysilicic acid and has amazing absorbent properties. That is why it is indispensable in a house where several cats live at once. Silica gel also holds odors very well. Therefore, it is suitable for cats and cats that have not undergone castration or sterilization procedures, because the feces of such animals have a very pronounced smell.

The use of silica gel relieves the owner of the daily duty of cleaning the cat’s litter box. Complete replacement of pellets in the tray is required every 2-3 weeks. And between general cleanings, you just need to mix the filler with a scoop to evenly distribute fresh crystals in the tray.

However, silica gel should never be flushed down the toilet. This is where its unique absorbency becomes a problem. Once in the sewer, the crystals continue to actively absorb liquid and cause serious blockages.

Silica gel significantly reduces the frequency of cleaning, but it can only be thrown into the trash can.

Mineral fillers

These fillers are produced from inorganic raw materials, mainly from various types of clays. Cats often give their preference to them: mineral granules resemble sand in texture, and cats like to dig into them.

Mineral fillers are absorbent and clumping.

Absorbent are poured into the tray with a layer of 5-7 cm and absorb moisture from the entire surface. The filler needs to be stirred periodically for uniform distribution of fresh granules. General cleaning of the tray should be carried out every few days.

Clumping fillers in contact with the liquid form a dense lump. Such a filler does not require a complete replacement. It is enough to remove a wet lump from the tray and pour a portion of fresh granules into it.

Regardless of the principle of operation, mineral fillers absorb moisture well and reliably lock unpleasant odors. However, like silica gel, they are not suitable for flushing down the toilet. Hard granules can damage sewer pipes. The risk of clogging is also very high, because the mineral filler does not dissolve in water.

Many cats like mineral fills, but they require bags and a trash can to dispose of them.

Vegetable fillers

These fillers are made from various organic raw materials: compressed soy fibers, crushed wood shavings, paper, etc. Some of these materials are soluble in water, which is why vegetable litters are often considered suitable for flushing down the toilet. However, there are nuances here.

Vegetable fillers, like mineral fillers, are divided into absorbent and clumping.

Absorbent fillers are poured into the tray with a layer of 5-7 cm, mixed as they get wet and must be completely replaced after 3-4 days. Even granules that dissolve well in water will inevitably lead to blockage if you flush the entire contents of the tray into the toilet at once. There are few who want to wash them off gradually, waiting for the next portion of the filler to be sent into the sewer.

Contrary to popular belief, not all vegetable fillers can be flushed down the drain.

But the clumping vegetable filler can be flushed down the toilet. The main thing is that its granules are made from raw materials that quickly disintegrate in water. Cat Step Tofu vegetable pellets have this property. Upon contact with liquid, they form a dense lump, which completely dissolves when it enters the sewer.

In addition, Cat Step Tofu fillers have a number of important advantages. Their production does not pollute the environment, because they are made from natural, environmentally friendly raw materials. Thanks to this, Cat Step Tofu fillers are hypoallergenic and safe even for small kittens who like to try everything new and interesting. If the baby swallows a few pellets, nothing bad will happen. Plant fibers will not cause poisoning and do not injure the mucous membranes of the kitten.

Clumping Cat Step Tofu can be safely flushed down the toilet. Vegetable pellets quickly dissolve in water.

Cat Step Tofu plant-based fillers include scented granules. They refresh the litter box with green tea or lotus scents. And for cats with a too sensitive sense of smell and owners who prefer fragrance-free fillers, the classic Cat Step Tofu Original will do.

Cat Step Tofu Green Tea and Cat Step Tofu Lotus additionally deodorize the tray with green tea and lotus scents.

When choosing a filler, it is important to consider the comfort of the cat and the convenience of its owner. The ideal filler is completely safe for the pet, reliably retains moisture and odor, and is also flushed down the toilet, making it as easy as possible to clean the tray. Follow the link to choose the most convenient filler.

22 creative ideas in 2022

There was a time when it was difficult for me to figure out what to do with papers that I shredded. To be honest, I’ve always been pissed off with all these bank statements, old bills, and other personal documents that I just want to scatter around the house not knowing what to do.

But now the experience is history because I was able to come up with some creative things that I can do with this shredded paper.

The creative thing I had in mind is not composting and recycling. This does not mean that recycling or composting shredded paper is wrong.

You can recycle shredded paper, but the truth is that some recycling centers don’t do anything with shredded paper. And even if they do, you won’t get any benefit from it.

Then for shredded paper composting, this is actually the most environmentally friendly solution for shredded paper handling.

The downside is that not all papers can be composted. For example, glossy paper or cellophane from envelope windows cannot be composted because they are not biodegradable.

In addition, processing or composting these documents containing personal information about you may fall into the wrong hands. And you know what it can lead to.

To be on the safe side, use the papers you shred at the office and at home to your advantage.

And if you’re wondering how to do that, here are 24 creative ideas on how to use them.

I have tried these ideas and I liked them all very much. So don’t think that this is one way to drag traffic to this site.

This kind of thinking when reading will prevent you from fully focusing your attention. So, I advise you to read carefully.

22 creative ideas on how to use shredded paper

Here’s how you can use shredded paper in the comfort of your home.

#1. Use it to make a chicken nest

Shredded paper can be used to build a bird or chicken birdhouse. If you don’t want to buy birdhouse materials, it’s pricey. shredded paper may be an alternative.

A friend of mine who owns a poultry farm spends nearly every week buying materials for birdhouses until he realizes that he can make a handy nest out of shredded paper.

And you know what? now he considers it the best option because it keeps his chicks clean and relaxed.

Besides chickens, if you have rabbits you can also use them to build a rabbit nest and I tell you your rabbits will love it.

#2. Make Paper Mache

This is another creative thing you can do. Then in kindergarten we were taught to make papier-mâché.

Then shape it while wet to form various products. And it was one of the most fun activities that I enjoyed the most, because I always create beautiful things with it.

So, with papers, you can help your kids get creative by teaching them how to make papier-mâché with them. And trust me, they’ll love it.

#3. Use it as a starter

The winter season is fast approaching and the need for a fire starter will increase if you use wood heating. Shredded paper can be used to make a fire in a fireplace or a fire.

No. 4. Shredded paper can serve as an alternative to cat litter

If you have a cat, it is quite expensive in the long run. Cat litter always creates a lot of waste and can contain toxic chemicals that harm the environment. But with shredded paper, you’re sure it’s free and free of toxins.

The only drawback is that your kitten may refuse it. Be patient and train your favorite fur ball to accept cat litter substitute.

Start with a base layer of regular litter and a top layer of shredded paper until your cat gets used to the paper.

No. 5. You can turn shredded paper into Bouquet

You know, buying beautiful flowers can be very expensive. And when you factor in the cost, you might even want to forget about the purchase altogether.

Shredded paper can be used to make beautiful flowers at no additional cost. Imagine making unique and gorgeous flowers without spending a lot of money.

No. 6. Turn shredded paper into a sensory bin

This is another creative idea you can use instead of piling up the paper you shredded in this corner of your house.

You will like this best if you have children who may struggle with sensory processing disorder.

Sensor containers are usually very expensive due to what they are used for. But with a sensory shredded paper basket, your child can learn to be creative.

No. 7. Shredded paper can help you grow green beans

One day my friend who grows vegetables called me and said, “Queen, my vegetables, especially green beans, do not grow well because they do not have moisture, and I don’t know what to do. “.

Recalling that I had read a book about how shredded paper could help, I told her to try it, which she did, and it worked.

One thing about green bean seeds is that they need a lot of moisture if added at the planting stage they can grow poorly.

Shredded paper generally protects the green bean seeds and helps them retain moisture.

No. 8. Make pots for seedlings

Want to learn more about using shredded paper? try making a seedling pot. Seedling pots are those small pots that you first plant before transplanting.

They are always made from an egg carton, clay or newspaper. Instead of buying one, you can make your own seedling pots from shredded paper. If you are a farmer, this idea is one of the best for you. So try it right now.

No. 9. Wood Brick Alternative

This is one of the uses for shredded paper you can experience today. This way you can heat your home.

When making a fireplace, your paper can be used as fuel to replace coal in stoves. It’s very easy compared to wood bricks because you don’t have to chop wood.

No. 10. Prepare Pet Bedding

This is another creative thing you can do with shredded paper. From shredded paper, you can prepare pet bedding that will make the animals feel more comfortable.

Even if you don’t breed animals, you can help that friend who breeds animals and give their animals the best shelter.

No. 11. Shredded paper can be used in your garden

If you have a garden, you can use shredded paper in your garden. It will be better if you finish refilling the pet bed. That way, you can still return the ones you gave to a friend to make bedding.

No. 12. Make a colorful basket

This is another creative idea you can try. During a festive period such as Christmas or Easter, children carry baskets of eggs, food, toys, or other gifts depending on the culture.

You can actually make this basket out of shredded paper. The only difference is that before cutting the paper, color it first. This will give your basket a colorful look.

No. 13. Shredded paper mats

A tablecloth is another thing you can make with shredded paper. Just like with the basket, to make colorful table mats you need to color the paper first before shredding.

No. 14. Make Art

This is one of the best ways for kids to get creative. You can help your kids learn how to be creative with shredded papers.

Two years ago I visited an uncle who has smart children. Knowing that with papers I can really help them explore the artwork and have fun at the same time. I taught them how to make and construct paintings, sculptures, which I used a finishing agent to hold them together.

It was really fun for them because they enjoyed every moment. You too can do the same for your children.

No. 15. Shredded paper mulch

Shredded paper is one of the best mulch options. You can then use it to cover the ground around flowers, shrubs, fruit plants, and anywhere else you might need. This will help prevent weeds and hold water like a champ.

Making mulch is one common use for shredded paper.

No. 16. Keep pests away

Did you know that crushed parpar can keep pests away in your garden?

Yes, you can do it.

You can use shredded paper to make a scarecrow that you can place on a swing or bench to keep birds and pests away. This method is very cheap and less tedious.

No. 17. You Can Keep Your Seeds Healthy Until Planting

Just as you can use shredding paper to moisten bean seeds, you can do the same with other seeds. Covering the seeds with shredded paper will help protect the newly sown seeds and retain moisture.

No. 18. Make strong pillows

You can use shredded paper to make pillows by folding them together on your lap.

Stuff the papers tightly into any strong bag, seal it with duct tape, and you have a knee pad or a strong pillow. They are good for gardeners or those who kneel a lot while working on projects.

If you have a broken canvas shopping bag that cannot be repaired, this is a great chance to do something with it instead of throwing it away.

No. 19. Alternative to confetti

Are you planning confetti for your wedding? With shredded paper at home, you don’t have to spend a single cent again. Just cut these sheets into pieces after coloring and you will have confetti.

According to Wikipedia, Confetti are small pieces or ribbons of paper, mylar or metallic material that are commonly thrown at celebrations, especially parades and weddings.

No. 20. You can make your own from shredded paper

Another use for shredded paper is to make more paper. I tried this several times and it worked. I had great jobs.

You can make sheets of paper that you or even your children can use from drawings, sketches, gift tags, and any other material that needs paper.

No. 21. Make a sachet

Smell a piece of paper with essential oils, place it in a decorative organza bag, tie it up and voila – a nice little bag to use or give away.

You can also add some dried herbs or flowers to enhance the flavor. They actually make really cute little DIY party favors that are affordable and easy to make.

No. 22. Use shredded paper for gift wrapping.

It seems impossible, doesn’t it?

I once thought it would be impossible to wrap and pack anything with shredded paper until I tried it.