Pine pellet litters have become popular in recent years because they are more environmentally friendly than traditional clay kitty litters. Clay litters are generated via environmentally harmful strip mining, whereas pine-based kitty litter is made from lumber industry by-products, so no additional trees are cut down to produce it.
The Benefits of Pine-Based Cat Litters
Consumer reviews indicate that pine pellet cat litters have the following positive attributes:
- Pine products are natural, biodegradable, and environmentally friendly.
- The litter controls urine odors well (though not excrement odors).
- Most owners find the litter to be non-dusty and less likely to be tracked around the house than many other litter types.
- Pine litters are flushable in small quantities.
- The material is highly absorbent.
- Using natural wood provides a nice pine scent with no chemical perfumes.
- The litter is safe for kittens because it is all-natural and does not clump.
Problems Associated with Pine-Based Kitty Litters
Although many owners have had positive experiences with pine-based litters, some have noted problems such as the following:
- Because the litter is non-clumping, it must be changed frequently.
- Some cats dislike the texture and refuse to use it.
- Regular litter scoops are not designed to manage larger pellets, so a special scoop may be required.
- Pine pellets turn to sawdust when mixed with urine.
- Some cats like to play with the large pellets.
- Many stores do not carry pine-based litters.
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