Having a pet is one of the biggest joys of life, but sometimes it is not the most sustainable thing in the world. I have had cats my whole life, and after starting work on this blog, I started to think of some more ways I could incorporate sustainability into my pet-raising.
Here are some things to look for when trying to find sustainable pet supplies:
Pet Beds:
- Try and look for pet beds that are made with a recycled stuffing
- There are some small companies that make pet beds filled with stuffing made from recycled plastic bottles!
- There are also plenty of companies that use organic fiber materials or hemp for the exterior of the pet beds
- If you are good at sewing, you could even make your own sustainable pet bed by upcycling things you were planning on throwing away!
- Use an old set of sheets or towels and stuff it with old t-shirts
Dog Treats:
- The best low-waste, sustainable option for dog treats are actually antlers! Deer lose their antlers naturally, and it is important to find antlers from a reliable source that you know is sourcing these antlers ethically- there are many options on Etsy!
- Of course, you can also make your own pet treats!
- Make sure to do your research and be aware of foods that can be toxic to your pet before trying to make anything yourself
Pet Toys:
- Pet toys made from hemp are some of the most sustainable options for toys for your pet!
- You can always DIY a toy from some old clothes- most dogs or cats will probably destroy soft, stuffed toys quickly, so you might as well make your own!
- Additionally, when looking for rubber toys, try to make sure the rubber is 100% natural and not synthetic
Pet Waste:
- There is no need to use basic plastic bags to clean up your pet’s waste, instead, look for biodegradable bags that are a lot better for the environment
- You can also use old newspaper to pick up pet waste!
- Additionally, make sure you switch to a sustainable cat litter
- Look for litter made from corn, grass or wood!
Pet Cleaning:
- You can easily make your own pet cleaner
- Just use white vinegar and baking soda to help clean up pet messes
- The best option for pet cleaners is to cut out toxic chemicals, they simply aren’t necessary, instead, look for pet cleaners that are either plant-based or enzyme-based
Overall, it is relatively easy to find sustainable pet supplies if you look hard enough, and as you can see, you can even make your own pet supplies!