Most pet owners are not only dedicated animal lovers; they’re also passionate about nature and the environment. However, pet ownership and sustainability aren’t always 100% compatible. Yep, even your beloved pet leaves an ecological pawprint! Nevertheless, you can still take some positive steps and… every little bit helps! Discover how to make life with your faithful companion fun, green and eco-friendly with our 7 tips for sustainable pet ownership.
1. Buy in bulk
Pet owners require a constant supply of food, cat litter, bedding, hay or straw. Buying in bulk saves on packaging materials and transport. As it tends to be cheaper per kilo, it also saves you a considerable amount of money. And it lasts longer too, significantly reducing your shopping trips.
2. Cat litter
Each cat goes through an average of 45 kg of cat litter per year. The less litter you use, the better it is for the environment. Scooping out poop and pee clumps on a daily basis enables you to go longer between refills. We recommend choosing a biodegradable cat litter that’s made from renewable raw materials, such as wood, corn, beet pulp, ground nuts, paper or compost. And use a mild, eco-friendly cleaning product when cleaning your litter tray (or rabbit/guinea pig hutch or birdcage): it’s good for the environment and the health of your pet!
3. Rescue pet
It’s tempting to want to own a specially bred pedigree cat or dog. Yet, opting for a rescue pet is an extremely sustainable option. You can do this via an animal shelter or a rescue foundation. It’s no secret that there are countless cats and dogs patiently awaiting their forever homes. But did you know you that you can also adopt rabbits, rodents and other small pets? The RSPCA and Pet Rescue are both great places to start looking!
4. Sustainable food
Food places a heavy burden on the environment. You can make a huge difference by selecting a sustainable and animal-friendly product. Be critical of marketing texts that include words such as 'natural', which may sound appealing but can be misleading. Make sure that what you buy is truly 'organic' and boasts the requisite certification.
5. Vegetarian or vegan?
An increasing number of vegan pet owners are choosing to feed their pets a plant-based diet. This might be great for the environment, but what about your pet? Cats and dogs do require animal proteins to stay healthy. Many vegetarian and vegan products now contain vegetable proteins that can be suitable. However, your pet's health should always come first. Speak to your vet before introducing such a diet for your pet. Whilst a vegan diet is technically possible, carefully monitor your pet: keep a close eye on their energy levels, poop, coat and general health and well-being. If you’re in any doubt, switch to (sustainable) meat products instead.
Another option for confirmed vegans is to choose for naturally vegetarian pets, such as rabbits or guinea pigs!
6. Protect nature
Our pets might be adorable, but many are natural predators. Whilst it’s important to satisfy their hunting instincts, you needn’t allow your cat or dog to hunt wild animals or birds. Always make sure that your dog is leashed in bushland and parks where they’re not permitted to run free. If you do wish to indulge your four-legged friend in the thrill of the 'chase' then make your walks extra challenging with a variety of search and retrieve games. (And clean up any poop using biodegradable bags :-))
Cats can also do a lot of damage to nature. Bird populations, in particular, are under threat from hunting cats. If you want to prevent your cat getting their claws into something that they shouldn’t, then keep them inside or in an enclosure, and ensure plenty of indoor play and stimulation!
7. Sustainable pet toys
Pet stores offer some sustainable cat and dog toy brands. Of course, it’s even more environmentally friendly to make your own! It needn’t be difficult either. Your guinea pig, rabbit or cat is often just as happy with an empty toilet roll or cardboard box to play with/sleep in than a plastic toy, for example. And you can rustle up the finest eco-friendly cat toys using only recycled scraps of material and a dash of catnip in next to no time.
Got some sustainable tips of your own? Share them in the comment section below!
