If you have a cat, you know how important it is to have the right cat litter to keep your feline friend happy. Cats are picky about where they do their business and the type of litter they like. They also have their favorite spot for the litter box. That’s why many cat owners stick with one brand of litter that their cat prefers. If you suddenly can’t find your cat’s favorite litter in stores, it can be not very pleasant.
In this article, we’ll explore why there’s a shortage of cat litter. We’ll also provide practical solutions for cat owners to deal with the scarcity of their preferred litter.
Let’s dive into the cat litter shortage!
Cat Litter Shortage
A cyberattack on the company Clorox has caused a problem for cat owners. Before we dive into the main topic, let’s learn about Clorox. Clorox is a famous American company. It specializes in making and selling various products. Products like cleaning, disinfecting, and household products for both regular folks and professionals. They’re well-known for their cleaning and disinfecting stuff like:
Bleach, sanitizing wipes, and other cleaning things.
On August 14, Clorox noticed some “unauthorized activity” on their computer systems. They quickly realized it was a serious problem. In response, the company took action by shutting down some of its systems to stop the threat. This incident is now known as a cyberattack.
Suppose you’ve been trying to buy cat litter lately. You might have noticed that your favorite brands like Fresh Step, Scoop Away, and Ever Clean are hard to find. Clorox makes these cat litter, and the cyberattack disrupts their operations. This means delays in orders and shortages of cat litter in stores and online.
Clorox is famous for its cleaning products like bleach, but they also make cat litter. A Clorox spokesperson said they are working to get their production back to normal. But they can’t say how long it will take.
Some stores like Petco have said that their supplies of Fresh Step, Scoop Away, and Ever Clean are affected by the cyberattack. However, other cat litter brands like Arm & Hammer and Tidy Cats are still available in stores.
You might be wondering why this shortage is a big deal. Well, it’s because cats are particular about their litter. A sudden change in the brand of litter they use can lead to cats peeing and pooping outside of their litter boxes or around the house. So, for cat owners, having access to their preferred cat litter is essential for keeping their pets happy and their homes clean.
The Washington Post tried to get a comment from Clorox about the situation. But they haven’t responded yet. At the same time, we wait for more information. Cat owners are encouraged to stay patient. Or to consider other options to keep their pets comfortable.
Unfortunately, there’s another issue concerning cats these days. Some people on TikTok are doing a cruel and unacceptable thing. They’re spinning cats in circles just for fun. This is causing the cats to feel scared, anxious, and in pain. Animal experts and Daniel Warren-Cummings, who works with a cat charity in the UK, said – This doesn’t seem right. They stress that animals should never be treated this way for human entertainment.
Why Is There A Shortage Of Cat Litter?
Cat owners across the country are facing a Cat Litter Shortage. It is because of a cyberattack on The Clorox Company. The attack forced Clorox to stop making cat litter. Not only this, but it also halted the production of popular brands like Fresh Step, Scoop Away, and Ever Clean.
The company’s litter-making factory in West Virginia had to shut down. This has caused a shortage of cat litter everywhere. All happened because of this attack.
However, Clorox is working with the FBI to figure out who is behind the attack. But it’s taking time to get things back to normal. Some tasks that are usually done by machines are now being done by people because of the attack. Clorox isn’t sure how long it will take to get back to the way things were before the attack.
Alternatives To Cat Litter
The cat litter shortage happened because of a cyberattack on Clorox. It has made cat owners search for other options. To make it easy for our furry friends, it’s important to switch to a new type of litter slowly. Traditional cat litter is usually made from a type of clay called bentonite. It’s been used for a long time because it clumps when it gets wet and helps with odor.
However, getting this clay is controversial. This is because it involves a process called strip mining. It disturbs the environment by digging big holes in the ground. Some cats might even eat clay litter, which can lead to health problems.
If you’re looking for more eco-friendly options, here are some choices:
- Paper Litter: This is made from recycled paper and doesn’t produce much dust. It’s great if your cat has allergies or is recovering from an illness. But it doesn’t clump well, so you should change it often to avoid smells.
- Corn Litter: Made from corn kernels, this litter can create clumps and control odors. However, the corn litter has its smell, which not everyone likes. Some types can be flushed down the toilet.
- Wheat Litter: Often made from lower-quality wheat, it’s similar to traditional clay litter. But it sticks to the litter box more, making it a bit harder to clean. It’s biodegradable and good for the environment.
- Coconut Litter: This odorless option is made from coconut shells and is hypoallergenic. Some people even use it in their gardens, so it’s almost zero-waste. However, it doesn’t clump well, and it can be more expensive.
- Wood Shavings: If you’re a DIY enthusiast, wood shavings can be a good alternative. Just make sure the wood you use is safe for cats. Aspen and heat-treated wood are safe, but some types can be harmful.
Homemade Litters
DIY Litters: You can make your litter at home using things like:
- Chicken feed
- Baking soda
- Cedar shavings
- Dish soap
- Water
- Shredded paper
There are many recipes online to explore. Remember, every cat is different. So, do some research and talk to your vet if you have questions before trying a new litter. Happy experimenting!
How To Deal With This Shortage?
To prevent cat litter problems, follow these steps recommended by experts:
Introduce New Litter Gradually
If you have some of your preferred cat litter left (like Fresh Step, Scoop Away, or Ever Clean). Start mixing it with a more readily available brand. Add the new litter slowly until most of the litter box contains the new type. Cats might like the new litter this way.
Choose a Similar Type
Try to find a new cat litter that’s similar to what your cat is used to. For example, if you used clumping litter before. Then, look for a different brand that offers a similar product.
Experiment with Different Litters
If your cat is still not using the litter box. Petco’s chief veterinarian suggests trying different types of new litter in multiple boxes. Most veterinarians recommend having one more litter box than the number of cats you have in your household. This way, you can see if your cat has a preference for a particular type of litter.
Consult Your Veterinarian
If your cat’s behavior continues to be a problem, it’s a good idea to get in touch with your veterinarian. There could be an underlying medical issue that needs attention.
By following these simple steps, you can help your cat adjust to a new type of litter. Make sure they continue to use the litter box as they should.
What To Do If Your Cat Is Not Cooperating?
If your cat is not so cooperative despite your efforts, it’s a good idea to contact your vet. A vet can check if there’s an underlying issue causing your cat’s behavior. A Vet may provide further guidance on helping your cat get used to the new litter.
Where To Find Cat Litter?
There are several ways to find cat litter. Here are some options:
Check with Animal Shelters or Rescue Groups
Many of these organizations accept cat litter donations and might give some to you for free.
Look at Other Local Stores
Sometimes, nearby stores might have cat litter that your local store hasn’t received yet.
Explore Online Retailers
Many online shops still have cat litter available. Or you may find it at a lower price than in physical stores. Websites like Walmart, Chewy.com, and Amazon may help cat owners find Cat Litter.
Consider Natural Litters
You can switch to more natural types of cat litter or compare different brands to save money.
Make Your Cat Litter
If you’re feeling creative, you can make your cat litter. For this, you need baking soda and cornstarch. Alternatively, you can use alternatives like shredded newspaper or paper towels.
Pet Hygiene And Health Considerations
Maintaining cat hygiene is crucial for their well-being. Cats are meticulous creatures. A clean litter box is essential for their comfort and health. The cat litter shortage has put cat owners in a challenging position. When forced to change their cat’s litter brand abruptly. It can lead to cats being reluctant to use the litter box. But sometimes, it causes stress and potential health issues.
Their litter choices directly impact cat health; Sudden changes may result in undesirable behaviors, such as: Peeing and pooping outside the litter box.
To ensure your cat’s health during this shortage. It’s vital to follow veterinarian recommendations. They advise introducing a new type of litter gradually. Mixing the old and new brands to ease the transition. Additionally, cat owners should maintain a clean litter box. Or monitor their cat’s behavior closely. Any signs of distress or litter box avoidance should prompt a visit to the vet. Cat hygiene is an essential component of their overall health. A smooth transition to a new litter brand is essential to keep your feline friend happy and well, especially during challenging times like this shortage.
What Is The Future Of Cat Litter?
The global market for automatic self-cleaning cat litter boxes is growing. It is expected to reach $1.1 billion by 2033. It’s projected to grow steadily at a rate of 7.2% from 2023 to 2033. In 2023, the market is expected to be worth $536.7 million. Between 2018 and 2022, the market saw impressive growth, with a CAGR of 9.2%.
This market is a small but expanding part of the pet care industry. These litter boxes offer convenience to cat owners by doing the cleaning work for them.
The increasing demand for convenience mainly drives the growth of the automatic self-cleaning cat litter box market. Or for better pet care solutions and advancements in technology. These devices aim to reduce the need for manual cleaning and control odors. Or to create a cleaner, more pleasant environment for cats and their owners.
The future of this market depends on manufacturers addressing consumer concerns. This means providing reliable and user-friendly pet care products while keeping costs reasonable. Technological improvements, like customizable features, better noise reduction, and integration with smart home systems, can also play a significant role in driving this market forward.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cat litter shortage due to cyberattacks has posed challenges for cat owners. Sudden changes in litter can stress our feline friend. So, gradual transitions are vital. Stay informed about local options, online suppliers, and eco-friendly alternatives.
While the shortage may test your patience, there are ways to ensure your cat’s comfort and health. The automatic self-cleaning cat litter box market is evolving. It offers convenience for cat owners. This growing segment in pet care brings technology to your cat’s litter box. As the market expands, advancements and addressing consumer concerns will shape the future. So, keep your cat’s well-being a top priority. Stay informed, and explore sustainable solutions.