Its Greening Cats and Dogs

It's Greening Cats And Dogs!

Pollution Prevention Ideas for Pet Care

We love our pets and treat them like they are part of the family. Just as toxic chemicals, unhealthy air and water are harmful to the environment and humans, they are unhealthy and sometimes fatal to our pets. And just like any member of the family, pets can create a lot of waste and use a lot of resources.

There are many things you can do - from feeding your pet better food to picking up waste - so that your pet leaves a smaller "paw print" on the earth.

Pet Waste

Always pick-up dog waste and dispose of it in the trash. Dog feces can pollute water and carry bacteria and parasites that can make people sick. It should not be composted even in a biodegradable bag.
Pet waste brochures, posters and fact sheets from Campaign For Clean Water.
Readabout DEEP's "Give A Bark" Campaign.
There are many types of cat litter on the market. Clumping cat litters are typically made of sodium bentonite, a naturally forming clay which is surface mined. Consider using an eco-friendly litter made from pine, recycled newspaper, corn cobs, wheat or wood shavings.
Dispose of cat litter in the trash. Don't ever flush cat litter down the toilet or compost it.

Toxic Chemicals and Household Products

Did you know?

A teaspoon of antifreeze (ethylene glycol) can kill a 10 lb cat and 1-2 tablespoons are lethal to a 10 lb dog. They are attracted to its sweet taste or will pick it up on their paws. Clean up spills immediately or switch to propylene glycol which is better for the environment and safer for your pet.

Pets are susceptible to the health effects of toxic chemicals, just like humans. Learn how toxic chemicals can affect your pet.
Read the report, "High Levels of Industrial Chemicals Contaminate Cats and Dogs" by the Environmental Working Group.
Do your pets play in the yard? Petroleum-based fertilizers and toxic pesticides have an impact on the environment and your pet's health. Learn about organic lawn care.
Salt and chemical deicers can make your pet sick. Do some research to find pet-friendly de-icers.
Learn about common household products dangerous for pets.
Read EPA's report about harmful pesticides in flea and tick products.
There are a number of resources on controlling ticks and fleas with natural products, including DEEP's P2View "Ask Eartha" article, and other eco-friendly ways to get rid of fleas naturally.
Do you know what's in your pet's food? You might be surprised. Educate yourself about what's in these products and then consider organic pet food . Try making your own healthy cat and dog treats.
Chemicals like Bisphenol-A (BPA) and phthalates in items like plastic toys and dishes can be harmful to your pets. Replace plastic dishes with stainless steel or ceramic.

Related topics

More tips on greening your pet.
Spay or neuter your pet. Stray cats and dogs impact the environment with their waste and can harm other wildlife.
Put unused or unwanted pet medications in the trash, not down the sink or toilet! Follow these instructions for disposing of medications properly.
What is holistic pet care?
Your Pet Is A Global Warming Machine, Utne Reader, Oct. 27, 2009. Read about the environmental impacts of cats and dogs.
Learn more about how climate change may affect wildlife in Connecticut.

Content last updated October 2019

Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection