Testing a sustainable Coconut Coir cat litter: Cat versus owner 

Research paper

Kristie E. Cameron and Brooklyn D. Mitchell 

Affiliations:
School of Environmental and Animal Sciences, Unitec, Mt Albert, New Zealand
* corresponding author: Kristie Cameron

Received: 19 August 2024 | Accepted: 17 September 2024 | Published: Pending
Associate Editor: Kristina Naden
https://doi.org/10.34074/piahw.003101

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Abstract 

Effective management of indoor cats’ elimination needs is important to prevent the development of behavioural and physiological problems that can result in relinquishment by their owners. Feline toileting is based upon a series of complex behaviours, which if not completed adequately, result in persistence of behaviours associated with toileting such as scratching and sniffing in the litterbox. In the cattery environment, a new sustainable coconut coir litter of a dirt consistency, and a pelletised wood litter was offered to individually-housed cats over a four-day period. The coconut coir litter was found to promote appropriate toileting behaviour, by reducing inappropriate elimination behaviours such as perseveration in interacting (scratching at the litter and surrounding areas) and lingering (sniffing in and around the litter, and defecation or urination) within a few days. In comparison, inappropriate behaviour continued for basic pelletised wood litter indicating it may not provide an ideal toileting environment. While the coir improved the opportunity for appropriate behaviour for the cat as it was similar to substrate used when eliminating outdoors, it also increased the mess and maintenance workload for cattery staff. To ensure a positive relationship between owner and cat, convenience in managing the waste of indoor cats tends to be more important than factors of a litter that allows cats to fulfil their toileting needs. Thus, future experimentation will focus on minimising inconvenience for owners and offering cats a product that allows for the opportunity to perform appropriate toileting behaviours.