Pinching Pennies

There are many things you can do to help save money on the supplies you need for your cats and your home. Clipping coupons is a great way to save, and while the amount saved with each coupon may seem miniscule, the savings do add up! In addition, you can save on some items, like cat foods and litter, by buying the larger-sized bags and containers.

As a rule, the smaller a bag of cat food or litter is; the higher the price per ounce or pound. The opposite is true for larger bags. While maintaining financial fitness is important, it is just as important to recognize that on some essentials, paying a higher price may be necessary if it means you will not be skimping on quality. Your cat's nutrition and litter box materials are two areas in which you should not opt for the bargain brand.

Books on cat nutrition and feeding by veterinarians and nutritionists have exposed how unhealthy many processed feline foods can be, even being harmful in some cases. A vet would also tell you that many cheap dry cat foods, while their taste may prove sufficient for your pet; will contribute to the likelihood of a urinary tract infection. This problem will be sure to minimize all savings efforts; because the infection will require costly veterinary care, especially if the infection is not detected immediately by you. More concerning is that, if left untreated, the infection in most cases will be fatal.

You may opt for an organic or non clay-based cat litter to reduce the amount of dust produced by pouring a fresh bag of litter into the litter box. Many everyday "clumping" style litters leave you in a prominent thick cloud of "smoke" when you pour them into the litter box. These unhealthy dust particles may make you cough or sneeze, and can be an unhealthy irritant to the respiratory systems of both you and your cats. As alternatives to Cat's Pride, ValuTime, and most store-brand litters; consider trying these brands that will leave your air clean and particle free. Also keep in mind that unopened cat litter is longlasting, so if you can save by buying in bulk or purchasing multiple containers during a sale, there is no reason not to do so!

Yesterday's News *eco-friendly litter made from recycled newspaper
Purina TidyCats Premium Scoop (any variety)

For more on the pet food industry and healthfully feeding your pets; pick-up one or more of the following books from your local bookstore or library:

Pet Food Nation by Joan Weiskopf
Food Pets Die For: Shocking Facts About Pet Food by Ann N. Martin & Shawn Messonier
Pet Food Politics: The Chihuahua in the Coal Mine by Marion Nestle

For related titles; look at Pet Food Industry Books on Amazon.com

To reduce the need for savings on cat foods and litter; look for savings whenever possible on other, less essential items you may need; such as food dishes or cat hair removal products.

For a printable $1.00 off coupon from the 3M website, good toward the purchase of any Scotch brand lint roller, Click Here

© 2009-2010 Happy Humans, Happy Cats. All Rights Reserved.