I'm thinking about switching to coconut coir as cat litter since I've heard it's a great alternative to clay litter, especially since my cat has lung issues. I have four cats, and they use a lot of litter! Once I scoop out the poop, is it okay to use the used coconut coir in my garden? I expect it might make the garden smell like cat urine for a bit, but is this a smart idea?
5 Answers
Yeah, I’ve heard of people using compost with cat litter before, but I wouldn’t put it directly on edibles right away. Let it sit in the compost bin first to break down properly. I use pine bedding, and it’s a great nitrogen source when mixed into my compost!
Absolutely not! Anything that touches cat waste shouldn’t go into your compost, especially if you're growing food. Carnivores’ waste needs to be properly decomposed for a long time before it's safe to use. Just stick to safer options for your garden.
Emphatic no! When composting animal manure, it typically needs to be sterilized first. Fresh pet waste can cause serious health problems if not handled correctly. I've seen data that shows areas where this is common tend to have more serious health issues. Better safe than sorry!
I wouldn’t recommend it. Cat waste can carry harmful pathogens that shouldn't be around food plants. To compost it safely, you’d need to reach consistently high temperatures, which is tricky to guarantee. Better to play it safe!
What if I put a composter in the sun in Texas? Do you think that could work?
I haven't tried coconut coir litter, but I've had good success with other organic materials. I always scoop out the poop and dispose of that in the toilet, while the rest of the litter can go into the compost or directly on the garden. Cats often use freshly dug spots, and in my experience, it breaks down without causing issues if handled correctly. You should be fine with the right precautions!
You could technically add hydrated lime to make it safer, but honestly, it’s not the best route. Consider getting some rabbits instead; they can help with your garden and provide meat!