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Even Pet Purchases Can Lean To The Green

Tribune photo by SCOTT ISKOWITZ

The Kong line of rubber toys for dogs has expanded to include ecologically responsible cat toys.

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By KRISTEN LEVINE

Tribune correspondent

Published: March 11, 2009

Regardless of political persuasion, we're all looking for ways to save money, reduce waste and be more environmentally responsible. A growing trend in pet products makes it possible for pet parents to reduce the carbon paw print our critters leave on the Earth.

More than ever, pet product makers are choosing environmentally friendly materials that throw our planet a bone. Pet toy and supply trends include products that incorporate organic, sustainable materials and natural fibers and dyes. Pet cleansers are eliminating toxic chemical-laced lathers, and many of those products are priced reasonably so your wallet doesn't roll over and play dead!

Here's the scoop on what's new in green pet products.

FELINE FUN WITH A PURR-POSE

Kong is king of those rubber toys filled with peanut butter that our dogs so dig. The line has expanded to include ecologically responsible cat toys. Kong Naturals Cat Toys are available in four pounce-worthy varieties: the Crinkle Fish, Crinkle Caterpillar, Canvas Ball Teaser and Straw Ball Teaser. The materials and dyes are made from natural, renewable resources, and they appeal to a feline's natural stalking and hunting instincts.

$5.49-5.99 at PetSmart and PetCo stores and online at Amazon.com.

A SCOOP FOR THE PLANET

World's Best Cat Litter may offer the best scoopable litter for the environment. The super clumping, odor-eliminating litter is made from whole-kernel corn. The perk for the planet is that it's flushable and biodegradable. It's also reasonably priced.

It's $7.99 for an 8-pound bag at pet specialty stores and many Sweetbay locations.

CLEAN UP GENTLY

Cain & Able produces all natural products with no harsh detergents, synthetic perfumes or artificial colors. Cain & Able's Ear Cleanser removes moisture, wax and dirt buildup while adding essential oils and aloe to keep the alcohol from being too drying. The entire Cain & Able collection is all natural and made in this country.

It's $6.99 at pet specialty boutiques including Groovy Cats and Dogs and Fetch Fur Love, both in Tampa. Or, visit www.cainandablecollection.com for a store near you or an online retailer.

RECYCLABLE SCRATCH 'N' SNIFF

Most cats are crazy for corrugated cardboard (especially if you sprinkle catnip on it). So, eco-friendly felines will really dig Imperial Cat's new Scratch N' Shapes. The sculpted cat scratchers are made from corrugated cardboard in whimsical shapes and colorful designs using a minimum 30 percent recycled content and are 100 percent recyclable. Every Scratch N' Shapes scratcher includes a package of organic catnip certified by Quality Assurance International, a leading independent organic inspection agency.

They cost $7.95 to $30 at The Lodge in New Tampa, Pet Food Warehouse in St. Petersburg, Dog Gone Holistic in Lithia, and online at www.imperialcat.com.

Write to pet-lifestyle expert Kristen Levine at Fetching Communications, P.O. Box 222, Tarpon Springs FL 34688; e-mail kristen@fetchingcommunications.com.

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