A Closer Look at Your Pet’s Carbon Pawprint
A significant aspect of sustainable living is making deliberate choices to minimize your carbon footprint. However, have you ever considered the environmental impact of your furry companions? Yes, that’s right—your pet also contributes to a carbon footprint, which we can call a “carbon pawprint.” Just like humans, the primary source of your pet’s carbon impact comes from their diet. For instance, when it comes to our feline friends, opting for eco-friendly cat food can make a notable difference in reducing their carbon impact.
We are witnessing a growing trend in eco-friendly pet products, ranging from sustainable cat toys to non-toxic cat litter. The market is expanding, offering a variety of options for conscientious pet owners. While this article focuses on cats, there are also many eco-friendly dog toys and products available for our canine companions.
Household choices contribute significantly to one’s overall carbon footprint, accounting for about 45%. Given that there are over 163 million cats and dogs in the United States alone, individual actions can collectively play a powerful role in combating climate change. Research indicates that pets contribute approximately 64 million tons of carbon dioxide annually! So, let’s work together to change this narrative. In this article, we will explore the best sustainable cat food options and provide insights into what to consider when shopping for cat food and other eco-friendly products that are safe for your pets.
Top Eco-Friendly Cat Food Brands
- Open Farm
- Halo Cat Food
- Only Natural
- Castor and Pollux
- Smalls
- Orijen
- Lily’s Kitchen
- Small Batch Pets
Choosing Sustainable Cat Food
Selecting sustainable cat food can be an overwhelming task, but don’t worry! We’ve provided guides at the end of this post that detail what to look for when choosing the ideal food for your beloved pet. Additionally, we share expert tips to help make the transition to new food easier for both you and your cat—especially if you have a picky eater!
1. Open Farm
Price: $35–$45
Open Farm was born from a desire to provide high-quality pet food that is both delicious and ethically sourced. After struggling to find the right food for their rescue dog, Bella, the founders teamed up to create a brand that prioritizes animal welfare and environmental responsibility. Open Farm emphasizes transparency and ethically sourced ingredients.
For your feline companions, their Rustic Blends wet cat food is a standout, featuring human-grade ingredients like Harvest Chicken and Grass-Fed Beef, enriched with bone broth, pumpkins, and carrots.
What We Love
- Offers both dry and wet cat food options
- Antibiotic-free and hormone-free
- No artificial flavors or preservatives
- Partners with Certified Humane, Ocean Wise, and Global Animal Partnership
- Participates in a bag recycling program through Terracycle and How2Recycle
Good to Know
- The bags can be expensive.
2. Halo Pets
Price: $13–$57
Halo is a pet food brand dedicated to celebrating the bond between pets and their owners. With over 30 years of experience, they focus on quality ingredients and have developed a wide variety of recipes tailored to pets of all sizes and dietary needs.
Halo’s offerings include options for both grain and grain-free diets, and they collaborate with veterinarians and nutrition experts to ensure optimal nutrition for pets.
What We Love
- Antibiotic-free and hormone-free
- Non-GMO options available
- Cage-free chicken and wild-caught salmon certified for animal welfare
- No artificial preservatives
- Includes prebiotics and postbiotics for improved nutrient absorption
- Recyclable packaging
Good to Know
- Some recipes may contain garlic or garlic powder, which your cat may not prefer.
- Contains fillers like pea and soybean protein.
- Can be on the pricier side.
3. Only Natural Pet
Established in 2002 in Boulder, Colorado, Only Natural Pet focuses on pet well-being and sustainability. Their products are crafted in collaboration with holistic veterinarian Dr. Jean, using high-quality, human-grade ingredients that are sustainably sourced and certified.
Only Natural Pet is a pioneer in sustainability, being the first B-Corp certified pet food company in North America. Their offerings range from wet and dry natural foods to freeze-dried raw meals, treats, and health products addressing various pet needs.
What We Love
- B Corp certified
- Carbon-neutral shipping through a partnership with Carbonfund.org
- Affordable pricing
- Made in the USA, reducing travel miles
- Free of harmful preservatives and additives
Good to Know
- Some reviewers express concerns over high carbohydrate levels in their products.
4. Castor and Pollux
Price: $43–$53
In 2017, Castor & Pollux elevated the standard for organic pet food by introducing their ORGANIX® line, which is entirely USDA Organic, along with the PRISTINE® lineup focused on responsibly sourced ingredients. They prioritize high-quality proteins, predominantly organic free-range chicken or turkey, complemented by USDA-certified organic superfoods.
What We Love
- USDA organic certified
- Offers wild-caught salmon and grass-fed beef options
- Free of chemical pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, and artificial preservatives
- GMO-free and corn, wheat, and soy free
Good to Know
- Products can be somewhat pricey.
5. Smalls
Price: The trial box typically costs $35, offering around 28 meals with complimentary shipping and a 25% discount on the first order.
Smalls focuses exclusively on cat food, providing a tailored meal plan based on your cat’s nutritional needs. Their recipes are made from human-grade ingredients with no fillers, ensuring a balanced diet for every life stage. Their commitment to sustainability includes 100% recyclable packaging and biodegradable corn-based styrofoam insulators.
What We Love
- Convenient subscription service
- Human-grade ingredients
- Affordable for single-cat households, costing about $3/day
- Works with shelters to feed cats in need
- Free from preservatives and artificial additives
Good to Know
- Free shipping on the first order.
6. Orijen
Price: Varies widely
ORIJEN is committed to premium ingredients, ensuring pets thrive on high-quality nutrition. Their philosophy distinguishes between ‘fresh’ ingredients, which are preserved with refrigeration, and ‘raw’ ingredients, which are frozen to maintain peak freshness.
ORIJEN emphasizes animal welfare by sourcing meats from ranches that adhere to humane practices, and their recipes include a blend of healthy fruits, vegetables, and botanicals.
What We Love
- Meat-rich recipes
- No fillers like wheat, corn, or rice
- Transparency about ingredient sourcing
Good to Know
- Limited information on the recyclability of packaging.
7. Lily’s Kitchen
Price: £1–£93
Founded over a decade ago by Henrietta, who wanted better food for her beloved pet Lily, Lily’s Kitchen focuses on wholesome, nutritious meals for pets. Their diverse menu includes gourmet wet food and crunchy kibble, catering to various dietary needs, including grain-free and hypoallergenic options.
What We Love
- Certified B Corp
- No meat meal or bone meal in their products
- Recyclable packaging through Terracycle
Good to Know
- Can be on the expensive side.
8. Small Batch Pets
Smallbatch, a family-owned brand from San Francisco, emphasizes sustainable sourcing and quality ingredients. Their products feature organic herbs and vegetables, as well as humanely raised meats. They prioritize a raw and natural nutritional philosophy, avoiding synthetic additives.
What We Love
- All-natural, humanely raised ingredients
- Free from hormones and antibiotics
- Partnerships with local farmers ensuring ethical practices
Good to Know
- Offers raw pet food, which may not suit every cat.
Why Choose Sustainable Cat Food?
Choosing sustainable cat food and eco-friendly products is beneficial for several compelling reasons!
1. Environmental Benefits
The primary contributor to your cat’s carbon footprint is the protein in its food. A meat-based diet demands more resources—like land, energy, and water—than a plant-based diet. It’s estimated that around 49 million hectares of agricultural land are required annually to produce dry food for pets.
For example, producing just a quarter pound of beef (akin to a single hamburger) requires nearly 425 gallons of water and generates 6.75 pounds of CO2 emissions. Additionally, the environmental impact of sourcing seafood is concerning, as overfishing has significantly depleted fish populations. The brands mentioned above focus on sustainable sourcing for fish, addressing these concerns.
2. Your Cat’s Well-Being
Conventional cat food may contain harmful additives like chemical pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, and artificial preservatives. Eco-friendly cat food typically includes fewer artificial substances and emphasizes natural, organic ingredients. As you consider your cat’s diet, remember to also evaluate the plants in your home, as some popular houseplants may be toxic to pets.
How We Choose These Brands
1. Sustainable Ingredients
To ensure the ingredients in your cat’s food are sustainable, look for credible certifications such as:
- USDA Organic
- Global Animal Partnership
- Marine Stewardship Council
- Certified Humane
- Ocean Wise
2. Ethical Sourcing
Certifications that focus on the ethical aspects of the supply chain include:
- B Corp
- 1% for the Planet
- Fair Trade
3. Corporate Responsibility
Leading sustainable cat food brands often extend their commitment to sustainability beyond just recipes and ingredient sourcing. Look for brands that use packaging made from recycled materials and that can be recycled after use through curbside collection programs or partnerships. Minimal packaging is ideal to reduce waste while keeping the food fresh.
What Do Experts Say About Cats Being Vegetarian or Vegan?
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require animal tissue as a part of their diet. While some brands offer vegan options, these often require supplementation with artificial taurine and micronutrients typically found in animal proteins. It’s important to note that low-quality cat food may use grains like wheat and corn as fillers, which can lead to health issues, including heart problems.
Can You Make Your Cat’s Food?
Yes! You can prepare homemade meals for your cat, ensuring you meet their nutritional requirements. For instance, cats can obtain sufficient taurine from foods such as liver and raw animal hearts or through supplements. Always consult your veterinarian before implementing any new meal plans for your pet to ensure their health and safety.
Tips for Transitioning Your Cat to Eco-Friendly Food
Gradual Mixing Techniques
When introducing new food to your cat, take a gradual approach. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with their current food, slowly increasing the new food ratio until you’ve fully transitioned. This method helps your cat adjust to the change.
Observe for Any Allergic Reactions or Digestive Issues
While uncommon, some cats may react to new ingredients. Look for symptoms such as:
- Localized or generalized itchiness
- Hair loss
- Red, dry, or flaky skin
- Digestive upset
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Coughing
- Ear infections
Encouraging Finicky Eaters
If your cat isn’t warming up to their new sustainable food, consider adding tasty food toppers, changing their food bowl, or even relocating their food dish—sometimes a change of scenery can make all the difference!
A Final Word on Eco-Friendly Cat Food
Sustainable living is not just a human endeavor; it extends to our pets too! By choosing eco-friendly cat food—whether store-bought or homemade—we can significantly reduce our household carbon footprint and make a positive impact on the environment. If you found this article helpful, please share it with others—after all, sharing is caring!
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