• Daily Purr
  • Posts
  • 🐈 Vet explains health risks of cat litters

🐈 Vet explains health risks of cat litters

Tuesday 12/23: Sponsored by Tailfeather and Omaha Steaks - senior dog and cat, cats afraid, cat ear movements

"Cats don’t need to try to be cute. They just are."

Happy Tuesday:

  • 🙀 Surprising things your cat is afraid of

  • 🐈 This cat helped a dog through a storm

  • 😸 Vet explains the health risks of certain litters

  • 👂 Your cat’s ears are mood detectors

  • 😸 These meat boxes are the perfect last minute gift

True or False?

A cat’s eyes can glow different colors depending on the angle of light.

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

Surprisingly Random Things Cats Are Scared Of

One minute, your cat is a tiny panther. The next, they’re launching into the air like a cartoon character, over a cucumber. It turns out even the most majestic floofs have some very specific fears.

Experts say cats are wired to react to surprises, so when a cucumber appears out of nowhere or a balloon starts floating nearby, it’s game over. Loud pops, shiny foil, and even your new armchair can send them skittering under the bed.

Some cats take it further. A ticking wall clock ruined one cuddle session entirely. And Halloween? A simple feathered mask once turned a cat into a hallway blur. One even panicked at a headband with cat ears.

So if your cat runs from strawberries or bubbles, don’t take it personally. Under that sleek exterior is a nervous little heart that just wants to feel safe.

Vet Explains Health Risks of Certain Litters

When selecting cat litter, it’s easy to think all options are the same. But some types could be causing harm to your feline friend. According to veterinarians at Glenridge Animal Hospital, crystalline silica dust, found in many common cat litters, poses a cancer risk and can lead to lung issues like silicosis in both cats and humans.

Scented litters are also a no-go. Cats' sensitive respiratory systems can't handle strong smells, making these products harmful to their health. The best options are natural, biodegradable litters made from plants. Testing different litters in multiple boxes helps ensure your cat finds one they like.

While it’s tempting to go for a popular option, making the right choice for your cat’s litter could help prevent serious health issues in the long run. Always check ingredients and consult your vet for the best advice on keeping your cat safe and comfortable.

Clay cat litter is common in the U.S., but the dust it releases can raise health concerns for both people and pets. Traditional clay contains crystalline silica, a substance the CDC and OSHA classify as a known human carcinogen when inhaled in significant or repeated amounts. Scooping or pouring can release fine dust that lingers in the air, and cats breathe it in every time they dig.

Tailfeather offers a cleaner, safer alternative. Their plant-based, clumping litter is made from coconut and cassava—materials that naturally absorb liquid, reduce dust, and feel soft under paws. Coconut husk can hold up to nine times its weight, making Tailfeather lightweight, low-tracking, and easy to maintain.

It’s fully biodegradable, 100% plastic-free (including the packaging), and delivered to your door. Each bag lasts up to 8 weeks, double many traditional litters.

For the next 24 hours, Daily Purr readers get a $15 credit on your first order with code Purr15.

Thank you to Tailfeather for sponsoring Daily Purr.

What Your Cat’s Ears Are Telling You

Your cat’s ears aren’t just for hearing. They’re also one of the clearest ways they communicate. Forward, flicking, flattened, or sideways: each position says something important about how they’re feeling.

If your cat’s ears are pointed forward, they’re curious and tuned in. Sideways “airplane ears” mean they’re unsure, maybe even annoyed. Flickering ears often signal rising stress, while tightly pinned-back ears are a warning: back off.

The subtle shifts can help you recognize when your cat needs space or feels overwhelmed. Think of their ears as early warning signals, helping you avoid misunderstandings before they hiss.

So next time you’re wondering what’s on your cat’s mind, don’t just watch the tail. Check the ears. They’re doing a lot more talking than you think.

More Taste and Quality – 100% Guaranteed

Hand-selected for quality and hand-carved by master butchers with over 900 years of combined experience, Omaha Steaks delivers heartland quality and unmatched value straight to Daily Purr readers’ doors for free on any shipment of $99 or more!

From ocean-fresh, flash-frozen seafood to slowly air-chilled chicken and grass-fed, grain-finished beef (and everything in between), Omaha Steaks – America’s Original Butcher – guarantees absolute consistency in every single bite, every single time.

In fact, they’re so confident you’ll love it, they back every single product with their 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. If you aren't satisfied with your purchase from Omaha Steaks, for any reason, they will replace your order or refund your money, whichever you prefer. They’ve upheld this family promise for five generations and counting.

Thank you to Omaha Steaks for sponsoring Daily Purr.

Cat’s Corner

From helpful paws to heart-melting moments, here’s what’s trending this week:

Meet The Team

Daily Purr is brought to you with love from our cats. We hope they can brighten your day, just like they do ours. ❤️

Love,

Olive, Milo, and Yasmine.

🐱 Bite-Sized Treats

🧐 True or False: True. Their tapetum lucidum reflects light and can cause eye shine that varies in hue.

😸 COTD: Give your kitty the spotlight by submitting them for Cat of the Day. Reply to this email with your best photos of your cat, their name, and a short description for the chance to be featured in an upcoming newsletter!

💌 Reply for a surprise: If you are reading this reply with if your cat has a dog best friend for a surprise in your inbox!