My neighbor (the only one who likes cats) told me this morning that she recently lost her 12 year old kitty. The kitty presented with a bloody nose and wheezing. The cat was also vomiting. She rushed Pretzel to the vet where the cat died. The vet cited the cause as the new lightweight kitty litter by Tidy Cat. She was devastated and wanted to let me know that if we were using this litter to be careful.
I went online and checked and found all sorts of comments (some controversial) about this issue. So far what I have established- is that seven cats have died over using this issue. There are some harmful chemicals in this substance that can cause breathing issues in cats (not sure about humans). Other people stand by the product as not being harmful. You can research it yourself- there is a long debate on FB and you can read the reviews on Amazon- although sometimes those reviews aren’t always truthful or accurate. Just wanted to give a head’s up and we have 8 of these boxes donated and they will just stay unopened. I did read that one woman who paid $500.00 and her cat lived after extensive care, she was compensated by the manufacturer but not for the full amount.
My heart goes out to your neighbor; she must be devastated! Years ago, I figured that anything that they try to sell me on a TV commercial must be some really poor stuff, so I’ve never considered the light-weight cat litters. Or anything that goes, “But wait!…There’s MORE!”
It’s good that you are spreading the word. It’s better to be safe than sorry. I would feel terrible if I were your neighbour. I would feel that it’s all my fault. The poor woman.
I feel terrible for your neighbour, I will pass on the warning.
Expect a phone call tonight.
She said she bought the litter because the original stuff is so heavy. I agree, I get 40 pound boxes donated and they are a beast to lift up. Most of the time, the heaviness of the litter needed for routine care is one of the top reasons that the elderly end up rehoming their beloved cats. This was supposed to make life easier for them, not cost their beloved animal their life!