The Origin of Cat Litter: A Small Invention That Changed Human-Cat Coexistence

Cat litter is an essential item for cat-owning households. It not only meets the daily needs of cats but also reflects human care for pets and the environment. The origin of cat litter can be traced back to the mid-20th century, and its development has been a story from simple practicality to environmental innovation.

Before cat litter emerged, people commonly used sand as the "toilet material" for cats. The availability and basic water-absorbing ability of sand made it the most primitive choice. Cats love to dig and bury excrement, and sand perfectly satisfied this natural instinct. However, sand had poor odor control and needed frequent replacement, making it inconvenient to use.

In 1947, an American accidentally invented the first commercial cat litter. At the time, he proposed using bentonite (a natural mineral with strong water-absorbing and clumping abilities) instead of sand. The emergence of bentonite cat litter not only improved the hygiene of cat ownership but also officially launched the era of modern cat litter industry and began commercial sales.

With technological advancements, various new types of cat litter have emerged, such as tofu cat litter, pine cat litter, and crystal cat litter. Each has unique features to meet the needs of different cat-owning households.

This seemingly small change from sand to modern cat litter has greatly improved the quality of life for both cats and their owners, and it has witnessed the upgrading of human care for pets.