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Ever stop and wonder what’s really lurking in your home that could be harming your cat—and your family? It’s wild how easy it is to overlook the toxins hiding in plain sight, especially when we’re focused on creating a safe space for everyone. But once you start paying attention, you’ll be shook by how many harmful chemicals we unknowingly invite into our homes every day.
As cat parents, we put so much effort into keeping our kitties happy and healthy. But here’s the thing: we often don’t realize how toxic our homes are until we start down the holistic path. Once you begin noticing what we bring into our homes—cleaning supplies, air fresheners, grooming products—you’ll see how many hidden dangers there are. It can be overwhelming, but the truth is, what we bring into our homes doesn’t just affect us—it impacts our cats too.
When I first started removing harmful chemicals from my own home, I was shocked by how much was lurking in the everyday products I was using. But as I made those changes, I realized how many easy, effective, and affordable swaps there are! It wasn’t just about improving my own health—it was about creating a safer environment for my cats, too. They’re exposed to everything we breathe in and use around the house, and I wanted to do better for them. I’m sure you can relate. When I started this journey, there was no guide to help me navigate it. So, I decided to create what I wish I’d had back then: a simple, actionable guide to help you make holistic swaps for a healthier home, for you and your cats.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through simple, effective holistic swaps that can help detox your home for your cats and your family, ensuring your home supports their health rather than compromising it. I’ll include plenty of DIY solutions (because, let’s be real…using safe, natural ingredients you already have at home is not only cost-effective but also ensures you're avoiding hidden chemicals) as well as trusted, high-quality brands that you can easily grab online—because, let's be honest, I'm a crazy cat lady myself! I’ve researched the heck out of these products during my ‘get rid of everything toxic in my life’ phase. And I either still use or used (I make a lot of my stuff from scratch now) these products in my own home. So, I’ve taken the guesswork out of it for you, finding the best and most convenient options that’ll keep your home safe without all the hassle!
With out further adieu, let’s get started!
(Oh, and don’t forget to bookmark this page! I’ve got so many more swaps to share, and as I discover new ways to detox and improve other areas of my life, I’ll be adding them here. So, be sure to check back regularly for fresh tips and updates!)
Conventional Pet Shampoos
❌Old Way: Chemical-laden cat shampoo with artificial fragrances and preservatives.
✅Holistic Swap: Organic, all-natural cat shampoos with ingredients like aloe vera, oatmeal, and coconut oil.
Benefits: Many conventional cat shampoos contain harsh chemicals that can dry out your cat’s skin or cause allergic reactions. Natural shampoos are gentle and safe, soothing your cat’s skin while avoiding harmful toxins.
How to Make the Quick Swap: Look for cat-specific shampoos made from organic ingredients. Aloe vera and oatmeal are especially good for sensitive skin.
Product Recommendations:
- Earthbath Hypoallergenic Shampoo
- Earthbath Shea Butter Shampoo
- Kin + Kind Anti-Itch Shampoo
- Kin + Kind Oatmeal Shampoo
Toxic Pet Stain Removers
❌Old Way: Using commercial pet stain removers that may contain harmful chemicals and artificial fragrances.
✅Holistic Swap: Make your own pet stain remover with hydrogen peroxide and baking soda.
Benefits: Chemical stain removers can leave residues on carpets or upholstery that may irritate your cat’s skin. A natural solution is gentle, safe, and effective.
How to Make the Quick Swap: Mix hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to form a paste, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it away with a damp cloth.
Product Recommendations:
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) For Pain
❌Old Way: Many cat owners and traditional veterinarians rely on pain medications like Meloxicam, which can come with side effects and long-term health risks for their cats.
✅Holistic Swap: A holistic alternative to conventional pain relief methods is CBD oil, derived from the cannabis plant. CBD (cannabidiol) interacts with the endocannabinoid system in cats, helping to manage pain and inflammation naturally.
Benefits: CBD oil offers numerous benefits for cats suffering from pain, including:
- Natural pain relief without the potential side effects (for example: stomach upset, including vomiting, diarrhea, and lack of appetite) of traditional medications.
- Anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Calming effects that help alleviate stress and anxiety.
- Improved mobility and quality of life for cats with chronic pain conditions.
How to Make the Quick Swap*:* Look for products that are rigorously tested for purity and potency. To administer CBD oil to your cat, simply mix the prescribed dosage into their food or place it directly into their mouth using a dropper. Monitor your cat's response closely, adjusting the dosage as needed to achieve optimal pain relief.
Product Recommendations:
Not Boosting the Immune System
❌Old Way: Not boosting the immune system, leaving your cat’s defenses vulnerable to illnesses.
✅Holistic Swap: Goat colostrum, a natural supplement added to your cat’s food as an immune system booster that’s easy on the tummy.
Benefits: Goat colostrum supports your cat’s immune system, providing essential antibodies to fight off illnesses. It’s a natural way to promote health without synthetic chemicals that could burden their system.
DIY Solution: Add a small amount of goat colostrum powder to your cat’s food daily. Start with a tiny pinch and adjust as needed based on your cat's weight. Or, if you have a local farm with goats, see if you can buy some raw, fresh goat milk and give a little to your kitty each day.
Product Recommendations:
- Goat Colostrum Powder – Dr. Judy Morgan’s
- Wildly Blended Goat Colostrum
- Douglas Labs 100% Pure Colostrum
Not Supporting Your Cat's Gut
❌Old Way: Not supporting your cat’s gut health with probiotics or relying on synthetic supplements with unnecessary additives.
✅Holistic Swap: Incorporating high-quality probiotics to support your cat’s gut health. Look for options specially formulated to balance your cat's gut microbiome and improve digestion.
Benefits: Probiotics help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, improve digestion, boost immunity, and support overall wellness. These natural options avoid artificial ingredients and harmful preservatives, ensuring your cat's digestive system stays in balance without chemicals.
DIY Solution: You can also add raw goat’s milk, kefir, or bone broth to your cat’s food in small amounts. These are all natural probiotics.
Product Recommendations:
- Adored Beast Felix's Flora
- NOW Foods Saccharomyces boulardii
- Adored Beast Healthy Gut
- NutriGest by Rx Vitamins
- Visbiome Probiotic with Slippery Elm
Toxic Flea & Tick Treatments
❌Old Way: Conventional flea and tick treatments containing harsh chemicals that may pose risks to your cat's health.
✅Holistic Swap: Natural, non-toxic flea and tick treatments made from plant-based ingredients that are safe for your cat and the environment.
Benefits: Chemical-based flea and tick treatments can expose your cat to harmful toxins, leading to adverse reactions such as skin irritation, vomiting, or even neurological issues. Opting for natural alternatives helps protect your cat from unnecessary exposure to harmful chemicals.
How to Make the Quick Swap: Look for products that contain natural ingredients like neem oil, cedar oil, or essential oils such as lavender or peppermint, which are known for their flea-repellent properties. Consider natural flea and tick solutions formulated specifically for cats.
Product Recommendations:
Conventional Ear Cleaners
❌Old Way: In the past, many cat owners used conventional ear cleaners containing harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances to clean their cats' ears. These products often strip away the ear's natural oils, leaving it vulnerable to irritation and infection.
✅Holistic Swap: Consider switching to organic ear cleaners made with natural ingredients like witch hazel, aloe vera, and chamomile. These gentle formulas effectively remove dirt and debris from your cat's ears without causing dryness or irritation.
Benefits: Organic ear cleaners offer several benefits for your cat's ear health. They help prevent infections by maintaining the ear's natural pH balance and moisture levels. Additionally, the soothing properties of natural ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile can calm inflammation and reduce itching, providing relief for cats with sensitive ears.
DIY Solution:
Recipe 1 - To clean the ears:
- 2 cups brewed green tea (cooled, remove tea bag)
- 1 tbsp colloidal silver
- 5 drops of calendula tincture
- 3 drops oregon grape root tincture
Put them all together and mix then use a syringe to put 1-3 mls into your pet’s vertical ear canal. Massage the base of the ear. You’ll want to hear the liquid making a squishing noise.
Recipe 2 - Ear infection recipe:
- 240ml vinegar solution (10% water)
- 60ml aloe vera juice
- 10ml witch hazel extract
- 10ml calendula extract
- 10ml goldenseal extract
- 10ml olive leaf extract
Use 1-2 x day with active irritation and inflammation
Product Recommendations:
Chemical De-Worming Medications
❌Old Way: Conventional worm treatments like Drontal, NexGard, or Bravecto contain synthetic chemicals that can be harsh on your cat’s system and may cause side effects.
✅Holistic Swap: Ground raw pumpkin seeds, added 3-4 times a week to your cat’s food, to help prevent and manage worms.
Benefits: Pumpkin seeds contain cucurbitacin, which naturally paralyzes and expels worms, making it an effective and safe solution without the risk of harsh chemicals.
DIY Solution: Grind raw pumpkin seeds and sprinkle them over your cat's meals. Start with 1/4 tsp for larger cats and adjust for smaller ones.
Product Recommendations:
Over-Vaccinating Your Cat
❌Old Way: Over-vaccinating cats with the standard schedule of annual shots, regardless of individual needs or health.
✅Holistic Swap: Limit vaccinations to the necessary ones, and discuss titer testing with your vet to determine immunity levels.
Benefits: Over-vaccination can stress the immune system, leading to potential side effects. Tailoring vaccination schedules based on titer results can ensure your cat is protected without unnecessary exposure to chemicals.
Product Recommendations:
- Hemopet Titer Testing
- Nayked Pet Core Vaccination Titer Testing Services
- [Learn More] Dr. Judy Morgan’s Titers Instead Of Vaccines
Benzodiazepines For Stress
❌Old Way*:* In the past, when faced with a stressed or anxious cat, many pet owners turned to conventional methods like medication or isolating the cat in a separate room to manage their behavior. However, these approaches often come with risks and may not address the underlying cause of the stress.
✅Holistic Swap*:* A more holistic approach to managing stress in cats is to use calming pheromone sprays. These sprays contain synthetic versions of the pheromones that cats naturally produce to communicate feelings of comfort and security. By replicating these pheromones, calming sprays can help soothe anxious cats and promote a sense of calm in stressful situations.
Benefits*:* Calming pheromone sprays offer several benefits for both cats and their owners. Firstly, they provide a natural and drug-free way to manage stress, reducing the need for harsh medications that can have unwanted side effects. Additionally, calming sprays are easy to use and can be applied directly to your cat's bedding, favorite spots, or even a carrier before travel to help ease anxiety. By creating a calming environment, these sprays can help reduce stress-related behaviors like hiding, aggression, or excessive grooming, leading to a happier and more relaxed cat.
How to Make the Quick Swap*:* Making the switch to calming pheromone sprays is quick and easy. Formulated by holistic veterinarian Dr. Judy Morgan, Mellow Out is designed to promote relaxation and reduce stress in cats. Made with natural ingredients, including organic herbs and flower essences, this spray can help create a calming environment for your cat. Simply spray Mellow Out in areas where your cat spends the most time or directly onto their bedding or favorite spots. Repeat as needed, especially during times of stress or change.
Product Recommendations:
Not Including Mushrooms In Your Cat’s Diet
❌Old Way: Not including cooked mushrooms or mushroom powder in your cat’s diet for immune support.
✅Holistic Swap: Incorporate cooked mushrooms or mushroom powder into your cat's daily meals to enhance immune function and longevity.
Benefits: Mushrooms like shiitake, maitake, turkeytail, chaga, and reishi are known for their immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, making them an excellent addition to your cat’s diet.
DIY Solution: Find fresh, organic mushrooms like shiitake, maitake, turkeytail, or reishi at your local grocery store or farmer's market. Start by thoroughly cleaning the mushrooms and boiling them in water without any seasoning. Once boiled, allow them to cool completely. Blend the mushrooms into a smooth paste and mix into your cat's wet or raw food. Start with a small amount (1/2 tsp for every 10 pounds of your cat’s weight) and gradually increase based on their tolerance and preference.
Product Recommendations:
- Real Mushrooms Immune Support, Cognition, & Performance Boost Bundle
- Real Mushrooms 5 Defenders Powder
- Real Mushrooms Turkey Tail Powder
- Real Mushrooms Maitake Mushrooms for Immune Support
- Real Mushrooms Reishi Powder for Longevity
- Fera Pet Organics Mushroom Blend
Not Giving Real, Whole Foods For Nutrient Support
❌Old Way: Relying on generic supplements that may contain low-quality ingredients or unnecessary additives…or relying on meals alone to support your kitty.
✅Holistic Swap: Add high-quality spirulina and kefir oil to your cat’s food for a boost in nutrients and digestive health.
Benefits: Spirulina provides essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, while kefir oil is excellent for supporting gut health. Together, they offer a powerful combo for overall wellness.
DIY Solution: To make your own kefir, simply purchase kefir grains, mix them with fresh, whole goat milk, and allow the mixture to ferment at room temperature for 24-48 hours. Once ready, strain the grains and add the homemade kefir to your cat's food for a natural digestive boost.
Product Recommendations:
Staying Stressed & Anxious As Cat Owners
❌Old Way: Many cat owners may not actively engage in mindfulness exercises with their cats, unaware of the potential benefits of such activities.
✅Holistic Swap: Instead of going non-stop and not taking a break for yourself, consider incorporating deep breathing exercises with your cat into your daily routine. This simple yet powerful swap can deepen your bond with your cat and promote a sense of calm and relaxation for both of you. Give yourself a damn chance to breathe!
Benefits:
- Strengthened Bond: Engaging in mindfulness exercises like deep breathing with your cat strengthens the bond between you, fostering trust and mutual understanding.
- Stress Reduction: Deep breathing promotes relaxation and helps reduce stress levels, benefiting both you and your cat.
- Improved Well-Being: Practicing mindfulness together can contribute to a more harmonious household environment.
- Enhanced Communication: Mindfulness exercises provide an opportunity for non-verbal communication with your cat, allowing you to connect on a deeper level.
How to Make the Quick Swap: To incorporate deep breathing exercises with your cat, find a quiet and comfortable space where you can both relax without distractions. Sit or lie down with your cat nearby and take slow, deep breaths together. You can gently pet your cat or hold them close to you as you breathe deeply. Even if it’s for 5 or 15 minutes, this practice will change your life. Gradually increase the duration of your sessions as you both become more comfortable with the practice. Remember to be patient and present in the moment, allowing yourselves to fully experience the benefits of mindfulness together.
Product Recommendations:
- Karen Dendy-Smith's Mindfulness Guide for Cats: Explore Karen Dendy-Smith's website for valuable resources and guidance on incorporating mindfulness practices into your cat's routine.
Plastic Litter Boxes
❌Old Way: Traditional plastic litter boxes that are difficult to clean and can harbor bacteria.
✅Holistic Swap: Stainless steel cat litter boxes that are durable, easy to clean, and naturally resistant to bacteria.
Benefits: Traditional plastic litter boxes can trap bacteria and odors, and over time, they can wear down or crack. Stainless steel litter boxes are non-porous, easy to disinfect, and naturally resistant to bacterial growth. They are also long-lasting and more sustainable, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
How to Make the Quick Swap: Switch to a stainless steel litter box for a more hygienic and eco-friendly option. These boxes are simple to clean and provide a long-lasting solution for your cat’s needs. Just be sure to clean the box regularly to maintain hygiene and reduce odors.
Product Recommendations:
Plastic Food & Water Bowls
❌Old Way: Plastic food and water bowls that can leach harmful chemicals over time.
✅Holistic Swap: Stainless steel, ceramic, or glass food and water bowls.
Benefits: Plastic bowls can contain BPA and other harmful chemicals. Stainless steel and ceramic are durable, non-toxic, and easier to clean.
How to Make the Quick Swap: Choose stainless steel, glass, or ceramic bowls, which are safer for your cat and easier to keep free of bacteria.
Product Recommendations:
Traditional Cat Litter
❌Old Way: Commercial cat litter made from sodium bentonite (clay) that’s harmful to the environment.
✅Holistic Swap: Plant-based cat litter that’s biodegradable and compostable.
Benefits: Traditional clay litter is not biodegradable and contributes to deforestation and landfill waste. Soy-based litter is made from renewable resources and is 100% biodegradable, reducing your environmental impact.
How to Make the Quick Swap: Switch to plant-based cat litter that’s made from renewable resources and biodegradable. It’s lighter, absorbs moisture better, and is safer for your cat and the planet.
Product Recommendations:
Kibble
❌Old Way: Standard commercial pet food with fillers, preservatives, and artificial additives.
✅Holistic Swap: Natural, organic, and high-quality raw or gently cooked cat food with whole, nutrient-dense ingredients.
Benefits: Conventional pet food often contains artificial preservatives, colors, and low-quality meat by-products. Organic, whole food-based options provide better nutrition and fewer additives, improving your cat’s health.
How to Make the Quick Swap: Look for brands that prioritize natural ingredients and sustainable sourcing, free of by-products, high-processing, and artificial preservatives.
Product Recommendations:
Highly-Processed Cat Treats
❌Old Way: Conventional pet treats filled with artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
✅Holistic Swap: Organic, whole food-based pet treats made from clean ingredients.
Benefits: Artificial additives in pet treats can contribute to allergies, digestive issues, and other health concerns. Whole food-based treats provide essential nutrients without harmful additives.
How to Make the Quick Swap: Choose treats made from organic meats and organ. Make sure there’s no added preservatives, no fillers, no artificial colors, and no byproducts.
DIY Solution: Make your own freeze-dried treats by freeze-drying raw meat in a dehydrator or purchasing a home freeze-drying kit.
Product Recommendations:
- Primal Pet Foods Freeze-Dried Treats
- WilderBites Gently Dehydrated Treats
- The Honest Kitchen Cat Treats
Harsh Cleaning Sprays
❌Old Way: Conventional cleaning sprays containing bleach, ammonia, or other harsh chemicals.
✅Holistic Swap: All-purpose natural cleaning sprays made from essential oils and plant-based ingredients.
Benefits: Chemical cleaning sprays can leave harmful residues that may irritate your cat’s respiratory system or skin. Natural cleaning sprays are non-toxic and safe for both humans and pets, while still getting your home sparkling clean.
DIY Solution: Make your own natural all-purpose cleaner by mixing 1 cup of distilled white vinegar, 1 cup of water, a tablespoon of 99.9% Pure Isopropyl Alcohol, 1 tablespoon of unscented liquid castile soap OR 1 teaspoon Sal Suds (a detergent-based soap that’s tougher than castile soap) and 10-15 drops of pet-safe essential oils like lavender or lemon. Shake well to combine, and use it to clean countertops, tables, and other surfaces. This non-toxic solution works just as effectively as commercial cleaners without the harmful chemicals. Just be sure to avoid tea tree oil as it can be toxic to cats. Always wipe down surfaces after cleaning to remove any excess solution.
Product Recommendations:
Chemical Pest Control Products
❌Old Way: Using chemical-based pest deterrents that may harm your cat.
✅Holistic Swap: Use crushed bay leaves around windowsills and baseboards to naturally repel pests.
Benefits: Bay leaves are a safe, natural way to keep pests away without risking harm to your cat or the environment.
DIY Solution: Crush dried bay leaves and sprinkle them around areas where pests are common, like window sills and doorways.
Air Fresheners
❌Old Way: Conventional air fresheners with artificial fragrances and chemicals.
✅Holistic Swap: Essential oil diffusers with calming scents like lavender, chamomile, frankincense, or valerian. Try to stick to a glass or ceramic essential oil diffuser.
Benefits: Many commercial air fresheners contain phthalates and VOCs, which can irritate your cat's respiratory system. Essential oils are natural and can be safely diffused to purify and freshen the air, creating a soothing atmosphere for both you and your pet.
How to Make the Quick Swap: Use an essential oil diffuser with pet-safe oils. Fill the diffuser with water, and place it in a well-ventilated area of your home. Avoid using “hot” oils (essential oils that contain polyphenolic compounds) like tea tree, cinnamon, oregano, clove, wintergreen, thyme, and birch as they can be harmful to cats. Try lavender or chamomile oils to create a calming environment. Never trap your cat in a room with the diffuser; always ensure there’s airflow to keep the space comfortable for them. Make sure the essential oils must be high-quality, made with pure, organic ingredients, and are certified free from synthetic chemicals or pesticides. Look for 3rd party testing protocols, non-gmo, and certifications like USDA Organic to make your decision on the essential oils brand.
Product Recommendations:
- LevoAir Glass Dome Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Diffuser
- AnimalEO (pet-safe essential oils)
- Mountain Rose Herbs (essential oils)
- Rocky Mountain Oils (essential oils)
- Plant Therapy (essential oils)
Chemical-Filled Air Fresheners (Part 2)
❌Old Way: Using aerosol sprays and synthetic air fresheners that contain phthalates and VOCs.
✅Holistic Swap: Use natural alternatives like a simmer pot.
Benefits: Synthetic air fresheners can irritate your cat's respiratory system and expose them to harmful chemicals. Natural alternatives like simmer pots offer a safe, soothing way to freshen the air without risking your cat's health. They provide a calming atmosphere while keeping your home smelling pleasant.
How to Make the Quick Swap: Try simmering rosemary, thyme, cinnamon sticks, or citrus peels on the stove in water. The natural oils from these herbs and fruits will fill the air with a refreshing scent. Be sure to leave windows open for ventilation and avoid keeping your cat in a room where the steam could be too overwhelming. Always monitor the simmering pot and turn it off when you leave the area.
Product Recommendations:
Indoor Air Pollution
❌Old Way: Allowing indoor pollutants like cigarette smoke or excess moisture to accumulate, leading to poor air quality.
✅Holistic Swap: Avoid smoking indoors and use appliances like gas stoves efficiently. Ventilate the kitchen and bathroom areas regularly.
Benefits: Reducing air pollutants prevents mold buildup and reduces allergens, which can cause respiratory issues for both you and your cat. It promotes better overall air quality and health in the home.
How to Make the Quick Swap: Open windows when cooking, use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom, and ensure your home is well-ventilated to prevent moisture and allergens from accumulating.
Dirty, Polluted Indoor Air
❌Old Way: Relying on natural air circulation alone to improve indoor air quality.
✅Holistic Swap: Invest in a high-quality air purifier with a HEPA filter.
Benefits: Air purifiers with HEPA filters are designed to capture fine particles like dust, pet dander, and allergens, significantly improving air quality. They are especially helpful for cats with sensitive respiratory systems or those that suffer from allergies.
How to Make the Quick Swap: Look for a high-efficiency air purifier and place it in common areas, such as the living room or bedroom, to improve the air quality throughout your home.
Product Recommendations:
Stale Indoor Air
❌Old Way: Keeping windows and doors closed, which restricts airflow and traps indoor pollutants.
✅Holistic Swap: Open windows and doors when weather permits to allow fresh air to circulate.
Benefits: Fresh air helps to reduce indoor pollutants and improve air quality by exchanging stale indoor air with clean outdoor air. This reduces the likelihood of respiratory issues and promotes a healthier environment for both you and your cat.
How to Make the Quick Swap: Set a timer to open your windows for 10-15 minutes a day, especially during mild weather. This small habit can significantly improve indoor air quality for you and your cat.
Chemical-Laden Disinfectants
❌Old Way: Chemical-laden cleaning products like bleach and ammonia for disinfecting surfaces.
✅Holistic Swap: Homemade natural cleaners using vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.
Benefits: Commercial cleaners can leave toxic residues on surfaces that your cat may come into contact with. Natural cleaners are safe, effective, and non-toxic, ensuring your home is clean without harmful chemicals.
How to Make the Quick Swap: Mix 1 part vinegar, 1 part hydrogen peroxide, with 1 part water and add a few drops of lavender or tea tree oil for a disinfecting all-purpose cleaner. Use this to clean surfaces your cat frequently visits.
Product Recommendations:
Commercial Fabric Softeners
❌Old Way: Commercial fabric softeners with synthetic fragrances.
✅Holistic Swap: Natural fabric softeners made with plant-based ingredients.
Benefits: Many fabric softeners contain synthetic fragrances, which can leave chemicals behind on your cat's bedding. Plant-based fabric softeners are free from toxic chemicals and still leave fabrics soft.
DIY Solution: To create your DIY fabric softener, add 1 cup of baking soda and 10-15 drops of essential oil (like lavender, chamomile, or citrus) to a jar. Fill the rest of the jar with white vinegar. Shake to mix and add about 1/4 cup to your washing machine’s fabric softener compartment. This mixture will soften fabrics while leaving them free of synthetic fragrances and chemicals.
Product Recommendations:
Floor Cleaners With Harsh Chemicals
❌Old Way: Conventional floor cleaners that contain harsh chemicals like ammonia or chlorine bleach.
✅Holistic Swap: Plant-based floor cleaners that are free from toxic chemicals.
Benefits: Conventional floor cleaners can leave harmful residues on floors where your cat may walk. Plant-based cleaners are safe, non-toxic, and effective at cleaning.
How to Make the Quick Swap: Choose floor cleaners that use ingredients like castile soap, plant ingredients, vinegar, essential oils…or even make your own!
DIY Solution:
- Mix 1 cup of white vinegar with 1 gallon of warm water in a bucket.
- Add 2-3 tablespoons of castile soap (for extra cleaning power).
- Add 10-15 drops of essential oils like lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus (these are gentle and safe for cats when highly diluted like in this recipe).
- Use a mop to clean your floors with this mixture, and let the area fully dry before allowing cats back into the space. Always allow them the option to avoid the area if they choose.
Product Recommendations:
Toxic Candles
❌Old Way: Conventional candles made with paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances.
✅Holistic Swap: Beeswax or soy-based candles with natural essential oils.
Benefits: Paraffin candles release toxic fumes when burned, which can affect your cat’s lungs. Beeswax and soy candles burn cleaner, and essential oils like lavender can add a soothing touch.
How to Make the Quick Swap: Look for candles made from beeswax or soy, and avoid synthetic fragrances. Ensure the essential oils used are safe for cats.
Product Recommendations:
Chemical-Laden Carpet Deodorizers
❌Old Way: Using chemical-laden carpet deodorizers that may contain harmful residues.
✅Holistic Swap: Make your own carpet deodorizer using baking soda and essential oils.
Benefits: Commercial deodorizers often contain toxins that can linger on your carpet and be harmful to your cat. Baking soda and essential oils are a natural, safe way to freshen up your carpets.
DIY Solution: Sprinkle baking soda on your carpet, add a few drops of lavender or lemon essential oil, let it sit for 15-30 minutes, and vacuum it up.
Product Recommendations:
- Aunt Fannie's Carpet Refresher & Deodorizer Powder
- Good Natured Brand Carpet Freshener & Deodorizer Powder
Toxic Wood Polishes
❌Old Way: Using commercial wood polish that may contain toxic chemicals and artificial fragrances.
✅Holistic Swap: Use a mixture of olive oil and vinegar as a natural wood polish.
Benefits: Commercial wood polishes can be harmful to cats if they ingest or come into contact with residues. Olive oil and vinegar are safe, non-toxic, and effective for cleaning wood surfaces.
How to Make the Quick Swap: Mix equal parts olive oil and vinegar in a spray bottle. Apply to wood surfaces and buff with a soft cloth to clean and shine.
Product Recommendations:
Toxic Hard Wood Cleaners
❌Old Way: Conventional hardwood cleaners contain harsh chemicals like ammonia, bleach, or synthetic fragrances, which can be harmful to your cat’s respiratory system and skin.
✅Holistic Swap: Natural hardwood cleaners made from plant-based ingredients that are safe for both humans and pets.
Benefits: Many conventional hardwood cleaners leave toxic residues that can be harmful to your cat when they come in contact with the floor. Natural alternatives are non-toxic, safe, and effective at keeping your hardwood floors clean and shiny while being gentle on the environment and your furry friends.
How to Make the Quick Swap: Look for hardwood cleaners that are specifically formulated to be pet-safe. Alternatively, you can make your own natural hardwood cleaner using simple, non-toxic ingredients.
DIY Solution:
- Mix 1/4 cup of white vinegar with 1 cup of water in a spray bottle.
- Add 1 teaspoon of olive oil (for shine) and 10-15 drops of essential oil like lemon or lavender.
- Shake the bottle gently before using.
- Spray lightly on your hardwood floors and wipe with a microfiber cloth to clean and shine.
Product Recommendations:
Toxic Window Cleaners
❌Old Way: Using conventional window cleaners with ammonia or harsh chemicals.
✅Holistic Swap: Make your own non-toxic window cleaner using vinegar, water, and citrus essential oils or look for window cleaners that are plant-based.
Benefits: Ammonia-based cleaners can leave harmful residues that may irritate your cat's respiratory system. A vinegar-based cleaner is safe and effective for streak-free windows.
DIY Solution: Combine one part vinegar with one part water and add a few drops of citrus essential oil. Use a microfiber cloth to clean windows and mirrors, leaving them streak-free.
Product Recommendations:
- Simple Solution Pawsafe Window Cleaner
- Aunt Fannie's Glass & Window Cleaning Vinegar Spray
- MRS. MEYER'S CLEAN DAY Mirror & Window Cleaner
Check back regularly. I’ll continue to add more swaps as I find them!
1 comment
Thank you so much for your time and resurch,I’m so happy. I found you . Every thing is so awesome! Thank you again.