Cat Feces In Compost: Should You Do It?

Composting is a great way to reduce waste and give back to nature. Many people compost their food scraps, yard waste, and even paper products. But what about cat feces? Can it be composted too? In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of including cat feces in your compost pile.

The Pros of Adding Cat Feces to Your Compost

One of the main benefits of adding cat feces to your compost is that it’s a great source of nitrogen. Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plants, and adding cat feces to your compost can help increase the nitrogen content of your soil. Additionally, composting cat feces can help divert waste from landfills, which is good for the environment.

Another benefit of composting cat feces is that it can help control odors. If you have indoor cats, you know how smelly their litter boxes can get. By composting the feces, you can minimize the odor and create a more pleasant living environment for both you and your pets.

The Cons of Adding Cat Feces to Your Compost

While there are benefits to composting cat feces, there are also some downsides to consider. One of the biggest concerns is the risk of disease transmission. Cats can carry a variety of diseases, including toxoplasmosis, which can be harmful to humans. If you choose to compost cat feces, you need to take precautions to minimize the risk of infection. This includes wearing gloves when handling the feces and washing your hands thoroughly after touching it.

Another concern with composting cat feces is the potential for contamination. Cat feces can contain parasites and bacteria that can contaminate your garden soil, making it unsafe for growing vegetables or fruits. If you do choose to compost cat feces, it’s best to use the resulting compost on non-edible plants only.

How to Safely Compost Cat Feces

If you’ve decided to include cat feces in your compost pile, there are some steps you can take to minimize the risks. Here are some tips to follow:

• Use a separate compost bin for cat feces – don’t mix it with your regular compost.
• Wear gloves and a mask when handling the feces.
• Ensure that your compost reaches a temperature of at least 140°F for several days to kill any pathogens.
• Allow the compost to mature for at least six months before using it on non-edible plants.

By following these guidelines, you can safely compost your cat feces without putting yourself or your garden at risk.

In conclusion, composting cat feces can be a good idea if done properly. While there are risks involved, the benefits of adding nitrogen to your soil and reducing waste make it worth considering. Just be sure to take proper precautions and use the resulting compost on non-edible plants only.

A cat sitting in a compost bin.

A compost pile with cat feces.

#composting, #sustainability, #catfeces, #garden