Q: High Vegetable Diet and/or Timing of Urination

__A high urine pH may also be lifestyle-related.__ A diet high in vegetables, for instance, can increase urine alkalinity because of the way veggies break down in the body. The same can be said of the timing of your cat’s urination. If your cat urinates right after consuming a meal, for example, their urine pH may also be more alkaline.

Q: Other

*Take note of anything else that feels off or out of the ordinary for your cat, including:* - Vomiting - Weight or muscle loss - Grooming more than usual

Q: Your Cat's Eating & Drinking Habits

*Monitor for any noticeable chances in your cat’s food or water consumption, including:* - Loss of appetite - Abnormally hungry (insatiable) - Drinking more or less water than usual

Q: Your Cat's Mood or Energy

*Take note of any major mood swings or changes in your cat’s energy levels, including:* - Abnormal aggression or irritability - Abnormally lethargic or withdrawn/hiding - Confusion

Q: Litter Box Usage

*Monitor for any noticeable chances in your cat’s litter box behavior, including:* - More frequent urination - Urinating outside the litter box - Straining or unable to urinate* - Diarrhea \*If you see your cat straining or unable to urinate, please contact your veterinarian immediately.

Q: The litter I purchased seems dusty. Is it okay to use?

Fresh Step is committed to providing litter with powerful odor control. We recognize dust associated with cat litter can be a nuisance. That’s why we’ve created our low dust formulas to help provide a low dust experience, while providing strong odor control. Our goal is for all cats — and their humans — to be thrilled with Fresh Step®. As always, Fresh Step® is designed with the safety of you and your favorite felines in mind. But please note: Pregnant women and immunosuppressed individuals should always avoid contact with used litter due to the risk of toxoplasmosis.

Q: The litter I’ve purchased seems lumpy. Is this normal?

Our high-quality control standards ensure our litter products are packaged dry; however, once the product leaves our warehouses, we cannot control the storage methods used by others. The products can absorb moisture and become lumpy if stored in a damp place in the stores or in your home. To prevent lumping after purchase, store your cat litter in a cool, dry place.

Question 1

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Accepted Answer

UTIs occur when bacteria travels to the bladder. While generally considered less common in cats, those who do experience UTIs are typically more senior (>10 years old).

*Signs May Include:*
- More frequent urination
- Urinating outside the litter box
- Painful, straining or unable to urinate^*^

^*^If you see your cat straining or unable to urinate, please contact your veterinarian immediately.

Question 2

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease

Accepted Answer

FLUTD is an umbrella term that refers to a variable combination of symptoms that can be caused by underlying health issues such as bladder tones, infection or a blockage.

*Signs May Include:*
- More frequent urination
- Urinating outside the litter box
- Straining or unable to urinate^*^

^*^If you see your cat straining or unable to urinate, please contact your veterinarian immediately.

Question 3

Bladder Stones (Struvite)

Accepted Answer

A high urine pH may be the result of a certain type of bladder stone called Struvite stones. This is one of the most common types of bladder stones found in cats, making up about 40% of bladder stone incidences. Struvite stones occur most commonly in younger (<7 years old) cats. While some cases may be asymptomatic, Struvite stones can also cause inflammation or blockages.

*Signs May Include:*
- More frequent urination
- Urinating outside the litter box
- Straining or unable to urinate*

\*If you see your cat straining or unable to urinate, please contact your veterinarian immediately.

Question 4

High Vegetable Diet and/or Timing of Urination

Accepted Answer

__A high urine pH may also be lifestyle-related.__ A diet high in vegetables, for instance, can increase urine alkalinity because of the way veggies break down in the body. The same can be said of the timing of your cat’s urination. If your cat urinates right after consuming a meal, for example, their urine pH may also be more alkaline.

Question 5

Other

Accepted Answer

*Take note of anything else that feels off or out of the ordinary for your cat, including:*
- Vomiting
- Weight or muscle loss
- Grooming more than usual

Question 6

Your Cat's Eating & Drinking Habits

Accepted Answer

*Monitor for any noticeable chances in your cat’s food or water consumption, including:*
- Loss of appetite
- Abnormally hungry (insatiable)
- Drinking more or less water than usual

Question 7

Your Cat's Mood or Energy

Accepted Answer

*Take note of any major mood swings or changes in your cat’s energy levels, including:*
- Abnormal aggression or irritability
- Abnormally lethargic or withdrawn/hiding
- Confusion

Question 8

Litter Box Usage

Accepted Answer

*Monitor for any noticeable chances in your cat’s litter box behavior, including:*
- More frequent urination
- Urinating outside the litter box
- Straining or unable to urinate*
- Diarrhea

\*If you see your cat straining or unable to urinate, please contact your veterinarian immediately.

Question 9

The litter I purchased seems dusty. Is it okay to use?

Accepted Answer

Fresh Step is committed to providing litter with powerful odor control. We recognize dust associated with cat litter can be a nuisance. That’s why we’ve created our low dust formulas to help provide a low dust experience, while providing strong odor control. Our goal is for all cats — and their humans — to be thrilled with Fresh Step®. As always, Fresh Step® is designed with the safety of you and your favorite felines in mind. But please note: Pregnant women and immunosuppressed individuals should always avoid contact with used litter due to the risk of toxoplasmosis.

Question 10

The litter I’ve purchased seems lumpy. Is this normal?

Accepted Answer

Our high-quality control standards ensure our litter products are packaged dry; however, once the product leaves our warehouses, we cannot control the storage methods used by others. The products can absorb moisture and become lumpy if stored in a damp place in the stores or in your home. To prevent lumping after purchase, store your cat litter in a cool, dry place.

Question 11

The litter does not control odor. Why not?

Accepted Answer

Fresh Step® cat litter products have proven to be highly effective at controlling odors. There are a few things that you can do to ensure that the product works most effectively. First, be sure to follow the usage instructions on the package for the appropriate fill level (at least 2–3 inches for Fresh Step® Non-Clumping litter, 3–4 inches for Fresh Step® clumping litter, 1½ inches for Fresh Step® Crystals). Second, remove your cat’s waste on a daily basis and replace the entire litter box as needed (usually about once a week for Fresh Step® Non-Clumping litter, once a month for Fresh Step® clumping litter and every 20 to 30 days for Fresh Step® Crystals). Finally, keep the litter box in open, well-ventilated areas.

Question 12

The cat litter doesn’t seem to be absorbing the urine. What could be wrong?

Accepted Answer

Fresh Step® cat litter products have proven to be highly effective at liquid absorption. To ensure the product works most effectively, follow the usage instructions on the package for the appropriate fill level (at least 2–3 inches for Fresh Step® Non-Clumping litter, 3–4 inches for Fresh Step® clumping litter, 1½ inches for Fresh Step® Crystals). Remove your cat’s waste on a daily basis and replace the entire litter box as needed (usually about once a week for Fresh Step® Non-Clumping litter, and once a month for Fresh Step® clumping litter, and every 20 to 30 days for Fresh Step® Crystals), and more often if you have more than one cat. Finally, keep the litter box in open, well-ventilated areas.

Question 13

The Fresh Step® clumping litter in my cat’s box isn’t clumping. What’s wrong?

Accepted Answer

There are few explanations for this. First, when initially filling the cat box, be sure there are at least 3 to 4 inches of litter in the box. This initial filling may require 14 lbs. of litter or more. Second, each time clumps of waste are removed from the litter tray, fresh litter must be added to the box as insufficient litter will inhibit clumping. Finally, do not mix non-clumping litters with Fresh Step® clumping litter as this will also inhibit clumping.

Question 14

Why doesn’t Fresh Step® Crystals clump like other cat litters?

Accepted Answer

Fresh Step® Crystals is made of silica gel. It is not a clay litter, and therefore does not clump. If you prefer clumping litters, we recommend trying Fresh Step® clumping litters.

Question 15

Why do Fresh Step® Crystals change color during use?

Accepted Answer

It’s normal for the blue crystals to change color due to exposure to yellow urine. You don’t need to remove these crystals; they are simply doing their job.

Question 16

What should I do if my cat won’t use Fresh Step® Crystals?

Accepted Answer

If you’ve recently switched to Fresh Step® Crystals, your cat may need a little time to adjust. This is the case with any litter. You can make the transition easier for your cat by mixing one part Fresh Step® Crystals to one part old litter for a few days to a week. After one week, empty the box completely and refill with only Fresh Step® Crystals.

Question 17

What is your Money Back Guarantee policy?

Accepted Answer

START FRESH. STAY FRESH. GUARANTEED.^*^ We’ll keep your cat's litter box smelling fresh for the specified days of odor control, or your money back.

Fresh Step® clumping litters feature a 15-day odor elimination guarantee*, with Outstretch^™^ and Clean Paws clumping scented litters featuring a 21-day odor control guarantee while our Crystals^™^ and Heavy Duty formulas have a 30-day guarantee^*^. If you purchase a Fresh Step product and are not satisfied with your purchase, you may request a product price refund within sixty (60) days of the date of purchase. Terms apply. Please fill out the customer service form here to submit your request.

^*^ This Money Back Guarantee offer is valid in the United States only. Must be the actual purchaser of a qualifying product to request a refund. This offer cannot be combined with any other offer, gift card, rebate or discount. Refund is limited to the actual purchase price paid (minus any discounts or coupons applied) up to a maximum of $19.99, and excludes taxes, shipping, or any other charges incurred at the time of purchase. Original UPCs and receipts are required as proof of purchase. Copies of UPCs or receipts or those obtained through unauthorized means will be void. UPCs and receipts cannot be sold, traded, auctioned or bartered; all of which will be void. Allow 6–8 weeks following receipt of all required documentation for delivery of refund check. Duplicate requests and requests from resellers, dealers/distributors, their employees or warehouse facilities, groups, clubs, or organizations will be void. Refund checks returned as undeliverable will be void. Limit 1 refund check per person/household. Keep a copy of all documentation, as proof of mailing is not proof of receipt. Offer is void where taxed, prohibited or restricted by law. Fraudulent submission could result in prosecution, under mail fraud and other applicable rules and regulations. The Clorox Company reserves the right to modify or cancel the offer at any time.

Question 18

What makes Fresh Step® premium cat litter products different from other cat litters?

Accepted Answer

We only use high-quality clay and crystal ingredients in Fresh Step® litters. Fresh Step® clay litter products contain encapsulated fresheners to freshen your cat’s litter box with every step. Our clumping litters have odor-eliminating carbon for powerful odor control. Both Fresh Step® Non-Clumping and Fresh Step® Clumping formulas contain an odor neutralizer that inhibits the growth of certain bacteria on the litter which can increase odor. Fresh Step® with the power of Febreze^™^ has a proprietary technology to provide unbeatable odor control by absorbing and eliminating odors while delivering high levels of freshness. Fresh Step® Crystals offer premium-grade crystals for long-lasting odor control. The crystals lock in odors, absorb wetness on contact, and are gentle on paws.

Question 19

What are the ingredients of Fresh Step® cat litter products?

Accepted Answer

Fresh Step® Non-Clumping Clay litter contains a high-quality non-clumping clay and fragrance. Fresh Step® Clumping litter with the power of Febreze^™^ uses a proprietary technology containing premium clumping clay (sodium bentonite), limestone, activated charcoal, fragrance and an antimicrobial agent (borates). Febreze is developed specifically for the product application, and it is designed to be used in litter and safe for your cat. Fresh Step® Crystals is made from silica gel, a porous substance that quickly traps liquid and then allows it to evaporate, and added fragrance for even more odor protection.

Question 20

Which Fresh Step® cat litter is best for me?

Accepted Answer

We offer a range of products that meets every cat’s particular needs:

• Fresh Step® Clumping litter has a proprietary technology to provide powerful odor control by absorbing and eliminating, not just masking odors. These products also feature a low dust formula to help keep your home’s surfaces clean. For our scented skus, we offer the Power of Febreze freshness.

• Fresh Step® Non-Clumping Clay litter is paw-activated for immediate freshness. Its activated charcoal technology delivers strong odor control. Fresh Step® Non-Clumping litter offers minimal maintenance. Simply scoop out solids and empty your litter box once a week. The formula is lightweight and features large granules, which help reduce the amount of litter your cat will track throughout the house.

• Fresh Step® Crystals offers the breakthrough technology of odor-trapping crystals that lock in odor-causing wetness and urine odors. They're also ultra lightweight and easy on paws.

Question 21

Can I mix clumping and non-clumping litters?

Accepted Answer

We do not recommend mixing Fresh Step® clumping and non-clumping litters, as this will inhibit the clumping litter’s ability to perform.

Question 22

Where can Fresh Step® litter products be purchased?

Accepted Answer

Fresh Step® litter products are available nationwide in drug and grocery stores, and larger stores such as Wal-Mart and Target, as well as club channels, such as BJ’s and Sam’s, pet specialty stores such as PetSmart and PETCO, and online stores such as Chewy and Amazon. Please visit our where to buy page to find out where you can buy your products.

Question 23

Will I still need to scoop Fresh Step® Crystals?

Accepted Answer

Fresh Step® Crystals do not clump upon exposure to urine. Fresh Step® Crystals users only need to remove and dispose of solid waste in the trash daily and stir crystals to maintain freshness. The non-clumping absorbency of the crystals helps eliminate the need for daily scooping of wet clumps created by urination. Dump and refill every 20 to 30 days when most crystals turn discolored. Do not flush.

Question 24

How should I dispose of Fresh Step® cat litter? Is it okay to flush it down the toilet?

Accepted Answer

Used litter and solid waste should only be disposed of in the trash. We do not recommend flushing any cat litter down the toilet.

Question 25

Can Fresh Step® cat litter be used to soak up motor oil?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A 10-pound sack of our non-clumping cat litter can soak up to a gallon of liquid; pour over spills, then sweep up. Try grinding into the spill with a brick or an old shoe for faster results. Please check local regulations for how to properly dispose of the used litter.

However, we do not recommend using our clumping cat litter or crystals to absorb motor oil.

Question 26

Can Fresh Step® cat litter be used to provide traction for a car on snow and ice?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Fresh Step® non-clumping cat litter can help get your car out in two ways. The first is prevention: Keep a bag of Fresh Step® non-clumping litter in your trunk for added weight so (hopefully) you don’t get stuck in the first place. If your car does get stuck, you can use Fresh Step® non-clumping litter (100% clay with no filler) to help to free your vehicle. It’s very important to make sure you use the non-clumping version. Our clumping/scoopable and crystal versions will cause a slippery mess.

1. First, clear out any snow or debris from your tailpipe. This ensures that the car won’t fill with any dangerous gases.

2. Break up as much snow and ice from around the stuck wheels.

3. Open your package of Fresh Step® (again, make sure it’s the non-clumping variety).

4. Sprinkle the litter in front of your stuck wheels.

5. Use the lowest gear possible. As soon as your car starts to slip, reverse a bit, then try again. Go back and forth until you gain traction. Be gentle and accelerate slowly.

6. Got extra cat litter? Use it on your driveway or front walk for traction.

Question 27

Can I submit a photo of my cat for a Fresh Step® commercial?

Accepted Answer

While we are flattered you would want your cat in one of our commercials, our legal department won’t let us use them in our ads. However, we’d love you to show off your beautiful felines on the Fresh Step site, and share them with other cat lovers. You can even earn Paw Points® for sharing your cat pics.

Question 28

Bladder Stones (Calcium Oxalate)

Accepted Answer

A low urine pH may be the result of a certain type of bladder stone called Calcium Oxalate stones. This is one of the most common types of bladder stones found in cats, making up about 40% of bladder stone incidences. Calcium Oxalate stones occur most commonly in male and middle-aged or older (>7 years old) cats. While some cases may be asymptomatic, Calcium Oxalate stones can also cause inflammation or blockages.

*Signs May Include:*
- More frequent urination
- Urinating outside the litter box
- Straining or unable to urinate*

\*If you see your cat straining or unable to urinate, please contact your veterinarian immediately.

Question 29

Metabolic Acidosis (Acid/Base Imbalance)

Accepted Answer

Metabolic Acidosis occurs when the level of acid in a cat’s body is too high. The kidneys are a major factor in helping regulate acid levels in the body; as such, Metabolic Acidosis is generally associated with underlying kidney issues like kidney injury or Chronic Kidney Disease.

*Signs May Include:*
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Confusion
-

Question 30

High Meat Diet and/or Medication

Accepted Answer

__A low urine pH may also be lifestyle related.__ A diet high in meat, for instance, can increase urine acidity because of the way those proteins break down in the body. A combination of a high meat diet and medication* can sometimes cause increased acidity to your cat’s urine as well.

\*If your cat is on prescription medication, please contact your veterinarian to see if acidic urine could be a side effect of your cat’s specific medication.

Question 31

Has your cat experienced any changes to their environment recently?

Accepted Answer

Cats are highly sensitive, and even small changes to their environment can lead to stress. Let your veterinarian know of any recent changes your cat may have experienced, no matter how minor they might seem.

*Changes to Their Environment Include:*
- Moving to a new home
- New pet joining the household
- New people visiting the household
- Different food or medication
- New or limited access to their litter box, food, and/or water

Question 32

Have you noticed changes in your cat’s behavior or litter box usage?

Accepted Answer

Cats are notorious for hiding their pain. Some signs of stress in cats include hiding or changes in how they interact with you. They may be more irritable, grooming more than normal, change their sleeping patterns, or exhibit abnormal litter box usage.

*Abnormal Litter Box Usage Includes:*
- More frequent urination
- Urinating outsie the litter box
- Straining or unable to urinate* (sometimes even vocalizing in or around the litter box)

\*If you see your cat straining or unable to urinate, please contact your veterinarian immediately.

Question 33

What is your cat’s current diet? Are they on any medications?

Accepted Answer

This is one of the first questions your veterinarian is likely to ask you. The more specific you can be, the better (think brand, type, frequency of meals, etc.).

The reason? Your cat’s diet and medications can greatly affect their urine pH – which means the color change you’ve seen might not be the result of a health condition at all. High meat diets can increase urine acidity, while high vegetable diets can increase urine alkalinity.

In addition, like humans, cats need water to stay healthy and balanced! If your cat is drinking more or less water than usual, make sure to let your veterinarian know.

Question 34

Is it unsafe for pregnant women to handle unused cat litter?

Accepted Answer

Unused cat litter is safe for handling by pregnant women. However, pregnant women should avoid handling used cat litter. Toxoplasmosis, an illness characterized by cold or flu-like symptoms, can be transmitted by cat feces. This is an especially serious concern for pregnant women, because it can cause birth defects. Immunosuppressed persons may also be susceptible to toxoplasmosis. For further information, consult your doctor.

Question 35

Are Fresh Step® products safe for animals other than cats?

Accepted Answer

Fresh Step® products are not recommended for use with dogs, rabbits, ferrets or any pets other than cats.

Question 36

Is Fresh Step® cat litter harmful to cats or other animals if ingested?

Accepted Answer

Fresh Step® cat litter is not known to cause harm to animals, including kittens, when ingested in small amounts. However, if a pet eats a large amount of any litter (e.g., a bowlful), we recommend that you consult a veterinarian.

Question 37

Is Fresh Step® cat litter biodegradable?

Accepted Answer

No. Like most cat litters, Fresh Step® Non-Clumping and Clumping litters are primarily made of clay, a natural but non-biodegradable mineral found in the earth. Fresh Step® Crystals are not biodegradable, but are compatible with most landfill requirements.

Question 38

Is Fresh Step® cat litter flammable or combustible?

Accepted Answer

No. Fresh Step® cat litter products are not flammable or combustible in any way.

Question 39

I’ve heard news reports that say products containing crystalline silica are unsafe. Are Fresh Step® Crystals safe for my cat?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Fresh Step® Crystals are extremely safe for your cat. Fresh Step® Crystals do not contain crystalline silica within scientific detection limits. Silica gel is a safe substance most commonly used to absorb excess moisture in flowers and food or to protect materials such as leather or computer equipment from humidity. It’s perfect for safely absorbing cat urine and eliminating odors.

Question 40

Are there any human health concerns for people who come in contact with Fresh Step® Crystals?

Accepted Answer

While there are no health risks associated with unused Fresh Step® Crystals, pregnant women and immunosuppressed persons should avoid handling any kind of used litter. Toxoplasmosis, an illness characterized by cold or flu-like symptoms, can be transmitted by cat feces. It is especially serious in pregnant women because it can cause birth defects. For further information, consult your doctor.

Question 41

What if I want to use a Fresh Step® clumping litter without the power of Febreze — what product should I buy?

Accepted Answer

We recommend that you try one of Fresh Step’s Unscented products.

Question 42

Is Fresh Step® with the power of Febreze harmful to cats?

Accepted Answer

The Febreze technology is designed specifically for the type of product application. In litter, we use a proprietary odor control technology designed to absorb, trap and help eliminate the type of odors that you find in your litter box all while being safe around your pets and family. Fresh Step® with the power of Febreze does not contain chemicals that are harmful to your cat.

In fact, at Clorox as a whole, the safety of you, your family, pets and the environment is a top priority. Our Global Stewardship and Product Safety and Regulatory Compliance departments rigorously evaluate a product's safety, efficacy and regulatory compliance before it makes it to store shelves. Want to know more? Clorox’s product safety policy is here.

Question 43

Does Fresh Step® with the power of Febreze have a strong scent?

Accepted Answer

Fresh Step® with the power of Febreze leaves behind a light, fresh clean scent that was designed to be used in litter and safe for your cat. It does not contain chemicals that are harmful to your cat.

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