Furresh: an eco-friendly cassava and coffee-based cat litter innovation for sustainable pet care

Pet ownership in Malaysia has been rising steadily, creating an increasing demand for safe, effective, and environmentally friendly pet care products. Conventional cat litter, especially clay or silica-based, poses significant problems as it is non-biodegradable, requires destructive mining, consumes high energy during production, and may release harmful dust that can cause respiratory issues in both pets and humans. This project was initiated to address these concerns by introducing an innovative eco-friendly cat litter named Furresh, developed from cassava pulp and recycled coffee grounds. The main objectives are to reduce dependency on non-biodegradable materials, promote sustainability through agricultural waste upcycling, and provide pet owners with a healthier, chemical-free alternative. Cassava pulp functions as the primary absorbent due to its natural fibrous texture that enhances clumping ability, while coffee grounds act as a natural deodoriser with strong odour-masking properties. Small amounts of corn flour and baking soda are also incorporated to improve texture and odour control. The novelty of Furresh lies in its unique combination of agricultural by-products rarely applied in cat litter formulation, producing a product that is not only biodegradable and compostable but also supports zero-waste initiatives. By utilizing locally available resources, Furresh promotes a circular economy, reduces environmental pollution, and raises awareness of sustainable pet care practices. With its affordability, effectiveness, and eco-friendly attributes, this project has strong potential for commercialisation in the growing pet care industry while contributing to the achievement of multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).