Abstract: An animal litter with increased moisture retention and accelerated absorbency, a method of manufacture and method of use for indoor urine and feces disposal. An animal litter with a greater surface area and higher moisture retention intended for animals as small as mice, gerbils and hamsters, as well as larger domestic animals. The animal litter is a paper and wood composition treated with a surfactant, which increases moisture retention four to five times its weight.

Abstract: Particulate absorbent materials having a size and bulk density range that is conducive to provide a litter for animals that do not bury their eliminations. Where the granular material is sufficiently large and dense to not be discharged from a bin containing the granular material. Each granule has a smooth exterior that will not hang on to the hair or hide of the animal discharging their eliminations. Furthers the granules are of sufficient size and weight to not get stuck in the footing of the animal. The preferred characteristics of the material is having a width of 6 mm-12 mm and having an aspect ratio substantially between 1-1 and 1-6 where the granular substance has a bulk density greater than 12 pounds per cubic foot.

Abstract: A biodegradable absorbent mat for absorbing and containing moisture including debris from pet feet, consisting of a bottom layer formed of an organic absorbent mesh composite, a top layer affixed and overlying said bottom layer, having an alternating combination of stitched paper ruffles and helically intertwined brush fibers. The organic mesh composite may be burlap or paper, treated with starch for rigidity, and then coated with a natural gum or latex to enhance friction grip and provide a moisture barrier. The configuration of the stitched paper ruffles, provide maximum exposure of the cut linear edges of the ruffles to a pet's feet. The cut linear edges wick away moisture increasing the rate of absorbency. The stitched paper ruffles provide increased capacity for absorbency and debris containment. The helically intertwined brush fibers primarily remove debris from pet feet, and also provide a secondary function of containment of debris.

Abstract: An animal shred comprising an absorbent paper stock for use as a bedding material, wherein the paper stock is folded into signature, shredded, dusted and packaged in a vacuum sealed package. The paper stock may have a design printed thereon on one or both sides utilizing organic or soy-based ink. An animal shred manufacturing process comprising selecting a paper stock; folding the paper stock into signature; shredding the paper stock; dusting the shredded paper stock using a dust collection system and vacuum packaging the paper stock. A scent treatment, such an odorant or a flea deterrent, may be applied to the animal shred. The animal shred may be used as a filler for a cushion, which may be disposable, or the bedding material may be placed in an animal enclosure.

Abstract: A cellulose based animal bedding material is provided. The bedding is in the form of multi layered clumps with the layers being bound together by interaction between side margin portions of the clumps. The cutting process of the paper affects the adherence of the layers in the clumps together. The clumps may be packaged for shipping and handling. The clumps may then be dispensed to an animal bed as desired. Deodorized materials may be incorporated into the clumps.

Abstract: An animal litter is provided for simultaneously delivering urine-absorbent and mental-stimulating properties of the litter. The litter includes in combination a plurality of urine-absorbent particles forming a litter particulate component and a plurality of unfoldable polymeric cylinders constituting a polymeric cylinder component and intermixed with the urine-absorbent particles. The polymeric cylinders have a mean cylinder height of between 1 and 30 millimeters, a ratio of cylinder height to cylinder diameter of 1:1 to 12:1, and a strip length to cylinder height ratio of greater than 10:1. The litter particulate component is present relative to the cylinders in a volume ratio of 1:1 to 25:1. A process is further provided to mental stimulation and boredom reduction of a caged animal. The process includes providing the animal with the above inventive litter and allowing sufficient time for the animal to unfold a portion of the polymeric cylinders.

Abstract: Animal litter composed of plural discrete particles, each particle containing both mineral and organic matter. An absorbent artificial granule is made up of absorbent fiber, minerals, and chemicals. The highly absorptive and lightweight litter of this invention substantially reduces litter box malodors, extends usage duration of a given cat litter volume unit, eliminates dust, and increases consumer convenience by substantially reducing the weight of the product in conventionally sized packaging. In one embodiment, an animal litter granule is made up of:: 20-50 weight-% fine absorbent fibers, preferably 25-45 weight-% fine absorbent cellulose fibers; 10-30 weight-% zeolite, preferably 12-30 weight-% zeolite; 10-70 weight-% mineral filler, preferably 16-61 weight-% mineral filler selected from kaolin, titanium dioxide, calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, and mixtures thereof; and 0.5-10 weight-% binder, preferably 0.5-3 weight-% acrylic binder.

Abstract: An absorbent composition of matter acts as a carrier for an active ingredient. The active ingredient is gradually released by the carrier in a controlled manner, which is compatible with the environment and current tendencies towards the use of organic and biodegradable products. The carrier is characterized as being particles obtained from the milling, separation, air wash and classification of the different fractions obtained from corncobs. The active ingredient is, for example, an essential oil, such as garlic oil or extract that may be combined with other essential oils for a synergistic effect that results in an improved insecticide/fungicide that is natural and contains no chemical additives. Alternatively, an artificially obtained substitute, for example, allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), can be used as a substitute for mustard seed oil.

Abstract: A method of cleaning bedding sand soiled with animal manure removes the bedding sand from an animal bedding area. An aqueous slurry of the bedding sand is made. The slurry is subjected to cyclonic action so as to separate the sand from the manure. The separated sand is then respread back into the animal bedding area for reuse. The clean bedding sand is free of organic contaminants such as manure, urine and milk. In addition, the bedding sand may contain inorganic contaminants such as clay and silt particles as well as fine particles which are undesirable in a bedding material. Processing the sand removes these inorganic contaminants and fine particles to produce a superior bedding sand for animals.

Abstract: A cat litter product is provided and includes manufacture primarily from modified corn starch which is processed through mash distillation. The litter product is pelletized via an extrusion technology process so as to form particles the size of wheat grain. The litter product provides, collectively, a non-toxic and naturally safe, biodegradable, odor-eliminating, scented, anti-bacterial litter that clumps in a convenient size for easy disposal and which has little dust and reduces tracking by cats.

Abstract: Moisture absorbing efficiency of excrement is enhanced by providing a high degree of porosity and a high porosity ratio to a hydraulic granulated body and a non-hydraulic granulated body in a method of manufacturing a granulated body for absorbing excrement of animals. There is provided a method of manufacturing a granulated body for absorbing excrement of animals, characterized in that dry bamboo fibers and wood fibers are used as a chief material. The dry bamboo fibers and wood fibers are mixed with each other while adding moisture thereto and the dry bamboo fibers are allowed to absorb the moisture. The resultant is granulated to form a wet granulated body, hot air is blown to the wet granulated body, and the moisture absorbed in the dry bamboo fiber is transpired outward through the wet granulated body by the hot air. A porous structure in the dry bamboo fibers in the wet granulated body is produced by the transpiration due to formation of transpiring paths in the wet granulated body.

Abstract: An absorbent and method of making are provided according to the invention. The absorbent in one embodiment includes a fibrous cellulose component, a particulate cellulose component, and a binding agent. The fibrous cellulose component and the particulate cellulose component are intermixed and the binding agent binds the fibrous cellulose component and the particulate cellulose component.

Abstract: A discharged-waste processing material for pet animals is formed from a waste material of double sided water resistant paper as a raw material. A chief material of the discharged-waste processing material is crushed paper pieces obtained by finely crushing the double sided water resistant paper having laminate layers on both sides. A granular body is formed of an aggregate of the crushed paper pieces and has voids formed between the laminate layers of adjacent crushed paper pieces for guiding discharged urine into a core part of the granular body. The granular body has a water retaining structure in which the discharged urine is absorbed into a paper layer between the laminate layers through a sheared surface of each crushed paper piece, and the absorbed urine is cut off by the laminate layers so that the urine is retained in the paper layers.

Abstract: A new product is described characterized by its qualities to absorb undesirable scents present in the air, while serving at the same time as a carrier for aromas, fragrances, flavorings, repellents, attractants and other active ingredients. The active ingredients are gradually released by the carrier, which is compatible with the environment and current tendencies towards the use of organic and biodegradable products. The composition comprises a carrier and an active ingredient. The carrier is characterized as being particles obtained from the milling, separation, air wash and classification of the different fractions obtained from corncobs.

Abstract: A method of making pellets of coconut coir pith used as cat litter. The coconut coir pith is nontoxic, lightweight and creates very little dust when compared to other cat litter products. Also, the coir pith pore structure absorbs all of the cat urine and doesn't release any of the typical cat urine smell to the atmosphere. In the method of making cat litter pellets from powdered coir pith, the first step includes crushing coconut husks and mixing the residual powdered coconut coir pith with water. The coir pith and water mixture is then compressed through a die having a plurality of ?th inch diameter holes therein for creating spaghetti like strings of coir pith. The strings of coir pith are then cut to a length of ½ inches or less. The pellets are heated in an oven for removing moisture and hardening them. The harden pellets are then packaged for shipment to customers.

Abstract: To provide a discharged waste processing material for animals having high water-absorbent properties and high water-retentive properties at a low cost, and to contribute to conservation of resources and preservation of environment. A discharged waste processing material for animals is characterized in that a crushed paper piece obtained by crushing a waste gypsum board with a base paper for a gypsum board bonded to an outer surface thereof and having a gypsum thin layer bound to one surface thereof is used as a base material, a cotton-like disaggregated material 3b having particles 2d of gypsum powder captured therein or a cotton-like disaggregated material 3b having minute gypsum pieces 2c bound therein is used as a composition, and the cotton-like disaggregated material 3b is used either alone or mixed with other material, so that a granular or mat-like shape is applied thereto.

Abstract: Animal litter composed of plural discrete particles, each particle containing both mineral and organic matter. An absorbent artificial granule is made up of absorbent fiber, minerals, and chemicals. The highly absorptive and lightweight litter of this invention substantially reduces litter box malodors, extends usage duration of a given cat litter volume unit, eliminates dust, and increases consumer convenience by substantially reducing the weight of the product in conventionally sized packaging. In one embodiment, an animal litter granule is made up of:: 20-50 weight-% fine absorbent fibers, preferably 25-45 weight-% fine absorbent cellulose fibers; 10-30 weight-% zeolite, preferably 12-30 weight-% zeolite; 10-70 weight-% mineral filler, preferably 16-61 weight-% mineral filler selected from kaolin, titanium dioxide, calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, and mixtures thereof; and 0.5-10 weight-% binder, preferably 0.5-3 weight-% acrylic binder.

Abstract: Animal litter composed of plural discrete particles that are dual component granules. Each of the absorbent granules of this invention is made up of an inner core and an external coating complex. The inner core of the granule may be made with natural or artificial fibers, mineral filler, and binder. The coating of the granule may be made with an agglomerating agent and with natural or artificial materials that reduce odors and/or prevent the formation of malodors. The external coating layer may consists essentially of bentonite, zeolite and/or boric acid, and, optionally, fine cellulose fibers. The granules of this invention agglomerate into clumps when wetted. The highly absorptive and lightweight litter of this invention substantially reduces litter box malodors, extends usage duration of a given cat litter volume unit, and increases consumer convenience by substantially reducing the weight of the product in conventionally sized packaging.

Abstract: An animal litter consists of wood particles and wood shavings and baking soda. The wood particles and wood shavings are selected from the group consisting of pine and aspen, to thereby provide a litter with optimal absorbency and odor control characteristics.

Abstract: The animal litter of the present invention is composed of plural discrete particles that are dual component granules. Each of the absorbent granules of this invention is made up of an inner core and an external coating complex. Preferably, the inner core of the granule is made with natural or artificial fibers, mineral filler, and binder. Preferably, the coating of the granule is made with an agglomerating agent and with natural or artificial materials that reduce odors and/or prevent the formation of malodors. Most preferably, the external coating layer consists essentially of bentonite, zeolite and/or boric acid, and, optionally, fine cellulose fibers. The granules of this invention are designed to agglomerate into clumps when wetted.

Abstract: A litter composition comprising a substantially particulate primary absorbent material and a binding agent, the binding agent comprising approximately 0.01%-40% of the litter composition. In one embodiment, the primary absorbent material comprises silica gel and the binding agent comprises a galactomannan. In additional embodiments, the litter composition also includes at least one of the following components: fixing agent, colorant agent, anti-bacterial agent, fragrance and/or supplemental absorbent material.

Abstract: Clumping cellulosic animal litter comprising a cellulosic substrate coated with a first coating of a dual adhesive and surface active agent, and a second coating of guar gum, and the method of making such particles.

Abstract: An economical process that combines bentonite, or similar clays, that form a clump when in contact with cat urine, with waste cellulosic fibrous materials, preferably paper mill sludge, to form a light weight scoopable (clumping) cat litter product. In the process, paper mill cellulose waste is combined with bentonite clay (preferably sodium bentonite) in a mixing auger in varying percentages depending upon the desired end weight of the finished product, transferred to a secondary rotating drum mixer, then to a rotating drum dryer, and from the dryer to a screening process. The finished product is a granule weighing between 20 lbs./cubic foot and 50 lbs./cubic foot. The granule is highly absorbent and capable of forming a distinct clump that can be separated from the surrounding granules without falling apart. A unique characteristic of the process is the combination of heavy clay particles with light weight cellulose particles to form a new composite particle.

Abstract: A new product is described characterized by its qualities to absorb undesirable scents present in the air, while serving at the same time as a carrier for aromas, fragrances, flavorings, repellents, attractants and other active ingredients. The active ingredients are gradually released by the carrier, which is compatible with the environment and current tendencies towards the use of organic and biodegradable products. The composition comprises a carrier and an active ingredient. The carrier is characterized as being particles obtained from the milling, separation, air wash and classification of the different fractions obtained from corncobs.

Abstract: An absorbent compacted composition is disclosed. The absorbent compacted composition of the present invention consists essentially of clay, a finely divided cellulosic material, such as fir, and finely divided pine. The amount of finely divided cellulosic material and finely divided pine is enough to bind the composition into a compacted form without additional binders or water addition. Also, the amount of pine is sufficient to reduce the friction heat during compaction to no greater than about 200° F.

Abstract: The present invention provides antimicrobial compositions and methods for reducing the number and/or the viability of microbial populations on surfaces exposed to animal feces, such as animal litter and animal containment areas.

Abstract: An absorbent compacted composition is disclosed. The absorbent compacted composition of the present invention consists essentially of clay, a finely divided cellulosic material, such as fir, and finely divided pine. The amount of finely divided cellulosic material and finely divided pine is enough to bind the composition into a compacted form without additional binders or water addition. Also, the amount of pine is sufficient to reduce the friction heat during compaction to no greater than about 200° F.

Abstract: An animal bedding composition and method of manufacture includes cut or shredded pieces of multiple panel corrugated cardboard kraft paper structures having an internal corrugated panel sandwiched between outer panels, and an adsorptive deodorizing ion exchange agent such as a zeolite dispersed throughout the cardboard pieces and carried on outer and inner surfaces of the pieces of cardboard and on outer and inner surfaces of the corrugations to provide a comfortable, hygienic and deodorized floor covering for animal stalls. An automated method of manufacturing the animal bedding composition is also described. The ion exchange agent attaches to surfaces of the corrugated cardboard which serves as a carrier to sanitize and deodorize a stall. The open structure of the cut corrugations provides mechanical load absorption, and a wicking action to aerate moisture from a stall.

Abstract: An automated method and system of manufacturing an animal bedding composition includes cutting or shredding pieces of multiple panel corrugated cardboard structures having an internal corrugated panel sandwiched between outer panels and adding an adsorptive deodorizing ion exchange agent such as a zeolite dispersed throughout the cardboard pieces and carried on outer and inner surfaces of the pieces of cardboard and on outer and inner surfaces of the corrugations to provide a comfortable, hygienic and deodorized floor covering for animal stalls.

Abstract: An animal bedding composition and method of manufacture includes cut or shredded pieces of multiple panel corrugated cardboard kraft paper structures having an internal corrugated panel sandwiched between outer panels, and an adsorptive deodorizing ion exchange agent such as a zeolite dispersed throughout the cardboard pieces and carried on outer and inner surfaces of the pieces of cardboard and on outer and inner surfaces of the corrugations to provide a comfortable, hygienic and deodorized floor covering for animal stalls. An automated method of manufacturing the animal bedding composition is also described. The ion exchange agent attaches to surfaces of the corrugated cardboard which serves as a carrier to sanitize and deodorize a stall. The open structure of the cut corrugations provides mechanical load absorption, and a wicking action to aerate moisture from a stall.

Abstract: An absorbent material for house pet animals, includes pulp fibers containing a natural or synthetic polymer and formed in a granular shape; and a solution of an amphoteric polymer having an acidic pH. The solution is added to the pulp fibers.

Abstract: A discharged urine or other waste fluids processing material for animals is fabricated of a short twisted paper rod obtained by cutting a twisted string into short pieces which twisted string is formed by twisting a strip of paper. The short twisted paper rod has such a paper layer structure that a fiber thereof is oriented from one end cutting plane thereof towards the other end cutting plane, and owing to the paper layer structure, the discharged urine or other waste fluids are allowed to permeate into the short twisted paper rod from the cutting planes.

Abstract: An absorbent compacted composition is disclosed. The absorbent compacted composition of the present invention consists essentially of clay, a finely divided cellulosic material, such as fir, and finely divided pine. The amount of finely divided cellulosic material and finely divided pine is enough to bind the composition into a compacted form without additional binders or water addition. Also, the amount of pine is sufficient to reduce the friction heat during compaction to no greater than about 200° F.

Abstract: A method of producing an organic fertilizer from a highly absorbent animal bedding material manufactured from recycled waste paper, cotton fiber and cotton gin waste, and gypsum. The recycled waste products are combined to form a slurry mixture for processing by conventional paper making machinery into sheet material. Various chemical additives are admixed to the slurry mixture to control bacterial growth in the bedding material. The sheet material is further processed into sized particles to provide an animal bedding such as poultry litter. After the highly absorbent material is saturated with nutrient-rich animal excrement, it is subjected to chemical analysis and further processed to provide a biodegradable, organic fertilizer. The absorbent bedding material has alternative uses such as for collection of liquid chemical spills and for the remediation of such spills by biodegradation.

Abstract: A pet animal body waste treating material which enables disposal of pet animal body waste, such as urine, mollock or so forth, in a similar manner as household combustible waste, and which can be manufactured easily at low material cost, can maintain satisfactorily a large total water absorption area while forming relatively small block with only a portion absorbing water, and thus is quite economical. The pet animal body waste treating material is composed of a core portion, in which paper powder, powdered bentonite and water absorbing polymer are mixed, and a surface layer portion coating the core portion, and wherein in the surface layer portion paper powder, powdered bentonite, carboxymethyl cellulose and starch are mixed.

Abstract: An absorbent compacted composition is disclosed. The absorbent compacted composition of the present invention consists essentially of zeolite, a finely divided cellulosic material, such as fir, and finely divided pine. The amount of finely divided cellulosic material and finely divided pine is enough to bind the composition into a compacted form without additional binders or water addition. Also, the amount of pine is sufficient to reduce the friction heat during compaction to no greater than about 200° F.

Abstract: Methods are provided for preparing absorbent material, comprising providing non-broken down and uncut recycled fiber sludge having a moisture content of greater than about 40%; pelletizing said recycled fiber sludge to form wet pellets; and drying said wet pellets. The absorbent material is particularly useful as an industrial-grade waste liquid absorbent and/or an animal litter.

Abstract: Completely biodegradable mulch products which form a mechanically-bonded yet open fiber mulch matrix contain natural fibers and interlockable crimped natural fibers, the crimped natural fibers being crimped by a process which induces a water-resistant permanent crimp.

Abstract: An economical process that combines bentonite, or similar clays, that form a clump when in contact with cat urine, with waste cellulosic fibrous materials, preferably paper mill sludge, to form a light weight scoopable (clumping) cat litter product. In the process, paper mill cellulose waste is combined with bentonite clay (preferably sodium bentonite) in a mixing auger in varying percentages depending upon the desired end weight of the finished product, transferred to a secondary rotating drum mixer, then to a rotating drum dryer, and from the dryer to a screening process. The finished product is a granule weighing between 20 lbs./cubic foot and 50 lbs./cubic foot. The granule is highly absorbent and capable of forming a distinct clump that can be separated from the surrounding granules without falling apart. A unique characteristic of the process is the combination of heavy clay particles with light weight cellulose particles to form a new composite particle.

Abstract: A litter composition including paper, sawdust, and zeolite molecular sieve is described. The composition is formed into pellets or discs having a size, soil-like consistency, and texture which is believed to be attractive to dogs. In addition, the litter has a high degree of absorption and odor control. The litter composition may further include sphagnum moss to provide additional absorbency.

Abstract: Methods are provided for preparing absorbent material, comprising providing non-broken down and uncut recycled fiber sludge having a moisture content of greater than about 40%; pelletizing said recycled fiber sludge to form wet pellets; and drying said wet pellets. The absorbent material is particularly useful as an industrial-grade waste liquid absorbent and/or an animal litter.

Abstract: A household animal waste collection sheet having a liquid permeable top sheet, a liquid impermeable backing sheet and an absorbent core interposed between the top sheet and the backing sheet, is disclosed. The absorbent core is formed of a pulp layer and particulate super-absorbent polymers disposed on both a top face and a bottom face of the pulp layer. This waste collection sheet has a high rate of liquid-absorption while preventing liquid from flowing backward to the top sheet. Further, the waste collection sheet has a high stiffness.

Abstract: Pet litter for disposal of animal wastes, which comprises granular bodies containing fiber and/or super absorbent polymer and each of the granular bodies is compressed to be flat-shaped. The pet litter can readily absorb animal wastes and can be effectively prevented from being scattered off by animal's legs in spite of its lightness.

Abstract: A soil covering medium of the mulch type or the like, constituted by vegele fibers having a cumulative weight of lignin and resin greater than or equal to about 25% by weight relative to the dry weight of the fibers and a length greater than or equal to about 0.5 mm as to at least about 70% of the fibers, the fibers being formed of individual filaments or fibrils.

Abstract: A cellulose-based, clumpable animal litter features reduced water activity at cost-effective product moisture levels. The composition includes cellulosic granules and clay particles present in an amount up to 40 weight percent, but sufficient to give the litter composition a packaging-compatible water activity.

Abstract: A cellulose-based animal litter product effective in the control of odors generated by animal wastes is disclosed. Selected cellulosic granules containing mineral filler are contacted with a bactericide to produce a bactericide impregnated cellulosic litter which is useful as a pet box litter. The cellulosic litter can also contain an organic clumping agent or an inorganic clumping agent, or both.

Abstract: A pourable, granular paper mulch product including a granular solid comprising at least about 85% paper by weight and at least about 6% water by weight, and having a settled density of at least about 15 pounds per cubic foot is prepared by comminuting paper, mixing the comminuting paper with water to form a pulp, extruding the pulp through a die orifice, chopping the extrudate to a length of less than about 1/8 inch to form granules, and drying the granules to achieve a final moisture content of from about 6% to about 13% by weight. The granular paper mulch product exhibits excellent flow characteristics, and can be easily applied to a damaged area of lawn such as by pouring the patch composition directly from a box.

Abstract: An improved litter for the accumulation of animal urine comprises a cellulosic base material which is impregnated with a pH-indicating solution to provide a visually detectable color transition at a particular pH level. Cellulosic material such as wastepaper, newsprint, cardboard, etc. can be used to form cellulosic particles that are light, absorbent, and relatively dust-free. In the preferred embodiment, cellulosic particles are impregnated with a pH indicator such as litmus which will undergo a color transition upon contact with animal urine, thus providing an indication that bacteria may be present. The color of the litter is changed from blue to red at each location of animal urination. This improved pH-sensitive litter, therefore, provides a cost-effective and environmentally safe means for pet owners to determine when animal litter needs to be changed.

Abstract: A commercially useful material is produced from waste gypsum boards containing calcium sulfate dihydrate, by a method comprising the steps of (a) grinding the waste gypsum boards to obtain particles having a substantially uniform size; (b) drying the particles obtained in step (a) to obtain moisture-free particles; (c) heating the moisture-free particles obtained in step (b) at a temperature of 128 to 162.degree. C. to convert the calcium sulfate dihydrate to calcium sulfate hemihydrate; (d) adding water to the particles obtained in step (c) to form a paste; (e) forming the paste obtained in step (d) into a shaped product of a predetermined size; and (f) drying the shaped product obtained in step (e) at a temperature of 105 to 120.degree. C. to obtain a commercially useful material. The materials produced by the method of the invention can be used for a variety of industrial and household purposes.

Abstract: A discharged urine or other waste fluids processing material for pet animals composed of fluid absorbent coarse particles which are subjected to compression molding without the addition of water so as to have a prescribed pellet configuration.