Someone at the Sunshine Coast Regional District seems to have taken inspiration from our feline companions: On April 1, the local government put out a pre-emptive list of how to reduce water use. Number one on that list? Use a litter box, just like your cat.
Even low-flow toilets can use about 4.8 litres of water per flush, the regional district points out.
So, if “the box” is good enough for one of the most sophisticated house pet species, surely it’s good enough for the rest of us. The list did not indicate if or when the local government would be implementing any such change in restrooms at its offices or facilities.
The SCRD has stated that it will not scoop your litter for you — users must do that themselves. It does however recommend buying a larger litter box than the one Mittens uses. Another note: used litter is classed as garbage and cannot be disposed of as green waste.
Since the recommendation’s release, local pet stores are scrambling to fill an anticipated increase in demand.
Local cats told Coast Reporter they absolutely will not share their own litter boxes, citing overcrowding and territorial disputes. Several who we attempted to solicit comments from refused to acknowledge our presence. A youthful feline named Clover wrestled with the reporter’s shoelaces during her interview, but refused to meow on the record.
How’s that for a scoop? If it smells a bit off, that’s because it is! Happy April Fools' Day.
