A nationwide crisis in cat litter supply has emerged, affecting well-known brands like Fresh Step and Scoop Away, as Clorox, the parent company responsible for these popular labels, grapples with the aftermath of a crippling cybersecurity attack. Feline enthusiasts are now seeking alternative solutions amidst this unsettling development.
The issue came to light in mid-August and has since precipitated profound disruptions in the supply chain, as reported by The Washington Post. Clorox found itself compelled to resort to manual order processing due to extensive damage inflicted on its internal systems, resulting in significant order processing delays and complications, according to NBC.
While Clorox anticipates a return to normal order processing in the upcoming week, the company remains uncertain about the pace at which they can recover on both the fulfillment and operational fronts. This uncertainty leaves consumers in a state of uncertainty as they scramble for interim alternatives.
Yet, transitioning to a different cat litter product can pose challenges for our feline companions, cautions Petbarn, potentially causing confusion to the extent that they may abandon their designated elimination area.
Whitney Miller, Chief Veterinarian at Petco, emphasized the importance of selecting a replacement litter as closely aligned with the previous one as possible when speaking to The Washington Post.
Kate Benjamin, renowned author of “Catification” and “Catify to Satisfy,” echoed this sentiment, advising a gradual introduction of the new cat litter. For those with dwindling supplies of Fresh Step, Scoop Away, or Ever Clean, Benjamin suggested blending the remaining old stock with the more readily available alternative. This approach aims to facilitate a smoother transition for cherished pets.
“Hopefully, they will associate the new litter with the preferred litter,” she explained to the publication, offering a glimmer of hope amid the ongoing challenge.
