Appeal 2007-2028
Application 11/058,147
BACKGROUND
“A major problem with the absorbent materials [used in pet litter
boxes] is that after a relatively short period of time, the . . . soiled absorbent
emits objectionable odors . . .” (Specification 1). When the odors “become
intolerable, the homeowner discards the absorbent material. The homeowner
then washes the litter box and refills it with fresh absorbent material. These
activities are, however, unpleasant, time-consuming and expensive” (id.).
The Specification discloses “a low cost, litter composition that
substantially reduces the emanation of offensive odors . . .” (id. at 3). In one
embodiment the litter comprises “substantially particulate silica gel material
with a particle size distribution between 1-2 mm and up to 2% of a material
selected from the group consisting of a fixing agent, a colorant agent, an
anti-bacterial agent, a fragrance, a supplemental absorbent material, an odor-
controlling/inhibiting active, and mixtures thereof” (id.).
DISCUSSION
1. CLAIMS
Claims 1-20 are pending and on appeal. Claims 1 and 19 are
representative and read as follows:
1. An animal litter comprising:
a substantially particulate silica gel material with a
particle size distribution between 0.15-2 mm.
19. An animal litter comprising:
a substantially particulate silica gel material with a
particle size distribution between .15-2 mm; and
up to 1% of a material selected from the group consisting
of a fixing agent, a colorant agent, an anti-bacterial agent, an
odor controlling agent, a fragrance and mixtures thereof.
2
Page: Previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Next
Last modified: September 9, 2013