Composition and method for promoting growth of microbes that are capable
of degrading animal waste. The method includes applying a nontoxic
composition to a bedding substrate that is disposed to receive animal
waste. The composition comprises a carboxylic acid, preferably the
carboxylic acid is a fatty acid, and more preferably a combination of a
saturated fatty acid and an unsaturated fatty acids. Specifically, a
preferred composition comprises a saturated fatty acid having from 12 to
22 carbon atoms and an unsaturated fatty acid having from 12 to 22 carbon
atoms. A still more preferred composition used both saturated and
unsaturated fatty acids having from 16 to 20 carbon atoms. Optionally,
the composition may include or encapsulate nutrients, an oxygen-releasing
compound, or microbes.