RALSTON BUYS KITTY LITTER MANUFACTURER

ST. LOUIS -- Ralston Purina Co. here is entering the cat litter market through its acquisition of Golden Cat Corp., a manufacturer of branded cat box filler.

fiscal year ended Dec. 31.

"The combination of Golden Cat's leading brand names and strong distribution across all retail channels will be an excellent strategic addition to Ralston's leading position in pet foods," W. Patrick McGinnis, Ralston Purina Pet Products president and chief executive officer, said in a statement.