Special Kitty Clumping Litter

Your Complete Resource for Choosing the Best Litter for Your Feline Friend

As a cat owner, you know that having the right litter is essential for your cat’s health and happiness. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming trying to decide which litter to choose. Special Kitty Clumping Litter is a popular and affordable cat litter brand sold exclusively at Walmart. But is it the best choice for your furry companion? This definitive buying guide provides everything you need to know to find the perfect Special Kitty Clumping Litter for your cat.

What is Special Kitty Clumping Litter?

Special Kitty Clumping Litter is Walmart’s store brand of clumping clay cat litter. It comes in a variety of types including regular, lightweight, scented, unscented, multi-cat, and natural. The clumping action allows you to scoop out solid waste, leaving behind clean litter. Special Kitty clumping litter is made from bentonite clay, which forms clumps when moistened by urine to isolate odors. It also contains silica gel for extra odor control.

This affordable litter aims to provide a clumping ability similar to national brands at a lower price point. Special Kitty Clumping Litter is designed to be 99.9% dust-free and trackless when wet. It is available exclusively at Walmart stores and online.

How Does Special Kitty Clumping Litter Work?

Special Kitty Clumping Litter absorbs liquid through the clay in the litter, forming a solid clump around the waste. The clump can then be scooped out, removing both solid waste and liquid waste. The remaining clean litter is left behind, ready to continue absorbing urine and odors.

The clumps are formed through a chemical reaction between the bentonite clay and any moisture. When wet, the clay expands and sticks together, surrounding the waste in a clump. Bentonite clay is very effective at clumping and controlling odors naturally. Silica gel is added to further help control odors and prevent tracking of litter through absorption.

Many cats instinctively prefer clumping litter due to its ability to isolate waste. By forming clumps, the litter stays cleaner than non-clumping varieties. Cats may avoid litters where waste remains mixed in, so clumping provides a cleaner environment. The clumps also make waste removal quick and easy for owners.

What Are the Ingredients in Special Kitty Clumping Litter?

Special Kitty Clumping Litter is made from bentonite clay, which is a naturally clumping clay. Bentonite contains traces of minerals like calcium, magnesium, and sodium that allow it to form solid clumps when wet.

The main ingredients are:

• Bentonite clay – The key clumping ingredient that forms solid clumps when moistened. It is a natural clay containing trace minerals.
• Silica gel – Helps control odors by absorbing moisture and ammonia. Prevents tracking by absorbing liquid.
• Fragrance – Added in scented varieties. Usually light, fresh fragrances cats enjoy.

The lightweight formulas contain less dense clay so the litter is less heavy when transporting and pouring. Natural varieties avoid chemical fragrances and dyes. Overall, the ingredients are natural clays and minerals with added silica gel for odor control.

How Effective is Special Kitty at Odor Control?

Special Kitty Clumping Litter is designed to provide effective odor control through its clumping ability and added silica gel. The clumps trap urine and fecal matter to contain smells. Silica crystals absorb ammonia and other odors from urine.

However, some cat owners find it lacks odor control compared to premium litters, especially in multi-cat homes. Clumps tend to fall apart more easily, releasing smells. Lightweight litter may tracking more due to less dense clumps. Scented varieties help counteract odors between full changes.

Frequently scooping waste and changing the litter before it gets too saturated is recommended when using Special Kitty litter. Overall, it provides cost-effective odor control that requires more maintenance from the owner than pricier litters.

How to Use Special Kitty Clumping Litter Properly

To get the best results from Special Kitty Clumping Litter, follow these tips for proper use:

• Scoop daily – Scoop waste and clumps out of the litter box once or twice daily. This will control odors and prevent the litter from getting too dirty.
• Change regularly – Dump everything and add fresh litter every 2-4 weeks for one cat, or more often for multiple cats. This prevents buildup of odors and wastes.
• Add litter as needed – Refill the box between changes so there is always enough fresh litter for clumping and coverage. Watch for low spots.
• Clean the box – Wash the litter box with soap and hot water regularly when changing the litter to prevent residue buildup.
• Use enough litter – Fill the box with at least 2-3 inches of litter for optimal clumping and odor control. Depth allows clumps to form.

Following these basic practices will maximize Special Kitty’s clumping power and odor control. Proper litter box maintenance is essential!

Where Can I Buy Special Kitty Clumping Litter?

Special Kitty Clumping Litter is sold exclusively at Walmart stores and on Walmart.com. It can be found in the pet section alongside other Walmart-branded pet supplies.

Special Kitty litter frequently goes on sale or is discounted when purchasing larger sizes. You can stock up on litter when it’s on rollback to get the best deal. Walmart also offers convenient services like curbside pickup and delivery for your litter purchases.

Walmart carries the full range of Special Kitty litters including regular, lightweight, multi-cat, unscented, touch of spring, fresh scent, and natural. Availability of specific varieties can vary by location and season. Always check online or in your local store to find your desired Special Kitty litter type in stock.

What is the Price Range for Special Kitty Clumping Litter?

One of the biggest appeals of Special Kitty Clumping Litter is its very affordable price, especially compared to premium cat litters. The price range is:

• Small 7-10 lb bag: $4-$6
• Medium 15-20 lb bag: $8-$12
• Large 25-28 lb bag: $10-$15
• Jumbo 34-40 lb bag: $15-$18

These prices may be even lower when Special Kitty litter is on sale or rollback at Walmart. Special Kitty is significantly cheaper than top brands like Tidy Cats and Fresh Step, which can cost 2-3 times as much. The lower cost makes Special Kitty a budget-friendly litter.

However, note that more frequent litter changes may be required compared to higher quality litters. The lower upfront cost of Special Kitty can be offset by having to replace it more often. But used properly, it can still provide big savings over premium litters.

How Does Special Kitty Compare to Other Litter Brands?

Special Kitty Clumping Litter offers similar clumping performance to national brands at a much lower price point. However, there are some trade-offs:

• Odor control – Not as strong odor control as premium litters like Fresh Step or Tidy Cats. Requires frequent scooping and changes.
• Clumping strength – Forms clumps, but they are more prone to crumbling apart than top brands.
• Dust – Some dust, though less than cheaper clay litters. Lacks the virtually dust-free experience of top litters.
• Tracking – Clay particles can be tracked outside the litter box without the tracking-fighting features of premium litters.
• Weight – Regular Special Kitty litter is heavier to pour and carry than lightweight litters.

While it lacks some features of pricier options, Special Kitty still performs the essential functions of clumping and containing waste reasonably well. The much lower price tag makes it ideal for cat owners on a tight budget.

Is Special Kitty Clumping Litter Safe for Kittens?

Special Kitty Clumping Litter can generally be used safely for kittens when a few extra precautions are taken:

• Avoid scented litters, as kittens are more sensitive to fragrances and chemicals. Use only unscented, natural formula.
• Allow very small kittens to adjust to a shallow layer of litter at first until they learn to dig and bury.
• Scoop waste frequently to keep the litter clean for curious kittens. They are more prone to illness from bacteria.
• Make sure kittens don’t eat litter, which can cause blockages and toxicity. Provide supervision when first training kittens.
• Switch to a finer, lightweight litter instead of regular if kittens struggle with clumping action or digging.

As long as scent and dust are minimized, Special Kitty Clumping Litter can be a safe, affordable choice for most kittens. But extra care should be taken to ensure a clean litter environment. Consider a gentler or lower dust litter if any health issues arise.

How to Dispose of Special Kitty Clumping Litter?

Disposing of used Special Kitty Clumping Litter requires a few steps:

• Scoop solid waste directly into the trash. Make sure clumps fully break apart so they don’t clog drains later.
• Dump remaining used litter into a trash bag carefully to minimize dust. Avoid inhaling dust while pouring.
• Seal trash bags containing litter tightly. Used clumping litter can be very heavy, so double bag if needed.
• Put sealed bags into outdoor garbage bins for regular trash pickup. Never try to flush clumping litter down toilets as this can clog pipes.
• Wash the empty litter box with soap and water after each litter change. Disinfect occasionally with diluted bleach.
• Allow the litter box to dry fully before refilling with fresh litter. Place it in an out-of-the-way spot while not in use.

Proper disposal keeps Special Kitty Clumping Litter from harming plumbing or the environment. Always check local regulations too, as some areas may have special cat litter disposal rules.

What Are the Reviews for Special Kitty Clumping Litter?

Reviews of Special Kitty Clumping Litter are generally positive, earning 3-4 out of 5 stars on average. Happy customers praise its low cost litter that handles basic clumping and odor needs. The natural scent and dust-free experience of the natural variety also gets great feedback.

However, some drawbacks mentioned in reviews include:

• The clumps are weaker and crumble more readily than premium litters
• Odor control requires very frequent scooping and changing
• Lightweight litter can track more and make skimpier clumps
• Scented versions have an overpowering fragrance

Many reviewers agree Special Kitty works well when maintained properly, though it lacks the convenience and performance of pricier clumps litters. Cats seem to readily adjust to Special Kitty. Overall, it rates well as an affordable, entry-level clumping litter.

How Often Should I Change Special Kitty Clumping Litter?

Here are some general guidelines for how often Special Kitty Clumping Litter needs changing:

• For 1 cat – Change every 2-4 weeks
• For 2 cats – Change every 1-2 weeks
• For 3+ cats – Change at least every 1-2 weeks

Since Special Kitty lacks advanced odor control, ammonia from urine can build up faster than with premium litters optimized to contain smells longer between changes. For multi-cat homes, aim for the lower ends of the time ranges.

Additionally, change the litter anytime it becomes very dirty, saturated with urine, or develops a strong odor before reaching the maximum time. Err on the side of more frequent litter swaps when using Special Kitty to prevent overwhelming ammonia smells. Prompt waste scooping also extends usable life between changes.

Is Special Kitty Clumping Litter Dust-Free?

Special Kitty Clumping Litter is advertised as 99.9% dust-free. However, many users note it still produces some dust, especially when pouring or first scooping a fresh box. Lightweight Special Kitty in particular may release more dust particles into the air.

While not completely dust-free, it does produce significantly less dust than cheaper clay litters. Much of the dust is minimized through the clay clumping process as particles bind together with moisture. There is no tracking of fine particles like with traditional clay litter.

Owners sensitive to dust or those with cats with respiratory issues may prefer using the low dust natural variety of Special Kitty litter. Overall, it has reduced dust suitable for most cats compared to non-clumping clay options but does not match the truly dust-free performance of premium brands. Proper scooping technique can further minimize airborne dust.

What Are the Benefits of Using Special Kitty Clumping Litter?

Some of the benefits that make Special Kitty Clumping Litter a popular choice include:

• Low cost – Significantly cheaper than national brands
• Good clumping – Forms solid clumps for easy removal of waste
• Limited tracking – Clay granules don’t get tracked outside the litter box
• Minimal dust – Far less dust than regular clay litters
• Effective odor control -Traps smells when promptly scooped
• Lightweight option – Easy to carry and pour
• Natural option – No dyes or perfumes
• Wide availability – Easy to find year-round at any Walmart

The affordability of Special Kitty is its biggest draw. While not as fancy as premium litters, it gets the job done clumping and containing waste for much less.

Does Special Kitty Clumping Litter Clump Well?

Special Kitty Clumping Litter forms moderately hard clumps that are easy to scoop out of the litter box. The bentonite clay quickly reacts with any moisture to surround and contain waste. Most cats don’t have issues with the texture or breakage of Special Kitty clumps.

However, the clumps tend to be less dense and more brittle than high-end litter brands. As the litter gets older, the clumps are prone to crumbling and breaking apart more readily. Ammonia odors can escape as clumps disintegrate. Frequently scooping waste before this happens is recommended when using Special Kitty.

For easy, everyday clumpable litter on a budget, Special Kitty has clumping ability that satisfies most cat owners. Just don’t expect the extremely hard, indestructible clumps of ultra premium litters. Prompt scooping maintenance helps keep Special Kitty Clumping Litter forming tidier, longer-lasting clumps.

What Sizes Are Available for Special Kitty Clumping Litter?

Special Kitty Clumping Litter comes in a wide range of sizes to suit every household’s needs:

• Small 7 lb bag
• Medium 15 lb bag
• Large 25 lb bag
• Jumbo 34 lb bag
• 42 lb bucket

The 7 lb bags are convenient for trying Special Kitty or for owners with one cat. The 15-25 lb bags are ideal for 1-2 cats. Large multi-cat homes benefit from the 34 lb or 42 lb containers to save on costs.

You can also find variety packs with multiple smaller bags. Lightweight and natural Special Kitty litters usually come in smaller 7-20 lb sizes. Shop around on Walmart’s website or in-store litter aisles to find the perfect litter amount and type for your cats.

How to Transition to Special Kitty Clumping Litter

The best way to transition your cat when switching to Special Kitty Litter is to do it gradually:

• Start by mixing 25% Special Kitty with their current litter. Slowly increase the ratio over 2-4 weeks.
• Keep the litter box in the same spot to minimize territorial stress.
• Try out Special Kitty on a new or extra litter box first to get them used to it.
• Be sure to scoop waste frequently to prevent odors that may deter use.
• Offer positive reinforcements like treats and praise when you see them use the new litter.
• Avoid fully switching litters during stressful events like moving or guests in your home.

Slowly transitioning allows cats time to adjust to the new texture and scent of Special Kitty. Taking 2-4 weeks avoids overwhelming their senses with a sudden change. Stick with the transition until Special Kitty is fully phased in.

Are There Any Allergens in Special Kitty Clumping Litter?

Special Kitty Clumping Litter is unlikely to cause any new allergies, as the ingredients are fairly hypoallergenic. Bentonite clay and silica gel are natural minerals. The unscented and natural varieties avoid dyes and fragrances that can irritate allergies.

However, any pre-existing dust or respiratory allergies may be aggravated by using clay clumping litter. The dust particles and airborne clay traces when pouring litter can trigger symptoms in sensitive individuals, even in low-dust varieties like Special Kitty.

Switching to a pellet litter or those made from alternate materials like pine, wheat, or corn may be a better solution for those with severe clay litter allergies. Or use the low-dust Special Kitty natural litter to minimize allergens. Also wearing a dust mask when cleaning litter boxes can help.

What Are Common Issues with Special Kitty Clumping Litter?

Some potential disadvantages or issues to be aware of with Special Kitty Clumping Litter include:

• Weaker clumps prone to crumbling and breakage
• Ammonia odors build faster than premium brands
• Lightweight formula can track more outside the box
• Scented versions have an overpowering fragrance for some cats
• More dust than totally dust-free litters
• May need more frequent litter changes than higher quality brands
• Availability limited to Walmart stores and website

While Special Kitty works fine for most cats, those with sensitive noses or fussy litter box preferences may find it lacking in clumping strength or odor control. Trying out different types like lightweight or natural can help find the right fit.

How to Store Special Kitty Clumping Litter Properly?

Storing Special Kitty Clumping Litter correctly preserves freshness and clumping performance. Here are some tips:

• Keep bags or containers sealed tightly to prevent moisture absorption until first use. Roll down to reseal after pouring.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources like appliances. Temperature extremes degrade litter over time.
• Avoid storage in garages or sheds with wide temperature swings from day to night.
• Place litter in rubbermaid bins or storage totes to protect from pests if needed. Ensure a tight seal.
• Keep storage area clean to prevent dust and debris from contaminating litter.
• Avoid stacking heavy bags to prevent compressing and damaging clay granules on bottom.
• Use oldest litter first and add newly purchased litter behind existing inventory.

Properly storing Special Kitty litter keeps the clay granules in optimal condition for superior clumping when nature calls!

In Summary

Special Kitty Clumping Litter provides an affordable way to keep your cat’s litter box clean, tidy, and odor-free. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of premium brands, Special Kitty gets the job done on a budget. This comprehensive buying guide covers everything cat owners should consider from types to litter box tips to make the best choice for their feline friends. With a little effort maximizing its clumping action and odor control, Special Kitty can be a great value litter pick. Give it a try and watch your cat dig right into those easy clumps!