Special Kitty Odor Control Litter

From Smelly Disaster to Fresh Home: How I Finally Found the Perfect Solution

I still remember the day my neighbor peeked into my apartment and quickly covered her nose. “Wow, how many cats do you have?” she asked, trying not to sound judgmental but failing miserably. The truth? Just two. But my litter box situation was clearly out of control. That moment of embarrassment launched my obsessive quest to find the perfect odor control cat litter that actually works. After months of trial and error (and more than a few disappointed sighs from visitors), I found my holy grail: Special Kitty Odor Control Litter. Today, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned to save you from the same smelly predicament.

My Nose-Saving Discovery: What Is Special Kitty Odor Control Litter?

Let’s get right to it. Special Kitty Odor Control Litter is Walmart’s house brand cat litter designed specifically to combat the ever-present challenge of litter box odors. When I first stumbled upon it during one of my desperate late-night shopping trips, I was skeptical. A budget brand solving my persistent odor problems? It seemed too good to be true.

Special Kitty Odor Control Litter is a clay-based litter infused with odor-neutralizing agents. The science behind it is fascinating—instead of just masking smells (which never works long-term, as I painfully discovered with countless “fresh scent” varieties), it actually works to trap and neutralize odors at the molecular level.

What I appreciate most about this litter is that it comes in several varieties, including clumping and non-clumping options. The clumping formula has been my personal savior since it makes daily maintenance so much more manageable.

The Nose Test: How Effective Is It Really?

Let me be completely honest—I was prepared for disappointment when I first poured Special Kitty Odor Control Litter into my cats’ boxes. After trying premium brands that cost three times as much with lackluster results, my expectations were basement-level low.

The first thing I noticed was how quickly it absorbed moisture. When Mittens (my older tabby with questionable aim) used the box that first morning, I waited for the usual wave of ammonia to hit me. Nothing. I leaned closer (yes, I’m that dedicated to testing) and was shocked to find only a very faint odor that dissipated almost immediately.

The real test came after three days without a complete litter change—just daily scooping. With previous litters, this would have been unbearable. With Special Kitty Odor Control, my apartment still smelled fresh. Not “masking perfume” fresh, but actually neutral. I could invite friends over without that familiar panic of “Oh no, does my place smell like cat?”

Over time, I’ve found that the odor control capabilities last approximately 10-14 days before requiring a complete litter box refresh, which is significantly longer than many more expensive brands I’ve tried.

Scented vs. Unscented: The Great Debate

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably stood in the pet aisle pondering this eternal question. Special Kitty Odor Control Litter offers both scented and unscented varieties, and I’ve experimented with both extensively.

The scented version has a light, powdery fragrance that isn’t overwhelming like some competitors (I’m looking at you, Brand X with your “Spring Meadow” assault on the senses). However, I ultimately settled on the unscented variety for two important reasons:

First, my younger cat, Pumpkin, has a sensitive nose and would sometimes avoid a heavily scented box. Second, I came to realize that unscented litter actually works better as an odor gauge. With scented litter, you can’t always tell when it’s time for a change because the fragrance masks the underlying problem.

That said, if you prefer a light scent, the scented variety performs equally well in terms of odor control. It’s really a matter of personal preference and your cat’s sensitivities.

The Multi-Cat Household Challenge

As a proud cat mom to two very different felines with distinct bathroom habits, I needed something that could handle multiple cats. Mittens is my delicate princess who refuses to use a box that’s been used even once by her brother. Pumpkin, on the other hand, seems to take pride in producing the most pungent deposits possible.

Special Kitty Odor Control Litter specifically markets a multi-cat formula, which I initially approached with skepticism. “Multi-cat” formulas had disappointed me before, usually just meaning “we added more perfume to mask the extra smell.”

But I was pleasantly surprised. The multi-cat formula is noticeably more absorbent and seems to activate more quickly when exposed to moisture. It also clumps more firmly, making scooping more efficient—crucial when you’re dealing with multiple cats using the same litter.

One unexpected benefit: the peace between my cats has improved significantly. Mittens no longer gives me the judgmental stare that says, “Clean that disgusting box immediately, human servant,” because the odor control is effective enough to satisfy even her high standards.

Budget-Friendly Relief: The Cost Breakdown

Let’s talk dollars and cents, because let’s face it—pet care costs add up quickly. One of the most compelling advantages of Special Kitty Odor Control Litter is its price point. As a Walmart house brand, it’s significantly more affordable than many competitors.

On average, I pay between $6-$8 for a 20-pound box of the clumping variety, which lasts my two cats approximately 3-4 weeks. Compare this to premium brands that can cost $15-$20 for the same amount, and the savings become substantial over time.

I’ve done the math (because I’m that kind of nerd): switching to Special Kitty has saved me roughly $220 annually on litter alone. That’s money I can redirect to other pet expenses or, let’s be honest, fancy cat toys that will be ignored in favor of empty Amazon boxes.

The cost-effectiveness becomes even more apparent when you consider that you don’t need to use more product to achieve the same odor control. With some cheaper litters, you end up using twice as much to get half the effectiveness, negating any savings. Not so with Special Kitty—a standard 3-4 inch depth works perfectly.

Where to Find It: Availability and Options

Special Kitty Odor Control Litter is primarily available at Walmart stores nationwide and on Walmart.com. This exclusivity can be either an advantage or disadvantage, depending on your shopping habits.

For me, having a Walmart about 10 minutes away makes it convenient enough. I typically stock up during my regular grocery runs. If you’re a fan of online shopping like I am, you can order it through Walmart’s website with surprisingly reasonable shipping costs, or often free if you meet the minimum order threshold.

The sizing options are quite versatile, ranging from smaller 7-pound bags (perfect for testing it out) to massive 25-pound boxes (my go-to for maximum savings). There’s even a 40-pound option for those with multiple cats or limited shopping time.

One pro tip I’ve discovered: Walmart occasionally runs promotions where you can save even more on Special Kitty products, especially during pet care sales events. I’ve signed up for notifications and typically stock up during these times, sometimes saving an additional 15-20%.

The Lifespan Question: How Long Does It Really Last?

One of the most important factors in choosing a litter is how long it remains effective before requiring a complete change. With Special Kitty Odor Control Litter, I’ve found the sweet spot to be about 10-14 days for my two-cat household, with daily scooping of course.

This lifespan compares favorably to other brands I’ve tried, some of which needed changing every 5-7 days despite costing twice as much. The longevity seems to come from the litter’s superior absorption capabilities and the way it encapsulates odor rather than just masking it.

Several factors can affect how long your litter lasts:

1. The number of cats using the box
2. Your cats’ diet (certain foods produce stronger waste odors)
3. The size and ventilation of your litter box area
4. How deeply you fill the box initially

I’ve experimented with different depths and found that a 3-4 inch layer provides the optimal balance between longevity and economy. Any less, and the litter becomes saturated too quickly; any more is simply wasteful.

One thing I appreciate is how the litter gives you clear visual cues when it’s nearing the end of its effectiveness. The clean, light gray color gradually darkens, and the clumps become less firm—unmistakable signals that it’s time for a refresh.

The Clumping Factor: Does It Actually Work?

For those who prefer clumping litter (and after years of experimentation, I firmly do), the quality of the clumps is crucial. Poorly clumping litter creates a messy, inefficient cleaning experience that can actually release more odors during scooping.

Special Kitty Odor Control Clumping Litter forms impressively solid clumps that hold together during scooping—even when Pumpkin decides the corner of the box is the perfect spot (why do cats do this?). The clumps form quickly, usually within a minute or two of moisture contact, and maintain their integrity when removed.

What I particularly appreciate is that the clumps don’t shatter easily, which means less residual waste remains in the clean litter. This contributes significantly to the overall longevity and odor control effectiveness.

One minor drawback I’ve noticed is that if the litter gets too wet (during those times when Mittens decides to dig to China before using the box), the clumps can adhere to the bottom of the litter box. I’ve mostly solved this by maintaining a slightly deeper litter layer.

Kitten Considerations: Is It Safe for the Little Ones?

When my niece’s cat had a surprise litter of kittens last year, I temporarily fostered two of them. This raised new questions about litter safety that I hadn’t previously considered.

After researching and consulting with my veterinarian, I learned that Special Kitty Odor Control Litter is generally safe for kittens over 8 weeks old. The main concern with clay litters and kittens is the dust factor and the possibility of ingestion during grooming.

I found that Special Kitty’s clumping formula has relatively low dust compared to many other clay litters, making it a reasonable option for kittens who have mastered basic litter box skills. However, for very young kittens who are still learning, non-clumping paper or pellet litters might be safer alternatives.

One precaution I took was to monitor the kittens during their first few litter box visits to ensure they weren’t eating the litter out of curiosity (thankfully, they showed no interest in doing so). I also made sure to place the litter box in an easily accessible location with low sides for their tiny legs.

Brand Showdown: How Does It Compare to Premium Options?

Having spent what feels like a small fortune on various litter brands over the years, I feel uniquely qualified to compare Special Kitty Odor Control Litter with its more expensive competitors.

When matched against premium brands like Fresh Step, Arm & Hammer, and Tidy Cats, Special Kitty holds its own surprisingly well, particularly in these key areas:

Odor Control: In my experience, Special Kitty matches or exceeds the odor-fighting capabilities of litters costing twice as much. The difference becomes especially apparent after the 5-day mark, when many premium litters begin to lose effectiveness while Special Kitty continues performing.

Clumping Quality: While ultra-premium brands might form slightly harder clumps, the difference is minimal for practical purposes. Special Kitty clumps remain solid enough for easy scooping and odor containment.

Dust Levels: This is one area where some premium brands have a slight edge. Special Kitty has acceptable dust levels, but brands specifically marketed as “low-dust” or “dust-free” do produce less airborne particles during pouring and scooping.

Tracking: All clay litters track to some extent, and Special Kitty is about average in this regard. I haven’t found a significant difference between it and premium brands when it comes to paw-printed floors.

Fragrance: Premium brands often offer more fragrance options, but as mentioned earlier, I’ve come to prefer unscented litter anyway. If you’re a fragrance fan, you might find the premium brands’ variety more appealing.

The bottom line: the performance-to-price ratio of Special Kitty Odor Control Litter is exceptional. While it may not win every category against premium competitors, it delivers 90% of the performance at 50% of the cost—math that makes sense for my household budget.

The Dust Factor: How Does It Affect Air Quality?

Dust is a significant concern for many cat owners, particularly those with respiratory sensitivities or cats with asthma. While Special Kitty Odor Control Litter isn’t marketed specifically as a low-dust formula, I’ve found it produces less dust than many comparable clay litters.

When pouring fresh litter, there is some visible dust, but it settles relatively quickly. I’ve developed the habit of pouring slowly and from a lower height to minimize dust dispersion. Once the litter is in place, daily scooping produces minimal airborne particles.

For comparison, I once used a bargain brand (not naming names) that created such a dust cloud during pouring that I actually had to leave the bathroom for a few minutes afterward. Special Kitty is significantly better than that experience, though not quite as dust-free as some premium low-dust formulations.

If dust is a major concern for your household, you might consider:

1. Pouring the litter while your cats are in another room
2. Wearing a mask during litter box maintenance
3. Using a covered litter box with a good filter system
4. Exploring the crystal or paper variants of Special Kitty, which tend to produce less dust

For most households, the dust levels should be perfectly acceptable, especially given the excellent odor control and price point.

Maintenance Schedule: Finding the Perfect Routine

Through extensive trial and error, I’ve developed what I consider the optimal maintenance schedule for Special Kitty Odor Control Litter:

Daily: Scoop solid waste and clumps at least once daily, preferably twice if your schedule allows. This simple habit dramatically extends the life of your litter.

Weekly: Add a small amount of fresh litter (about 1-2 cups) to replace what’s been removed through scooping. This “topping up” helps maintain the proper depth and odor control effectiveness.

Bi-weekly: Completely empty the litter box, wash with mild soap and water, dry thoroughly, and refill with fresh litter. This schedule can be adjusted to 10 days or two weeks depending on the number of cats and their habits.

Monthly: Deep clean the litter box with a pet-safe disinfectant, focusing on removing any residue that might have built up in corners or crevices. This helps prevent bacterial growth that can contribute to odors.

I’ve found that sticking to this schedule not only maximizes the odor control properties of Special Kitty but also makes the task of litter box maintenance much more manageable. Consistency is key—letting the box go for even a few extra days can quickly lead to odor issues that are harder to resolve.

What’s In It? The Ingredient Breakdown

Understanding what’s in your cat’s litter can help you make informed decisions about potential health concerns and environmental impact. Special Kitty Odor Control Litter is primarily composed of:

• Sodium bentonite clay (the clumping agent)
• Mineral oil (for dust control)
• Odor-neutralizing agents (typically baking soda or activated charcoal)
• Fragrances (in the scented varieties only)

The sodium bentonite clay is what gives the litter its excellent clumping properties. It expands when wet, forming solid clumps that encapsulate waste and contain odors. This is the same primary ingredient used in many premium clumping litters.

While Special Kitty doesn’t publish their exact formula, the performance suggests they’ve found an effective balance of these components. The litter doesn’t contain any obvious irritants—my sensitive-pawed Mittens has never shown signs of discomfort or avoidance.

It’s worth noting that clay litters in general are not biodegradable, which leads us to our next consideration.

The Tracking Test: Will It Follow Your Cat Throughout the House?

Ah, tracking—the bane of every cat owner’s existence. Those tiny granules that somehow migrate to every corner of your home, defying physics and sanity alike.

Special Kitty Odor Control Litter has average tracking properties compared to other clay litters. The particles are small enough to clump effectively but not so fine that they stick to every paw hair and travel throughout your home.

I’ve implemented a few strategies to minimize tracking:

1. A large litter mat with a honeycomb design that catches most granules as cats exit the box
2. Placing the litter box on hard flooring rather than carpet when possible
3. Keeping the litter at a moderate depth (too much increases tracking)
4. Regular brushing of my long-haired Mittens’ paws and hindquarters

With these measures in place, tracking is manageable—not eliminated, but contained to the immediate litter box area. I find I need to sweep or vacuum this area every other day to maintain a clean appearance.

One interesting observation: the clumping formula seems to track slightly less than the non-clumping variety, possibly because the particles are a bit heavier and less likely to adhere to paws.

Environmental Considerations: The Impact of Your Choice

I’ll be candid here—clay litter is not the most environmentally friendly option available. The sodium bentonite used in Special Kitty Odor Control Litter is typically obtained through strip mining, and the used litter is not biodegradable in landfills.

For those with strong environmental concerns, there are alternatives like recycled paper, pine, corn, or wheat litters that offer better eco-credentials. However, these often come with trade-offs in odor control, clumping ability, and cost.

I’ve experimented with several eco-friendly options and found that while they have improved considerably in recent years, none quite match the odor control and convenience of clay litter. It’s a personal decision that requires balancing environmental impact against practical considerations.

If you do choose Special Kitty Odor Control Litter and want to minimize your environmental footprint:

1. Use it efficiently by maintaining proper depth and scooping regularly
2. Consider composting other household waste to offset your environmental impact
3. Support environmental causes that work to mitigate mining impacts

Automatic Litter Box Compatibility: Will It Work?

When I invested in an automatic litter box (after one particularly hectic month when scooping fell to the bottom of my priority list), compatibility suddenly became a crucial consideration.

Special Kitty Odor Control Clumping Litter works reasonably well in most automatic litter boxes, with some caveats. The clumps form firmly enough to be detected and removed by the sensors and raking mechanisms in most models.

I’ve tested it with two different automatic systems:

Rotating Drum Style: Special Kitty performed very well, forming clumps that were easily separated and deposited in the waste compartment without breaking apart or causing jams.

Rake System: Results were more mixed. The litter worked adequately, but occasionally formed clumps that were too large or adhered to the bottom of the pan, causing the rake to stall. Adjusting the litter depth helped mitigate this issue.

If you’re using an automatic litter box, I recommend:

1. Using slightly less litter than you would in a conventional box
2. Checking the waste compartment more frequently initially to ensure proper operation
3. Considering the multi-cat formula, which tends to form firmer clumps

Formula Varieties: Which Special Kitty Is Right for You?

Special Kitty Odor Control Litter comes in several formulations, each designed for specific needs:

Regular Clumping: This is the standard formula that balances odor control, clumping ability, and cost. It’s my go-to for everyday use.

Multi-Cat Clumping: Contains additional odor neutralizers and forms slightly firmer clumps. Essential if you have more than one cat sharing litter boxes.

Lightweight: Weighs less than the standard formula, making it easier to pour and carry. However, I’ve found it tracks slightly more due to the lighter particles.

Non-Clumping: Less expensive but requires more frequent complete changes. Best for households where scooping is challenging or for cats who prefer non-clumping textures.

Crystal: Made from silica gel rather than clay, these absorb moisture and trap odors differently. They last longer but cost more initially and don’t clump at all.

After trying all varieties, I’ve settled on the Multi-Cat Clumping formula for my household, even though I could probably get by with the regular clumping version. The extra odor fighting power gives me peace of mind, especially when I have guests over.

Sensitive Cat Solutions: Will Picky Cats Approve?

Cats with sensitive paws, respiratory issues, or simply picky preferences can make litter selection challenging. Mittens falls firmly in the “princess and the pea” category, rejecting litters for seemingly arbitrary reasons.

Special Kitty Odor Control Litter in the unscented variety has been well-tolerated by both my cats, including finicky Mittens. The granule size seems to hit a sweet spot—small enough to be comfortable on paws but not so fine as to cause dust issues.

For truly sensitive cats, I recommend:

1. Introducing the litter gradually by mixing it with their current preferred brand
2. Always choosing unscented varieties
3. Ensuring the litter box is in a well-ventilated area
4. Monitoring for any signs of avoidance or respiratory distress

One interesting observation: when I fostered a cat with a recent declawing (she came to me that way), she seemed particularly comfortable with Special Kitty compared to a premium “soft” litter I had purchased specifically for her sensitive paws. Cat preferences remain mysterious!

Money-Saving Tips: Maximizing Value

While Special Kitty Odor Control Litter is already budget-friendly, I’ve discovered several ways to stretch your dollar even further:

Bulk Purchasing: The larger 25-pound and 40-pound boxes offer better value per pound. If you have storage space, buying the largest size makes economic sense.

Walmart+ Membership: If you’re a regular Walmart shopper, their membership program can provide free shipping on litter orders, saving delivery fees on these heavy items.

Seasonal Sales: Walmart typically runs pet supply sales several times a year. I mark these on my calendar and stock up during these periods.

Proper Usage: Maintaining the optimal depth (3-4 inches) prevents overuse while still providing effective odor control.

Sifting Tools: Investing in a good quality scooper with the right-sized holes can help preserve more clean litter during daily maintenance.

Subscription Services: Walmart.com offers subscription deliveries with a small discount on recurring orders. This ensures you never run out while saving a few dollars.

By implementing these strategies, I’ve reduced my annual litter expenses by approximately 30% compared to my previous premium brand habit, without sacrificing cleanliness or odor control.

Size Options: Finding Your Perfect Fit

Special Kitty Odor Control Litter comes in several size options to accommodate different households:

7-pound bag: Perfect for testing the litter or for single-cat households with limited storage space.

14-pound box: A good middle ground that lasts approximately 2-3 weeks for one cat.

20-pound box: My former go-to size, offering a good balance between value and manageability.

25-pound box: Current favorite for my two-cat household, lasting about a month with regular scooping.

40-pound box: Maximum value but can be challenging to handle. I bought this once and regretted it when I had to carry it up three flights of stairs!

When selecting a size, consider not just your number of cats but also:

1. Your storage space constraints
2. Your physical ability to lift and pour the container
3. How frequently you prefer to shop
4. Whether you have a consistent usage pattern or irregular needs

I’ve found that keeping a larger box as my main supply and a smaller bag as an emergency backup works well for my household.

My Final Verdict: Is Special Kitty Odor Control Litter Worth It?

After more than a year of using Special Kitty Odor Control Litter exclusively, I can confidently say it represents one of the best values in cat care available today. It delivers performance comparable to premium brands at a fraction of the cost, making it an exceptional choice for budget-conscious cat owners who refuse to compromise on odor control.

The pros significantly outweigh the cons:

Pros:

• Exceptional odor control lasting 10-14 days
• Strong clumping ability for easy maintenance
• Budget-friendly price point
• Readily available at Walmart stores and online
• Multiple formulations to suit different needs
• Well-tolerated by most cats, including sensitive ones

Cons:

• Average dust levels (though not excessive)
• Typical tracking issues common to clay litters
• Not environmentally friendly
• Limited availability outside of Walmart
• Fewer fragrance options than some premium brands

For me, the decision to continue using Special Kitty is simple. It solves my primary concern—odor control—while being gentle on my budget. The minor inconveniences of dust and tracking are manageable with proper maintenance techniques, and the limited availability isn’t an issue since I shop at Walmart regularly.

Whether you’re a first-time cat owner, a multi-cat household, or simply looking to reduce your pet care expenses without sacrificing quality, Special Kitty Odor Control Litter deserves serious consideration. My apartment hasn’t had “that cat smell” since making the switch, and my wallet is noticeably heavier—a winning combination by any measure.

Remember, the best litter is ultimately the one that works for your specific situation—your cats’ preferences, your sensitivity to odors, your budget, and your environmental concerns. Special Kitty Odor Control Litter has been my solution, and it might just be yours too.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to go scoop the litter box. Even with the best litter in the world, that particular chore never quite disappears!