Walnut cat litter is an increasingly popular choice among cat parents, but that begs the question: why?? In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into what walnut cat litter is, its benefits, potential problems, and take a closer look at one of the most popular brands in this category.
Here at tuft + paw, we are cat experts. We've spent countless hours determining which litter features are most important to cats and cat parents alike. The information in this article is based on consultation with a cat behaviorist, veterinarian, online research, and our own experience as cat parents.
Tip: Overwhelmed by all the litter options out there? See our ultimate guide to different types of cat litter for a complete rundown of the most common materials used for cat litter.
What Is Walnut Cat Litter?
Walnut cat litter is a type of natural litter made from crushed walnut shells. Unlike traditional clay litter, which is mined from the earth, walnut cat litter is a renewable and eco-friendly alternative. It can come in pellets or in a fine granular texture similar to clay litter, making it a familiar choice for both cats and cat parents. However, walnut cat litter boasts several unique advantages that set it apart from its clay counterpart.
Benefits of Walnut Cat Litter
Eco-Friendly
One of the most significant advantages of walnut cat litter is its eco-friendliness. Unlike clay litter, which requires extensive mining and processing, walnut litter is made from a renewable resource. By opting for walnut litter, you're reducing your carbon footprint and supporting sustainable practices.
Healthier than Clay Litter
Walnut cat litter offers a healthier option for both cats and humans. Traditional clay litter often contains silica dust, which can be harmful when inhaled. In contrast, walnut litter produces minimal dust, reducing the risk of respiratory issues for both cats and their owners.
Less Dusty than Clay
Dust can be a significant concern with traditional clay litter, leading to respiratory problems and creating a mess around the litter box. Walnut cat litter produces much less dust, making it a cleaner and healthier option for your home (though it’s not quite as low dust as some natural pellet litters like tofu)
Often Flushable
Many walnut cat litters are flushable, offering added convenience for cat owners. This feature makes cleaning the litter box a breeze and eliminates the need for frequent trips to the trash bin.
Disclaimer: Flushing cat litter is illegal in California. Always check your local regulations before flushing cat litter. Only flush cat litter if your cat lives indoors and eats commercial food to avoid the risk of spreading toxoplasmosis.
Lighter Than Clay
Another notable advantage of walnut cat litter is its lightweight nature. Compared to heavy clay litter, walnut litter is easier to handle and transport. This lightweight quality is particularly appealing for cat owners who frequently clean out their cat litter boxes.
Problems With Walnut Cat Litter
Prone to Tracking
While walnut cat litter offers many benefits, it is not without its drawbacks. One common issue with walnut litter is its tendency to track. The dark brown color of walnut shells can leave behind visible tracks, leading to a messier living space. This is more of an issue with granular walnut litters than pellet litters.
Average Odor Control
While walnut cat litter provides decent odor control, it may not be as effective as some clay or silica-based litters. Cat owners may find themselves needing to clean the litter box more frequently to prevent unpleasant odors from lingering.
See our list of the best cat litters for odor control for some alternatives.
Dark Brown Color
The dark brown color of walnut cat litter can make it challenging to spot and remove solid waste from the litter box and make tracking extra visible. This issue may require cat owners to be more diligent in their cleaning routine to maintain a hygienic environment for their cats.
Pricier Than Clay Litter
Walnut cat litters are typically a bit more expensive than traditional clay litters. Nevertheless, they are one of the more affordable options among natural litters.
Naturally Fresh: The Most Popular Walnut Litter
One of the leading brands in the walnut cat litter category is Naturally Fresh. Known for its commitment to sustainability and quality, Naturally Fresh offers a range of walnut-based litter options to suit different preferences. The two general categories of their litter are granular clumping formulas and non-clumping pellets.
Conclusion
Walnut cat litter offers a sustainable, eco-friendly, and effective alternative to traditional clay litter. With its minimal dust, flushable properties, and lightweight nature, walnut litter provides several benefits for both cats and their owners. While it may have some drawbacks, such as tracking and average odor control, the overall advantages make it a compelling choice for environmentally conscious cat owners.
