How To Get Cat Pee Smell Out Of House

How to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell: A Guide

Alternatively, if we’re being courteous, we may say that we’re eradicating the stink of “inappropriate elimination.” Then, when the cat pees in your house, it’s all good fun and games. Kitty tinkling has one of the most distinct and pungent scents on the earth, maybe only equaled by the infamous durian fruit in terms of intensity. Cleansing cat pee is also not particularly obvious — in fact, it’s more like a science experiment than anything else. However, although you’d automatically use warm or hot water to clean almost everything else, using hot water to clean up cat urine would just serve to set and intensify its unpleasant scent.

General cat pee removal guidelines:

Eek! What happened to the pee?! First and foremost, determine the source of the odor. And do it as soon as possible. As a rule of thumb, the longer cat pee remains on your mattress or couch, the stronger the odor will be.

Using COLD water, blot the area. You’ll want to use cold water and paper towels or an old cloth to blot the region and absorb as much of the cat pee as you possibly can once you’ve discovered the cat pee location. It’s quite OK to use your extraction wet vac on the cold setting if you have one on hand. Instead of scrubbing, this will just make the cat pee angrier and more tenacious, causing it to bleed farther (and more permanently) into the sofa, the floor, or the clothing
Neutralize the situation! Afterwards, you’ll want to douse the area with an enzymatic cleanser or just prepare your own cleaning solution by mixing equal parts (white or apple cider) vinegar and water in a 1:1 ratio. Because vinegar is acidic, it will neutralize the germs in the cat pee, so reducing the stench of the cat urine. Allow the solution to sit for 3-5 minutes before using it, or carefully follow the directions on the cleaning product’s packaging.

Rinse and repeat as necessary. Repeat the process with a new paper towel or damp rag, going over the soiled area only one more. Keep in mind to use cold water while you’re using a damp rag. Refresh yourself! Following thorough drying, consider usingFebreze Fabric Pet Odor Eliminator to offer an extra layer of freshness to the fabric. You may also useFebreze Air Heavy Duty Pet Odor Eliminator around the litter box area to help reduce the lingering smell of cat urine
However, this is not recommended.

If your cat peed on the carpet, mattress, or couch:

Follow the general rules of thumb. Afterwards, sprinkle baking soda on top of the stain and allow it to settle for approximately an hour before vacuuming it away. Using this method, you may help to eliminate the stench of cat urine from your home.

If your cat peed on tile, sealed wood flooring or baseboards:

Follow the usual rules, or use a homemade solution of hydrogen peroxide and water (1:2 ratio) or direct undiluted white vinegar to the stain to get rid of it quickly.

If your cat peed on unsealed floors:

The answer to that question is a little more difficult. If your floors are not sealed, after you have cleaned up the cat pee with cold water, scrub the stain with pure vinegar before rinsing with additional cold water to remove any remaining vinegar residue. Using a cloth, blot the stain until there is no longer any trace of wetness. Enzymatic cleansers have the potential to cause harm to your unsealed flooring, so test a little amount on a hidden area first before applying it generously to the stain.

We recommend that you seal your flooring, but that’s a process for another day entirely.

If your jerk cat peed on your clothes:

It’s time to get a new kitty. So. Embarrassing. But, in all seriousness, one of the most prevalent cat-ceptions is that cats mistake laundry baskets for litter boxes. No matter how tempting it may seem, do not toss your cat pee garments into the washing machine right away. If you do this, the stink will become entrenched and your garments will be rendered useless. Consider the cat pee as if it were a disease such as smallpox: The odor is quite contagious and can be spread to other items in the same washing load, resulting in the need for a completely new wardrobe in no time.

Remove the cat pee stain from your clothing by rinsing them with cold water and blotting them with towels, just as you would if the stain were on the floor or a piece of furniture.
Wash your clothing in a bucket with 12 cup oxygen bleach (not chlorine bleach!) and leave them there for 2-3 hours to dry.
Add a little amount of baking soda straight to the stain and let the mixture to settle for 10-15 minutes.
Because the heat from the dryer may still cause the stench to set in, it is best to hang garments to dry.

If this appears to be a significant amount of effort to remove a stain, you are not mistaken. We would only use this level of care and effort for your most prized possessions; otherwise, it may be necessary to go shopping for new clothes.

The future is feline

We need a new kitty in our lives! You’re being a total jerk. But, in all seriousness, cats frequently mistake laundry baskets for litter boxes, which is a typical mis-cat-ception to encounter. No matter how tempting it may be, do not immediately toss your cat pee garments into the washing machine. Attempting to do so would result in the stink becoming permanent and your garments being useless. As if the cat pee were smallpox, here’s how to think about it. You’ll need to replace your entire wardrobe because the odor is extremely infectious and can spread to other garments in the same laundry load.

Remove the cat pee stain from your clothes by rinsing them with cold water and blotting them with towels, just as you would if the stain were on the floor or a piece of upholstery.
For 2-3 hours, soak dirty garments in an empty bucket with a 12 cup oxygen bleach (not chlorine bleach!) After that, take off your clothing and immerse in a bath of vinegar and water for a few minutes (1:3 ratio).
After then, and only then, may you put the cat pee clothing in the washing machine on cold with no detergent and let them wash.
There is a lot of labor involved in getting a stain out, and you are correct.

How to Get Rid of Cat Odors for Good!

Do you have the impression that your entire house smells like a litter box? In order to keep your home smelling fresh and clean, it’s important to remove cat scents from carpets and furniture. How do you go about really eradicating cat odor, rather than simply masking it with a scent? Knowing a little bit about the science behind the fragrance is essential.

Why Cat Urine Is So Potent

It is possible for cat urine to remain in carpets, textiles, and wood for several years! Although baking soda, vinegar, soap, and hydrogen peroxide can temporarily neutralize the scents, a humid day might allow the uric acid to recrystallize, resulting in the reappearance of the iconic “cat stink.” According to TheCatSite.com, the only method to get rid of the uric acid is to apply an enzyme cleaner on the carpet. It is necessary to soak the afflicted portions of the carpet or clothes in enzyme cleanser and let them to dry entirely on their own.

Cleaners containing enzymes may be purchased both online and at most food shops.

How to Clean It

No matter if your cat has just urinated on a surface in your home or whether you have old stains and stench, it’s critical to manage the issue with a plan of action.

The following are some fundamental suggestions to help you get started:

No matter if your cat has just urinated on a surface in your home or if you have old stains and odor, it is critical to manage the issue with a plan of action. Listed below are some fundamental rules to help you begin:

Whether your cat has just urinated on a surface in your home or you have old stains and stench, it is critical to treat the issue with a plan. Listed below are some fundamental principles to help you get started:

Preventing Cat Odors

The most effective method of preventing cat odors from invading your home is to avoid them in the first place. Maintain the cleanliness of the litter box and add baking soda to help absorb odors. If your cat appears to be suffering from urinary stress difficulties (which are causing her to have accidents) or is continuously spitting up hairballs all over the place, try gently switching her to a meal that is designed to help minimize hairballs and urine stress issues. The majority of animal odors in your house are likely related to body fluids, but it is also crucial to avoid allowing cat fur to accumulate in your home, since this can result in cat odor as well.

To remove cat hair from the surface after it has been sprayed, use rubber gloves that have been soaked with water.

As a temporary fast remedy, products like air fresheners should be avoided unless they are specifically labeled as such.

Contributor Bio

Chrissie Klinger is a model and actress. Mrs. Chrissie Klinger is a writer, an educator, and the mother of two children as well as three dogs and three cats. She appreciates leading an active and environmentally conscious lifestyle.

The Ultimate Guide to Eliminating Cat Pee Smell

Dr. Katie Grzyb, DVM, updated and checked the information on April 7, 2020, to ensure correctness. Whenever your cat begins to urinate outside of the litter box, the odor can be tough to get rid of and much more difficult to hide completely. Whether your cat pees on the carpet, a piece of furniture, bed linens, or your clothes, it’s critical to neutralize the odor as soon as possible to avoid your cat becoming a repeat perpetrator. If the stink from a cat’s previous urination is not removed, the cat will frequently return to the same location.

Here is your comprehensive guide to eradicating cat pee odors and discovering why your cat is urinating outside of the litter box in the first place.

Clean Up Cat Urine Messes with These Products
How to Remove the Smell of Cat Urine from Carpet and Cushions
How to Remove the Smell of Cat Urine from Furniture
How to Remove the Smell of Cat Urine from a Mattress
Remove the smell of cat urine from linens and clothing using the following methods:

Why Cat Pee Stinks

Cat pee is not significantly different from the urine of other animals, yet what gives cat urine such a foul odor is unclear.

Cat Urine Gets Worse With Time

Cat pee is not significantly different from the urine of other animals, but what gives cat urine such a foul odor is unclear at this point.

Older Animals Have Smellier Urine

Senior cats have kidneys that are less efficient than younger cats, and as a result, they tend to have the foulest-smelling pee on the planet.

Unaltered Males Have Hormones in Their Urine

The potent hormones that cats excrete when they urinate contribute to the foul odor. Unless male cats are neutered, their testosterone-spiked pee serves as a warning to other males to keep away and as a signal to females that they are in the vicinity.

Why Cats Urinate Outside of the Litter Box

There are a variety of reasons why a cat may begin peeing outside of the litter box without your knowledge. Even while some cat owners may believe that their cat is acting in retaliation for something, cats do not possess the advanced cognitive ability required to devise such a scheme. Doctor Laura George, DVM of Cats Exclusive Veterinary Center in Shoreline, Washington, says that contrary to common opinion, cats do not urinate outside the box to ‘get back’ at their owners for whatever. If your cat isn’t using the litter box, it’s probable that he or she is attempting to communicate something significant to you through this behavior.

Health Issues Can Cause Inappropriate Urination

It is possible for a cat to begin peeing outside of the litter box for a variety of reasons. Even while some cat owners may believe that their cat is acting in retaliation for something, cats do not possess the advanced cognitive ability necessary to devise such a scheme. Doctor Laura George, DVM of Cats Exclusive Veterinary Center in Shoreline, Washington, says that contrary to common opinion, cats do not urinate outside the box in order to ‘get back’ at their owners for whatever reason. You should consider it highly likely that your cat is communicating with you in some way if he or she is not using the litter box.

Arthritis Can Make Litter Boxes Hard to Use

Arthritis is another reason why an elderly cat may choose to skip using the litter box altogether. “As cats grow older, they may develop arthritis, which makes it more difficult for them to enter the litter box,” Dr. Kornreich explained. Possibly the sides are too high, or the box is in a location where the cat must engage in some type of strenuous physical activity to reach it, such as climbing up or down a flight of steps.

Behavioral Issues Could Be the Cause

Arthritis is another reason why an elderly cat may choose not to use the litter box. The doctor said that as cats age, they may develop arthritis, which makes it more difficult for them to climb into the litter box.” There might be an issue with the box’s height, or the box could be at a location that needs the cat to engage in strenuous physical activity to reach, such as climbing up or down a flight of steps.

Why Cats Spray

While some cats crouch and urinate on bare floors, carpets, furniture, and other horizontal surfaces, others spray urine on vertical surfaces around the home, including walls and ceilings. As DeFeo explains, “unfixed males spray to mark their territory, while unfixed females spray to signal to tomcats that they are ready.” She recommends that male cats be neutered at 6 months of age and female cats be spayed at the same time to avoid similar behaviors. Although hormones are a common cause of cat spraying, there are a variety of other causes behind it.

If your cat is spraying because of a disagreement with another cat in the house or another cat in the neighborhood, it’s critical that you try to address the situation as soon as possible.

Try using a plug-in diffuser that produces a synthetic cat pheromone that has been specifically produced to calm your cat’s nervousness.

As soon as you see signs of stress or anxiety in your cat, discuss the situation with your veterinarian and collaborate on finding a solution that will help to reduce your cat’s stress levels.

Clean Up Cat Urine Stains Before They Smell Worse

Cat pee has a foul odor when it is first deposited, but the longer it remains on the ground, the more offensive it becomes. As Dr. Kornreich explains, “the fragrance becomes more intense with time.” Additionally, once a pee stain has dried, you may no longer be able to see it, but you will still be able to smell it, as will your cat, prompting him or her to mark the same location over and over again. According to Meg Roberts, head of Molly Maid, a domestic cleaning firm, many cat owners make the same error when it comes to cleaning up cat urine: they don’t do it soon enough.

Products to Clean Cat Urine Messes

Several items, such as vinegar or baking soda, as well as enzyme cleansers, can assist to neutralize the stench of cat urine. Here are some suggestions to assist you in getting rid of the cat urine odor.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

While vinegar is a strong odor remover in and of itself, it is particularly effective in removing the lingering stench of sprayed cat pee because vinegar is an acid that neutralizes the alkaline ions that accumulate in dried urine stains. A solution made up of one part water and two parts vinegar may be used to clean the walls and floors in your home. It is said by proponents that the vinegar scent dissipates after a few days, carrying with it the stench of urine.

Enzyme-Based Cleaners

An enzyme-based cleanser may be used to eliminate odors from carpets, sofa cushions, mattresses, and bed linens, among other things. In fact, the enzymes in these products work to break down the acid in cat urine, so aiding in the elimination of the odor at the same time. Natural enzymes and beneficial bacteria aid in the elimination of the bad bacteria that is responsible for the unpleasant scents. Cleaning any surface should be done to the point that not only can you no longer smell the pee, but your cat can no longer smell it as well.

George’s opinion, “when a cat can smell a prior pee stain (either from themselves or from another cat), that place is more likely to be utilized again.”

Avoid Products That Contain Ammonia

An enzyme-based cleanser can be used to eliminate odors from carpets, sofa cushions, mattresses, and bed linens. In fact, the enzymes in these items work to break down the acid in cat urine, so aiding in the elimination of the odor. The natural enzymes and beneficial bacteria aid in the elimination of the bad bacteria that is responsible for the foul scents in the environment.. Any surface should be cleaned to the point that you can’t smell the pee anymore, and your cat shouldn’t be able to smell it anymore, as well.

George believes that site will be utilized again.

How to Get Cat Urine Smell Out of Carpet

To assist in eliminating the stench of cat urine from a surface, here is what you should do.

1. Blot the Spot to Absorb the Urine

Locate the stain as soon as possible and blot up as much pee as you can using a clean towel as quickly as you can.

2. Rinse and Vacuum the Area

Following that, thoroughly rinse the area with clean water and vacuum up any remaining liquid using a wet/dry vacuum.

“You should avoid using a steam cleaner since the heat can solidify the stain,” Roberts explained.

3. Soak the Spot in Enzyme Cleaner

While enzyme cleansers are available in a spray bottle, simply squirting a little amount over the stain will have no effect. Instead, remove the sprayer and liberally saturate the affected area.

4. Let It Sit Before Blotting With a Clean Cloth

Allow the cleaning to sit for 10-15 minutes before blotting up as much of the excess with a clean towel as possible.

5. Prevent Your Cat From Returning to the Spot

Place a piece of aluminum foil or an aluminum baking sheet over the area to prevent your cat from returning during the cleaning procedure, or cover it with an upside-down laundry basket to block it from returning.

6. Reapply the Cleaner if Necessary

If the stain is older or extremely nasty, you may need to reapply the cleanser and allow it to dry a second time.

Removing Cat Urine Smells From the Subflooring

It is common for urine to soak through carpeting and into the subflooring, producing a stain as well as a stink that is impossible to remove with carpet cleaning and elbow grease alone. The use of an oil-based stain-blocking primer on the subfloor beneath the carpeting can help to neutralize the smell of pet odor that has persisted despite your best attempts at carpet cleaning. Replace the padding as well as the carpeting in that section.

How to Get Cat Urine Smell Out of Cushions

It is common for urine to soak through carpeting and into the subflooring, creating a stain as well as a stink that is difficult to remove with carpet cleaning and elbow grease alone. The use of an oil-based stain-blocking primer on the subfloor beneath the carpeting can help to neutralize persistent pet odors that refuse to go away despite your best attempts to clean them. You should replace both the cushioning and that particular section of carpet as well.

1. Soak the Area in Water

Soak the problematic region of the cushion with water for a few minutes. Using a towel, blot up as much of the cat urine as you possibly can.

2. Soak the Area With an Enzyme Cleaner

Then soak the cushion by pouring the enzyme cleanser on and around the damaged region very gently while holding the cushion upright.

3. Let It Sit Before Blotting With Towels

Set aside for 15 minutes, then squeeze out as much of the extra enzyme cleanser as you can before blotting with paper towels to remove any remaining enzyme cleaner.

4. Let the Cushion Dry

If at all possible, let the cushion outside to dry for as long as it can for the best results. Because cushions can take several days to dry, place aluminum foil on the floor before placing the cushion back in place. Then place a second layer of aluminum foil over the top of the cushion to stop your cat from urinating on it again.

How to Get Cat Urine Smell Out of a Mattress

Mattresses require a technique that is quite similar to that of cushions.

1. Soak the Area in Water

Soak the damaged part of the mattress with water for a few minutes. Using a towel, blot up as much of the cat urine as you possibly can.

2. Soak the Area With Enzyme Cleaner

Then soak the mattress by pouring the enzyme cleanser on and around the afflicted area very gently, allowing it to soak in.

3. Let It Sit Before Blotting With Towels

Allow the enzymatic cleanser to rest for 15 minutes before blotting it up completely. Make the bed by placing several layers of clean towels over the mattress and then putting the covers on top of them.

4. Let the Mattress Dry

Set aside the enzymatic cleanser for 15 minutes before wiping it clean.

Then make the bed by laying several layers of clean towels over it and tucking them in.

5. Reapply If Needed

It may be necessary to apply numerous treatments to a mattress in order to entirely eliminate the cat pee.

How to Get Cat Urine Smell Out of Linens and Clothing

When it comes to linens and clothing, one crucial tip to remember is to never use bleach since, when combined with ammonia and cat pee, it can produce hazardous fumes.

1. Rinse the Spot With Cool Water

If your bed sheets and clothing are machine washable, first rinse the stain in a sink full of lukewarm water to remove any remaining residue.

2. Wash With Detergent and Baking Soda or Cider Vinegar

Place the goods in the washing machine with the detergent and either a cup of baking soda or a quarter cup of cider vinegar, depending on your preference.

3. Add Enzyme Cleaner If the Smell Persists

If you can still smell the urine after the cycle is complete, add enzyme cleanser to the load (following the directions on the box) and run the cycle again until the stench has disappeared.

4. Air-Dry After Washing

Always air-dry linens, since the heat from the dryer may cause the stench to linger even after the linens have been washed.

5. Rewash

It is possible that you may need to rewash the dish one or more times until the aroma is fully gone.

Keep Your Cat From Urinating in That Spot in the Future

You can prevent a repeat of a problem by altering the importance of a particular region in your cat’s eyes once it has been cleansed. To put it another way, because cats like to eat and eliminate in different regions, place food bowls and treats in previously soiled areas, or play with your cat in that space and leave toys in that space. Image used in this post: iStock.com/Maryviolet

How to Get Rid of That Cat Pee Smell For Good

You can prevent a repeat of a problem by altering the importance of a particular region in your cat’s eyes after you have cleansed it. To put it another way, because cats like to eat and eliminate in different regions, place food bowls and treats in previously soiled areas, or play with your cat in that space and leave toys in that area. image from iStock.com/Maryviolet used as a feature image

How to Get Rid of That Cat Pee Smell

Cleaning carpets and area rugs using Bissell Pet StainOdor Remover, an enzyme-based cleaner with the Good Housekeeping Seal, is your best bet. First, soak up as much stain matter as you possibly can with a paper towel or rag before to using the product. DO NOT WIPE! The product (which, by the way, eliminates stains and odors from feces, vomit, and blood, FYI) should be sprayed on the issue place until the area is well soaked with the product. Cleaning the stain away gently with a clean, moist cloth can help you to get as much of it out as possible.

Upholstery

You should use Bissell Pet Stain and Odor Remover, which is an enzyme-based cleaner that has earned the Good Housekeeping Seal of approval. Use a paper towel or cloth to soak up as much of the stain matter as you can before using it. Do not wipe it off! The product (which, by the way, eliminates stains and odors from feces, vomit, and blood, FYI) should be sprayed on the issue place until it is completely saturated. Cleaning the stain away gently with a clean, moist cloth can help you to get the most out of it.

Wood

If you have a sealer on your wood flooring, you are in luck: To keep your hardwood floors clean, use paper towels to collect urine and then clean with your favorite hardwood floor cleaner, such as” data-vars-ga-product-id=”6f885e88-8057-4d4e-badd-705b446d8d8b” data-vars-ga-product-price=”0.00″ data-vars-ga-product-sem3-brand=”” data-vars-ga-product-sem3 Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Spray is a product manufactured by Bona.

If you get late to the game and discover that the accident occurred many hours ago, use a pet-specific hardwood floor cleaner such as Simple Solution Hard Floor Pet StainOdor Remover to clean the floor.

A professional may be required if a black or discolored stain develops on the surface of the carpet.

Ceramic Tile

Your wood floors are in luck if they have a protective sealer applied to them. To keep your hardwood floors clean, use paper towels to collect urine and then clean with your favorite hardwood floor cleaner, such as” data-vars-ga-product-id=”6f885e88-8057-4d4e-badd-705b446d8d8b” data-vars-ga-product-price=”0.00″ data-vars-ga-product-sem3-brand=” ” data-vars-ga-product-sem3 Cleansing Spray for Hardwood Floors by Bona If you get late to the game and discover that the accident occurred many hours ago, use a pet-specific hardwood floor cleaner such as Simple Solution Hard Floor Pet StainOdor Remover to clean the floors.

A professional may be required if a black or discolored stain develops on the surface of the water.

Eliminate Cat Pee Odor With These Cleaning Products

Paper Towel with a Bounty samazon.com Professional Stain and Odor Remover from Bissell Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Spray is a product manufactured by Bona. Hard Floor Stain and Odor Remover with a Simple Solution Freshen up your home with Lysol CleanFresh Multi-Surface Cleaner. CLR BathKitchen Cleaner CLR BathKitchen Cleaner CLR BathKitchen Cleaner Amanda Garrity is an Associate Lifestyle Editor at ELLE.com. Amanda works as an Associate Lifestyle Editor at GoodHousekeeping.com, where she handles gift guides and writes about home, holidays, cuisine, and other lifestyle topics.

You may be able to discover further information on this and other related items at the website piano.io.

How to Get Rid of Cat Urine Smell

You have a strong attachment to your cat. However, when you go into a room and smell the distinct stench of cat urine, you may put your love to the test. What caused your cat to pee outside the litter box? What is the best way to get rid of the smell of cat urine? Here’s how to clean cat urine and eliminate the scent of cat pee from carpet, non-carpet surfaces, and beds with household products. First and foremost, there are three things you should be aware of when it comes to the reasons why your cat may be peeing outside the litter box:

In order to communicate with you about a health condition, their sentiments about changes in the house, or their dissatisfaction with their litter box, cats will frequently go outside the litter box. Another possible explanation is that Unneutered male cats spray urine to establish their territory, while unspayed female cats spray urine to alert male cats that they are in heat, according to the ASPCA. Another important reason to spay or neuter your feline companions is to avoid the development of cat urine odor. The sooner you clean up the cat urine, the sooner you will be able to get rid of the stink and help prevent your cat from urinating in that location again. You’ll need to neutralize the odor of cat urine rather of simply masking it with perfumes or aromas
You don’t enjoy the ammonia smell that may be found in cat pee, and your cat doesn’t either. If your litter box has a strong odor of urine, your cat may select an inconvenient location to relieve itself rather than the filthy litter box. If you want odor control that lasts seven days and a litter that absorbs cat pee in seconds, ARMHAMMERTMAbsorbX Lightweight Cat Litter is what you need. The proper litter and a clean litter box help to lessen the smell of cat pee in your house while also encouraging your cat to use their litter box rather than your carpet, floor, or bedding.

In the event that you have discovered cat urine in your house, here’s how to safely and effectively clean it up and get rid of the cat pee stench.

1. Cleaning Cat Urine Odor from Carpet

The stench of cat pee can be difficult to remove from carpeting because it can seep through the carpet fibers and into the carpet padding, making it difficult to remove. Furthermore, because cats have an acute sense of smell, it is critical to thoroughly clean and deodorize the area in order to prevent a return visit! For a do-it-yourself solution, try the following: Club soda should be used to thoroughly scrub the area, and it should be allowed to dry. then sprinkle with ArmhammerTM Baking Soda (optional).

For a simple solution from ARMHAMMERTM, consider the following: Try ARMHAMMERTM Pet StainOdor Remover Plus OxiCleanTM to remove even the hardest pet stains* and eliminate smells on the spot using a mix of ARMHAMMERTM deodorizers and OXICLEANTM stain fighters to get rid of even the worst pet scents.

2. Getting Rid of Cat Urine Odor from Non-Carpeted Surfaces

For non-carpeted surfaces such as ceramic tile, grout, vinyl plank, or linoleum where your cat has been urinating, follow these instructions for getting an effective, deep clean that eliminates the urine stench. For a do-it-yourself solution, try the following: No matter if the solution is handmade or purchased, cleaning non-carpet surfaces necessitates the use of an ammonia- and vinegar-free formula. It is important to note that any remedy you use to get rid of cat urine should not include chlorine bleach.

OxiCleanTM Versatile Stain Remover harnesses the cleaning power of oxygen to effectively remove stains and neutralize smells from a variety of surfaces.

It is devoid of chlorine and bleach, and it may be used to clean up cat pee.

Fill a five-gallon bucket halfway with boiling water. Utilizing the supplied scoop, carefully pour one scoop of OxiCleanTM filled to Line 1 into the bucket. Stir the solution with a long-handled spoon until all of the OxiCleanTM has been completely dissolved. Apply the solution to the floor and let it to stand for 1-5 minutes before sweeping it up. Clean the afflicted area with a mop or sponge — you may even clean the entire floor while you’re at it if you want to! The stench of cat urine shouldn’t stay in the air or on your floor for long. Empty the solution into a bucket and fill it half-full with cold water. Rinse the floor with water once you’ve finished mopping it.

3. Removing Cat Urine Odor from Bedding and Clothes

It may appear as though your cat is being spiteful, but the fact that they are spraying or peeing on your mattress, blankets, or clothing is their way of informing you that they want your attention. Don’t be upset; instead, become clean!

Place the urine-soiled items in your machine and wash them separately at the warmest temperature advised on the item’s care label until they are clean. In addition to your detergent, you should add a quarter cup of white vinegar to the bleach dispenser in your washing machine. Make use of the natural power of baking soda to help neutralize the stench of cat pee in soiled bedding and clothing by rubbing it in. Add a half-cup straight to the washing machine drum with your clothing, or use a detergent that contains baking soda to get the same result. Optional: Use ARMHAMMERTM Plus OxiCleanTM 3-in-1 Power Paks, which combine ARMHAMMERTM Baking Soda with OxiCleanTM Stain Fighters to effectively remove stains. Add a fragrance booster, such as ARMHAMMERTM Clean ScentsationsTM In-Wash Scent Booster with Odor Blasters, to the wash cycle to increase the effectiveness of the urine odor elimination

Note: When washing sensitive materials, proceed with care. Also, keep in mind that you should never use chlorine bleach when washing objects that have been contaminated by cat urine. When you combine bleach with ammonia in cat urine, you can generate potentially hazardous fumes. No matter what the reason is for your cat peeing outside the litter box, keeping the area clean and fresh is essential to convincing them to stop – and to reclaim your house from their destructive habit. Its products, which include everything from carpet cleaners to laundry detergents to scent boosters to good old baking soda, are all designed to absorb and neutralize odors, including those caused by pet urine.

Read this resource on this irritating, though not unusual, cat habit to better understand why your cat could be peeing all over the place all of a sudden.

When used as indicated after an average pet stain has appeared, it can help to eliminate the stain.

Tips to freshen things up

For best results when dealing with cat fur, dry garments for a few minutes before washing them to release the hair.

Go Big on Litter Boxes

Litter boxes should always be large enough to allow your cat to completely cover their waste with new litter before going to the bathroom.

More Cats, More Boxes

Vets advocate having numerous litter boxes for many cats – one for each cat, plus a spare litter box in case of an emergency.

ChurchDwight Co., Inc. is a trademark of ChurchDwight Co., Inc.

How to Get Rid of That Cat Pee Smell for Good

The fact that their feline buddy has decided to urinate outside of the litter box is one of the most annoying things for cat parents. Not only does it add a significant amount of additional labor, but the residual cat pee stench may be quite difficult to remove. Even worse is the fact that our cats can detect even the tiniest traces of cat urine (even if we don’t notice it) and will return to the same spot to pee again if they get a whiff of it. The good news is that you can get rid of even the most stubborn cat pee stains and odors, even if they have been there for a long time.

How to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell on Wood Floors

Remove cat pee smell from your wood floor can be particularly difficult because you don’t want to use a harsh cleaner that will damage the finish, but you also don’t want to use something that will penetrate too deeply to remove odors – especially if the stain has been sitting for a long period of time – because you don’t want to damage the finish. In an ideal situation, you would notice the mishap early and clean it up before it had a chance to spread. Then use a cleaner that is particularly developed for cleaning pet stains and odors, such as the product listed below, to finish the job.

All that is required is that you spray the area where the mishap occurred, dab with a rag to remove the stain, and wipe away any remaining liquid.
It’s best to spray the stain immediately if it’s a recent occurrence.
There’s also a stream option that can help you get into the nooks and crannies of your wood floors more effectively and efficiently.
If you don’t treat your floors, you run the danger of staining or harming them even more with various cleaning chemicals.
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How to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell on Tile

If your cat pees on a single tile, you’ll have a simple time cleaning up. Simply wash it down with your preferred all-purpose cleanser to remove it. Whether it has leaked into the grout, on the other hand, is another matter entirely! Even grout that has been sealed will almost certainly require cleaning with an enzymatic solution. You should keep in mind that just because you are not aware of an odor does not imply your cat is not aware of it as well.

A Straightforward Solution Pet Stain and Odor Remover for Hard Floors is effective on both tile and wood flooring. Furthermore, using the direct spray option makes it simple to target those grout lines.

How to Get Cat Pee Smell Out of Carpet

You’ll want to do all you can to soak up as much urine as you can if your cat pees on your carpet as soon as possible. Using a clean cloth, dab the area until the majority of the liquid has been absorbed. You should apply some pressure to the fabric, particularly if your carpet is thick and fluffy. It’s possible that you’ll want to walk on the fabric to give it a little additional momentum. Following that, rinse the area with clean water and wipe with a fresh towel, or use a wet/dry vacuum to remove any remaining water.

The next step is to apply an enzymatic cleaner, such as Simple Solution Extreme Stain and Odor Remover, to remove the stains and odor.

A simple solution urine destroyer, which has been recognized by the Carpet and Rug Institute, is an excellent choice for deep cleaning carpets.

How to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell on Furniture

A cat having an accident on your couch or bed is probably the last place you want to happen to find your cat. If this does occur, however, you will not be required to throw your mattress away. Cleaning furniture is a technique that is quite similar to carpet cleaning. It simply takes a bit longer to dry since the liquid penetrates so much deeper into the fabric. Remove as much urine as possible from the affected area by blotting it up with paper towels and wiping the polluted area with water.

Allow 10-15 minutes for the enzymes to do their work, and then blot away any excess with a clean towel to prevent any staining.
For drying purposes, you may leave your pillows outside if the weather is suitable.
However, dragging your mattress outdoors is probably not a good idea; instead, use a towel on the floor to soak up any remaining damp before you remade your bed.
It may be necessary to repeat this procedure several times in order to entirely eliminate the cat urine scent.

How to Prevent Your Cat from Having an Accident in the House

For a spell there, my cat Olivia developed the unsavory habit of peeing outside her litter box – most often on my brand new bath mats – and on the floor. Her situation was resolved with the use of an effective enzymatic laundry pre-treatment and a few minor modifications to her litter box. Olivia, my cat, has begun peeing on my fresh new bath mats! I’m so embarrassed! Cats who use the litter box outside of their enclosures are usually attempting to communicate something to you. It is possible to rule out medical conditions such as renal disease or hyperthyroidism that might be contributing factors to accidents by visiting the veterinarian.

Other than that, all of the cleaning in the world is unlikely to prevent her from peeing in places you don’t want for her to.
Click here for professional advice on how to make your cat’s litter box a pleasant location for her to frequent.
A natural component derived from plants is used to entice cats to the litter box.
I mean, how awesome is that?

My expertise as a pet-parenting expert and a pet advocate means that I am fluent in all things pet-related, and I enjoy bridging the gap between pet-related brands, veterinary professionals, and pet parents in order to ensure that you can provide your furry loved ones with the very best care at all stages of their lives.

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If you live with cats, you will eventually become an expert on the best ways to get rid of the smell of cat urine after a while. Bosco, a large orange tabby cat that grew up in a Seattle fish market where he was taught to urinate on newspapers rather than cat litter, is responsible for my knowledge and experience. After moving in with me, this became a source of contention between us. Based on his previous training, the unfortunate cat believed that everything rectangular and on the ground was fair game for him.

As a result, I discovered a few methods for getting rid of cat urine odor (while keeping Bosco).

A little history on why cats urinate outside of the litter box and why cat urine smells so horrendously horrible is provided in the next section.

Why Cats Pee Outside the Box

Living with cats will eventually lead to your establishing yourself as a source of information on how to eliminate the odor of cat urine. Bosco, a large orange tabby cat that grew up in a Seattle fish market and was taught to urinate on newspapers rather than kitty litter, is responsible for my knowledge. When he came to live with me, this caused an issue. Following his instruction, the unfortunate cat concluded that everything rectangular and on the ground might be eaten. He urinated on bathmats, carpets, hardwood floors, a contractor’s drill box, and a brand-new Coach bag, to name a few things..

Despite the fact that cat pee odor is widespread, it does not have to spell doom for the universe (or your favorite chair).

The presence of an unclean litter box, disturbing noises, or a perceived threat from another cat in the household are examples of environmental influences. If a cat is refusing to use new litter or has their litter box changed, it is possible that they are experiencing separation anxiety. Some cats are averse to change, and peeing is one way they communicate this to you. Behaviour that is being marked. In order to leave their fragrance on vertical surfaces, cats spray on them, especially if they haven’t been spayed or neutered yet. Some fixed cats will also mark their territory. Marking is more prevalent if your cat is experiencing territorial difficulties with another cat or human in the house
If your cat is suffering from a medical condition. The inability to eliminate properly might indicate that your cat is suffering from a urinary tract infection, a blockage, renal disease, or diabetes. It might also indicate that the cat has arthritis and that a litter box that was before simple to use has become difficult to use
Stress/anxiety. It is possible that your cat will urinate outside the box (frequently on your belongings) to let you know that they are feeling worried

If you unexpectedly discover cat pee outside of the litter box, the first step is to contact your veterinarian. Problems with the urinary tract will not go away on their own. You should always rule out medical explanations for your cat’s behavior problems, even when you feel it is agitated or marking because of a behavioral issue with your cat.

Why Cat Pee Stinks

What causes cat urine to be so stinky and persistent? According to the guys at PetMD, cat pee isn’t all that unlike from the urine of other animals in terms of smell. However, it has a tendency to remain undetected for a long period of time, and when the bacteria in the urine degrade, it emits a strong ammonia-like stench. As urine decomposes, it begins to release mercaptans, which are the same components found in skunk spray, at a certain point.

Yuck. Older cats, whose kidneys are less efficient at processing urine, as well as unneutered male cats, whose urine contains hormones, are more likely to have a stronger odor than younger cats.

The Best Ways to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell

When I was cleaning up after Bosco some years ago, there weren’t a lot of decent cleaning products available, with the exception of some very fragrant items. However, enzyme-based cleansers, which break down the compounds in cat urine and neutralize the stench, have become available on the market in more recent years. Using two or three different types of cleansers is recommended if you have a serious cat pee problem in your home, according to my experience. Some are more effective on fabric than others, while others are more successful on carpets than others, and some are more effective on hard surfaces such as walls and floors.

Use UV Light to Find the Cat Pee

First and foremost, determine the precise location of the cat’s urine and how long the pee has been there before calling for help. Follow your nose and check for discolored or damp-appearing patches to begin your investigation (on hardwoods, the wood grain may be raised). If the room smells bad but you can’t figure out what’s causing it, try using a UV lamp. UV light (also known as a black light) illuminates any substance containing phosphors and is used to detect them (including cat pee). This makes it simple for you to find and cure urine stains that have developed in over time.

Once you’re in the dark, put on your UV flashlight and start looking for your missing friend.

Take into consideration when you discover an area where the cat has peed that the urine may have migrated beneath a rug or subflooring, or it may have accumulated under the foot of a couch, table, or cupboard.

Escolite Flashlight Ultraviolet Blacklight Detector

The Escolite is a high-powered UV light that is simple to operate and comes in a convenient flashlight size. It is powered by three standard AAA alkaline batteries (not included). The backs of my chairs and sofa have been the subject of countless late-night examinations on my hands and knees with this light (favorite spraying spots for a formerly feral cat in our household). You may find it on Amazon.

Wash Clothes, Bedding, or Towels with a Laundry Additive

If the scent of cat urine is emanating from your hamper or laundry basket—or even from your quilt—there is good news: it will wash out with time. However, regular laundry detergent will not suffice. Cat pee smell may be removed from linens by using specific cleaners, which work by neutralizing the odor and removing it completely.

Try one of these, but be careful to wash it in cold water and dry it on a line (heat can cause odors to “set”). If at all feasible, let the things to air dry outside in the sunlight.

Laundry Odor Eliminator (L.O.E.) for Bedding and Clothes

To counteract the stench of cat urine, we recommend Thornell Laundry Odor Eliminatori, which is our favorite laundry addition. Pre-treatment involves saturating the cat pee stain with water and allowing it to rest for five minutes before washing. Then, along with your usual detergent, add the suggested amount of this concentrate to the washing machine and run it through it. Liquid oxygen is effective in eliminating a variety of offensive scents, even those that have resisted conventional cleaning treatments.

OdoBan Disinfectant Laundry and Air Freshener

Eucalyptus-scented OdoBan has received overwhelmingly positive feedback for its ability to effectively eliminate a wide range of pet and home scents. However, because it contains certain strong chemicals, you must exercise extreme caution and use it only as directed, keeping it away from children and pets. Chewy is a great place to shop.

Skout’s Honor Laundry Booster for Stains and Odors

In order to prevent stains and odors from spreading, Skout’s Honor is intended to be used on soiled and odorous materials before laundry. It may also be added to the laundry by using the bleach dispenser on the washing machine. Some users don’t care for the smell of Skout’s Honor, however others claim that it goes gone after a second rinse cycle or wash using the product. Chewy is a great place to shop.

Getting Rid of Cat Pee Smell on Carpets, Floors, and Upholstery

Fortunately, enzymes come to the rescue. If you come across a wet area on the floor or carpet, start by blotting up as much urine as you can using paper towels or a clean cloth to prevent further damage. After that, rinse the area well with clean, cold water. Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro, for example, is a wet/dry vacuum that can assist with this rinsing stage. Cat urine stains should never be cleaned with a steam cleaner. It is possible for scents to be trapped by the heat and steam, making them much more difficult to remove afterwards.

Most of them employ enzymes to break down the stench of cat urine; one of them, Stink-Free, uses an oxidation method that does not require enzymes.
After that, allow the area to air dry for up to two days if necessary.
We’ve included numerous cleansers because it appears that one cleaner performs better than another on occasion.
It’s a really subjective question.
However, I have never used them on engineered wood floors that are made up of many layers, such as carpet, vinyl flooring, or older hardwood floors, and I do not recommend them for these surfaces.

Please consult with your flooring manufacturer before allowing a liquid cleaning to seep into your engineered wood flooring surface.

Nature’s Miracle Urine Destroyer Formula to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell

Nature’s Miracle is one of my go-to solutions for getting rid of the stench of cat urine on floors, carpets, and other hard surfaces, and it works wonderfully (such as walls). Always remember that the priority here is to remove smells first, followed by stains second and so on. If stains are a serious problem, Nature’s Miracle Just For Cats Stain and Odor Remover Spray is a great option to consider. Chewy is a great place to shop.

Simple Solution Cat Pee Stain and Odor Remover

Cat pee smell may be removed from carpeting and furniture with the help of Simple Solution, which is another another enzymatic treatment that I recommend. It has a distinct, slightly sweet scent that you may or may not find appealing, depending on your preferences. However, one thing is certain: it completely eliminates the odor of cat urine after use. Chewy is a great place to shop.

Stink Free Deep Clean Cat Urine and Odor Remover

Cat pee smell may be removed from floors and furniture with the help of Simple Solution, another enzymatic treatment that I recommend. It has a distinct, slightly sweet scent that you may or may not find appealing, depending on your preference. It does, however, eliminate the odor of cat pee, which is unquestionably beneficial. Chewy is a website where you can buy things.

Bubba’s Cleaner to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell and Stains

This is another another excellent enzymatic cleaning alternative, which is particularly suitable for upholstered furniture. Make careful to allow the enzyme solution to sink into the cat pee location and rest for a few minutes before blotting up the excess. After that, let it to dry fully. If you’re washing a sofa or chair that has detachable cushions, you should take the cushion(s) outside to dry in the sun after cleaning. Because cushions can take a long time to dry (often many days), it’s critical to keep them protected from more pee attacks while they are drying.

The feel and sound of foil are unpleasant to most cats, and they will avoid stepping on it.

A Few More Tips for Getting Rid of Cat Pee Smells and Stains

If you come across a puddle or a wet place, act quickly—even if you don’t have an enzymatic cleaner on hand—to prevent further damage. Fill a paper towel with urine and wipe it up as much as you can. Then soak the area with water and blot it up again (getting more of the urine). This PetMD tutorial includes some instructions for cleaning with baking soda and vinegar for some sorts of situations. My own experience with these products has been that they temporarily eliminate odor, but that it soon returns.

Last Resort: Use Ozone to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell

What happens if your cat pees on a costly object (such as your vintage sweater, your shoes, the interior of a luggage, or a piece of artwork)? What should you do in this situation? Most of these can’t be cleaned with baking soda, vinegar, or enzyme cleansers since they’re too delicate. But don’t get too worked up over it! Remove as much pee as you can as quickly as possible by squeezing the bladder and gently wiping it with paper towels or rags until the towel comes away clear. Allow time for the item to dry.

As soon as Bosco peed on my brand new Coach briefcase, I sobbed and phoned the Coach corporation.

The dry briefcase looked fantastic, but it still smelled strongly of cat pee.

It is possible that ozone will not rescue your expensive garments and other belongings if they are soiled from head to toe in carpets, couches, or hardwood floors.